Communities thrive when every child has the resources needed to succeed. Over four sessions, the third annual Running Start at the YMCA of Greenwich provided local children with essential back-to-school shopping experiences, helping them confidently start the school year. Last year, Running Start assisted 74 children. This year, the program reached 100.
“The impact of Running Start extends far beyond the back-to-school shopping experience,” said Matthew Skaarup, Chief Executive Officer of the YMCA of Greenwich. “Thanks to our incredible donors, volunteers, and partners, we’ve supported the academic and personal growth of 100 local children, leveling the playing field this fall and creating lasting change.”
Research highlights that children from underserved and low-income families often start the school year underprepared, leading to a significant opportunity gap. Programs like Running Start are crucial in addressing this issue, enhancing academic readiness, and fostering the development of well-equipped community members and future leaders.
“It has been incredible to see our community come together to support our local students and families this back-to-school season. Sending them off to school with everything they need is an inspiring accomplishment, and we’re happy to partner with the YMCA of Greenwich,” said K. Brent Hill, Neighbor to Neighbor Executive Director.
Each session began at the YMCA of Greenwich with a pizza party, where each child received a $150 Kohl’s gift card and a backpack full of school supplies, courtesy of Neighbor to Neighbor Greenwich and the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. The children were then paired with a volunteer to assist them as they shopped at Kohl’s in Port Chester, New York, for back-to-school clothing and shoe items based on a comprehensive list of needs provided by their parents.
“Running Start continues to be an amazing program helping those families with financial concerns. Each year, the Greenwich YMCA, community donors, and its volunteers, assist so many of our children to ensure the school year starts off right. We are incredibly fortunate to have this fantastic partnership with the YMCA of Greenwich,” said Dr. Toni Jones, Superintendent of Schools.
This year, 100 local children aged 5 to 11, entering grades 1 through 5, benefitted from the program. This group included those who benefited from program scholarships at the YMCA of Greenwich, students from Title 1 schools within the Greenwich Public School system, and children referred by the Greenwich Department of Human Services, Greenwich Public Schools, Jewish Family Services of Greenwich, Horizons at Brunswick School, and Neighbor to Neighbor Greenwich.
The success of Running Start and similar programs at the YMCA of Greenwich is made possible through the unwavering support of donors, volunteers, and partners. Thanks to their commitment, Running Start’s impact will be felt throughout the school year and beyond.
