NYRA In The Community
Racing is the foundation of our industry and a powerful vehicle for building lasting connections within communities in and around our racetracks. Recognizing the importance of being a positive force in the neighborhoods where we live and race, NYRA is committed to addressing key social issues and being exemplary corporate citizens.
Whether through everyday acts of volunteerism or large-scale community initiatives, we are dedicated to giving back to the horse racing community as well as the broader community. Our mission is to harness the power of sport to improve the lives of children and families in the region through purposeful programs, strategic partnerships, and philanthropic giving.
NYRA Leg Up! Program
Launched by NYRA in 2024, the Leg Up! program is designed to introduce students to various aspects of thoroughbred racing through visits to NYRA racetracks and engagement with NYRA staff. These visits are designed to provide young people with an educational and interactive experience at a thoroughbred race track which allows them to learn about the sport and professional pathways within the industry.
NYRA Scholarship Program
The New York Racing Association’s Belmont Stakes scholarship is dedicated to supporting the academic success of students attending high school in the communities surrounding Belmont Park. Eligible applicants must be a high school senior committed to attending an accredited two (2) or four (4) year college, university or technical trade school during and currently enrolled at a Sewanhaka Central High School District institution.
Donation Requests
The New York Racing Association proudly supports not-for-profit and community-based organizations across New York State through in-kind donations offered to support fundraising efforts.
Please reference the selection guidelines or contact us if you have questions regarding your donation request.
Saratoga Community Booth
The community booth at Saratoga Race Course is a unique opportunity for local charities to showcase their mission and engage with thousands of racing fans on a select day during the NYRA Summer Racing meet. Since its inception, hundreds of organizations have utilized the booth to raise awareness and accept donations.
On-Track Partners
NYRA has longstanding relationships with thoroughbred community-related charities. The Backstretch Employee Service Team, Belmont Child Care Association and the New York Race Track Chaplaincy service the important backstretch community who care for the horses. NYRA also proudly supports thoroughbred advocacy and aftercare programs, as well as organizations that support injured jockeys through funding and in-kind contributions.
The mission of the Belmont Child Care Association, Inc. is to provide a safe, supportive and academically inspiring environment for the children of parents working in the thoroughbred racing backstretch area, located at New York’s historic Belmont Park, Aqueduct Racetrack and Saratoga Race Course. We are committed to promoting early childhood education, molding young minds and encouraging the fulfilment of dreams.
Explore ways you can help transform the lives of thoroughbred racing’s unsung heroes. Whether you choose to volunteer your time or make a philanthropic donation, with your help we can significantly impact the lives of thousands of backstretch workers.
Visit B.E.S.T Website
Follow B.E.S.T: Facebook, YouTube
The New York Race Track Chaplaincy ministers to the heart and soul of the entire community of stable and farm workers and their families of the NYRA tracks and surrounding farms with children’s enrichment, teen mentoring, women’s programming, social service, recreational, and educational programs as well as non-denominational religious services. The NY Chaplaincy provides these extensive services with the intent of satisfying spiritual needs and basic human necessities, as well as providing the tools necessary for personal growth and independence.
Visit New York Race Track Chaplaincy Website
Follow New York Race Track Chaplaincy: Facebook, X, Instagram
