Editor’s note: This press release was provided by the New Rochelle YMCA. The Pelham Examiner publishes press releases in the form received as a service to the community.
New Rochelle, NY – Senior citizens from Pelham, alongside students from Pelham Memorial High School’s, came together to handout handmade blankets to children in the New Rochelle YMCA YMCA Kidz Club Afterschool and Universal Pre-Kindergarten programs.
The blankets were made by Pelham senior citizens and high school students participating in the Youth Service Opportunity Projects (YSOP) Connex Intergenerational Service Project. Ed Doty, Executive Director of YSOP said, “In our programs we provide needed community service while bridging generational divides.” He continued, “We are delighted to partner with the Y and its afterschool and preschool programs that provide such valuable service to Pelham, New Rochelle, and surrounding communities.”
YSOP is a non-profit organization rooted in the Quaker principals of integrity, equality, community, simplicity, and peace. Through their programs, which embody the importance of both experience and reflection, they offer unique programs where their participants learn about a serious problem and leave with a sense of responsibility to serve actively in their communities. This YSOP program is headquartered in Pelham.
“The project, which spanned several months, has successfully brought together people of all ages to make a positive impact on the lives of local children. The blankets were warmly received, providing not only comfort, but also a meaningful connection between generations within the community” said Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins.
Olicia Menchell with the YOP said, “It was a beautiful afternoon at the Y. We gave these colorful blankets to little kids, who carefully selected what they wanted. Seeing those smiles on their faces after they got their blankets was just amazing! I am so happy to be working with all our wonderful volunteers.”
“I am so excited to be here today at the YMCA that brings together New Rochelle, Pelham, and other surrounding areas, and demonstrates we as a community in lower Westchester, are working together with our families, seniors, and teens to support our children. It’s a special opportunity for all of us to come together and be strong,” stated Westchester County Legislator Terry Clements.
New York State Senator Natalia Fernandez mentioned, “It is a great afternoon to be at the Y with Legislator Terry Clemens, Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, and our local community leader Ed Doty, giving blankets to the community as it is getting colder outside. This is a token of love and hope to make sure that children and families can literally stay warm this winter. It’s wonderful seeing all the smiles on their faces. I am grateful for the partnership and looking forward to continuing doing this for years to come.”
“We are grateful for the work Ed Doty, Pelham volunteers, and our community leaders do to provide funding for this important intergenerational program that unites and strengthens our connections to one another. The feeling of acceptance and belonging is vital to establishing a true multicultural community. The Y is a place where everyone belongs, and we deeply appreciate the intergovernmental and community partnerships that demonstrate the real Y spirit.” Jennifer Ryan Safsel CEO of the New Rochelle YMCA added. “We thank all those that made this event possible and wish you all a wonderful holiday.”
About the Y:
The YMCA is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The New Rochelle YMCA was founded in 1899. The New Rochelle YMCA serves New Rochelle, Pelham, Mt. Vernon, Larchmont, and surrounding areas, striving to deliver lasting personal and social change. The Y’s mission is to help each person live life to their fullest potential in mind, body, and spirit. Visit nrymca.org for more information.
