Outreach Programs

Summer and School Break Enrichment Program

Summer: A dynamic summer experience for children of Backstretch families at Belmont or in Saratoga Springs for the racing season. Designed to accommodate the unique schedules of parents working often double shifts at the track and allows families to stay together during the summer racing meet. Offers recreational, cultural, emotional, and social support to children of Backstretch workers, providing them opportunities they might not otherwise afford.
School Breaks: Held at Belmont Park, a recreational program for school-aged children which assists our working parents and gives our children an opportunity for enrichment in a safe and fun environment.
Vacation Program: During July and August, special vacation programs are available for families staying behind at Belmont and Aqueduct tracks.

Women’s Enrichment

Educational and Personal Growth: Providing women with resources and opportunities to advance educationally, emotionally, and socially.
Mentoring and Workshops: Year-round mentoring, workshops, and conferences on key topics such as financial management, overcoming abusive relationships, and interpersonal development.
Health and Wellness Classes: Weekly nutrition and fitness classes designed to promote physical well-being and create a supportive community among participants.
Monthly Craft Night: A monthly craft night that strengthens bonds in our community, while providing a welcoming space for women to support each other.

Teen Mentoring

Dedicated Mentorship: Guided by committed adults who serve as mentors and role models.
Cultural and Sporting Events: Teens participate in various local cultural and sporting activities, enhancing their exposure and experiences.
Academic Coordination: Continuous coordination with teachers and school administrators to support the teens' educational needs.
Community Engagement: Introduction to community leaders, providing opportunities to network and be involved in the community.

Grad Support

Post High School Preparation: Designed to guide students as they explore their next steps after graduation. We offer support for those considering college, trade schools, or military service.
College Application Guidance: Personalized assistance for students approaching graduation, focusing on the college application process to help them navigate their next educational steps.
Financial Aid Support: Comprehensive support in understanding and applying for financial aid, ensuring students can access the resources they need for higher education.

Food Pantry and Household Item Distribution

Food Pantry: Weekly distribution of perishable and non-perishable food items, in a “choice” environment so that individuals receive the items that are most needed for their families.
Clothing Distribution and Household Items: Weekly distribution of donated clothing and various household items.
Birthday Boutique: Once a month, those members of the backstretch with a birthday in that month come to the food pantry for a birthday celebration. This is a particularly emotional and meaningful time for those whose families live in their home countries.

Back to School

Our annual Back to School event is a cherished occasion that equips students with essential supplies for the new school year. Each student receives a backpack filled with the specific supplies they need, along with a brand-new pair of sneakers, ensuring they step into the school year with confidence. This event is not just about preparation, it's a celebration complete with free haircuts and ice cream, enjoyed by the children and their families!

Mother’s Day

On Mother's Day, we host a celebration to honor the women in the backstretch community. The event includes a festive party and the distribution of special Mother’s Day baskets, filled with gifts to show our appreciation for all that they do.

Thanksgiving

During Thanksgiving, we provide support to families with a distribution of turkeys, fixings, and groceries to over 200 families from Aqueduct, Belmont and Saratoga racetracks.

Christmas and the Holiday Season

For Christmas and the holiday season, our Sponsor a Family program brings holiday cheer by allowing sponsors to purchase and distribute gifts to families in need. In addition we host a celebration for all families members to enjoy.