JUNE 2025

In this issue:

Heroes of New York Gala: Honoring Legacy & the Heroes Behind it

Chaka Khan at the 2025 Heroes of New York Gala.

The YMCA of Greater New York’s annual Heroes of New York Gala—held at the iconic Metropolitan Museum of Art on June 12—was a powerful celebration of legacy, leadership, and community. Together, we raised an incredible $1.8 million to support the thousands of New Yorkers who rely on the Y’s vital, free community programs—ranging from college and career readiness to affordable childcare, immigrant services, food pantries, and more.

The evening's theme, Legacy, honored the lasting impact of those working to build stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities across the five boroughs.

Sharon Greenberger, President and CEO, spoke to the Y’s legacy over the last 173 years—  the lives we’ve touched, the communities we’ve shaped, and the values we carry with us. In an ever-changing, fast-paced world, the Y absorbs the noise—offering belonging, direction, and a sense of home to everyone who walks through our doors.  

We were proud to recognize our 2025 Dodge Award Honorees: Delta Air Lines and Jed Walentas, and the Order of the Red Triangle recipient: William Dodge Rueckert. Each honoree embodies the spirit of service and commitment that defines a true Hero of New York. 

And what a night it was—from Chaka Khan's unforgettable performance to dancing into the evening with Grandmaster Flash. We are so grateful to our community of donors who made the night special, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you again next year.

A special thank you to our lead sponsors, Delta Air Lines, Two Trees Management, the Cleveland H. Dodge Foundation, Citi Foundation, New York-Presbyterian, and Y Retirement Fund.  

To see moments from the night, view the gallery here. Stay tuned for more highlights! 

Delta Air Lines: Where Heroes of New York Take Flight 

When it comes to bold leadership and lasting community investment, few organizations embody these values as powerfully as Delta Air Lines. A force in the skies and on the ground, Delta has not only reshaped travel in New York City—it has helped transform lives across all five boroughs.

For more than 12 years, Delta has been a visionary partner of the YMCA of Greater New York, investing millions to strengthen our communities through critical programs and services. From supporting our New Americans Initiative to bringing aviation magic to hundreds of Y kids at their annual Holiday in the Hangar event, Delta’s impact is far-reaching.

In 2013, Delta was instrumental in bringing the Rockaway Y to life—a vital hub and resource for the Rockaway community. Today, they are leading the way again as the first donor to support the construction of a new Y branch at Flushing Commons, set to break ground in 2026.

Delta has also played a transformative role in expanding college access. Since 2017, their investment of over $1 million in the Y’s college access programs has helped nearly 5,000 NYC high school students prepare for higher education. Their support has already helped 1,000 students get to college—unlocking an estimated $3 billion in potential lifetime earnings.

We were proud to recognize Delta Air Lines as a 2025 recipient of the Dodge Award at the Heroes of New York Gala. Their deep commitment to equity and opportunity makes them a true Hero of New York. 

It's Almost Time to Vote!

2 staff with vote balloons

June primaries play a big role in who makes decisions for our communities. Now is the time to get ready to vote for city and state offices in the primary election. 


Important Dates
- Early voting: June 14-22
- Primary Election Day: June 24
Prepare for the Primary
- Make a plan! Will you vote absentee, early, or on Election Day?
- Check your polling site. Several Y branches will serve as polling sites on Tuesday, June 24 from 6AM to 9PM. 
- Read voter guides to learn about the candidates in your party’s primary.

For more resources, visit ymcanyc.org/vote and follow us on Instagram @ymcanyc for weekly informational videos.

Harlem to Higher Ed: Teens Tour HBCUs

bai HBCU Tour in 2025

This April, 36 teens from our Achievers in Industry (bai) program at the Harlem Y embarked on an unforgettable tour of five renowned Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): Coppin State University, North Carolina A&T, Hampton University, Virginia State University, and Bowie State University. The annual HBCU tour is one of four key elements of bai, which also includes the Professional Mentoring Program, Corporate Scholarship Program, and Corporate Internship Program. Together, these pillars empower underserved youth to achieve educational and career success by providing access to opportunities to develop critical leadership skills.  

For many, it was their first time stepping foot on a college campus. The experience offered more than just campus tours—it showed them what is possible. Teens connected with student leaders, explored new cities and museums, and envisioned their futures in environments rooted in legacy and cultural pride.  

The annual HBCU tour is one of four pillars of bai, alongside the Professional Mentoring Program, Corporate Scholarship Program, and Corporate Internship Program. Together, these pillars empower underserved youth with access and support they need to achieve educational and career success. 

For over 50 years, the Harlem Y and its corporate partners have honored more than 4,600 corporate executives, raised over $2.3M, and awarded more than 900 scholarships to teens throughout NYC.

UPCOMING EVENTS

LA CENTRAL 3RD ANNUAL TRIATHLON | June 22 
Swim, bike, and run for your community! The further you go, the higher you’ll place. T-shirts, swim caps, and prizes offered. Register here

CASTLE HILL SUNSET CRUISE | June 26
Enjoy beautiful views, dinner, dancing, and entertainment while making a difference in the lives of Bronx families. RSVP here

GOLF & GALA | July 28
Join us at our 4th Annual Golf & Gala at the Westchester Country Club where you can enjoy a day of golf (or tennis!) and an evening cocktail reception. Secure your tickets or donate here