Mascaro Clubhouse Teen Center Opens in New Rochelle

Written By: Robert Cox

NEW ROCHELLE, NY (April 23, 2025) — The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle unveiled its newly renovated Mascaro Clubhouse Teen Center, a space designed to support college preparation, career development, and leadership programs while doubling its capacity to serve local youth.

The renovation, celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 21, 2025, was attended by about 50 dignitaries, including New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert and City School District of New Rochelle Superintendent Dr. Corey W. Reynolds. The project was funded through a grant from New York State Senator Shelley B. Mayer.

“This Teen Center will have a profound positive impact on the lives of our teens and serve as an innovative safe haven for our young people,” said Becky Mazzanobile, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle. “They deserve a space that reflects their potential, and that’s exactly what this vision and renovation represent.”

Senator Mayer addressed attendees, stating, “This renovation truly transforms this space and creates incredible opportunities for the young people in this community. I’m proud to have played a role in helping bring it to life and I always strive to support projects that have a meaningful and lasting impact.”

The Mascaro Clubhouse, originally donated by the Ricci family in 1926, began as a residential home before being rebuilt in the 1980s after a fire in the late 1970s. The 22,000-square-foot facility now serves as a cornerstone of youth development in New Rochelle alongside the Remington Clubhouse. The Teen Center renovation is part of a larger capital project, with future upgrades planned.

Mayor Ramos-Herbert emphasized the significance of the expanded programming, saying, “The new Teen Center is more than just a space; it’s a launchpad for our youth. The programs housed here will open doors for teens to explore careers, prepare for college and build confidence in a safe, innovative environment.”

New Rochelle High School senior Alexa Arias, a Club member, shared, “This new Teen Center represents growth for our Clubhouse and opens up so many new possibilities to grow both academically and socially. I’m so excited to be able to use this space.”

Last year, Mascaro served 164 teens; this year, the Club expects to double that number with programs like Diplomas to Degrees and Career Launch. The remodeled space features cutting-edge technology and a College and Career Center equipped with laptops, research tools, and staff support to foster academic achievement and workforce readiness.

“This is the most significant renovation this building has seen to date,” said Chief Program Officer William Iannuzzi. “We’re not only expanding our capacity, we’re reimagining how we serve youth by integrating cutting-edge technology, leadership development and workforce-readiness programs.”

The Teen Lounge will host programs including Youth of the Year, Youth Civics Council, TLC: Think, Learn, Create Change, and Mariano Workforce Tracks, in partnership with The Mariano Rivera Public Foundation. Additional offerings include summer camp, FAFSA workshops, and college-application support.

The renovation follows 2024 upgrades, including a new roof, fireproof doors, and a state-of-the-art security system, led by City Manager Wilfred Meléndez. Future enhancements, supported by Senator Nathalia Fernandez, include a new boiler, elevator, second-floor renovations, a new program room, and 10 windows for natural light. Long-term plans involve gym improvements, LED lighting, bathroom retiling, and energy-efficient lighting throughout the building.

Senator Fernandez stated, “This milestone reflects lives changed and futures shaped. The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is a vital cornerstone of youth development in Westchester, and I’m proud to support its continued growth.”

For 95 years, the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has served over 10,000 youths annually across 12 school sites and two clubhouses, offering programs in academics, mental wellness, fitness, leadership, and civics. Learn more at BGCNR.org.

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