Celebrating 30 Years of Transformation
The Brotherhood Sister Sol (BroSis), a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth, recently commemorated its 30th anniversary at the prestigious Voices Gala held at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in New York City. The event gathered over 500 supporters, including civic leaders, philanthropists, and advocates, to pay tribute to Mark Breitbard, President and CEO of Gap Inc., for his unwavering commitment to promoting equity and youth empowerment in the community.
A Night of Reflection and Celebration
Khary Lazarre-White, Co-Founder and Executive Director of BroSis, expressed that this anniversary was not only a moment for reflection but also a celebration of the brilliance and potential of the organization’s young participants. Reflecting on the partnership with Gap Inc. and Mark Breitbard's sustained support, he remarked, “This partnership is not just the right thing to do - it’s good for business.”
Under Breitbard’s leadership, Gap has collaborated with BroSis, contributing to programs that focus on academic support, arts education, mental health resources, and college preparation. The positive outcomes of this partnership have been significant, with 100% of BroSis high school seniors graduating and 94% pursuing higher education.
Commitment to Youth Development
Founded in 1995 in Harlem, BroSis has established itself as a national model for youth development, especially for Black and Latinx communities. The organization emphasizes long-term, holistic programming that not only supports educational achievement but also fosters leadership skills and community engagement among its participants.
“We want each young person to feel like they’re part of our family,” stated Jason Warwin, Co-Founder and Associate Executive Director of BroSis. The organization provides crucial support in areas such as financial aid, health services, academic assistance, and legal guidance.
As BroSis embarks on its fourth decade, the focus remains on amplifying its impact and expanding its initiatives to reach even more young individuals, inspiring them to lead and innovate within their communities.
The Spirited Gala
The evening featured inspiring speeches and celebratory moments, all centered around the theme of collective action and the potential of youth. Many in attendance echoed the sentiment that continued partnership and investment in youth programming are vital for creating equitable opportunities that can transform lives.
In concluding the event, Breitbard highlighted the inspirational journey of BroSis and the need for community-led change, remarking how integral these efforts are for a just society. The atmosphere in the grand ballroom buzzed with an overwhelming sense of hope and determination, marking a significant milestone not only for BroSis but also for the communities it serves.
A Legacy of Empowerment
The Brotherhood Sister Sol stands as a testament to the profound impact that dedication, vision, and collaboration can have on the lives of young people. As it continues its mission, the organization remains a beacon for those seeking social equity and justice in education. For more information on BroSis and its programs, visit
www.brotherhood-sistersol.org.