Partnerships with community organizations that serve at-risk youth allow us to bring the fun, skill and life lessons of high-quality sports programs to hundreds who otherwise would not have access. For the Youth Shelter Program of Westchester (YSOW), we provide a physical education class for students, as well as recreational activities that range from hiking trips to rugby to yoga classes. The impact of these contributions was recognized in May when the YSOW honored Backyard Sports at its 2019 Gala: New Visions, New Opportunities.
In a poignant video shown that night, young men in the Youth Shelter Program shared that coming to BYS and being active is the best part of their week, and recalled the patience and perseverance required to make it to the top of a mountain during a hiking trip. “We try to use the power of play to bring kids together and give them a positive experience they’re going to remember for a long time,” said BYSC Coach Dillon Faulkner. “Of course you want to develop them as athletes, but really, and especially in their circumstances, we’re trying to develop them as people.”
We’re grateful to the Youth Shelter for this recognition and allowing us to contribute to the incredible work they do. We encourage you to visit www.ysow.org to learn more about them. To watch a full video on the Youth Shelter visit: (ysow-gala-event) or (Vimeo).
“The activities are key in helping our young men stay on track and learn important life lessons. We’re so grateful to have Backyard Sports on our team.
– Christian Philemon, Executive Director,Youth Shelter Program of Westchester
