At Mary Nelson’s Youth Center, we’re not just a place but a promise—to inspire the youth of Syracuse to embrace their identity and unleash their potential. Through diverse programs, we equip young people with the tools, resources, and support needed to shape their values and evolve into the confident leaders of tomorrow. Now, we’re embarking on an exciting journey to expand our reach with a new Youth Basketball Court Center on South Salina Street, fostering even more opportunities for our community’s youth.
Support Our “Brick by Brick” Campaign
The foundation of our new Basketball Court Center will be built, quite literally, “Brick by Brick.” This campaign offers you a unique opportunity to be part of this vital community project. By purchasing a personalized brick, you contribute to not only the physical structure but also to the legacy of support and empowerment at Mary Nelson’s Youth Center. Learn how you can leave a lasting mark on our center and help us ensure that our youth have the space and opportunities they need to succeed.
VOLUNTEER TO HELP AT THE BACK-TO-SCHOOL BARBEQUE. SPONSORSHIP IS NEEDED AND GREATLY APPRECIATED
If your looking to donate to our annual backpack giveaway and not sure what to get, use these shopping lists below!
Read more about the sponsors that have supported our cause, and see what makes them special.
For many years, our signature event has connected people from the community and we invite you to join us as a volunteer or attend the next one.
Mary Nelson organized the first Back-to-School Barbeque 19 years ago as part of an effort to reduce violence in her neighborhood. Besides the school supplies, she treated children and their families to a full-scale outdoor barbeque. Mary wanted to do something about the violence affecting children in the community. In 2002, the first year the event was held, there were 850 youths and their parents in attendance. Every year thereafter, the event has grown in record numbers. Every year our community is unified together to make sure our children were ready for the upcoming school year, we collected the backpacks and school supplies.
Our goals are to shape the way they live their lives and teach them the fundamentals of social responsibility, healthy living and cultural acceptance. Curious to find out more about us and how you can get involved? Browse our website and get in touch with us today.
December 21st, 2024 11am – 6pm Nottingham High School
SIGN-UP IS NOW OPEN!
Deadline to Register is December 20th at 6pm!
ALL YOUTH MUST REGISTER!
Our BIG annual backpack giveaway is every August.
Our last event was on August 17th, 2024!
We also distribute these school supply loaded backpacks year-round!
Check out our Donation Shopping List for ideas.
Looking to DONATE? Download this PDF!
The Mary Nelson’s Youth Center
2849 S. Salina Street
Syracuse, NY 13205
MAKING A DIFFERENCE ONE CHILD AT A TIME
At the Mary Nelson Youth Center, we strive to empower the lives of youth in the Syracuse community through our variety of programs. Our Educational activities and tutoring programs are designed to provide our youth with all the tools they need to be great leaders tomorrow. We are happy to be the driving force behind the development of our children, and hope to continue making a difference in their lives.
SHAPING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW
Since 2002, we have contributed to the development of children and families in the greater Syracuse area through our wide range of programs geared towards fighting the “war on poverty”. Our resource and referral programs are centered on helping families to become self sufficient.
BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE
We care about our young adults and parents of the community, we provide them with a number of enrichment programs career services and entrepreneurial support. Our Young Adults & Adult Day Programs provide participants with computer access, resume writing assistance and other related services. Come experience it for yourself today!
Our goals is to shape the way they live their lives and teach them the fundamentals of social responsibility, healthy living and cultural acceptance.
