The Story Behind Rooting For Ya (R4Y).

Brendan Backstrom is the founder of R4Y, where the mission is to uplift the youth from his hometown, Schenectady. He knows what it means to come from this city — the grit you need to have, the heart and delusion for something bigger than yourself, and the potential that doesn't always get the spotlight it deserves.

Over the years, Brendan has worked with people all over the world, helping them heal through movement & mindset. He saw firsthand how transformative it is when someone finally feels heard, when they stop leaving their journey in someone else's hands and start owning their narrative.

He wanted to bring that wisdom back home.

Rooting For Ya was built on a simple belief: the youth of Schenectady deserve the same tools, insight, and encouragement that changes lives everywhere else. These kids have stories worth telling. This program gives them the space, the support, and now a brand of their own.