Grant will support the YMCA’s Rowe Scholars program, a comprehensive college and career access and development program

New York, NY (June 27, 2024) – Today, the YMCA of Greater New York announced a $300,000 grant from the Deloitte Foundation that will support the YMCA’s Rowe Scholars program, a comprehensive college and career access program offered at no cost to New York City teens throughout the five boroughs. The grant will provide support for programmatic activities as well as scholarships for graduating high school seniors pursuing post-secondary STEM educational pathways with funds being disbursed over the next three years.

The announcement of the grant coincided with the YMCA’s 2024 College Decision Day held at Capital Group’s offices in New York City, the culminating event celebrating YMCA teens and their pursuit of post-secondary success and higher education.

“On College Decision Day, we celebrate the Rowe Scholars for choosing the next step in their academic journey,” said Sharon Greenberger, President and CEO, YMCA of Greater New York. “Supporters like the Deloitte Foundation continue to help us create pathways to education for New York teens of all backgrounds, helping to ensure they have access to the tools they need to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.”

Dozens of students participated in the College Decision Day event, during which they shared the colleges they have committed to attending including: Howard University, the University of Chicago, and SUNY Albany. Students who earned financial scholarships were also recognized during the event. For many of the students in this program, they will be the first in their family to attend college, highlighting the YMCA’s commitment to supporting and uplifting first-generation students.

“It is important to support these students along their education and career pathways,” remarked Roger G. Arrieux Jr., New York managing partner, Deloitte LLP, and Board Member of the YMCA of Greater New York. “The college and career readiness training and exposure activities such as SAT prep, curriculum-based workshops, college tours, and financial literacy education supported by the Deloitte Foundation, can help open doors to opportunity for the next generation as they pursue higher education and post-secondary career success.”

Deloitte* and the YMCA of Greater New York share a 30-year relationship that is founded on a mutual interest in supporting our city and community. Deloitte has hosted College Decision Day, and Deloitte professionals have volunteered at Y branches across the city and played a key role in the Achievers in Industry (bai) Gala hosted by the Harlem Y – a testament to their support and celebration of diversity and inclusion.

The Rowe Scholars program has served more than 1,200 public and charter school students enrolled in grades 9-12 since 2009, offering continued support throughout college and beyond. Rowe Scholars receive curriculum-based workshops, college tours, SAT/ACT test prep, career counseling and financial literacy. In 2023, 93% of Rowe Scholars graduated from high school (compared to a citywide average of 83%) and 88% of Rowe Scholars matriculated into college.

“The YMCA and Rowe Scholars Program have been instrumental in preparing me for college and every experience that will come after,” said Joyce Nandji, graduating YMCA Rowe Scholar. “From organizing college tours, helping me with applications, and pushing me to become the best version of myself, YMCA staff have given me the tools I need to succeed. I am so grateful to my Rowe Scholars family who have given me the strength and confidence to take on college next year at SUNY Alfred State University. The Rowe Scholars Program has truly become my home away from home.”

Learn more about the Rowe Scholars program.

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of their legal structure.