The Livingston County Youth Bureau has distributed more than $38,000 in funding to local youth sports organizations, providing a crucial boost to programs that serve athletes under the age of 18.
The funds, awarded through a competitive selection process, will help organizations expand coaching staff, purchase equipment and uniforms, and cover facility costs. The grants come from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services’ Youth Team Sports Allocation and Youth Sports Education and Opportunities Funds.
“We are proud to have been able to stretch these funds to support so many different programs in our communities,” said Workforce Development Director Ryan Snyder. “Sports and physical activity are so important for young people’s confidence, social skills, mental health, and much more. It’s great to be able to play a part in bringing these programs to more of our young County residents.”
The grant recipients include a variety of programs across Livingston County, from baseball and basketball clubs to swimming and cheerleading organizations. The largest single award, totaling $6,337, was given to GLOW Academy, Inc., while Tri-County YMCA received over $4,000 to support its pickleball and swimming programs. Other organizations, such as the Livonia Soccer Club, Geneseo Youth Basketball, and the Livingston County Lacrosse Club, received funds ranging from approximately $1,900 to $2,200.
The investment in youth sports aims to enhance accessibility and engagement for children and teens, ensuring they have the resources to develop athletic skills and benefit from the social and physical aspects of team activities. County officials emphasized the role of sports in fostering discipline, teamwork, and overall well-being among young residents.
With the continued support of state grants and community organizations, local youth sports programs are expected to grow and reach more participants in the coming years.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].