Community leader urges Babylon board to fund youth programs and build MAC Academy

The Town Board Meeting held on July 9, 2025, in West Babylon, Suffolk County, focused on community programs aimed at supporting local youth, particularly in the context of sports and mentorship. The meeting featured passionate appeals from community members advocating for the continuation of a youth basketball program, which they believe plays a crucial role in providing a safe environment and opportunities for personal development.

One speaker emphasized the importance of the program, highlighting that many African American households in the area are single-parent homes. They argued that the basketball program offers youth a constructive outlet, steering them away from negative influences such as drugs and violence. The speaker urged the board to recognize their role in shaping the futures of these young individuals, stating that the program is integral to their resumes and future opportunities.

The discussion also included a proposal for financial support to help establish a dedicated facility for the program. The speaker suggested that the town provide a loan to an individual named Andrew, who has been instrumental in running the program, to build a gym that would serve as a hub for youth activities. This facility would not only support basketball but also offer mentorship and educational programs aimed at empowering local youth.

The speaker's emotional appeal underscored the potential consequences of discontinuing the program, warning that without such opportunities, many young people could face bleak futures. They called on the board to take action, comparing the need for local youth programs to established organizations like the YMCA and Boys and Girls Clubs in neighboring areas.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board to consider the funding and resources available to support these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community investment in youth development. The board's response to these appeals and any subsequent actions regarding the proposed loan and program continuation remain to be seen.