PORT CHESTER, NY (January 6, 2026) — The Village of Port Chester has been awarded $27,407 in Youth Development Program funding to support its Youth Media Lab, a creative and skills-based initiative run by the Port Chester Youth Bureau.
The grant comes from the Westchester County Youth Bureau, utilizing funds from the New York State Office of Children and Family Services. It covers the program period from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026.
The Youth Media Lab is designed to engage local youth in media, technology and digital storytelling while developing critical life skills aligned with New York State youth development priorities. Participants gain hands-on experience with media production tools and techniques that promote personal growth, communication skills, creativity and future educational or workforce opportunities.
Village officials said the funding reinforces the community’s commitment to delivering meaningful, innovative and constructive programming for young residents.
“This investment supports the Village’s ongoing commitment to providing meaningful, innovative, and constructive programming for Port Chester youth,” the release states. “The Youth Media Lab will offer participants opportunities to develop technical competencies while encouraging teamwork, self-expression, and positive community engagement.”
Mayor Luis A. Marino emphasized the long-term benefits for the community.
“Our youth in Port Chester represent a generation of tomorrow’s leaders and professionals,” Marino said. “When our village can provide occupational training to better prepare them for the future job market, it is a win for all of Port Chester.”
Village Manager Stuart L. Rabin highlighted the Youth Bureau’s mission.
“The Port Chester Youth Bureau is committed to becoming the premier visionary and forward-thinking agency dedicated to expanding opportunities for young people throughout Westchester County,” Rabin said. “Through innovative programming, the Bureau is building a strong foundation for future independence, with a particular emphasis on professional media skills and technical readiness that distinguishes this program from all others.”
The announcement also included a statement expressing excitement about the program’s potential.
“This investment will allow us to expand creative, career-connected opportunities for Port Chester youth by providing hands-on training in media production,” the release states. “I’m excited about the impact this program will have and grateful for the continued support and partnership that makes initiatives like this possible.”
The Village of Port Chester expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership with Westchester County and New York State in advancing youth development initiatives.
For more information about the Youth Media Lab or Port Chester Youth Bureau programming, residents are directed to contact the Village of Port Chester.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.
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