This holiday season it’s important we get involved with organizations that are making a difference.

Every year we spend money on Christmas gifts, Black Friday, Cyber Monday Sales and extravagant dinners and parties.

Yet some times we forget to focus on self-care and treating ourselves, especially this time of year when loneliness and winter blues start to creep up. But putting some of that care into others is important too.

One of the best ways to give back is to do it locally. There are tons of organizations collecting donations, gently worn clothing and other essentials. It’s just a matter of finding a cause you believe in.

Power Forward NYC is a non-profit promoting education and achievement for the youth. Founder of the initiative, Anthony Ellison is originally from Bed Stuy and created the organization with the mission to have a positive impact on the youth.

Ellison believes people need to take more ownership of their streets, community and to pay special attention to our youth. The Founder of Power Forward NYC and Smurf Village native said,

“Everyone deserves a Christmas.”

Power Forward NYC believes in removing labels from inner-city kids. The focus on connecting youths ages 5 to 15 to themselves, diverse peers and their own family. In doing so, a new cycle of healthy, long-lasting habits and positive beliefs are formed.

Thus, on Dec. 21, Power Forward hosted their toy and coat drive for the youth of Bed-Stuy. At Bed Vyne, 370 Tompkins Ave. and new toys and gently used coats were handed out to those in need.

Not to mention, there were raffle prizes, and sounds were curated by DJs CamiCush, TJ Mizell and Y3LDA. Also, companies like HeyDay Skincare, Nice Tattoo, and Control Sector donated vouchers and gift cards for raffle prizes. Along with them, the NY Knicks donated gear for the kids, from hats to windbreakers.

The city’s up and coming talent also popped out for a good cause. Of course, DJ Mike Nasty, BahKhrist, Seqo Billy and Dylan St. John pulled up to support the Bed Stuy youth movement.

Over a hundred community members showed up to make sure every child, and parent, were remembered during the holidays. They went the extra step to go through their closets and find some coats that their families weren’t wearing.

Some even went further to grab an extra toy when they were out shopping for gifts. Others showed support all day while some dedicated time to deliver coats and toys to 97 families at the St. Johns Place Family Center.

Make sure you stay in tune with Power Forward NYC as money raised is going towards building an upcoming 2020 initiative in Bed Stuy. Donate here.