Vail Resorts CEO, Rob Katz, and his wife, Elana Amsterdam, New York Times bestselling author and founder of Elana’s Pantry, yesterday shared the grant recipients of their previously announced $1.5 million donation to support youth organizations in cities surrounding Vail Resorts’ locations. BGCMB was named as one of the 14 nonprofits receiving grants for working to strengthen communities and support youth of color in urban centers across North America.
The donation is part of a five-year, $10 million commitment from the Katz Amsterdam Charitable Trust and Vail Resorts to expand its youth access program and broaden engagement in skiing and riding. However, due to the challenges presented by COVID-19, this year’s grants will fund the top priorities determined by each organization for the kids they serve.
The organization's press release quoted Katz who said, “We’re honored to be partnering with these organizations now and look forward to our future efforts to enhance access to winter sports for underserved kids,” said Katz. “As youth of color and their families have been especially hard hit by the pandemic, it’s essential that the nonprofits receiving grants this year are able to determine the best use for their community. All of these organizations have had to pivot their services due to COVID-19, and, additionally, many are helping the youth they serve find their voice to be part of the national dialogue on systemic racism.”
“We were faced with many challenges prior to the pandemic that have only intensified since the COVID crisis began,” said Latisha Franklin, vice president of youth development, Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore. “Having the ability to adjust programming and resources for youth and families is even more critical now. This grant significantly enhances our impact on Baltimore’s youth by deepening our program services focused on social and emotional wellness, social justice, racial equity and aiding their transition to virtual schooling. We thank Katz Amsterdam Charitable Trust for their commitment to strengthen communities such as Baltimore.”
To read the entire story released by Katz Amsterdam Charitable Trust and Vail Resorts, click on this link:
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore serves more than 650 young individuals and operates five locations throughout the area, emphasizing dedication to academics, participation in communities and commitment to a healthy lifestyle. The organization provides a safe environment and positive relationships for Baltimore's youth in an effort to present opportunities for growth and support.
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