The YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) has welcomed new national board members, including NECC alumni Nayeli Almanzar Lizardo, who has been named  to the Youth Advisory Council. 

Nationwide, only 3.8% of YMCA board members are under the age of 30. As a youth-serving organization, the Y has the opportunity to move the needle on the representation of young people on its governing boards. The Youth Advisory Council was formed in 2023 to apply a youth lens to emerging issues. Working with Y-USA leadership, the Youth Advisory Council is comprised of 21 individuals, ranging in age from 16-24 from across the country. The strategy behind the Youth Advisory Council is to shift the paradigm and recognize young people as active contributors rather than passive recipients of programs and services.

Almanzar Lizardo, Merrimack Valley YMCA, is a first-generation scholar, from Northern Essex Community College, now studying at University of Massachusetts, Lowell. “I am dedicated and passionate about implementing positive change within underserved communities by amplifying their voices to provide equitable and accessible resources,” said Almanzar Lizardo. “Eager to contribute meaningfully through collaboration and innovative cause-driven solutions, I am ready to champion the YMCA’s future, empowering us all.”