For 30 years, this youth program skipped right over Rye. Not anymore.

Families in Rye, Harrison and Rye Brook just gained access to a Westchester youth-services program that spent more than three decades limited to just 11 other communities across the county.

Westchester's "Invest in Kids" program opened up to youth countywide for its 2026-2028 funding cycle, citing shifting demographics as the reason for dropping the old boundaries. Previously, only kids in places like Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Yonkers, White Plains and eight other communities could tap into it. Now the Rye YMCA is one of 45 agencies funded in the new round, giving local families a direct way in.

County Executive Ken Jenkins put $3.1 million toward the program in the 2026 budget, funding 63 programs across those 45 agencies. The Youth Bureau said it received 45% more proposals this cycle than in 2022 — a sign of how much demand has grown. The program, running since 1993, covers everything from substance-use prevention and academic support to college readiness, healthy relationships and emotional well-being for kids under 21.

The Youth Bureau's fifth annual Invest Fest drew about 200 young people to Ridge Road Park in Hartsdale on July 8, with 20 partner agencies running interactive stations. Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden called it a chance for kids across the county to connect with each other while learning what's available to them.

Other funded partners include Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester County, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester Jewish Community Services, and the White Plains Library Foundation.

Want to get connected?

Reach the Westchester County Youth Bureau at 112 East Post Road, 3rd Floor, White Plains, by phone at (914) 995-2745, or by email at [email protected].