Voices rang loud and clear in the Town of Greenburgh this month as more than 80 youth, families, and staff from the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester (BGCNW) attended a critical budget hearing to advocate for reinstatement of New York State out-of-school funding.
At the February 18 budget hearing held at Greenburgh Town Hall, CEO Alyzza Ozer testified on behalf of the Club, urging lawmakers to restore after-school funding eligibility that was lost due to a change in criteria two years ago despite the fact that the Bedford Central School District serves a student population where more than 71% qualify for free or reduced lunch, and Mount Kisco Elementary School is a Title I school.
“On behalf of our board, families, and children, we respectfully request reinstatement of eligibility for New York State out-of-school funding for operations and capital,” Ozer said in testimony before NY State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, NY State Senator Shelley B. Mayer, and NY State Senator Pete Harckham. “Our children need a safe place while
out of school now more than ever. For 86 years, we have served as a second home to 900 children daily, supported by 144 dedicated staff members.”
“This wasn’t just advocacy, it was democracy in action,” Ozer added. “Our club kids and families didn’t just attend. They showed up. They stood together. And they represented their community with confidence and courage.”
In recognition of its commitment to empowering young people as changemakers, the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester is proud to share that it has received the 2025 BGCA National Youth Advocacy Award, honoring the Club’s leadership in developing informed, engaged, and confident youth advocates.
Next month a group of high school students who are part of the Boys & Girls Club of Northen Westchester will return to Albany to speak with lawmakers and fight for funding,
From academic support and workforce readiness programs to character development and leadership training, BGCNW ensures young people are equipped not only to succeed in school but to stand up for themselves and their communities.