YMSL Fosters Mother-Son Volunteerism and Leadership
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Drew Bass, Erin Bass, Deborah Lichtenstein, Aaron Lichtenstein. It’s mid-May and while schools are winding down, the third year of the Young Men’s Service League (YMSL) is only just beginning. Thirty rising 9th grade boys and their moms are gathered at the Scarsdale Public Library for their first official meeting as members of the local lower Westchester County (LoWestCo) YMSL chapter. The meeting serves as an orientation to the growing chapter of the national nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering mother-son volunteerism and leadership.
Founded in Texas in 2001, YMSL has grown rapidly in more than 30 states. The organization is unique in its structure focusing on four pillars: service, leadership, learning and relationship-building. High school aged boys and their moms serve local philanthropies together, strengthening their bond, and make a meaningful impact in their community. Young men typically join the program as freshman and continue through their senior year of high school, logging volunteer hours with local nonprofits while holding grade-level leadership positions and attending meetings that include guest speakers and workshops.
LoWestCo’s growth reflects this area’s interest in service-based extracurriculars that promote civic engagement and family connection - especially valuable in today’s fast-paced world. This local chapter became the first in New York State when it launched two years ago in 2023. It started with a phone call between two moms - Erin Bass and Deborah Lichtenstein - friends since their oldest sons were in preschool at Westchester Reform Temple. Erin’s family had relocated to Nashville a few years prior and were planning to move back to Scarsdale. When she heard about the Nashville Chapter of YMSL she thought it could be a great way to transition her and her son back into the Scarsdale community. At the time, Deborah was finishing up her role as the Scarsdale Middle School PTA President and jumped in to help Erin recruit new members and host interest meetings before launching the following September. 
Group of Moms and Young Men at Butler Cornerstone Community Center for Ultimate Gift“We started with close to sixty 9th and 10th grade boys just 2 years ago and are currently at 112 young men, 95 moms and four grades,” says Deborah. “The growth has been explosive.” In fact, when they started the organization many moms and sons were from Scarsdale and neighboring towns Larchmont and Mamaroneck and now, they have expanded to include Armonk, Harrison, and Irvington.
Class of 2026 and 2027 at banquet.
This past year, the chapter has served over 4,600 hours across 20 different organizations throughout Westchester and the Bronx. At least twice a week, YMSL LoWestCo sends a group of moms and sons to cook dinner or bake desserts at the Ronald McDonald house. Nearly every Saturday morning, a group of moms and sons show up to Grassroots grocery ready to help unload, bag and sort thousands of pounds of fresh produce and then help deliver to its partner food pantries. On Sunday mornings, you’ll find a group of young men shooting hoops and assisting the athletes in the Backyard Sports Cares program. 
Moms and Young Men at Ronald McDonald House.
“It’s been so rewarding bringing LoWestCo to our community and volunteering alongside my son; watching him grow and discover which opportunities and commitments he feels drawn to the most,” said Erin Bass. Erin’s son, Drew, served as the Chapter’s first President –“YMSL has allowed me to not only foster a greater relationship with my community, but also with my mother and my peers as well. I’ve learned the importance of commitment and showing up and leading with a positive attitude.”
This past March, LoWestCo completed its first Ultimate Gift project, inspired by the book “The Ultimate Gift,” by Jim Stovall. Led by Mary Frances Duggan and her son Jack Levin, the organization set up two food pantries at The Butler Cornerstone Community Center in the Bronx- a location that had recently lost its state-funded food pantry. 
Moms and Young Men at Ronald McDonald House“We fed over 260 families, distributed over 3,200 non perishable items, all collected through YMSL food drives, and handed out over 260 bags of Grassroots Grocery produce over the two pantries,” says member, Mary Frances Duggan.
At the end of each year, a banquet is held to celebrate the accomplishments as a chapter. On a Sunday evening in late April, over 120 high school boys and their moms gathered at Sam’s of Gedney Way to reflect on their year at YMSL, hand out awards, and ceremoniously pass the gavel to incoming grade level presidents.
This year’s 10th grade President, Aaron Lichtenstein, spoke fondly of his time leading his grade saying, “This role has taught me that leadership isn’t just about making decisions or leading meetings - it’s about giving your time, energy and support to others.”
This next year of YMSL brings excitement as new moms join the LoWestCo chapter board, the chapter’s slate rounds out the four grades and the first senior class graduates.
The chapter is excited to see member moms take on bigger roles in leadership; another sign of growth. Karen Hogan who joined in the inaugural class with her son, Tyler, will take the lead as President of the Chapter. “Since the first moment I heard about YMSL I knew it was something I’d love to be involved with. My son Tyler and I have had the good fortune to get involved in LoWestCo when the chapter was formed. Erin leaves big shoes to fill, but I am excited to help take our chapter to the next stage of our development, along with all of the members of our fantastic Board of Directors.”
The Procedure Committee is Looking for New Members!
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The Procedure Committee is responsible for administering the procedures governing Scarsdale's non-partisan election system, including publicizing and recruiting candidates for the CNC, providing election information and administering elections, and recommending any changes to the guidelines of the CNC.
The Citizens Nominating Committee (CNC) is a non-partisan, elected group of Scarsdale residents who nominate a slate of non-partisan candidates for the offices of mayor, trustee and village justice. Each of the five elementary school neighborhoods elect six representatives to sit on the CNC for staggered terms of three years. In a CNC member’s fourth year, that member serves on the CNC’s Procedure Committee (PC).
The PC is comprised of fourth year members of the CNC as well as residents who volunteer to sit on the committee. The PC invites members of the community to join and participate in Scarsdale’s non-partisan system of government. It is a wonderful way to learn more about Scarsdale form of government and to contribute. The PC will meet over the course of the next several months online. If you are interested in joining please contact Ralph Geer (RalphGeer@gmail.com) or Dan Besikof (dbesikof@lowenstein.com)
more information. https://www.scarsdaleprocedurecommittee.org/Reports/download/217
Community Shares the Love at the 2025 Scarsdale Bowl Dinner
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Jill Serling and Andrew SereyskyThere were all the elements of a great party on Thursday night April 23, 2025 when the people of Scarsdale threw themselves a bash in Mamaroneck. Contributing to the mix was a balmy night, a colorful sunset, a large terrace over Long Island Sound, an upbeat band, a spirited gathering of Scarsdale’s leaders and most important, a wonderful reason to celebrate.
What was the occasion? The annual Scarsdale Bowl Dinner, established in 1944 to honor volunteer service and civic commitment. Through the years, the Scarsdale Bowl has been awarded to former Mayors, Village Trustees, School Board and Library Board members – but this year, the honoree was a beloved Greenacres man who had not served in any of those roles, but made a mark in his own way by building a sense of community, friendship and belonging that impacted so many friends and neighbors in his orbit. Andrew Sereysky, aka “Andre de Greenacres”, was the man at center stage and he illuminated the room.
As a longtime President of the Greenacres Neighborhood Association, Sereysky set the standard for what a neighborhood association should be. He hosted pancake breakfasts, outdoor movie nights and an annual July 4th celebration with games, fire trucks, politicians and patriotism. His work on the Village’s Technology and Communications Committees furthered his mission of facilitating the sharing of information and in turn, furthering community. Even more impressive, when it was time to pass the mantle of neighborhood association leadership, he successfully recruited a whole new generation of young residents who have successfully led the charge – and adore Andrew for his leadership and legacy.
The Spotlight Award, granted to an individual or group who make a meaningful contribution to a single cause, went to the Scarsdale Adult School. This award drew another group of supporters 
Cynthia and Marc Samwickto the dinner, including the staff of the Scarsdale Adult School, teachers and loyal students who enjoy the school’s deep breadth of courses. Representing the school, Executive Director Jill Serling sought to share the spotlight with her team and the community, but it was impossible to underestimate the importance of her leadership and enthusiasm in the group’s success.
The combination of neighborhood friends, lifelong learners, and hundreds of spirited volunteers gave off a great vibe in the room. Casting an eye around the crowd, you couldn’t help but realize how fortunate you were to live in a place where people care so much.
The gala was co-chaired by former Mayor Marc Samwick and Cynthia Samwick, who did a brilliant job as co-hosts. They kept the evening light, fun and well-timed. Without a hitch, they relinquished their seats at the dinner table to two late-arriving politicians and sat at a small table set up for the silver awards on the stage.
Anne LyonsThey welcomed and gave credit to “the true heart of Scarsdale—all of you—our civic-minded, engaged, and passionate neighbors.” They said, “We are a village in a park, but more importantly, we are a village of people who show up—a community that gives, gathers, and grows together. This evening is a testament to our big tent: there is room for all, and together, we make Scarsdale an extraordinary place to live, work, and raise our children.”
Each year the Scarsdale Foundation names the Bowl Committee who runs the event. Founded almost a century ago, the foundation provides scholarships and grants to students and organizations in need.
This year’s President, Anne Lyons said, “Yes, Scarsdale has a charming Village, great schools, beautiful landscaping, and we were just recognized as a tree city USA, but it is the people that makes Scarsdale special. The Foundation and this bowl dinner are beloved Scarsdale traditions because they reflect the best parts of our community, all of you.”
Lyons explained, “For over 100 years, the Scarsdale Foundation has quietly helped families and organizations in times of need. Many families move to Scarsdale for the exceptional schools, clearly our community values education. Yet, the rising costs of college can be challenging for some. Life happens, and families are faced with tough decisions. The Scarsdale Foundation steps in to give these families a boost ensuring that no child has to forgo their dreams due to financial hardship.”
Samwicks and Serling
Accepting the Spotlight Award for the Scarsdale Adult School, Jill Serling said, “Did you know that Ben Franklin brought lifelong learning to the United States? Franklin was a strong advocate and practitioner of lifelong learning. He believed in continuous self-improvement and dedicated a significant portion of his time to learning new things. He famously used his "five-hour rule" to dedicate an hour each weekday to deliberate learning…. Ben Franklin lived a long life – till 84. SO, if you haven’t dived deep into lifelong learning, now is the time! Join us for a class or two – you won’t regret it!”
“Like we tell our kids when they are writing their college essays, sometimes it’s okay to brag. And tonight, I think it’s okay to brag about SAS! This year, we are so humbled to receive the Spotlight Award from the Scarsdale Foundation.”
Samwicks and Sereysky“I truly believe it takes a village to run and support a program like SAS. Without our students who return to our classrooms each semester for their fill of lifelong learning, we wouldn’t exist. I know many of you in this room are our students and to you we are very grateful. Our instructors are the backbone of our program and again without you we wouldn’t exist. Our board and advisory committee of past and present have been the stewards of this program for 87 years and without you we wouldn’t exist. And finally, the present staff of SAS, a remarkable group of kind, patient, smart and accomplished women– Amy Bitterman, Andi Goldstein, Komal Choksi, Diane Baylor, and Stephanie Sklar – you make this program run. Without you, we wouldn’t exist. Cheers to SAS! We build community through lifelong learning.”
Introducing Scarsdale Bowl winner Andrew Sereysky, Marc Samwick said, “Andrew Sereysky is, simply put, one of the kindest, most genuine people you will ever meet. He’s been described — quite fittingly — as a big teddy bear. And anyone who knows Andrew knows that behind that ever-present smile is a heart that beats for Scarsdale.
Scarsdale Foundation BoardAndrew doesn't just live here — he loves it here. Since settling in Greenacres in 1994, he has poured his time, his talents, and his whole self into strengthening the very fabric of this community. And he’s done it with grace, humility, and a deep sense of purpose. Andrew is the friendly face at community events, the calm voice in the room when things get tough, and the ultimate team player. Andrew, your decades of service, your warmth, and your unwavering commitment to Scarsdale have left an indelible mark. You have lifted up this community in ways big and small — and tonight, we lift you up in return.”
Scarsdale Bowl Committee
Coming to the podium to accept the treasured Bowl, Sereysky said, “Many people may not realize just how much volunteerism fuels this town. Scarsdale has over 15 boards and councils. And that’s in addition to over 50 community organizations that strengthen our town. There are literally hundreds upon hundreds of volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to making Scarsdale thrive. …Beyond the infrastructure and governance, at its core, it is the volunteers who bring this town to life.”
Scarsdale Adult School Staff….Often, people ask me, “How does it all work?” And my answer is simple: it works because people step up. So tonight, I challenge each of you—whether you’re waiting for the train, watching a sports game, or simply out and about in town—to introduce yourself to someone new. Encourage them to get involved. You never know how a simple conversation can plant the seed for someone’s future in community service. Maybe even the next Scarsdale Bowl honoree, just waiting for that nudge in the right direction.
Scarsdale Adult School Board membersLastly, I want to acknowledge my family— my wife Joan, daughter Brett and her husband Joe and daughter-in-law Jessica not to mention my three grandchildren—who have supported me on this journey. And in the face of the unimaginable death of our son Jedd, who passed away 7 years ago at the age of 34 from Leukemia, I wake up every morning feeling his presence, his encouragement, and, as a surgeon, his unwavering belief in making a difference. That belief drives me forward, inspiring me to do more, to serve more, and to elevate what is possible in this incredible town we call home.
Thank you again for this tremendous honor and thank you to each and every volunteer who makes Scarsdale the special place that it is.”
The Scarsdale Historical Society provided two videos with the history of the Scarsdale Bowl which you can see here and here.
Some of Andrew’s younger neighbors presented him with an Acrostic. It says it all, so here is it for you:
A.N.D.R.E.W.
Greenacres Neighborhood Association
A – Altruistic
Andrew’s dedication to Scarsdale is rooted in selflessness. He has spent decades giving his time, energy, and expertise to improve the community without seeking recognition.
N – Neighborly
As a longtime Greenacres resident, Andrew fosters a sense of connection and support among residents, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear.
D – Dedicated
With nearly 30 years of service across multiple organizations, Andrew’s unwavering commitment has shaped Scarsdale’s civic life.
R – Reliable
His leadership roles—including serving as President of the Greenacres Neighborhood Association and Chair of the Cable Television Commission—showcase his dependability. The community trusts him to take action and follow through.
E – Engaged
Lauren Easton, Andrew Sereysky and Kristen Cipriano
Andrew is deeply involved in every aspect of village life, from governance to mentoring future volunteers. His enthusiasm and participation ensure that Scarsdale remains a vibrant, well-connected community.
W - Wholehearted – Andrew puts his full passion and energy into every role he takes on, whether leading an organization, advising on committees, or strengthening Scarsdale’s sense of community.
A tireless force, with heart so true,
Nurturing Scarsdale in all that you do.
Devoted to service, year after year,
Raising up voices, making change clear.
Ever a leader, steadfast and wise,
We celebrate you with honor and pride!
Kudos to the Bowl Committee and the Foundation Board, members listed below, for another successful and memorable night.
Bowl Committee
Cynthia and Marc Samwick, Co-Chairs
Amy Cooper, Secretary
Isable Finegold, Treasurer
Penny Bauersfeld
Randi Culang
Elise Flagg
Lori Kaplan
Tracy Lazarus
Toby Milstein Schulman
Danielle Retelny
Alli Seiden
Ryan Spicer
Stephaie Stern
Claudia Uribe-Galeano
Julie Zhu
Foundation Board
Anne Lyons, President
Marc Greenwald, Vice President
Jon Leslie, Treasurer
Tracy Tang, Asst. Treasurer
Wendy MacMIllan, Secretary
Isable Finegold
Seema Jaggi
Erika Rublin
Suzanne Seiden
Andrew Sereysky
Janice Starr
Photos by Andi Schrieber Photograhy @andischreiberpix on Instagram.
A Joyous 71st Celebration at Westchester Reform Temple
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A joyous celebration of community and faith was hosted at Westchester Reform Temple on Thursday May 8, 2025. Over 300 supporters contributed $295,000 to support the synagogue and American Friends of NATAL who provides assistance to Israelis suffering from trauma due to terrorism and war.
Guests enjoyed an elegant dinner buffet catered by Matt Miller Culinary Productions in the social hall which was decorated like a library to echo the event theme, “Writing Our Next Chapter.” After dinner the group gathered in the sanctuary where they were greeted by event co-chairs Alisson Friedland and Abby Sroka who called the gala a celebration of spirit, resilience and commitment to Jewish life.
Before conducting a live auction, congregant member, MC and comedian Peter Wang had the room in stiches. He posed the question of why Rabbi Blake still looks like he is 13. How does he stay so young? He aired a short video of himself with Bruce Beck and Rabbi Blake at the synagogue water fountain, also known as “the fountain of youth,” and surmised that the water was responsible for the Rabbi’s eternal youth.
This cleverly lead into an auction where audience members could contribute $36 to drink from the fountain of youth. Other silent auction items included tickets for a Willie Nelson, Bob Dylan and Wilco Concert at Jones Beach Theater, a private Cantor’s concert and cocktail party in your home and a reserved parking space at the synagogue for one year.
Next up was a live musical performance from "This is Your Life." The professionally trained actors and musicians perform an improvisational act based on their audience. Their clever revue was a riff on everything from Truck Day at the Early Childhood Center to canasta night, the blood drive, the temple endowment and Rabbi Blake’s wife Kelly.
As congregant Audrey Weinberg said, “Westchester Reform is not your grandmother’s temple. There’s something here for every life stage, from nursery schoolers to empty nesters. It’s a wonderful community.”
Photos by Silvana DeFrancis Photography
Donations Wanted for Junior League of Central Westchester Tag Sale on April 26 and 27
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The Junior League of Central Westchester (JLCW) will be hosting their annual Tag Sale in a few weeks! . All proceeds from the event go towards the JLCW’s mission of helping to make a meaningful impact in our community.
Headquartered at historic Wayside Cottage in Scarsdale, NY, the Junior League of Central Westchester has served the communities of Westchester for over 75 years. The JLCW’s approximately 250 active and sustaining members reflect a wide range of backgrounds, interests, and professional pursuits. They are accomplished collaborators who identify community needs and develop effective and responsive programs to serve those needs. Their purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. For more information on the JLCW, click here.
Each year, members contribute an average of 8,000 hours of service to the communities of Central and Northern Westchester. By working collaboratively with our community partners, the JLCW finds long-term, sustainable solutions to improve the lives of neighbors in need.
Key projects include helping to support:
• The Westchester County Diaper Bank, the first of its kind in the area, JLCW began this outreach in the Fall of 2014 in conjunction with the Westchester County government. The Diaper Bank collects and distributes wipes and disposable diapers of all sizes, types and brands to families unable to afford them.
• Best Start - This signature project continues on a monthly basis with visits to children enrolled in Head Start locations in select White Plains elementary schools. JLCW members read to young students and distribute books and activities for the children to take home.
• The JLCW sponsors children from Abbott House as part of a holiday gift drive every year. Abbott House is dedicated to supporting nearly 2,500 children in foster care and unaccompanied immigrant children in the New York Metropolitan and Hudson Valley areas.
• JLCW, in partnership with Hope’s Door, is dedicated to combating domestic violence, fostering empowerment among survivors and educating all.
• JLCW participates in The New York State Public Affairs Committee (NYSPAC), the advocacy wing of the Junior Leagues in New York State.
• JLCW partners with Family Services of Westchester Sharing Shelf to provide a shopping event for girls ages 13-19, from families in financial need.
We are also looking for items to sell at this event. Please leave your donations on the front porch at Wayside Cottage, 1039 White Plains Road, Scarsdale.
The JLCW is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization and relies on the funds raised at events like our annual Tag Sale to continue supporting our community partners. Join us on April 26 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and April 27 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm.
