Speaker Carl Heastie continued his annual statewide tour with Assemblymember Demond Meeks, visiting the Baden Street Settlement and Mentors Inspiring Boys and Girls in Rochester. Both organizations provide resources to families in the area, including youth development, mentoring, substance abuse programs, and behavioral health services.
“It was great to visit the Baden Street Settlement and Mentors Inspiring Boys and Girls facilities today with Assemblymember Meeks and to see the extraordinary work they do every day to give people of all ages the support they need,” Speaker Heastie said. “The work these organizations do are pivotal to strengthening our communities, expanding opportunities and championing the next generation.”
“It was an honor to join Speaker Heastie again today to reaffirm our support for community organizations that provide assistance to Rochester families and give a safe space to our youth,” Assemblymember Meeks said. “I remain committed to ensuring that Rochester families have the access to the life-changing resources these organizations offer so no one is left without the support they need.”
During their visit, Speaker Heastie and Assemblymember Meeks returned to Baden Street Settlement. In 2024, they announced $8.1 million in state budget funding had been secured for capital improvements at Baden Street Settlement. The funding will be used for facility expansion and modernization, including constructing a new building, renovating a gymnasium, and expanding services such as community assistance, youth and adult development programs, peer support, and senior services. The organization has served Rochester since 1901.
They also toured Mentors Inspiring Boys and Girls (MIBG) with Executive Director Robert Ricks. MIBG offers after-school and evening classes for underprivileged youth focusing on art expression as well as developing life skills, entrepreneurial abilities, math and reading proficiency, dance, theater, and boxing.
