Empowering Youth & Families in Syracuse
GET INVOLVED NOW
Make a difference today
Become a volunteer
VOLUNTEER TO HELP AT ANY EVENT OR ANY DAY!
SPONSORSHIP IS NEEDED AND GREATLY APPRECIATED
Brick by Brick
Help us build an indoor Basketball Court next door!
We need your help! Brick-by-Brick we can do it!
Become a Member
Give monthly. Change lives forever.
Membership Starts at Just $10/a month!
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's Story
Mary Nelson organized the first Back-to-School Barbeque 20+ 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 block-wide cookout. 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 to host thousands. Every year our community is unified together to make sure our children were ready for the upcoming school year, collecting MORE than just backpacks and school supplies, but a full community food pantry, household items, clothes, and a community expo of free services like health screenings, a concert, and of course that fresh cooked, finger lickin’ good bar-b-q for all!
GET INVOLVED
Commited to enriching the lives of youth and family
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.
Oprah Winfrey visits Mary Nelson Youth Center
Oprah Winfrey offers $100,000 to the Mary Nelson Youth Center on Syracuse's South Side during a surprise visit.
NEED HELP?
Upcoming Events
- August 15th, 2026 - 11am - 6pm
Our BIG annual backpack giveaway is every August.
Our next big event will be on August 15th, 2026!
We also distribute these school supply loaded backpacks year-round!
Check out our Donation Shopping List for ideas.
Looking to DONATE? Download this PDF!
- October 17th, 2026
- Palladian Hall at Treasury
- Mon - Thur 9am - 2pm
- Friday 9am - 12 noon
The Mary Nelson’s Youth Center
2849 S. Salina Street
Syracuse, NY 13205
- Monday's
The Mary Nelson’s Youth Center
2849 S. Salina Street
Syracuse, NY 13205
EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES
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.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
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.
ADULT SERVICES
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!
Ready to Join Us? Let's Strengthen Our Community Together
Since 2002, we’ve been serving thousands of families across Syracuse’s South Side. Together with community partners, we’re empowering youth through social responsibility, healthy living, and cultural acceptance – building tomorrow’s leaders today.