Congressman Tony Cárdenas announced $2 million in Community Project Funding for the Mid Valley YMCA in Van Nuys to expand their Science Technology Education Mathematics (STEM) and Civics Education department.
Currently, the Mid Valley YMCA offers a hands-on youth and government program that provides statewide civic engagement, and educational and social experiences, engaged with over 60 delegations and 1300 students across California. In addition, the YMCA offers a rigorous program that introduces youth to STEM programming and emphasizes the importance of gender equity in the STEM field. Additional funds will ensure the continuance and expansion of this programming that has supported youth and families since 1960.
“As elected officials, our number one priority is to take care of the people living in our home communities. Including programs for organizations like the Y in our federal budget is a critical step towards making a direct impact on the lives of our neighbors,” said Cárdenas. “As an engineer myself, I understand the power of STEM education and its potential to change lives. That’s why we need to encourage more Latinos and students of color from communities like ours to pursue STEM careers and dream big.”
“We are grateful to Congressmember Tony Cárdenas for his leadership and support in securing the funds to allow us to continue providing access to STEM and civic education programs at our San Fernando Valley YMCAs,” said Victor Dominquez, CEO & president, YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles. “These vital programs give young people from all backgrounds the opportunity to reach their full potential and grow into a new generation of community change-makers.”
For the second time since 2009, Congress passed Community Project Funding, the money requested by members of Congress to meet the needs of their district. Cárdenas submitted 15 requests to the Appropriations Committee, all of which were passed in the fiscal year 2023 appropriations federal funding package. The over $26 million going to the northeast San Fernando Valley will support job creation, youth programs, mental health care, community empowerment, improvements to healthcare and more.