On a Thursday evening, a group of supporters gathered in Greenwich Village at YAI Network’s Manhattan Recreation Services building for a fashion show fundraiser put on by participants from the Girlz Only Club. Ting Ji, a professional model, was one of the volunteers who assisted with planning the event and teaching the ladies how to walk on the runway. “On the day of the show one or two of the participants were nervous. But as soon as they hit the runway they were all smiles. I was so proud to be a part of this show!”

Stories like this are just one of many told by members of YAI Network’s Brighter Futures Society (BFS).The BFS is a group of motivated young professionals who are committed to helping people with developmental disabilities achieve independence and lead fulfilling lives. BFS members devote time in planning community events for the people we serve, such as holiday parties, museum trips and concert outings Members also volunteer at programs playing basketball, doing arts and crafts or helping participants plan events at YAI’s Manhattan Recreation Services. Many of these programs, such as basketball, or the Girlz Only Club, which teaches skills specific to women with developmental disabilities, are not supported by government and rely on private funding.

Besides volunteering with program participants, the Brighter Futures Society networks with other young professionals, building awareness about developmental disabilities to others who also want to give back to society. Initiatives, such as the highly successful BFS Camp Scholarship Fund, help raise money for privately supported programs. Last year’s efforts helped send 25 kids with developmental disabilities to an inclusive summer camp in the Catskills.

BFS members know that fundraising can be fun as well! Every spring they host an exciting event which includes fabulous cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and exciting entertainment. This year’s event, “Hope on the Hudson,” on Thursday, May 13, is the sixth annual event hosted by the group. Hundreds of New York City’s young leaders are attracted to the event every year, with all proceeds benefiting YAI programs.