OUR FOCUS
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Friends of Nor-West (FONW) is built for fundraising! Our structure allows us to access tools, platforms, and grant opportunities not available to Nor-West as a municipal partnership. With your support, we can pursue new funding streams and help build a strong financial foundation for Nor-West's future.
We help bring major Nor-West initiatives to life — from milestone celebrations like the 50th Anniversary Gala to current goals like purchasing a new 24-passenger bus. Whether it's raising funds or supporting logistics, FONW steps in to ensure these exciting moments happen and have lasting impact.
FONW funding helps elevate Nor-West programs by adding the little "extras" that make them special — like prizes for Red Pin Bowling or professional entertainment for the New Year's Party. These enhancements make each experience more fun, meaningful, and engaging for participants.
We bring the Nor-West community together through fun, inclusive events — like our Annual Bowl-a-Thon and a free Basketball Show & Clinic with the Harlem Magic Masters. These enjoyable gatherings offer a chance for participants, families, and supporters to connect and celebrate.
Our Scholarship Fund helps ensure that financial challenges don't prevent anyone from participating in Nor-West programs. Individuals who need assistance with program fees can apply confidentially. All requests are handled with care, and support is awarded as funding allows.
We build partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to raise awareness, boost fundraising, and expand our network of supporters. These relationships help strengthen Nor-West's presence in the community and grow the reach of our mission.
a brief history OF
After several informal meetings and lots of shared passion, Friends of Nor-West was officially incorporated as Friends of Nor-West RSS Inc. on March 11, 2022.
Within days, a Board of Directors was formed, officers were elected (March 19), and our corporate bylaws were adopted (April 18). Soon after, our 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status was approved — and just like that, we were officially in business!
After incorporating in March, we hit the ground running. Just three months later, we held our very first fundraising event: a Bowl-a-Thon!
On June 18, 2022, more than 100 bowlers — including Nor-West participants and their families — came together at Jefferson Valley Lanes for a day of fun and fundraising.
Thanks to strong community support, the event raised over $12,000! The Bowl-a-Thon was such a hit, we made it an annual tradition.
In October 2023, Nor-West celebrated its 50th anniversary with a beautiful gala at Travelers Rest in Ossining, NY.
Friends of Nor-West proudly helped make the evening extra special by subsidizing tickets for participants, funding a professional DJ, providing a souvenir photo booth, and producing the commemorative 50th Anniversary Journal — a keepsake given to each attendee.
It was a night to remember, honoring five decades of community, care, and connection.
On February 17, 2024, we brought together Nor-West participants and families for a high-energy, heartwarming event featuring the Harlem Magic Masters.
This free event included an exciting basketball show and a hands-on clinic, where participants could learn and play with the pros.
Friends of Nor-West hosted the event as part of our ongoing commitment to create inclusive, joyful experiences for the Nor-West community.
With two aging buses nearing retirement, Nor-West needed a reliable replacement. So, we launched a campaign to help fund a new 24-passenger bus — an essential part of Nor-West's programming.
Nor-West applied for a grant to cover half the cost, but it's not guaranteed. So, in July 2024, Friends of Nor-West took the first step — contributing $25,000 and launching the "New Bus Drive" to raise the rest.
Our community is rolling forward together!
Our WORK
For more information about Friends of Nor-West and our upcoming events, subscribe to our newsletter.
P.O. Box 44
Mohegan Lake, NY 10547-0044
