WESTFIELD AREA Y ACHIEVERS ARE BUSY THIS FALL SERVING AS COMMUNITY ROLE MODELS AND ENGAGING IN SERVICE PROJECTS

The Westfield Area Y Achievers Program is busy working on activities to better serve the community. Participants of the Y’s Achiever’s program include 9th- 12th grade students who participate in program workshops, service projects and more.

In December, the students will be collecting toys for all ages in collaboration with Young Men of Resilience for the Ozanam Family Shelter in Edison and Beth Israel Medical Center. Donations of gift wrap, gift bags and tape are welcome and can be placed in the blue container by the Main Y front door marked “Achievers Service Project” until December 11th. It is encouraged that the gifts are wrapped and marked gender and age specific.

The Achievers Program began at the Harlem YMCA in 1968 as a conduit to helping youth develop life coping skills and education goals. The program began at the Westfield Area Y 16 years ago and matches youth with successful minority professionals as role models in an effort to raise the academic standards of young people, expose students to diverse career options and inspire them to reach their goals. The Achievers also participate in community service activities, celebrate Black History Month and receive college prep tutoring and essay assistance.

Please contact Nadya Lawrence, Achievers Coordinator (908) 456-6409, email: nlawrence@westfieldynj.org or Janice A. Carthens, Senior Director –Member Services (908) 233-2700 ext: 227 or e-mail jcarthens@westfieldynj.org with any questions about the program.

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Visit www.westfieldynj.org to learn more about Westfield Area Y programs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.