Black and Latino Achievers Program

There is a great program that I am very passionate about at the YMCA I'd like to tell you about called the Black and Latino Achievers Program. The one I will tell you about today is in the Capital Region of New York State but I do know there are similar programs across the country- so if you like what you hear please seek out your local Y for details.

This program provides critical mentoring and educational opportunities for youth in the community. It also partners adults with these youth for volunteer opportunities. I interviewed the President and CEO of the Capital District YMCA David Brown for more.
I got involved in in 2005 when I attended the banquet on behalf of Time Warner and YNN. At the event I went up to Dave and said I wanted to be involved. I was honored to be a part of the committee that actually created the curriculum for the program. Becoming the Co-host of the event in 2006 was a dream come true, I have been doing it ever since and was honored and humbled to be named an Adult Achiever in 2007.

Also in 2007 as Diversity Leader of the Albany YNN staff I went on to work with some amazing co-workers to create "YNN Tech Day" where we bring in students to the YNN studios to get hands-on experience in the technical field of Journalism and Public Communications. I have now moved on to be the National Diversity Ambassador for Time Warner Cable's News and Local Programming and my colleague Collie White has taken over the leadership role at YNN Albany.  He has been there from day 1 working on enriching the lives of our staff through meaningful diversity events and I have come to know he is reliable and  a hard worker. He has worked with some dedicated people to continue the tradition of "YNN Tech Day" and I was so honored to announce him as an Achiever last night. He also was honored as the "Adult Achiever of the Year" for his efforts. I can't be prouder!

This program is all about the kids and this is why we are so dedicated to the effort. These students are hard working and committed to making a difference in this world and if we can be a part of getting them on their way- we are truly blessed. We look forward to finding more ways to help this program grow.

Are you more interested in getting involved or learning more? Click HERE for more information.