The Friends behind the Hastings Youth Council.

Friends of the Hastings Youth Council is the fundraising organization that provides financial support to the Hastings Youth Council.

In 1969, the Hastings Board of Trustees appointed a group of citizens — the "Narcotics Guidance Council" — to confront drug abuse among local youth. More than fifty years later, that same body, now the Hastings Youth Council, still answers the call — with a mission that has grown far beyond where it began.

Made up of five dedicated volunteers and student representatives from Hastings High School, the Youth Council guides and partners with the Youth Advocate Program to lift up underserved, under-resourced youth across our community.

Together, they are woven into the fabric of village life, creating a steady safety net for children, teens, and families. In collaboration with the Youth Advocate program, the Youth Council provides support through community outreach, counseling services, drug prevention programs in our schools, volunteer and job opportunities, crisis financial intervention, food security, and safe after-school activities and opportunities for all young people.

Appointed by the Mayor and Board of Trustees, the Youth Council works hand in hand with the village government and the Hastings-on-Hudson Union Free School District — a true public partnership for our kids. More information on the Youth Council can be found on the website for the village of Hastings-on-Hudson.

How we turn good will into real support.

We raise money four ways — and because we're all-volunteer-run, almost all of it goes straight to the programs that need it.

Why it matters

The work of the Hastings Youth Council is made possible only through the generous donations of local residents. Your financial gift keeps the Food Pantry stocked, the youth programs well-supplied, emergency funds and scholarships available, and the Safe Rides van running.

Though we send our appeal late in the year to showcase the work and impact of the Youth Council, we gratefully accept donations year-round.

How a driveway sale became something more.

A fundraising effort designed by Friends of the Hastings Youth Council, where pre-loved treasures become food on the table and futures for young people, one donation at a time — all-volunteer, non-profit, community powered.

Where your generosity goes to work.

Our volunteers (and the money we raise) support nine programs run by and for the Hastings community — for young people and the families around them. More information on these programs can be found on the website for the village of Hastings-on-Hudson.

The Food Pantry

Our flagship program supplies healthy, fresh groceries and toiletries for 140+ families each month. With federal budget cuts, which have reduced and delayed both food pantry funding and SNAP benefits (food stamps), this necessary safety net is under real strain — and your support keeps it fully stocked.

What to look forward to this fall.

Donate, shop and celebrate all fall. Proceeds from our events directly benefit the Hastings Food Pantry and other Youth Council programs — thank you for the support!

Give every young person the chance to thrive!

Nearly every dollar supports local programs — we are 100% volunteer-run. Truly no amount is too small! Here are some ideas of how your money would be put into action:

We'd love to hear from you.

Questions about donating, volunteering, or our programs? Reach out — a real person will get back to you.