The Westchester County Board of Legislators approved measures to create summer work experience for young adults, expand employment services for people with mental illness, and acquire a Revolutionary War landmark at its meeting on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Board Chairman Vedat Gashi (D- New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “The Board's actions Monday night show we’re thinking about every member of our community—from young people building their first job skills to adults seeking employment support to families looking for places to connect with our history. The County is investing in opportunities that matter to the people of Westchester.”

Summer Program to Help Young Adults Build Career Skills and Earn Income

The Board approved agreements with eight municipalities to provide a six-week summer work experience program for youth ages 16-24 from income-eligible families. The program offers participants more than just a paycheck—they’ll develop workplace skills, build professional networks, and gain valuable contacts that will serve them throughout their careers. Fully funded by a $150,000 grant from New York Presbyterian Hospital, the program incurs no direct cost to county taxpayers. The Westchester County Youth Bureau will coordinate with local youth bureaus in Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, Peekskill, Yonkers, White Plains, Ossining, Port Chester, and Greenburgh.

Board Vice Chair José I. Alvarado (D-Yonkers) said, “With the approval of the Summer Youth Job Training program, we are changing the lives of those that participate. I am a true witness of what these initiatives do in the community because often I get to see these young individuals in action. I have always said that we need to do more to keep youth involved and progressing, if possible we should invest more; young people are our future!”

Minority Whip James Nolan (R- Yonkers, Eastchester, Bronxville), Chair of the Board’s Veterans, Seniors and Youth Committee, agreed and said, “I’m proud to support expanded summer employment and training opportunities for our youth here in Yonkers. Our young people are the most valuable resource we have. Programs like this not only provide early job experience and mentorship, but also help build confidence, responsibility, and community engagement. Investing in youth is investing in the future of Westchester.”

Mental Health Employment Services Expanded

The Board also approved expanded support for adults with serious mental illness to find and maintain jobs. The initiative includes job coaching, rapid placement assistance, and connections to community employers. New York State is providing an additional $244,858, increasing total funding to $1.39 million through 2026. Westchester Medical Center administers these services, helping participants build independence and achieve financial stability.

Legislator Nancy E. Barr (D- Harrison, Port Chester, Rye Brook), Chair of the Board’s Human Services Committee, said, “Finding and holding a job is an important milestone for most adults, providing both a livelihood and a sense of self-worth.  But for adults affected by serious mental illness, this can be very challenging.  I am pleased that we are now able to increase funding to support these job seekers with money from the NYS Department of Mental Health. Helping these individuals find and maintain appropriate employment is a win-win, and we are fortunate to be able to partner with WCHCC to administer this program.”

Preserving Revolutionary War Heritage

In addition, Westchester residents will soon be able to experience a rare piece of living history at the historic Ward House in Tuckahoe, following the Board’s approval to acquire the property. The $2.55 million bond authorization will purchase the Revolutionary War-era property on White Plains Road for $980,000 and fund renovations to make the site welcoming and accessible to the public. This investment ensures that an authentic glimpse into 18th-century life becomes a community asset for generations to come.

Built more than 270 years ago, the Ward House served as home to Stephen Ward, Eastchester’s Town Supervisor in the 1700s, and played a significant role during the Revolutionary War. After British General William Tryon burned the structure, Ward’s son Jonathan restored it—preserving a tangible connection to the County’s colonial past.

Legislator Judah Holstein (D- Eastchester, New Rochelle, Tuckahoe) said, “I am immensely pleased and proud that we have approved the purchase of the Ward House in Tuckahoe, ensuring that this important Revolutionary War landmark will be preserved. This investment safeguards a rare piece of our colonial history and makes it possible for future generations to connect with the story of our nation’s founding right here in Westchester and in District 10. My sincere thanks go to all who made this possible—my colleagues on the County Board, the County Executive, the staff in our Planning and Parks Departments, the Village of Tuckahoe, the property owner, the Friends of the Ward House, and everyone who came together to achieve this milestone.” 

Watch the full meeting HERE.