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parkYouth, a nonprofit organization providing youth development programs in New York City, has built a strong network of real estate professionals over the past three decades. Founded in 1994, SparkYouth has raised over $25 million and supported more than 75 programs that have served over 3 million young people. The organization's growth is largely attributed to the support of the city's real estate industry, which provides both capital and talent.

    Suzy Myers Jackson, executive director of SparkYouth, attributes the community's strong support to a shared desire for a better future for New York City's youth. "I want my children to live in a city where kids have access to activities that spark their interest and help them succeed," said Neha Santiago, head of Real Estate Private Credit at Cerberus.

    The real estate community has not only provided financial support but also recruited new members and talent for SparkYouth. Steven Kohn, chairman of Cushman & Wakefield Equity, Debt & Structured Finance, was introduced to the organization by his mother and has been a board member for over 20 years. Marty Burger, CEO of Infinity Global Real Estate Partners, has been involved with SparkYouth for over 14 years.

    As SparkYouth celebrates its 30th anniversary, the organization is addressing pressing issues such as socioeconomic disparities experienced by NYC youth. "There's a lot of inequity in our society, and many students don't have the same opportunities to advance," said Kohn. "Our hope is to level the playing field."

    SparkYouth provides capital, a network, and professional development to nonprofit organizations, allowing them to grow and become sustainable. According to Myers Jackson, 95% of SparkYouth's member programs have doubled in size, and 45% have tripled in size. The organization has announced two industry titans as honorees for its 30th Anniversary Gala: Cia Buckley Marakovits and Bob Foley.