YCS

08/30/2026

Grief doesn't look the same for everyone, especially children. It can show up as sadness, anger, anxiety, withdrawal, or changes in behavior, and often, it doesn't have the words to explain itself.

On Grief Awareness Day, we recognize the importance of helping children and families navigate loss with compassion, understanding, and the right support.

The Dr. Helen May Strauss Clinics in Essex and Hudson counties provide mental health services for children, adolescents, and families, including those coping with grief, bereavement, and other major life changes. Through individualized care, we help young people process difficult emotions, build healthy coping skills, and move forward at their own pace.

Learn more about our services: https://hubs.ly/Q04vJKTR0.

08/28/2026

After nearly 20 years of dedicated service, YCS Foundation Trustee Peggy Kabakow is retiring from the Board. 💙

Peggy’s connection to YCS began through the Northern Region Advisory Council, where she joined other volunteers in organizing activities for children in YCS residential programs and raising funds to support our mission. Over the years, her involvement grew as she visited YCS programs, spent time with children at summer camp and brought together friends and volunteers to help make the holidays brighter.

Through it all, Peggy has been a caring and committed champion for the children and families we serve, creating many special memories along the way.

While Peggy is stepping down from the Board, her connection to YCS will continue. “YCS is a wonderful agency that I will always support,” she says.

We are so grateful for Peggy’s nearly two decades of compassion, generosity and dedication to YCS. Please join us in thanking Peggy for all she has done and wishing her the very best in this next chapter!

08/28/2026

Congratulations to boxing legend Gerry Cooney, who was inducted into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame this month! Not only is Gerry a champion in the ring, but he is also a champion for the youth at YCS! Gerry accompanied Kilbarchan residents to Cus D’Amato’s KO Boxing Gym in Catskill, NY, where they met and hung out with legendary boxer Mike Tyson along with other veteran boxers. Gerry, once again, congratulations, and thank you for all you do.

08/22/2026

The YCS Family would like congratulate our talented & always caring, supportive Trustee, Vanessa Tyler, on the publucation of her first children’s book. We are so grateful for your dedication to championing YCS’ mission, & we wish you great success on your first book.

08/19/2026

Every child looks forward to summer fun, and every parent wants their child to create lasting summer memories. ☀️

The YCS C.R.E.W. team—who work closely with youth in our homes through Creative Educational Recreation—wanted to make sure every child had the opportunity to enjoy a summer filled with fun, friendship and unforgettable memories.

With the support of the YCS Foundation and our wonderful donors, the C.R.E.W. team organized a fun-filled sports day for the children. From smiles and laughter to teamwork and friendly competition, it was a day to remember!

We’ll let the pictures tell the story. 📸❤️

08/17/2026

Anthony Cave-harris - his incredible talent as a dancer, teacher and dance therapist are unmatched. He leads with heart and a gentle discipline. The young ladies at one of our homes were so proud and overjoyed at being invited to perform at his show. Words are not enough to express our gratitude and appreciation.

This year's theme was "Rhythm Hunters" - A K-pop-inspired showcase.

08/17/2026

National Nonprofit Day is a reminder that every donation, partnership, and act of generosity has the power to change lives. On this day, the YCS Foundation, would like to acknowledge the many individual donors, volunteers, and charitable organizations and corporations who have supported summer activities for all the participants in our residential programs.

Their generosity helps make summer more than just a season. It opens the door to community outings, recreational activities, and new experiences that give children, adults, and families the chance to build friendships, discover new interests, and create lasting memories.

This summer has been filled with smiles, milestones, and moments of connection, all made possible by the generosity of our supporters.

Thank you to everyone who helps bring these experiences to life, not just during the summer, but all year long.

08/14/2026

The weather was perfect for Family Fun Day on the Kilbarchan Campus! Everyone was treated to delicious food from the food truck, while KB participants and their young guests enjoyed giant water slides, face painting, and plenty of other fun activities.

Most importantly, families had the opportunity to relax, have fun, and enjoy a special afternoon together.

A special thank-you to all of our generous donors who help make these memorable family outings possible!

08/13/2026

Make your impact go beyond the course at the 2026 YCS Charity Golf Classic!

On September 14, the YCS community will come together at Edgewood Country Club for a day of purpose and generosity in support of the children, adults, and families we serve.

If you’ve been thinking about joining us, now’s the time. From $10 raffle tickets, to $400 tee signs, to sponsorships of up to $10,000, every level of support helps create opportunities for individuals and families to overcome challenges, build resilience, and move forward with confidence.

Tee up your support and help drive impact! Confirm your participation by Friday, August 21, and help make this year’s Golf Classic a success. Together, we can nurture hope and build brighter futures that extend far beyond the course.

Learn more about sponsorship opportunities: https://hubs.ly/Q04sGH5_0.

08/12/2026

Today is International Youth Day, a global observance that recognizes the important role young people play in our communities while shining a light on the challenges many continue to face, including mental health needs, disabilities, and barriers to education and support.

At YCS, we're reminded every day of the strength and resilience of the young people we serve. Despite their challenges, the youth in our School Based Youth Services program and residences volunteer in their communities and have participated in community clean ups, donated sandwiches to local shelters and more.

Today, we celebrate those voices and reaffirm our commitment to helping every young person feel supported, valued, and able to reach their full potential.