Best Practices for Supporting New York's Backstretch Community

The Backstretch Employee Service Team (BEST) is consistently prepared to assist the backstretch community, particularly during the holidays. Nancy Underwood, the executive director, is approaching her one-year mark in this pivotal role within the non-profit organisation, which is in its 35th year of operation. BEST provides essential support to the workers at Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course, many of whom dedicate themselves to the demanding care of Thoroughbreds.

Underwood, who previously served as BEST’s program director for ten years in Saratoga, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to ensuring a healthy workforce through various services including medical, mental health, social services, and education. During the holiday season, she noted the significance of connecting with backstretch workers who may be feeling isolated, especially as many have families abroad.

To foster these connections, BEST staff regularly conducts outreach, helping to maintain a sense of community in what might seem like a sprawling environment. The goal, Underwood stated, is to enhance service utilisation and to better understand the residents at Belmont Park, much like a school system knows its students.

The collaboration with external healthcare providers facilitates accessible medical care for backstretch workers. An illustrative case involved a worker from Kentucky who received crucial treatment thanks to BEST’s extensive network.

BEST operates on funding from various industry stakeholders and charitable contributions, with continued support from benefactors committed to the well-being of the backstretch community. Board co-chair Aron Yagoda remarked on the familial bond within this environment that shapes the vital work BEST does.