Adams honors Bronx Youth Empowerment Program's 20-year milestone

Mayor Eric Adams has officially declared December 24, 2024, as Bronx Youth Empowerment Program (BYEP) Day in celebration of the organization’s 20th anniversary and its 16th annual “Sharing is Caring” event. The proclamation honors BYEP’s unwavering commitment to fostering compassion, communal care, and the empowerment of young New Yorkers in the northeast Bronx.

“The Big Apple derives its power from its many friends and neighbors who are deeply devoted to uplifting others and building a stronger community,” Mayor Adams remarked in the proclamation. “In celebration of its 20th anniversary and 16th annual Sharing is Caring event, I am pleased to applaud this organization’s indelibly positive impact and unwavering commitment to compassion and communal care.”

Founded to serve youth aged 11 to 18, BYEP offers educational instruction and recreational activities that expose participants to a wide array of topics, including civic engagement, financial literacy, and leadership skills. Central to its mission is the promotion of giving back to the community and fostering multi-generational connections through its innovative Generations Initiative. This program creates meaningful bonds between younger and older residents, helping to address youth development while combating adult loneliness.

Mayor Adams also highlighted his administration’s shared commitment to youth empowerment, citing the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) and the Save for College initiative, which currently benefits 97% of kindergarteners across the city.

“As we continue to build upon this strong foundation, I am pleased to count BYEP as a dedicated ally in this effort. Together, we will #GetStuffDone and forge a brighter, fairer, and more united future for all.”

The Bronx Youth Empowerment Program has become a cornerstone of the community, instilling values of generosity and leadership in young people while creating a lasting legacy of fellowship.

As Mayor Adams aptly summarized, “BYEP exposes our youth to the pathways that have been paved by others to help them succeed, stave off older adult loneliness, and strengthen the bonds of fellowship and solidarity.”