YWCA of Western New York Opens New Playing Field on City’s West Side
New outdoor resource at Schoolhouse Commons expands access to sports and recreation for girls and underserved youth
Buffalo, N.Y.–– The YWCA of Western New York (YWCA of WNY) today hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to announce the opening of its new playing field located on its Schoolhouse Commons campus. The announcement came at the YWCA of WNY’s Lawn Party Fundraiser, which raised funds to support its after-school programming for school-aged youth. YWCA staff, elected officials, community members, and capital supporters joined the organization, including members of the James H. Cummings Foundation, the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation, M&T Bank, and Broadview Federal Credit Union.
The new playing field stretches 62.5-by-150-feet and sits off the campus parking lot, adjacent to the Schoolhouse Commons building. It includes electrical capacity to support lighting, programming, and community events.
"Access to safe outdoor space is one of the social determinants of health," said Michelle Sawyers, CEO of the YWCA of Western New York. "The new playing field at Schoolhouse Commons allows children to discover new interests, build confidence, and experience a sense of belonging. It exists because of the generosity of philanthropic partners, the commitment of civic leaders, and a shared belief that every child deserves access to safe and welcoming spaces. We are happy to have reached this milestone, which will positively impact youth, families, and our senior residents."
Access to safe, high-quality recreational spaces remains limited for many of the low-income and marginalized children and families served by the YWCA of WNY. Barriers like costs and transportation often prevent youth from participating in organized sports and receiving the physical, social, and developmental benefits that come with it. The CDC and the 2023 Aspen State of Play report that youth sports participation is associated with improved academic performance, higher self-esteem, and better mental health outcomes. The new field expands access for the youth and families the organization serves, offering a dedicated space for sports and opportunities for children of all abilities, seniors and the broader YWCA of WNY community. The organization looks forward to future opportunities for partnerships and engagement with area schools, youth organizations, and local sports leagues.
“I would like to congratulate the YWCA of WNY on this accomplishment and thank everyone who played a role in making this project possible,” said North District Councilman Joseph Golombek. “It truly takes a community effort—organizations, partners, supporters, and advocates working together with a shared vision. Congratulations to the YWCA of Western New York and thank you for all that you do for our community.”
The field will put a particular emphasis on increasing sports participation among girls, who have fewer opportunities to play sports than boys. According to the Women’s Sports Foundation, girls have 1.2 million fewer opportunities to play high school sports than boys in the U.S. The new playing field will host sports like soccer, flag football, field hockey, and lacrosse, along with structured programming focused on teamwork, leadership, conflict resolution, and self-discipline.
"The James H. Cummings Foundation is committed to ensuring that young children have access to supports that help ensure they start school ready to learn, succeed in school and graduate from high school; and, that older adults have what they need to age in the place of their choice,” said James H. Cummings Foundation Executive Director Mary Jo Hunt. “This multi-use playing field fills both needs. Children will have access to a safe play space that helps promote learning and adults will have a safe outdoor space for light recreation and wellness activities. We are thrilled to see this space open."
"When young people and families have access to safe, welcoming spaces and meaningful ways to connect, learn and grow, the benefits extend far beyond any single program or facility,” said Rashida Dowell, M&T Bank Community Activation and Business Development Manager; and YWCA of Western New York Development Chair. "This project represents an investment in the health and well-being of local youth, while also creating an environment for families and neighbors to come together. M&T is proud to support the YWCA of Western New York as they continue creating opportunities that strengthen connections and contribute to a more vibrant and resilient community."
“The new playing field at Schoolhouse Commons is much more than a recreational space. It is a safe, accessible place where families and children, especially girls in search of opportunities, can play, grow, build confidence, and develop the life skills that come from teamwork and healthy activity. In a neighborhood with limited access to green space, this field will serve as an important community asset for years to come. It will benefit both the youth and adult residents served by the YWCA of Western New York,” said Broadview CEO Michael Castellana. “As Broadview continues to expand in the region, we are proud to support investments that improve quality of life, strengthen neighborhoods, and help members of our community thrive.”
The playing field at Schoolhouse Commons demonstrates the power of collective investment and what nonprofit organizations, elected officials, funders, businesses, and community members can accomplish when they work together to improve quality of life for the children and families who need it most. As the YWCA of Western New York looks ahead, the organization plans to continue expanding opportunities for educational enrichment, experiential learning, recreation, and youth development, ensuring that children and families have access to the programs and resources they need to succeed.
To learn more or to support the YWCA of Western New York, visit https://www.ywca-wny.org/.
