Beloved Uptown Org Celebrates 30 Years With New Fundraising Record

UPPER MANHATTAN, NY — A nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting immigrant and first-generation children in Washington Heights and Inwood recently raised a record-breaking $354,000 in recognition of its 30th year of work in Upper Manhattan.

Fresh Youth Initiatives, founded in 1993, provides 1,300 immigrant and first-generation youth in Northern Manhattan with year-round educational, social-emotional, arts, sports, music, and college access programs.

Earlier this month, the organization hosted its 5th annual Journeys Benefit Gala, in recognition of its 30th year of work in Washington Heights and Inwood, the nonprofit broke its fundraising record by raising $354,156 for its work.

“This event is as much about celebrating what we’ve accomplished in the past three decades as it is about setting the stage for the next phase of Fresh Youth Initiatives," said Executive Director Eileen Lyons. “This outpouring of support from our community will position us to accomplish ambitious projects we have on the horizon.”

The gala was attended by a smattering of uptown elected officials, including Sen. Robert Jackson, Council Member Shaun Abreu, and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine.

Abreu presented the organizations with a Proclamation commemorating 30 years of outstanding services and contributions to the community on behalf of the other elected officials.

In major calendar news, the Proclamation also declared May 4 "Fresh Youth Initiatives Appreciation Day" in the borough of Manhattan.

Fresh Youth Initiatives also recognized three key individuals for their unique contributions to the organization, including, former board member Steven Elkes, founding Executive Director Andrew Rubinson, and board chairperson Rebecca Sale.

Along with its year-round programming, Fresh Youth Initiatives is set to open a behavioral mental health clinic in Washington Heights in October 2023.

You can find out more about Fresh Youth Initiatives on its website.