YANA has helped my organization grow connections whether it is through volunteers, consultants, or people who simply want to know more about what we do. I’ve also seen how many young people have gotten an opportunity to participate in philanthropic work through community events YANA hosts in NYC.

I believe one of YANA’s most significant actions is its expanded support of the YANA-Dwight Hall Fellowship, which underwrites paid summer internships with nonprofit organizations for Yale undergraduates who would otherwise not be able to afford it. Throughout my 35+ years in the nonprofit sector I hired dozens of summer interns, but too often lacked the financial resources to adequately compensate them. They were smart, talented, and committed to social change . . . and they were fortunate to have the financial support of their families. YANA takes a critical next step: it provides paid internships to students who don’t have family support. As a result, we will see more students who reflect the vitalizing diversity of Yale and our society.