On March 26, nearly 40 people supported by YAI gathered at Zerega Day Hab in the Bronx for an evening focused on connections.
The event was organized by Bronx staff, including BIS Renae Smith, DSP Lantz Brewington, DSP Juliet Ogbannaya, and BIS Bridget Butler, and brought together participants from across the Bronx, Long Island, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens. While called a “speed dating” event, the experience offered something more relaxed than the traditional format.
Instead of timed rotations, the evening centered around interactive group activities designed to help people feel comfortable and spark natural conversations.
“We found that traditional speed dating didn’t work as well, especially when we tried it virtually,” Butler said. “This format helps people open up and connect more naturally. This was really Lantz's idea to try using games instead to help people engage in conversation and it worked out beautifully."
Icebreaker games like Four Corners encouraged participants to move around the room based on shared interests, such as favorite desserts, while staff helped guide conversations. Other activities invited participants to share fun facts about themselves, creating easy entry points for interaction.
As the night unfolded, connections began to form organically.
“At a certain point, we started to see people talking, making eye contact, and showing interest,” Butler said. “We gently encouraged them to go talk to someone, and then we transition into music and a more social atmosphere.”
For some, those connections extended beyond the event itself.
“Speed dating was good—I really enjoyed myself and made a connection with a nice man. We’re still talking and dating,” said Eddie Pacheco, a person YAI supports from the Bronx. “I like introducing myself, learning about people’s interests, and joining groups with others who like the same things.”
For the event organizers, the biggest takeaway was the importance of creating intentional opportunities for connection.
“Everyone is looking for love and it’s just harder for the people we support to find those opportunities,” Butler said. “Events like this give people a chance to meet others in a supportive environment.”
The impact was clear throughout the evening. Participants encouraged one another to step outside their comfort zones, with even those who are typically shy taking initiative to introduce themselves.
Several attendees exchanged phone numbers, and some are already planning to meet again.
“We know of a couple of people who are planning dates,” Butler said. “And I’m sure there are more connections that came out of the night.”
With its growing popularity, the Bronx team hopes to continue hosting speed dating twice a year. Plans are already underway for a “Summer Love” event around late summer.
Many YAI staff and leaders played a key role in making the event possible, with several traveling from Long Island to support participants attending speed dating. Bonnie Holtzman and Rose Cavaliere volunteered in the kitchen, while Amy Tsui, Khadijah Farmer, Colleen Ryan, Daniel Mena, and many other DSPs and leaders stayed late to assist with travel.