By: Richard L. Smith
The energy inside the YMCA in downtown Newark was unmistakable from the moment I walked in — and for me, it marked my first visit inside the building after being born and raised in Newark. 
What took place Friday morning (February 20th) was not just a ribbon-cutting, but a powerful reminder of what happens when leadership, philanthropy, and community align around young people who need it most.
The day began with an opening reception that felt intentional and welcoming.
Guests including several leaders from NJ DCPP – Division of Child Protection and Permanency were treated to a wide breakfast spread that included salmon, grits, eggs, and other carefully prepared dishes.
It created space for conversation, connection, and reflection before the formal program began.
Community partners, staff, and supporters gathered not simply to celebrate a name on a wall, but to witness the expansion of a mission.
At the center of the event was the unveiling of the Carla Harris Closet, a newly created resource within the YMCA’s YES (Youth Empowerment Services) program.
Ms. Carla Harris — Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley, former Vice Chairman, author, global keynote speaker, and philanthropist — stood before the room humbled by the recognition.
“I’m here today to celebrate the cutting for the Carla Harris Closet, which was a complete surprise to me,” she shared. “I’m so honored that they would have my name here at the YMCA.”
Harris’ career spans more than three decades in investment banking, with leadership across multiple industries.
During my 10 minute talk with Ms. Harris I immediately learned that she was appointed by President Barack Obama to chair the National Women’s Business Council and has been recognized globally as one of the world’s top keynote speakers.
Yet during our conversation, she emphasized something far simpler: purpose.
She spoke about being blessed in order to bless others. Following a concert she hosted in June 2025, she directed half of the proceeds to the YMCA’s YES program, with the remaining funds supporting medical students pursuing general practice.
“This is where I made my home for over a quarter of a century,” she said of New Jersey. “These are our kids. We need to invest in them and help them.”
As the ribbon was cut and attendees stepped into the closet, what could have been viewed as a modest room revealed something far more significant. The space was thoughtfully organized with brand-new clothing, personal care items, and essentials designed to restore dignity and build confidence for the young people served by the program.
CEO Michael Bright, who has dedicated 32 years to this YMCA, explained why initiatives like this are critical.
“There really were no alternatives for some of these kids,” he said. “If they messed up, they were going to jail or juvenile hall. This program gives them another chance.”
The YES program serves vulnerable youth from across New Jersey, including Essex, Hudson, Passaic, Union, and even counties farther south, many of whom have struggled to find stable placements. Bright was candid about the broader mission of the YMCA.
“We literally save lives here.”
More than 4,000 individuals seek support through the YMCA annually, and over 500 people a day call the facility home.
While the organization provides shelter services, it also delivers mentorship, structure, and stability. Some programs are funded; others rely heavily on partnerships and philanthropy.
Ms. Brittany Murray, Director of YES & ERC, brings a deeply personal commitment to the work. With a professional background in juvenile detention and post-care supervision, she now leads with what she describes as servant leadership.
“No matter what you’ve come here with, you will leave with something,” she told me.
Under her leadership, the funds connected to Carla Harris’ support extended beyond building the closet.
The program has funded experiences for youth — camping trips, concerts, and home-cooked meals prepared by staff.
Murray described evenings where her team cooks full dinners, creating what she calls a “home away from home” for young people who may not have experienced that stability elsewhere.
Inside the closet, the impact is immediate. Brand-new clothing replaces worn items. Personal care tools allow young people to present themselves with confidence. It may seem simple, but confidence can be transformative.
“When they look good, they feel good,” Murray explained.
The program’s goal is always forward movement — helping youth transition into stable placements and reconnect with community resources. Even after they leave, staff maintain relationships, offering mentorship and support.
As the morning concluded, what remained clear was that this initiative represents more than a room filled with clothing. It reflects a broader commitment to second chances, dignity, and opportunity.
The Carla Harris Closet may occupy a single small space today, but judging by the leadership behind it and the community support surrounding it, its reach — and impact — is positioned to grow well beyond those walls.