NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y., July 2, 2025 – Through its 21st Century Community Learning Centers program, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle provides more than 450 local middle and high school students with no-cost, extended-day enrichment that bridges the gap between school and home, offering structure, support and opportunity during critical hours of the day.
Delivered at New Rochelle High School, Isaac E. Young Middle School and Albert Leonard Middle School, the 21st Century Program delivers hands-on learning experiences, college and career exploration, academic tutoring and access to mentors and role models. Programs are specifically designed to engage students in areas that shape their futures academically, socially and professionally.
Offerings include:
- Hands-on STEM learning through NASA-led science and engineering projects
- Culinary arts programs in partnership with Allergic to Salad and Concorde Education
- Virtual career exploration via TransfrVR simulations
- College readiness workshops and tours with LUCA and LatinoU
- Media and technology programs like podcasting, esports, and video game design
- Chess club and other activities that support critical thinking and decision-making
“At its core, the 21st Century Program is about access and possibility. We’re helping them dream bigger,” said Will Iannuzzi, Chief Program Officer at the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle. “Whether it’s creating a podcast, designing a Mars rover or exploring a career path in the culinary arts, our youth are discovering what excites them and building the skills to turn those passions into futures.”
Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is encouraging community members to advocate for continued federal investment in programs like 21st Century. Sustained support is essential to maintaining the breadth and accessibility of these offerings, which so many New Rochelle students and families depend on each year.
“These programs provide students with consistent access to mentorship, enrichment and skill-building that supports their growth today and expands their possibilities for tomorrow,” said Becky Mazzanobile, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle. “Continued investment allows us to offer these experiences at no cost to families, ensuring that young people in our community are equipped not only to stay on track, but to lead and thrive.”
Data from the 2024–2025 program year reflect that impact. More than 70% of students who were chronically absent in the prior school year showed improved attendance after participating in 21st Century programming and 94% of students met or exceeded the required engagement threshold of 15 hours, demonstrating the program’s role in re-engaging students and strengthening academic connections.
The potential loss of these services would significantly limit access to safe, engaging and educationally enriching spaces for hundreds of New Rochelle youth. For many students, 21st Century programs are more than extracurricular, they are a vital extension of their education and personal development. Sustained support is essential to preserving these opportunities for current and future participants.
This summer, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle will also take part in a national pilot workforce development initiative created by NASA and the U.S. Department of Education. The “Gaining Traction on Mars” challenge invites high school students to design, test, and iterate rover wheel prototypes using 3D printers and real-world engineering methods. The project complements the Club’s growing portfolio of STEM programs that encourage innovation and deepen interest in science and technology.
“21st Century is a fun and safe place where I’ve made friends, learned about emotions, and felt like I really belong. I’m thankful for everything the staff has done for us,” said Joaquin Guimte, a participant in the 21st Century Program.
“This funding allows us to offer relevant, forward-thinking programming that keeps students engaged and helps them thrive,” said Iannuzzi. “The impact of these services is evident not only in academic and social-emotional growth but also in concrete outcomes such as improved school attendance.”
The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle encourages the public to advocate for the continuation of 21st Century funding by contacting congressional representatives. To take action, which requires only a few seconds, visit https://bgca.quorum.us/campaign/21stCCLC/
For 95 years, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has been an integral part of the community, offering quality, achievement-driven programming encompassing academics, mental wellness, fitness, leadership and civics. Today, it is one of Westchester County’s largest nonprofits and a leader in youth development, serving over 10,000 youths annually at 12 school sites and two clubhouses.
Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s impactful before-school, after-school, elective, and summer offerings empower members to excel in school, become good citizens, and lead healthy, productive lives while effectively bridging the gap between school and home. Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is proud to be affiliated with Boys & Girls Club of America, widely considered as both the leading youth organization and among the top nonprofits in the United States. Learn more at BGCNR.org.