The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is a private nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of New Yorkers, bolster health outcomes of vulnerable communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services. Named after a tireless advocate for immigrants, children, and the poor, the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation funds programs and initiatives across New York state that either provide direct healthcare services or address the social determinants of health.
Maria Scigliamo, program officer at the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation said, “The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is proud to award the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester funding to expand critical mental health services to youth in their afterschool programming. With the expansion of these services, youth will be better equipped to address stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges they may face in a safe and nurturing environment…”
A key factor the the Wellness Center’s success is the integration of the programming into an environment where youth already feel safe and supported every day. The program uses a three-pronged approach to infuse mental wellness services throughout Club programming. Director of Wellness, Dr. Alana Pudalov, oversees the Wellness Center, working in conjunction with her colleague, Bryant Srour, to identify graduate students in social work and psychology to support group counseling sessions.
Says Dr. Alana, “As the Director of Wellness, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of our programming on individuals of all ages, from Pre-K students to adults. By fostering a deeply supportive environment rooted in trauma-informed care and positive psychology, we empower children, teens, and adults to build resilience, develop emotional well-being, and thrive.”