Fresh Youth Initiatives (FYI) is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN: 13-3723207).

There are many ways that you can help youth to build secure futures!

One-Time and Recurring Gifts

Please click here to make a secure donation online. Choose to make a one-time gift or a weekly, monthly, or annual recurring gift.


+ Can I donate by check?

Yes, you can mail a check made out to Fresh Youth Initiatives to:

Fresh Youth Initiatives
505 West 171st Street
New York, NY 10032


+ Is Fresh Youth Initiatives an accredited charity?

FYI is rated a 4-Star charity on Charity Navigator, highlighting our commitment to financial accountability and transparency. For more information about our financial accountability, view our external accreditations or read our financial statements.


+ How can I learn more about FYI’s programs?

You can visit the Our Programs page on our website to learn about all of programs and services.


+ Is my donation eligible for my company's corporate match?

Many companies match their employees’ charitable contributions, doubling the impact of your gift. Ask your employer if they have a matching program!

Companies that provide matches include Barclays, BlackRock, Google, HSBC, JP Morgan Chase, PepsiCo, and many more!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Maria Herrera at mherrera@freshyouth.org.


+ Can I give to FYI through my DAF (Donor-Advised Fund)?

Yes! Many of our donors use a DAF to give to FYI. You can access DAF Direct here to give with Fidelity Charitable, Schwab Charitable, or BNY Mellon Charitable Gift Fund. If you have any questions at all, please contact Maria Herrera at mherrera@freshyouth.org.

Donate Appreciated Stock

Gifts of appreciated stock support FYI while providing tax advantages to the donor. If you are considering a gift of stock, please contact FYI's Director of Development, Maria Herrera, at (917) 653-9974, or write to mherrera@freshyouth.org.

Our broker information is: Morgan Stanley / DTC 0015 / Account No. 631-050997 / FBO Fresh Youth Initiatives, Inc. / EIN# 13-3723207

Shop for Good!

FYI participates in the following programs:

  • Sign-up for our round-ups through our donation page! Use your spare change to make a big impact at FYI.

  • Rite Aid KidCents: Are you a wellness+ rewards member at Rite Aid? Log in to your wellness+ rewards account, enroll in the KidCents program, and designate Fresh Youth Initiatives as your charity of choice. Every time you shop at Rite Aid, your donation will be rounded to the nearest dollar, and FYI will receive the change.

  • “Make Change with Your Change” at Columbia Wine Company: Shop at our neighborhood wine shop (located on the corner of St. Nicholas Avenue and W. 170th Street) and round your change to the nearest dollar. FYI receives 100% of the proceeds.

Annual “Journeys” Benefit

FYI’s Board Chair Emeritus Ed Lehmann (far L) and Chair Rebecca Sale (far R) joined by former board members Mark Levine and Mindee Barham

FYI’s Board Chair Emeritus Ed Lehmann (far L) and Chair Rebecca Sale (far R) joined by former board members Mark Levine and Mindee Barham

FYI’s annual “Journeys” benefit celebrates the accomplishments of our youth.

All funds raised at our benefit support FYI’s youth programs that empower 1,300 children and teens in Washington Heights and Inwood to achieve their greatest potential.

For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, email Maria Herrera, Development Director, at mherrera@freshyouth.org.

Fresh Youth 5K

The 3rd Annual #FYI5K took place on November 13-15, 2021. Thank you to the many volunteers and supporters who made our event a success.

We raised $36,000, of which 100% will be used for educational, mental health, and social services.

The next one will be a virtual event in 2023. To get involved with our 2023 Fresh Youth 5K, email Maria Herrera, Development Director, at mherrera@freshyouth.org.

Donate Your Birthday

Make your birthday extra special this year by supporting immigrant and first generation students in Washington Heights. Set up a birthday fundraising page on the FYI website and let your friends and family know that you would prefer donations instead of gifts this year.

To kick off your birthday fundraiser, email Evan Solomon at esolomon@freshyouth.org and we’ll set you up with your own individualized birthday webpage.

Click here to see an example of a birthday fundraising page.