Our Impact

“Thanks to the generous support of the NYAC Athlete’s Fund, North East Westchester Special Recreation has been able to open new doors of opportunity for our athletes. Two years ago, Special Olympics introduced a brand-new sport—floorball—and our agency was eager to join the excitement. At the time, we had no equipment, protective gear, or uniforms for our athletes. Through their grant, we were able to purchase everything needed to build a complete program—from sticks and nets to team jerseys—allowing our athletes to train, compete, and take pride in representing North East. The results have been extraordinary. Our floorball team advanced through regional and state competitions to earn a place at the 2025 Special Olympics World Games in Italy, where they proudly won the bronze medal. This achievement not only reflects the dedication and talent of our athletes but also the lasting impact that the Athlete’s Fund has made on their lives. Because of this grant, our participants gained more than equipment—they gained confidence, teamwork, and a global sense of accomplishment that will inspire them for years to come.”

“I want to personally thank Jim Rafferty (Athlete’s Fund President) and everyone at the NYAC Athlete’s Fund for your many years of generous support for our Learn to Swim programs. Over the past twelve-plus years, your $40,000 in funding has provided life-saving swim lessons to more than 200 underserved children. Without this support, many of these young people might never have had the chance to gain essential water safety skills or learn how to be safe in, on, under, and around the water.

Beyond funding, we’ve also been fortunate to have NYAC athletes join us for community Water Safety Day events—helping children and families overcome generational fears of water through positive, hands-on experiences. Your members’ enthusiasm and mentorship have made a lasting impact.
In addition, your athletes’ participation in our Bootcamp clinics for competitive swimmers has elevated skill development and inspired our young swimmers. Their expertise and example have helped shape the next generation of competitors and water safety advocates.

Our shared commitment to water safety and fostering a lifelong love of swimming makes this partnership a natural and meaningful one. As Swim Strong celebrates its 20th Anniversary in the coming year, we hope to continue building on this relationship and to collaborate on the celebration and beyond.
Thank you again for your enduring partnership and for helping us save lives and strengthen our community through swimming.”