Youth Enrichment Services (YES) has been selected to receive a $7,500 grant from the New Balance Foundation through NB SparkStart, a global charitable initiative focused on improving the health, well-being and self-esteem of children through movement. Through grants, associate volunteerism and engagement, athlete involvement, product donations, retail events and consumer engagement, NB SparkStart aligns New Balance, Inc. and the New Balance Foundation philanthropy, volunteering and other responsible business activities.
YES was chosen during a highly competitive review process. The grant will support YES’s Track & Field Program for Boston youth. The funding will enable YES to build capacity and serve over 300 children this summer in its Track & Field Program.
“The continued support from the New Balance Foundation is truly an honor,” said Bryan Van Dorpe, Executive Director at YES. “We look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts with New Balance to help Boston youth experience the outdoors and develop self-confidence on and off the track.”
“The New Balance Foundation believes that finding and pursuing your movement spark at an early age empowers kids to build confidence, set and accomplish personal goals and nurtures a healthy body and mind,” explained Noreen Bigelow, Charitable Programs Assistant. “The foundation is pleased to partner with YES and support their running programs to get youth active and engaged in their overall health and wellness.”
YES’s Track & Field Program began in 2009 as a means to introduce urban youth to the principles of track and field and help them develop into active, healthy, and confident young people. This summer will be its seventh year in operation. Over 300 children from Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, and surrounding neighborhoods are projected to participate.
About Youth Enrichment Services – Youth Enrichment Services (YES) has been serving the youth of Boston since 1968 by providing outdoor, sports-based, and leadership programs. YES serves over 1,600 youth annually through its three signature programs: Operation SnowSports, Outdoor Adventure, and the YES Academy. Additional information about YES can be found at www.yeskids.org, Facebook: www.facebook.com/yeskids, Twitter: @yeskidsboston
About the New Balance Foundation
The New Balance Foundation is a charitable foundation established in 1981 and funded by New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. The Foundation’s mission is to support effective charitable organizations which perform humanitarian services for the betterment of children and local communities.