East Hudson Valley News

Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino announced the allocation of $119,355 in grants to 10 non-profit youth team sports programs for underserved children under the age of 18 through New York State’s Youth Team Sports (YTS) grant program. Additionally, a grant of $19,969 was awarded to one project through the 2023-2024 Youth Sports and Education Opportunity funding, aimed at improving sporting infrastructure.

These grants, ranging from $6,015 to $20,000, are intended to provide opportunities for young people in need to engage in sports activities that promote physical, mental, emotional or social benefits; reduce stress, anxiety and depression; improve social skills and teamwork; and decrease the risk of substance abuse and other risky behaviors.

"Dutchess County is committed to ensuring every child of every background has access to enriching opportunities that promote their physical, mental and emotional well-being," said County Executive Serino. "These Youth Sports Teams grants empower young people, offering not only athletic opportunities but building blocks for success in various aspects of their life as they grow."

Projects funded through the 2024 Youth Team Sports Program include:

- Arlington Lacrosse Developmental Club: $10,000 for a comprehensive lacrosse program teaching fundamentals and moral values.

- Dolphins Swim Club: $9,250 for scholarships reducing financial barriers to competitive swimming.

- Family Services: $10,000 for basketball activities at the Teen Resource Activity Center.

- Girls on the Run Hudson Valley: $13,070 for positive youth development programs integrating running.

- Lagrange Soccer League: $20,000 for its Special Needs program and field infrastructure repairs.

- Northern Dutchess Aquatics Club: $12,000 for scholarships covering swim meet fees and gear.

- Poughkeepsie Crew Parents: $15,000 for increasing participation in rowing with new equipment.

- Rhinebeck Crew: $7,000 for scholarships covering rowing fees and uniforms.

- The Black & Latino Coalition: $17,000 for competitive majorette baton twirling activities.

- Wappingers Crew Club: $6,015 for additional scholarships targeting financially burdened youth.

Applications were reviewed by the Dutchess County Youth Board and Coordinating Council along with the Department of Community and Family Services Commissioner before final approval by the County Executive.

The project funded through the 2023-2024 Youth Sports and Education Opportunity Infrastructure allocation is:

Hyde Park United Soccer League – awarded $19,969 to improve their sports complex with a safe and accessible space year-round.