Legal Career Pathway Program Participants Sharpen Public Discourse Skills with Judicial Leaders, Government Officials & Community Advocates
The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle hosted an impactful Youth Justice Forum recently at its Remington Clubhouse, bringing together youth, judicial leaders, government officials and community advocates for meaningful dialogue on issues affecting local communities and the future of justice in New York.
The forum was developed through the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s Legal Career Pathway Program, an innovative workforce development initiative offered in partnership with the Mariano Rivera Foundation. The program was created in collaboration with the New York State Commission of Jurors under the leadership and guidance of Commissioner of Jurors Dr. Betty Campbell and the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission.
“The Youth Justice Forum demonstrates the power of creating opportunities for young people to engage directly with leaders and decision-makers,” said Becky Mazzanobile, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle. “When youth are encouraged to share their experiences, ask questions and participate in meaningful conversations about their communities, they develop the confidence and leadership skills needed to create positive change.”
The event welcomed New York State Chief Judge Rowan D. Wilson, members of government, judges, legal professionals and community leaders for a dynamic discussion centered on civic engagement, youth voice and access to justice. The distinguished panel featured Judge Anne E. Minihan, Administrative Judge of the Ninth Judicial District; Judge Maurice Dean Williams of the Westchester County Court; Joanne Dunn, Executive Director of Youth Shelter Program of Westchester and Mazzanobile.
“The Legal Pathways program is about opening doors: doors to leadership, to civic participation and to the power each young person holds to shape their future. Creating meaningful opportunities for young people to engage with the legal profession is central to the mission of the Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission,” said Associate Justice Troy K. Webber, Co-Chair of Franklin H. Williams Judicial Commission.
“Events like this demonstrate the impact of early exposure, mentorship and meaningful dialogue with members of the judiciary. Investing in our youth today strengthens both the legal profession and the communities we serve tomorrow.”
Designed to amplify youth perspectives, young people engaged directly with leaders and decision-makers, discussing concerns impacting their neighborhoods and exploring opportunities for meaningful change. Participants raised questions and shared insights on both systemic and everyday challenges affecting their communities, fostering thoughtful conversations about advocacy, equity and reform.
A highlight of the evening was the exceptional leadership demonstrated by Michael Rosario, a current Legal Career Pathway Program participant, who co-moderated the discussion alongside Bronx Supreme Court Justice Mary Lynn Nicolas-Brewster. Rosario’s professionalism, confidence and public speaking skills reflected the workforce readiness, leadership development and civic engagement fostered through the program.
Students from the Legal Career Pathway Program helped facilitate discussions and moderate portions of the forum. Their participation provided valuable exposure to professional communications, public service and the legal field while reinforcing the importance of youth leadership in civic discourse.
“I felt the session was informative and I learned a lot about things I never really thought about as a young lady. The world is changing, and it’s important to know your rights,” said youth participant Victoria P.
The Legal Career Pathway Program, part of the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s broader Workforce Development initiative and offered in partnership with the Mariano Rivera Foundation, provides participants with direct exposure to careers within the legal and justice systems while strengthening workforce readiness, mentorship, leadership development and preparation for future careers in civil service, public administration and the New York State Unified Court System. Through hands-on training, professional mentorship and career readiness support, participants gain valuable industry exposure and develop essential skills such as leadership, communication and financial literacy.
For 96 years, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has been an integral part of the community, offering quality, achievement-driven programming encompassing academics, mental wellness, fitness, leadership and civics. Today, it is one of Westchester County’s largest nonprofits and a leader in youth development, serving over 12,100 youths annually at 12 school sites and two clubhouses.
Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s impactful before-school, after-school, elective, and summer offerings empower members to excel in school, become good citizens, and lead healthy, productive lives while effectively bridging the gap between school and home. Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is proud to be affiliated with Boys & Girls Club of America, widely considered as both the leading youth organization and among the top nonprofits in the United States. Learn more at BGCNR.org.