Kids & Philanthropy
TEACH ‘EM YOUNG AND THEY’LL CHANGE THE WORLD
Yesterday I took note of the magic that happens when my kids have the space and time to play independently. The observation was simple but profound: left to their own agency with my empowerment, they create and they do.
As a philanthropy consultant who works with nonprofit organizations and families regularly, I love to imagine what happens when we apply the same principles that foster creativity and independence in our children to philanthropy.
I’m always considering ways to effectively support those in need, especially amidst a noteworthy shift in charity in our country over the last few decades. Today, more philanthropic dollars come from a smaller number of ultra-wealthy individuals than ever before – our reliance on relatively few families to fund considerable needs is significant. And it’s a stark contrast to what previous generations experienced; my grandparents’ generation believed in helping anyone who asked for support if they could swing it. But times have changed, and we are more selective now in how we allocate resources.
Traditional fundraising methods such as golf tournaments, galas, and massmailed letters have struggled to keep up with the entrepreneurial landscape of philanthropy. These won’t sustain, and the tide is turning. Consider the future: can we empower our children to become a force in philanthropy?
This question led me to an experiment at a school with tenth grade students. The project’s goal was simple: I provided them with a sum of money, shared insights on philanthropy, and guided them on charitable giving. Their task was to select a deserving nonprofit and make the donation. In essence, I asked them to do something impactful with my money and get real-world experience as philanthropists along the way.
The students’ responses energized me. On day one, a student brought up the challenges she knew of homelessness and workforce housing in her home city, which had recently been discussed with their class. It was a profound moment of thoughtfulness that made me realize these young minds could contemplate the impact of their actions. As the discussion unfolded, students built off of one another’s enthusiasm and their ideas became more considerate. They were innovating – not just around their own interests but also around the challenges of their community.
Continued on page 7
SyracuseWomanMag.com contact@ syracusewomanmag.com
PUBLISHER
David Tyler
dtyler@eaglenewsonline.com
DESIGN
Andrea Reeves
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Tessa Biagi Photography
Alice G. Patterson Eric Rose
CONTRIBUTORS
Janelle Davis
Alyssa Dearborn
Meg George Kate Hanzalik
Maggie Nerz Iribarne Eric Rose
David Tyler
ADVERTISING SALES
Renée Moonan Linda Jabbour 315.657.7690 315.657.0849
Rmoonan@ eaglenewsonline.com Ljabbour@ eaglenewsonline.com
ADVERTISE WITH US
Unlike any other publication in the Syracuse area, our feature articles address major topics that interest local women. Each issue includes articles on health, fashion, fitness, finance, home matters, dining, lifestyle and personal perspectives, as well as a spotlight on local Syracuse women. Ads are due on the 15th of the month prior to publication. The print magazines will be distributed locally in over 350 locations and will be in your inbox electronically by the middle of every month.
The publication is available free of charge.
CONTACT OUR HOME OFFICE
315.434.8889 | 2501 James Street, Suite 100, Syracuse, NY 13206
The magazine is published 12 times a year by Community Media Group, LLC and Eagle Publications 2501 James St., Suite 100 Syracuse, NY 13206
Copyright © 2024 Community Media Group, LLC. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without the consent of the publishers. Syracuse Woman Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts, photos or artwork. All such submissions become the property of Community Media Group, LLC and will not be returned.
Cover photo by Alice G. Patterson
Kids & Philanthropy FROM PAGE 6
In my own family, an innate love for philanthropy extends to my son. He’s intrigued by the plight of those seeking asylum in our country after learning about a nonprofit dedicated to this work. He can’t fathom how people can undertake such a perilous journey with nothing but the clothes on their backs. But interestingly, our son doesn’t just want to donate to support asylumseekers; he wants to understand the root causes and find solutions. He envisions a world without this problem.
Of course, he may not be able to solve the world’s problems single-handedly. However, collectively, children like him, who grow up believing they are philanthropists, can and will have a transformative impact. Their creativity and enthusiasm can help us tackle challenges in ways we may never have imagined.
Teaching kids about philanthropy empowers them to become creative thinkers and social innovators, including the following considerations:
• When kids learn about generosity, they discover the power and joy associated with giving back. The experience shapes their worldview.
• Exposure to philanthropy unleashes creativity in children, motivating them to find innovative solutions to community and global challenges.
• Philanthropy shows children that they can be social innovators, transforming them from passive observers to proactive problem-solvers.
• Philanthropy ignites enthusiasm for action in youth. Beyond giving, it helps children understand their personal, familial, and community priorities.
Young people are more than just future philanthropists; they are change agents, problem solvers, and passionate community innovators. With our guidance and support, they possess the power to reshape our world, one charitable act at a time.
Meg George is co-founder and president of George Philanthropy Group, a consultancy focused on maximizing charitable impact for nonprofits and families. She leads campaign initiatives and advises on family foundations alongside her husband, Phil, and their team. She launched her debut children’s book in November 2023 and passionately speaks and writes about philanthropy regularly, as well as food allergy advocacy. Born and raised in Upstate NY, Meg and her family call Cazenovia and South Florida home.
Raise a glass for Nascentia
The Nascentia Health Charitable Foundation recently hosted its 12th annual Raise a Glass event at Timber Banks Golf Club in Baldwinsville. Thanks to the generosity of our friends and supporters, we surpassed our fundraising goals, with all proceeds
benefiting Nascentia's patients, including pediatric patients and their families. "It was our most successful fundraiser to date," said Ryan Pyland of Nascentia. "We are deeply grateful for the continued support of our mission."
Gold Tie Gala for Griffin's Guardians
In September, as part of Pediatric Cancer Awareness month, the Griffin's Guardians hosted its Gold Tie Gala at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown. The gala serves as a platform for the community to provide hope and financial support to families with children battling cancer in Central New York. This assistance aims to alleviate the financial strain on these families, allowing them to focus on what truly matters - their loved ones.
There's no place like home
On October 16, Francis House welcomed more than 2000 guests to the Exposition Center at the NY State Fairgrounds for their annual There’s No Place Like Home event. Guests enjoyed delicious food and an open bar while bidding on the silent auction, trying their luck at prize houses and spending a night out with friends. Two raffles at the event offered guests the chance to win valuable prizes, including a diamond tennis bracelet donated by Cazenovia Jewelry and a $500 gift card to Nichols Grocery in Liverpool. More than 120 companies and individuals supported the event as sponsors and more than 400 businesses donated prizes and gift certificates. Mark & Sandy Baker of Baldwinsville were the chairs of the event. Brian Macrae & Jane Amice-Macrae of Fayetteville served as vice chairs and will chair the 2025 event next October.
Photos by Tessa Biagi Photography
Debbie’s Fund lives on through the work of those who loved her
Norah Machia
During the final year before she passed away from brain cancer, Deborah Schutzendorf Gregg decided she wanted to shift her focus on saving others with the same devastating condition.
“When Debbie did something, she always did it big,” said her sister, Jennifer Hooley, of Cazenovia. “Her enthusiasm for life was contagious and she wanted everyone to feel special.”
Although she was still undergoing difficult and exhausting treatment for her cancer, while using a wheelchair for the last year of her life, Debbie truly believed that someday researchers would find a cure for brain cancer, said Jennifer. Inspired by the physicians and nursing staff treating her at Upstate Medical University, she established Debbie’s Brain Cancer Research Fund at the Upstate Foundation.
In January 2008, Debbie was diagnosed with brain cancer at the age of 43 after she had suffered a seizure while speaking on the phone. She was taken to the hospital, and extensive testing revealed Debbie had a rare type of brain cancer called anaplastic astrocytoma. Her tumors were inoperable. It was a shockDebbie had no prior symptoms and was not aware of any history of cancer in her family, said Jennifer.
The doctors gave Debbie six months to live, but she ignored the timeline and decided to fight for as long as she was able, said Jennifer. Debbie received treatment at Upstate while also partici-pating in a clinical trial program sponsored by the National Institutes of Health, Washington, D.C.
The following year after she passed away, many people gathered again at the July 4th race in Cazenovia to share their memories of Debbie and support the fund. Although the lives of Debbie’s family changed forever after her death, her spirit remains in their hearts every day, said Jennifer.
In the summer of 2020, an event called “Climb Your Mountain” was created to “celebrate the bravery Debbie had to climb her mountain and acknowledge all of the many mountains we climb in life,” said Jennifer. The event raised money not only in Debbie’s memory but also in memory of others who had also passed away from brain cancer.
In 2022 and 2023, Nneke Onwumere, a medical student at Upstate, organized two brain cancer research fund-raising walks in memory of her mother. Both events drew a large number of family and friends affected by brain cancer, and all the proceeds were donated to Debbie’s Brain Cancer Research Fund.
One of the first fund-raisers held for Debbie’s fund was at the annual Cazenovia July 4th Foot Races. Her family had participated together for years, and Debbie decided that would be a good place to start. She found out that the color gray was used to raise awareness and funds for brain cancer research. But she would have none of that. Instead, Debbie chose her favorite color – bright pink.
Her family members and friends, all wearing pink t-shirts, partici-pated in the race. Towards the end, they brought Debbie off the sidelines and pushed her wheelchair across the finish line. Afterward, participants and spectators came to the family’s tent to donate to the newly formed Debbie’s Brain Cancer Research Fund. “People really wanted to support her mission,” Jennifer said. Although she was given just six months to live, Debbie had survived for more than four and a half years. In 2012, she passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her family and close friends. She left behind a legacy that her family, friends and community members have continued to support today – her vision that one day, researchers would find a cure for brain cancer. Before she passed away, Debbie had raised more than $52,000 for the fund she had started.
The fund even received an anonymous gift of $30,000. “Debbie’s fund has become the fund at Upstate to support brain cancer research,” said Jennifer. “It’s such a tribute to her and the work that everyone has done to support this cause.”
Approximately $160,000 has been raised to date, with a portion of the monies being used for ongoing brain cancer research at Upstate, while the remaining funds are now part of an endowment, said Jennifer. Debbie’s family members recently established the fund with the Upstate Foundation, called Debbie’s Brain Cancer Research Endowment, to continue supporting important research and ensure that her legacy will exist in perpetuity.
Last year, Debbie’s family was given a tour of the Upstate research laboratory before a ceremony to present a posthumous award in honor of Debbie’s commitment to raising awareness and funding for brain cancer research. The President’s Award for Excellence in Philanthropic Service was accepted by her daughter, Pamela Townsend Rich, on behalf of Debbie and her family.
Dr. Mariano Viapiano, an associate professor of neuroscience and physiology, and lead scientist of the brain cancer research laboratory at Upstate Medical Center, has provided Debbie’s family with updates on how the funds are being used at the Upstate Brain Tumor Research Program and some of the promising research findings, said Jennifer. Upstate has a program that coordinates three clinical departments to collect and analyze every brain tumor that is operated on at the hospital. “We established one of the largest collections of tumors in the state of New York, with unique technologies for analysis,” he wrote in a letter to the family. “We have become a reference laboratory to train medical students and residents every year, as well as visiting scientists arriving from other institutions.”
One ongoing fundraiser close to Jennifer’s heart is the auction of paintings donated by family members. This year, Jennifer, an artist herself, painted a downtown scene of Cazenovia for a raffle to raise money for the brain cancer research endowment fund.
Froghappy is the name of her business, and Jennifer creates paintings, drawings and greeting cards. Her artwork is available through 20/East, 85 Albany St., Cazenovia, a store that features a variety of works from local artisans.
The whimsical name of her business reflects her bright and colorful artwork, and her love for frogs, which started at a young age.
“Despite what Debbie was going through, she wanted people to be happy and have fun, and that’s what I learned from her,” said Jennifer. “My artwork reflects her belief that being happy is okay, even in your hardest moments.”
The painting being raffled off for the fundraiser is on her website, www.froghappy.com. Tickets may be purchased online.
If you want to learn more about Debbie and supporting brain cancer research, her family created the website www.debbieinspired.com or contact Jennifer at jennifer@froghappy.com.
“The raffle is my one ‘small thing’ I can do every year to keep people connected to Debbie’s mission,” said Jennifer. “When Debbie started the fund, it created a ripple effect and something bigger than we’d ever imagined. Everyone’s ‘one small thing’ can make a difference, and you might as well have fun doing it. Wear bright pink!” SWM
Best in Show
CANTERBURY STABLES’ AWARD-WINNING RIDERS SHED LIGHT ON THE BEAUTY OF EQUESTRIAN LIFE
t first glance, Canterbury Stables in Cazenovia looks like a scene from a picturesque horse farm postcard – stalls lined with well-kept horses, some peering out curiously while others snack contentedly on hay oblivious to all of the ribbons
Kimberley Asher & her many gifts
Kimberley Asher’s accoladed journey with horses started on the eastern end of Long Island when she was very young and evolved when she and her family opened Canterbury Stables in 2001. Once dedicated to riding hunters and jumpers, she is now the head trainer at Canterbury and focuses on dressage, which she describes as “teaching horses to dance.”
She has many talented horses, four that compete and others that are in training. Among them are the Grand Prix horse Hhot Tamale (“Molly”), She’s Magic HW (SuziQ), a red mare who is debuting next year with Fédération Équestre Internationale, and her love-at-first-sight “spirit animal,” 5-year old MW Evita (Veets), whom she describes as “one of the tallest, kindest, bravest horses I
For Kimberley, horses have been lifelong teachers. She quotes Pam Brown’s words, “Horses are angels with hooves, sent to Earth to teach us about love, trust, and patience,” when reflecting on her connection with the animals. “They are mirrors of our souls and can sense our heartbeat before we even touch them. Horses are healing and humbling, often at the same time,” Kimberley explains. Veets and Kimberley recently won the Region 8 Training Level Championship. For riders looking to become more competitive, she encourages them to cross-train, such as taking up yoga for body awareness and control, but perhaps more important than training to win is Kimberley’s commitment to helping both her horses and
Megan Cox & Hermes do Braga
Megan is an equine veterinarian by day and dressage competitor by nature. Though her equestrian journey began in her childhood back in Iowa, it was as an adult that she found her true calling in dressage. With her beloved horse, Hermes do Braga, Megan has achieved remarkable success, including earning the prestigious USDF bronze and silver medals.
Like Kimberely, Megan believes horses are reflections of ourselves. “They mirror our emotions, our energy. We ask a lot of them, and if we are lucky they trust us enough to let our goals become their own. And if we are really lucky, we create magic together.” That magic is what drives her to continue honing her skills as she and Hermes prepare to compete at even higher levels.
Competition is an art form to Megan, and for those aspiring to win, she has some poignant advice. “Recognize that art is created within yourself and you offer the world a glimpse of what you've made. Hopefully they like it, but in the end, it is ours to manifest and share. We do it for ourselves, and everyone else gets to watch
But the atmosphere at Canterbury is not just about the outward beauty or success; it is a place where the connection between horses and riders runs deep. For Kimberley Asher, Megan Cox, Lindsay Paulsen and Claudia Szidat, life lessons are learned through the wisdom of horses and the wonderful barn community they are a part of.
students grow. “Half of what I do is teach people to ride better and the other half is to help people be better humans.”
She is a role model to her students, who describe her as a beautiful, inspiring rider, and, in the words of Megan Cox, “Our true north star, always shining and never letting us stray from a correct path to success.”
Lindsay Paulsen & Quinzy HTF
Lindsay Paulsen embodies the transformative power of horses. Her love for equestrian sports began with vaulting (gymnastics on horseback!), but evolved into a passion for dressage. Her partnership with Quinzy HTF (“Quinzy”), a shy horse who has since blossomed under Lindsay’s care, has been a testament to bonds we can share with the animal kingdom. “I love the physical and mental challenge of riding, but I also really love developing my relationship and connection with my horse. It’s a really unique bond.”
Though Lindsay said she’s never been one to enjoy the pressure of competition, her commitment to improving as a rider and strengthening her connection with Quinzy keeps her coming back to the arena. “I think she knows I’m ‘her person’ now,” Lindsay says. “She loves to give kisses! She will literally lick your face!”
Lindsay’s goal is to one day reach the pinnacle of dressage: competing at Grand Prix level. But more than anything, she wants to enjoy the everyday progress she makes with Quinzy, focusing on improving just 1 percent each day.
Claudia Szidat & Fial
Claudia Szidat’s story is one of persistence and courage. Originally from Germany, Claudia has ridden horses on and off throughout her life. But it wasn’t until she moved to the U.S. that she truly embraced her passion for horses and riding.
In 2020, she began taking dressage lessons with Kimberley, and just two years later, she fulfilled a lifelong dream: purchasing her dream horse, Fial, in Germany and bringing him across the ocean to her new home in New York.
Claudia is dedicated to training, learning, and growing with Fial. She describes the experience of competing in dressage as both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. “You have to stay calm and focused to give your horse the confidence it needs to do well. There has to be a high level of trust between horse and rider,” she explains.
This year, Claudia and Fial earned the title of Regional Champions at the First Level, a significant achievement for the pair. Claudia aspires to reach the Grand Prix level, but for now, she relishes every moment spent riding, competing with Fial, and living her “crazy horse girl life.”
The beauty of equestrian life
For each of these riders, horses have become more than just partners in competition–they’re healers, teachers, the bridge to a supportive barn community, and mirrors of the soul. As Megan puts it, “Horses take us from the highest of highs to the lowest of
lows in a second. They are addictive. They are expensive. What do they cost? Everything–your time, your disposable income, your energy, and your soul. And we wouldn’t have it any other way.” SWM
The Rescuers
CENTRAL NEW YORK WOMEN CONFRONT THE ANIMAL CRISIS
Maggie Nerz Iribarne
There is an unprecedented glut of homeless animals across America and Central New York is no exception.
According to an April 2024 article in the Economic Hardship Reporting Project, “After a record low of 5.5 million in 2020, animal intakes are slowly increasing. In 2023, 690,000 dogs and cats were euthanized in shelters across the US. In 2023, 6.5 million animals
entered [shelters], and only a little over 6 million left. Animals are lingering for weeks, months and sometimes years in shelters.”
Indeed, Central New York is saturated with animals. The reasons are many, ranging from evictions by landlords who do not allow pets to poverty to lack of access to spay and neuter services and vaccines to behavior problems caused by lack of socialization during COVID.
Veteran animal rescuer Bonnie Watson remembers many of the cats she’s helped across her 45 years saving animals, but Dottie stands out. Dottie was a freckle-faced kitty with a propensity to scratch who couldn’t find an owner. One day, a nurse from Upstate Hospital came along and adopted her. “She accepted Dottie for who she was and fell in love,” Bonnie says.
Bonnie became involved with the Central New York Cat Coalition (CNYCC) when she moved to Onondaga County.
“I was overwhelmed trying to help on my own. CNYCC taught me how to trap and sometimes were able to provide a foster home for cats I rescued. Additionally, I recruited foster homes for my own use that were dedicated to taking my rescues that needed a place to go when the Cat Coalition didn't have any available,” she says.
Bonnie wants people to understand the gravity of the problem of homeless animals in Central New York and beyond. She wants the women who run so many of the local shelters to be recognized for their care, compassion, and endless work in the animal rescue field. Finally, she wants more people to get involved, pointing out the myriad ways one person can help: monetary or animal supply donations, shelter volunteerism, fostering animals, etc.
“Who did people always turn to when they had a need for help? The shelters. Now the shelters are turning to the public. For the animals sake we have to do this together,” Bonnie says.
Continued on page 24
Continued on page 24
The Rescuers FROM
PAGE 23
After years of volunteering in various capacities for local shelters, lifelong animal owner and retired IT professional Maureen Davison found a second act in 2020 as executive director of HumaneCNY. Maureen remembers the heartbreaking stories of thousands of dogs that have arrived there over the years, like “Max the 13 year old dog tied up with a note at the park or Tito who came with multiple stab wounds.” Maureen works tirelessly to help as many animals as she can, knowing she can’t save them all.
Since 2020, 3,000 surrendered, abandoned and abused animals have passed through the door of HumaneCNY, funded almost entirely by donations and grants and kept running through the invaluable time and efforts of an army of volunteers. Prior to COVID, Maureen says they received roughly five to ten surrenders a month. Currently HumaneCNY averages 30 surrenders a week and now has 127 animals in their care. The shelter stands out for its extensive rehabilitation of injured and neglected animals and intensive dog walking and cat socialization programs.
HumaneCNY’s volunteers and staff are its life blood. “We couldn’t do it without them. They walk dogs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every single day. They socialize cats in shifts every single day,” she said, emphasizing the depth of their commitment. “They do laundry, transports, fostering. Without them we wouldn’t be able
Although she hates to choose, Friends Forever Animal Rescue founder Casey Newton’s most memorable rescue is Rory, a paralyzed dog in diaper and a wheelchair. After some failed adoption attempts, Casey adopted Rory herself.
Initially, Casey was overwhelmed by Rory’s care, but the dog’s loving spirit always lightened every burden. Recently, when Casey brought Rory along to a children’s program, Rory bypassed every other child and bee-lined to a little boy in a wheelchair, resting her head in his lap to happily receive the boy’s pets.
Casey began rescuing animals at age 20 from a bedroom in her grand-mother’s house.
“I’ve been in Rescue for close to 26 years… The amount of animals that we are seeing in need is increasing day by day.
We average close to 40 Rescue calls in a week, and with limited space, we are not able to accommodate all and with other shelters and rescues in our area facing the same problem with overcrowding and at full capacity, we have absolutely no other solutions or recommendations to give the people who are calling to help,” she says.
Casey credits Friends Forever’s success to the power of her community of volunteers and donors.
“Our transparency and our ability to make the community feel a part of the rescue is why we are so recognized and successful. We actually are humbled by the amount of support that we get and do not take any contribution no matter how small or how big for granted because without them, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do and that is saving lives one paw at a time,” Casey says.
Current Central New York Cat Coalition (CNYCC) President and Vice President
Rebekah McGraw and Courtney Armbruster lead another team of selfless volunteers dedicated to rescuing thousands of local homeless cats. Rebekah cherishes one special memory of a foster cat named Plum,
a sweet six months old with long gray hair whose severe mastitis prevented her from feeding her six kittens. Despite Rebekah’s mother’s bottle feeding, each kitten ultimately passed away in her arms. The day Plum was finally adopted, Rebekah’s entire family cried with happiness.
Courtney recalls an older homeless cat named Berkeley, a loving, long-matted-haired fellow with an infected paw.
“I thought there was no chance someone would want to adopt a cat this old and figured I may have him for life. Within weeks a young man contacted us who only wanted a lap cat and didn’t care how old he was. He immediately fell in love once Berkeley climbed right into his lap and snuggled up.” Courtney says.
Plum and Berkley are just two stories of the 50 to 100 homeless cats CNYCC encounters every week. The organization has no physical shelter. Each of the CNYCC registered fosters chooses which and how many cats they can help. When those fosters are out of space, they have to stop taking in cats. With so many cats in need this limitation is often heartbreaking.
“They can survive outside for years, breeding and growing in number. Our leaders wouldn’t stand for thousands of stray dogs running through neighborhoods, but there is absolutely no action by local government to help the thousands of cats living throughout our area,” Courtney says.
Clearly, rescuing is not possible for every cat, but CNYCC believes spaying and neutering directly addresses the current state of extreme cat overpopulation.
“Since CNYCC’s founding in 2002, more than 18,000 cats have been spayed/neutered. Since 2010…we have found new homes for more than 9,500 cats,” Courtney says.
CNYCC exists without a paid staff or government funding and relies entirely on donations, grants, and adoption fees. They partner with vet and spay and neuter clinics who generously offer their services at a discount. Their registered fosters often pay for cats’ needs from their own pockets.
“What we’d love to see is a better plan that puts money toward helping our neighbors help themselves,” Courtney said. “Encourage people to rescue cats and get them fixed as a way to improve quality of our neighborhoods. But they can’t do it without funding, and they can’t do it without more spay/neuter providers.”
In short, many people are working very hard to confront this distressing problem of animal overpopulation and homelessness, but it’s not enough.
Looking on the bright side, Rebekeh sums it all up.
“I am so thankful for all the rescues in the area that help control the animal population in the Central New York area. I am proud of the work we do!” SWM
If you are interested in supporting any of the organizations discussed in this story, please go to the links below: HumaneCNY: https://www.humanecny.org/donate-now/ Friends Forever: https://friendsforeverny.com/donate Central New York Cat Coalition: https://www.cnycatcoalition.org/donate/
BONNIE WATSON (Cat Coalition and independent volunteer): Committed MAUREEN DAVISON (HumaneCNY): Relentless CASEY NEWTON (Friends Forever): Dedicated REBEKAH MCGRAW (Central New York Cat Coalition): Happy COURTNEY ARMBRUSTER (Central New York Cat Coalition): Helpful
With missions aligned, EFR and ARISE merge
Alyssa Dearborn
The boards of directors for Exceptional Family Resources and ARISE - two organizations that have been providing community-based services to people with disabilities for more than 40 yearsrecently made the decision to strategically merge the two organizations.
EFR describes itself as an employer of choice driven by the philosophy of providing services that best meet the needs of the individual. ARISE offers over 50 different programs – including their inclusive recreation program, ARISE at the Farm – and was founded on the Independent Living Philosophy, which recognizes the power people with disabilities have to direct their own lives.
With similar missions to serve people with disabilities living in Central New York, the CEOs of both organizations believe that this merger will benefit the people who receive services from EFR and ARISE. After the merger is complete, EFR will be the surviving organization.
“I’ve been [at EFR] for about five and a half years as CEO,” said EFR’s Bruce Drake. “I have had a great experience. I love our mission of providing services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the communities where they live…Our staff does a great job at making a difference in people’s lives and its really been a positive and enjoyable change…”
Drake said he is excited to begin working with the staff at ARISE.
“That program has such a wonderful reputation,” he said. “I’ve been really impressed with their passion for providing services, their institutional knowledge, and how open they’ve been to discussing what the new merged organization should look like.”
ARISE CEO Tania Anderson has been with the organization for more than 25 years including 17 years on the board of directors before she assumed my current position.
“More importantly, I’m a mom of a young woman with a disability. So I really lived the experiences of the disability community through her. And through that lens, it’s really continued to grow my appreciation for the fundamental work,” she said. “ARISE is unique because it’s an independent living center, which is a very special designation for our Central New York community. And along with that, is the Independent Living Philosophy, which talks about the power of people with disabilities to direct
EFR CEO Bruce Drake
their own lives. I’m really excited about the opportunity to expand the Independent Living Philosophy even further with a larger organization.”
The upcoming merger will allow both organizations expand services with the increased capacity and both Bruce and Tania want to reassure the community that the services people already receive from ARISE and EFR will not be interrupted.
“I don’t think the merge is going to affect any of the services that are already being provided.” Bruce said. “If you are receiving services because you have an intellectual or developmental disability and you have a staff person who works with you on a regular basis, that won’t be interrupted at all. When you do a merge, you’re looking at all services that you’re providing, but those services aren’t going to change as a result of the merge.”
“I anticipate that anyone getting their services from ARISE or EFR are not going to see a huge impact.” Tania added. “If anything, we’re going to see services grow in the community. We believe that the two organizations together are going to be stronger and more efficient and better able to look at the needs of the community.”
They both agreed that the merger will benefit the entire community of people with disabilities and both executives anticipate that the merger will be a success not just because of well-planned strategizing, but because of matched missions. The two organizations may have historically offered different services from each other, but both strongly believe in providing individualized services to those who need them.
“We very much believe in community-based services. We both very much believe in advocacy. We both believe in education,” Bruce said. “We’re bringing together the two boards and the two leadership teams and we’re discussing things that we have to get on the same page about. So, starting from a place where we all have the same beliefs is certainly making that easier.”
“One of the main reasons why this merger is going to be successful at the end of the day… there is a real alignment of our missions,” Tania said. “We both believe in total inclusion for people with disabilities, people with disabilities thriving in their communities and not in an institutional setting. So, we both believe in the power of people with disabilities to say ‘this is what I want my life to look like’, ‘this is what I want my services to look like’... We’re going to be stronger together for the entire disability community.” SWM
Both organizations want to let people know that if they have any questions about services for people with disabilities, they can reach out through either organization’s website: www.ariseinc.org and www.contactefr.org.
ARISE CEO Tania Anderson
We are collecting Christmas ornaments for thousands of local children.
Please drop off NEW, UNWRAPPED ornaments at the following locations during business hours, through November 27.
• Big Mike’s Service Center – 7459 Morgan Rd., Liverpool
• Bug, Bear & Bean Candles – 2721 James St., Syracuse
• Cam’s Pizza – 112 Kasson Rd., Camillus
• East Area YMCA – 200 Towne Dr., Fayetteville
• Glazed and Confused – 211 North Clinton St., Syracuse
• Manlius YMCA – 140 West Seneca St., Manlius
• Mom’s Diner – 501 Westcott St., Syracuse
• Once Upon a Child – 5775 Bridge St., East Syracuse
• Playday – 4999 West Taft Rd., Liverpool
• Sal’s Pizza – 41 East Genesee St., Baldwinsville
• Syracuse Fire Department Credit Union – 211 Wilkinson St., Syracuse
Shop our Amazon Wish List by scanning the code or going to: tinyurl.com/RegansOrnamentDrive
Keeping the holidays less stressful and focused on memories
s the holiday season draws near, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the preparations—planning, cooking, and trying to make everything perfect. But if we pause and think about it, it’s the memories we create, not the extravagance of the day, that linger with us. By focusing less on the details and more on the moments spent with loved ones, you can make the holidays not only less stressful but also more meaningful.
When I reflect on my own Thanksgivings, it’s not the complicated recipes or endless to-do lists that stand out. Instead, I remember the laughter, the stories, and the time spent together as a family. That’s why I encourage you to keep it simple this holiday season—especially when it comes to the food. We live in a time when you don’t have to make everything from scratch or spend days in the kitchen. Nowadays, you can even pick up an entire Thanksgiving dinner that’s fully prepared and just needs reheating! Stores like Wegmans offer fantastic, high-quality options that make hosting incredibly easy, and no one will be the wiser. It’s all about removing the pressure so you can be present with your loved ones.
The importance of simplicity
The last few years, I’ve embraced the idea of simplicity during the holidays. One of the biggest stress relievers has been simplifying our Thanksgiving menu. Our family meal consists of a few classic staples: turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, a vegetable, cranberry
sauce, salad, and our family’s special signature pie. This simple menu is something my family enjoys year after year, and it takes the stress out of the day for me as the host. I don’t feel the need to constantly reinvent the meal or overextend myself in the kitchen.
One thing that’s a must-have at our table is my mother-in-law’s famous pumpkin chiffon pie. It wouldn’t feel like Thanksgiving without it. Everyone in the family looks forward to this pie — light, airy, and the perfect end to the meal. We love traditions like this because they tie us to the past, and no one makes that pie quite like she does. So while I’ve streamlined most of the menu, this is one dish that remains a beloved tradition, reminding us all of the importance of family recipes and those special touches that make a holiday meal unique.
Old-fashioned Thanksgivings: A time for reflection
I often wonder how our ancestors celebrated Thanksgiving in simpler times, before the distractions of modern life. For them, Thanksgiving was a time to celebrate the end of the harvest and the abundance that would see them through the winter. Pantries were full, barns were stocked, and families came together to enjoy the fruits of their labor and give thanks.
In my own family, I’ve tried to recapture some of that old-fashioned spirit. Over the past few years, I’ve shifted my focus away from the commercial side of the holiday and embraced a more intentional
approach. Gone are the days when I would stress over Black Friday shopping or prepare an elaborate feast that felt more fit for royalty than for our family table. Instead, I focus on what truly matters: God, nature and family.
Before our meal, we always take a moment to pray together, giving thanks for our health, our family, and the blessings we’ve received throughout the year. This practice grounds us in gratitude and sets the tone for the day. It reminds us to slow down and appreciate the simple joys of life, which is, after all, the true essence of Thanksgiving.
The gift of storytelling
One of the most meaningful traditions we’ve started as a family is gathering after dinner to share stories. Back in the day, Thanksgiving didn’t include sitting in front of a TV to watch football or staring at phones. Families gathered around the fire to tell stories, laugh, and pass down family history from one generation to the next. We’ve tried to bring that tradition back into our own Thanksgiving celebration.
After the meal, we sit together and share stories — some old, some new. We talk about past Thanksgivings, memorable family moments, and the little things that have made us laugh or cry throughout the years. This time of storytelling has become something we all look forward to, a chance to connect on a deeper level and to remind ourselves of the ties that bind us as a family.
Making memories through togetherness
As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to savor the moments that make life special, and Thanksgiving is one of those times when I make a conscious effort to pause and appreciate the present. Whether it’s listening to the chatter around the dinner table, or catching the smiles and laughter shared among family members, I’ve come to realize that these are the moments that truly make the day special.
One of our favorite traditions after Thanksgiving dinner is playing board games as a family. We gather again at the kitchen table, pick out our favorite games, and settle in for some friendly competition. It’s a simple, no-tech way to spend time together, and it often leads to the kind of laughter that makes your stomach hurt. This tradition has become a highlight of our Thanksgiving, and it’s something that all of us — young and old — look forward to each year.
As we head into the holiday season, I encourage you to remember that it’s not about the elaborate plans or the picture-perfect table setting. Thanksgiving is about being present, creating memories and giving thanks for the people around you. Simplifying your holiday doesn’t mean sacrificing joy or tradition — it often enhances it. By keeping the menu simple, focusing on traditions that matter, and making time to enjoy the company of your loved ones, you’ll find that
Continued on page 34
Keeping the holidays less stressful and focused on memories
the holidays can be both joyful and stress-free. So this year, take a deep breath, let go of the pressure, and embrace the moments that make the holidays truly meaningful. After all, it’s not the food or the decorations that we’ll remember years from now — it’s the love, laughter, and memories we’ve created together.
Pumpkin Chiffon Pie
By: Elizabeth Costello
My famous pumpkin chiffon pie came from a Knox Gelatin recipe book (but I've never made any secret of it).
9 in. graham cracker crust or baked eggs, separated
Beat eggs yolks and combine in double boiler with milk, pumpkin, salt, spices, and ½ cup of the sugar. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until mixture
Dissolve gelatin in cold water and add to the pumpkin mixture. Cool to at least room
Beat egg whites until stiff, adding other ½ cup of sugar gradually (I use superfine sugar for this step).
Fold egg whites into pumpkin mixture and pour into prepared
Marathons coast to coast LONG-DISTANCE
RUNNER COMPLETES A MARATHON IN ALL 50 STATES
Kate Hill
Former Cazenovia resident and longtime Cazenovia Children’s House (CCH) director Penny Noll recently accomplished her goal of running a marathon in every state in the country by 2025.
The long-distance runner finished her 50th state marathon and 61st marathon on Sept. 29 in Keene, New Hampshire, at age 72. Noll, who moved to Camillus last year, worked for CCH for 27 years before retiring in 2015. She started running 20 years ago while helping CCH and the community organize Cazenovia’s first Annual Chilly Chili 5K Run/ Walk.
Founded in 1970, CCH is an early learning and childcare center
that serves families in the greater Cazenovia area. The annual Chilly Chili race, typically held each January, is the organization’s biggest fundraiser.
Noll ran her first marathon, the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, in 2006. “My first marathon in Toronto was lonely, and, of course, I had no experience in how to hydrate or pace myself physically and mentally for 26.2 miles,” she recalled. “My longest training run was eighteen miles."
In 2010, Noll learned about the 50 State Marathon Club, a nonprofit organization whose members share the common goal of running a marathon in all 50 states. To join, a runner must have completed a marathon in at least 10 states. According to its website, the organization has 5,361 members in all 50 states, DC, and 21 foreign countries. Its members have run a combined total of more than 378,000 marathons.
Noll said her favorite aspects of marathon running are the people, the travel, and the challenge of achieving big physical goals.
“I felt a multitude of feelings — ecstatic, proud, exhausted, energized, and amazed,” she stated when remembering the moment she achieved her goal. “My 50th state marathon was a perfect experience. I was confident in my pre-race training and race-day routines. [Friends ran with me] at various miles along the course, my son came from North Dakota to help me, friends made cheer signs and met me throughout the race, and strangers called out my name and cheered. Pushing my friend from Utah [in a wheelchair] down the final stretch of friends and family was so joyous.” SWM
To learn more about the 50 State Marathon Club, visit 50statesmarathonclub.com.
CAITLYN COPFER
Empowering Syracuse's youth through the YWCA's
By Janelle Davis
At the core of Syracuse's community initiatives, the YWCA stands as a powerful force for youth empowerment and social change. At the helm of this transformative effort is Caitlyn Copfer, the recently appointed chief development officer of the YWCA. With a passion for human services spanning over a decade, Copfer brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to her new role.
“I love what I do,” Copfer says, reflecting on her journey in human services. “It's just so rewarding to know that the work I'm doing every day is making a real change in someone's life.” This dedication to positive impact is evident in the programs she oversees, particularly the YWCA's flagship initiative, Girls Inc.
Girls Inc. stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for young girls in Syracuse. The program's cornerstone is its after-school offering, which runs from October through June. “We serve girls from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday,” Copfer explains.
“They come in, have a meal, and participate in different activities based on the ‘Strong, Smart, and Bold ’ model.” This approach not only provides a safe and nurturing environment for girls but also fosters the development of crucial life skills and positive relationships with both peers and adults.
But the YWCA's reach extends far beyond its center-based programs. Recognizing the need to connect with more girls, the organization has implemented outreach programs in local schools.
“We're in Blodgett Middle School during lunchtime,” Copfer notes. “We take girls from the cafeteria to a classroom we've been given to do life skill development and socialemotional learning.” Similar programs operate at the local high school, ensuring that Girls Inc.’s impact is felt across different age groups and locations.
What sets Girls Inc. apart is its commitment to collaboration and diverse learning experiences.
The YWCA has forged partnerships with various community organizations to enrich its programming.
Write Out, a creative writing initiative, works weekly with 9 to 12-year-olds, often taking them on field trips to college campuses or cultural institutions like the MOST (Museum of Science and Technology).
They also have Reach One Teach One, a program through Upstate Medical University, that brings STEM activities to 5 to 8-year-olds. The Student Environmental Education Coalition (SEEC) from SUNY ESF contributes to environmental education efforts.
Girls Inc. Program
These partnerships serve a dual purpose: they expand the girls' horizons and introduce them to potential role models in various fields. “It's a really great way for the girls to have access to potential role models and expand what they get to see and what they already know,” Copfer emphasizes.
The YWCA's commitment to youth development doesn't stop when the school year ends. Summer programs like Camp Discovery for ages 5 to 12 and a thriving teen summer program ensure that girls have continuous support and engagement opportunities. Copfer proudly notes the recent “explosion of teenagers” involved in their programs, attributing this success to the organization's willingness to provide transportation and seek funding to make programs accessible and free of charge.
Central to the YWCA's philosophy is the concept of girl-led programming. “We let them have a voice,” Copfer states, “ because a big part of Girls Inc. is providing girl-led programming, letting them have a say in what they want to learn and what's important.”
This approach empowers girls to take ownership of their development and fosters a sense of agency and responsibility.
Copfer and her team are aware of the challenges facing young girls in Syracuse. Financial constraints, emotional hurdles, and the need for safe spaces to be vulnerable are all issues they strive to address. “We work really hard to provide a space where they don't have to be afraid to be vulnerable, to ask questions, and to ask for help,” Copfer explains.
Her advice to girls facing obstacles? “Lean on adults that want to help and that are showing up in the community. Don't be afraid to ask questions and aim for your goals.”
Looking to the future, Copfer is focused on growing and improving existing programs while developing new initiatives to enhance girls' leadership skills and community engagement. “We're trying to work on developing girls’ leadership skills and ways that they can give to the community,” she shares. “We want to teach them the importance of community and how they can play an active role in developing positive change.”
The YWCA's impact extends beyond its youth programs. The organization is committed to eliminating racism and promoting diversity and inclusion.“Our programs are open to anybody” Copfer emphasizes. “We make sure that we are educating the people in our programs about diversity and equity and the importance of having a community that is so diverse and able to provide different viewpoints.”
As the YWCA continues to evolve and expand its reach, community support remains crucial. Copfer encourages Syracuse residents to
get involved through volunteering, donations, and participation in YWCA activities. Whether it's contributing to menstrual equity projects or providing essential resources for families in need, every bit of support helps the organization eliminate barriers and empower the community.
In her role as Chief Development Officer, Caitlyn Copfer the YWCA's mission of empowerment and positive change. Her journey from Utica to Syracuse, and now to a leadership position at the YWCA, is a testament to her dedication and the organization's commitment to fostering growth –both for its staff and the community it serves. As Copfer and the YWCA continue their vital work, they remain a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change in Syracuse, nurturing the next generation of strong, smart and bold women.
DANIELLE LEAHY
Fueling hope at Syracuse's Rescue Mission
Janelle Davis
In the heart of Syracuse, a city known for its resilience and community spirit, Danielle Leahy stands as a beacon of hope and change. As the Chief Development Officer at the Rescue Mission, Leahy brings a unique blend of passion, experience, and innovation to her role, fueling the organization's mission to transform lives and communities.
Leahy's path to philanthropy began with a profound personal experience. Raised by a single mother, she learned early on the values of grit and empathy. It was during her high school years, however, that her true calling began to take shape. When her grandmother suffered a debilitating fall, Leahy and her mother became caregivers, navigating the complexities of hospital settings, home care, and eventually, dementia.
“ That experience showed me the importance of advocating for vulnerable individuals,” Leahy reflects. “It deepened my understanding of how our societal perceptions of aging and personal experiences can shape our actions.”
This pivotal moment sparked a desire in Leahy to effect social change, particularly in healthcare and cultural views on aging. It was a lesson she carried with her to Nazareth University, where she seized the opportunity to create a social venture aimed at bridging generational gaps in healthcare.
At Nazareth, Leahy's passion for nonprofit work ignited. “I was community organizing, doing media outreach, and building partnerships with key stakeholders at only 19” she recalls. This experience laid the foundation for her future in philanthropy and development.
Leahy's professional journey began at the Alzheimer's Association of Central New York, where she honed her skills in fundraising. Her career path took her through various nonprofits in Syracuse, Rochester, and Boston, each role expanding her expertise and challenging her to grow.
“From the start of my professional career, I've read books on fundraising, met for coffee with development professionals I aspired to be, and always sought opportunities to challenge myself,” Leahy says. Her drive and dedication consistently led her to exceed fundraising goals, sometimes within months of starting a new position.
Returning to Syracuse was a personal decision for Leahy, driven by family ties and a deep love for the community she calls a “hidden gem.” Her role as Chief Development Officer at the Rescue Mission aligns perfectly with her values and aspirations.
“The Rescue Mission was one of the first of its kind in the US,” Leahy explains. “It's not every day you find an organization where you genuinely believe in the mission and see life-changing results in real time.”
Under the leadership of Dan Sieburg, Leahy has found an environment that fosters innovation and forward-thinking. This supportive atmosphere has allowed her to implement innovative fundraising practices successfully, already exceeding goals for their upcoming gala.
Syracuse's economic challenges are a reality that Leahy confronts daily at the Rescue Mission. However, she sees these challenges as opportunities for community-driven solutions. “Syracuse has a unique spirit that empowers local nonprofits to address challenges head-on and create a better future,” she notes.
Leahy's approach to fundraising goes beyond generating revenue. “Through fundraising, my team and I are able to fuel programs that directly help individuals experiencing homelessness,” she explains.
“Witnessing those funds transform lives, whether it's providing meals, shelter, job training, or health services, is incredible.”
As the holiday season approaches, Leahy emphasizes the critical nature of their work. “Last year alone, more than 1,500 people found refuge in our emergency shelters, and that number continues to rise,” she shares. The Rescue Mission is actively seeking volunteers and donations to support their increased efforts during the colder months. Leahy invites the community to get involved: “Each donation, each volunteer hour, and each act of kindness fuels our mission.”
Those interested in volunteering can call 315-701-3898 to connect with the volunteer team and schedule time to assist with holiday meal packing and delivery, among other activities.
For young professionals interested in pursuing a career in development, Leahy offers sage advice: “Find your 'why' and trust your gut. My gut instinct, whether in professional or personal situations, has always led me down the right path. It was only when I didn't listen to my gut that I betrayed myself. This is the advice I give to anyone about anything.”
Specifically for those interested in fundraising, Leahy emphasizes the importance of immersing yourself in an organization's mission. “The passion of genuine relationships is key, both with your colleagues and with donors,” she explains. “Take the time to understand their motivations and how they align with your mission.”
Leahy also stresses the value of seeking mentorship. “In my first job out of college, I was asking deans and VPs in the area to grab coffee and pick their brains,” she recalls. “I learned from those meetings the steps I needed to take to become a chief development officer one day.” Her advice to aspiring philanthropists is to be proactive. “Ask questions about their paths and what skills are essential for success in development and fundraising,” Leahy suggests. “And stay adaptable and open to learning, as this field is constantly evolving.”
For Danielle Leahy, the most fulfilling part of her work in philanthropy is the knowledge that she's living out her purpose. “Our time here is limited,” she reflects. “I often think about the impact and legacy I want to leave behind.”
Through her work at the Rescue Mission, Leahy is not just raising funds; she's raising hope, dignity, and opportunities for countless individuals in the Syracuse community. Her journey from a compassionate caregiver to a visionary leader in philanthropy serves as an inspiration to all who seek to make a meaningful difference in the world. SWM
KATIE HANLON
A passion for giving back
David Tyler
It’s really no surprise that Katie Hanlon is so dedicated to improving the community through her work at the United Way of Central New York. After all, she was born into it.
When Katie was a young child growing up in Cazenovia, her grandfather, the late Jack Koerner of Koerner Ford, was in the midst of more than a decade of service to the United Way, which included stints as campaign chair and chairman of the board of directors. She recalled that when she was in first grade, he travelled with a group from the United Way to help support hurricane victims. “He really instilled that giving back mentality to the entire family, and that trickled down to myself and my cousins,” Katie said. “It’s definitely been a family value.”
So when Katie graduated from college, having already worked as a student in the development office of her alma mater, seeking out a career in the not-for-profit world seemed like a natural fit. After stints at the March of Dimes and ARISE, she has now been with the United Way for more than six years, most recently in the role of Chief Community Officer, a position she described as a connector between the development side of the organization and the community impact side.
In the United Way, Katie found an organization that touches the community across a full spectrum of needs, as well as an organization that is evolving to make it as easy as possible for those who want to give back to get involved.
“In the past it was always donation, donation, donation,” Katie said. The United Way’s flagship has always been corporate campaigns in which employees are encouraged to contribute through payroll deductions. Funds raised through those contributions – often matched by the employer - are then allocated by the United Way to support a wide spectrum of not-for-profit organizations across the community.
While that is still a vital component of the organization, changes in Central New York’s corporate landscape, as well as generational changes, have led the organization to seek new and different models to reach those in need.
“Now we’re seeing a lot of companies want to actually have volunteer opportunities for their employees,” she said. “They want their employees to go out in the community that they live and work in and have an impact.”
Through the website volunteercny.org, local not-for-profits can list all their volunteer opportunities for free in one clearinghouse that can be searched by prospective volunteers who may be looking for a way to give back, but don’t know where to start.
And in the past three years, the United Way has brought back Day of Caring – a single day when individuals, families and companies can be matched with projects to support local service providers. “After covid, we saw that people wanted to get out there and volunteer. They really want to go make an impact but they didn’t know where to start,” Katie said. “And our agencies were short on staff, they were in desperate need of help. So we decided to bring back Day of Caring.”
Since restarting the program in 2022, it has grown from 850 volunteers the first year, to 1,215 the second year, and in 2024 it surpassed 1,400 volunteers who were matched with more than 100 projects throughout Central New York.
“The whole purpose for that is for people to get out there and see what the needs are and to see how easy it is to help, and the goal is that they volunteer beyond that,” Katie said. She gave the example of one company whose employees were tasked with helping prepare and serve meals at the Samaritan Center. When they saw both the community impact and the impact on the employees who volunteered, they made a commitment to return each month and volunteer.
“What Katie’s role has been, and what she continues to do, is engage with new audiences,” said Ray Manassa, United Way CNY’s director of marketing. “She is giving them that touchpoint of being able to find a way into making this a better community – whether it’s through a drive, or whether it’s volunteering, or whether it’s through making a donation and joining Women United and finding other likeminded women who are trying to grow this community.”
As part of her role, Katie also spearheads several United Way drives throughout the year. Currently, they’re in the midst of the Care Package Drive, which provides those in need with things like soap, shampoo, deodorant, and other essentials that for some in our community may be out of reach. Following the same philosophy of making it as easy as possible to participate, dropboxes are set up at all local Wegmans locations, there is an Amazon wishlist, many area workplaces host dropboxes and people can make an online contribution to fill in any gaps from the items that are donated.
And on Nov. 1, Katie and the United Way team will embark on the annual Book Drive. “That’s our piece of the annual Christmas Bureau distribution,” she said. Through the Christmas Bureau families can register every member of their family and they will receive food, as well as a toy, stuffed animal and a new book for each child.
Like the Care Package Drive, it is supported by local independent book sellers, workplace drives, and individuals can purchase books to support the campaign through the Amazon wish list. In the past few years, they’ve distributed more than 6,000 new books to children around Syracuse. Katie calls the day those books are distributed her favorite day of the year.
“It’s something that they get to have for themselves. It’s not used. They didn’t get it from someone else,” she said. “It’s my favorite day of the year, because it’s just full of joy. It’s full of hope.”
Continued on page
Loretto Foundation board adds five new members
The Loretto Foundation announced the appointment of five new board members to serve three-year terms. These members will help support the foundation’s mission of advocating for elders and supporting Loretto’s role as an innovator in long-term care.
The new Loretto Foundation Board members are Cathy James, former chief executive officer for the Alzheimer’s Association of New York; Mary Kielar, a multimedia journalist and reporter for CNY Central Media Group; Kim Murphy, the principal for Brizo Enterprises and former executive board president for the Samaritan Center; Connie Palleria, a wellness practitioner at the Center of Grace in Manlius; and
VIP’s Romeo Livingston as a WELL Accredited Professional
VIP Structures has announced that Maria Romeo Livingston, chief marketing and business development officer, has earned the title of WELL Accredited Professional (WELL AP™) from The International WELL Building Institute™ (IWBI™).
“We are incredibly proud of Maria's drive and dedication," said Meg Tidd, CEO, VIP Structures. "This certification not only demonstrates her deep commitment to our mission of finding a better way but also enriches our expertise, ensuring we can offer even more impactful and healthfocused solutions to our clients and their communities."
Without a doubt, Katie has found fulfillment in her role at the United Way, and like her grandfather is passing that passion for giving back down to her four children, as she has done with her daughter by getting her Girl Scout troop involved in the Care Package Drive.
“I love being able to help people. I love being able to help individuals figure out how to help people. I love getting my kids involved. That’s really meaningful as a parent,” she said.
“To have them understand the importance of wanting to help your community and help other people… that’s completely rewarding.” SWM
Lisa Sonneborn, the chief executive officer for Yield Point Clinical LLC.
“I look forward to working with our new board members,” said Jennifer Janes, Director of Development for The Loretto Foundation. “They bring a wealth of experience to our board and will help The Loretto Foundation as we continue to grow to meet the needs of our residents and employees.”
In addition to welcoming new members, The Loretto Foundation announced the election of the new executive committee, which is made up of Liza Magley, chair; Claudia Gasiorowski, vice chair; and Crystal Paolelli, secretary.
Grounded in evidence-based research, WELL AP certification recognizes proficiency in integrating health and wellness in the built environment, reflecting an understanding that the spaces where people spend 90 percent of their time significantly influence well-being.
“The demonstrated dedication to pursue the WELL AP credential proves the growing importance of developing buildings with people’s health and wellness at the center of design,” said Paul Scialla, founder of IWBI. “WELL Accredited Professionals will be at the forefront of this healthy building movement.”
UPCOMING EVENTS
Nov. 1-3
BTG presents Pippen
What: The Baldwinsville Theater Guild will present Broadway favorite Pippin, the story of a young prince on the quest for genuine happiness and fulfillment.
Where: 64 Oswego St., Baldwinsville
When: Friday & Saturday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2
Info: For info and tickets visit https://www.baldwinsvilletheatreguild.org
United Way 2024 Gala
What: Celebrate the work of CNY United Way with catering from the Cider Mill, photobooth, auction, and a DJ. Black tie optional.
Where: The Landmark Theatre, Downtown Syracuse. When: 6 to 10 p.m.
Info: $125 per person. www.unitedwaygala.com
Nov. 2 & 3
Fine Art Show and Sale
What: Featuring a variety of artwork for sale by members of the CNY Art Guild, live demos, and raffles. Proceeds from raffled works benefit student art awards for high school seniors. Where: Aspen House, 8550 North Entry Rd., Baldwinsville. When: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Info: Free admission. www.cnyartguild.org
Tuesday, Nov. 5
On-Site Hiring Event
What: St. Camillus will hold an on-site hiring event, featuring nursing dining and other open positions. Walk-ins welcome.
When: 2 to 5 p.m.
Where: 813 Fay Road, Syracuse
Nov. 7, 14 & 21
Drag Docent Tours of Pepe Mar: Magic Vessel
What: Join a unique and educational guided gallery tour featuring captivating performances by local drag artists. Where: Everson Museum of Art, Syracuse.
When: 6 p.m.
Info: Pay as you wish. www.everson.org/connect/drag-docent-tours
November 8 to 10
Junior League Holiday Shoppes
What: Holiday Shoppes, the Junior League of Syracuse’s largest annual fundraiser, is a three-day holiday marketplace known throughout Central New York as a shopping destination. When: Noon to 8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday Where: NYS Fairgrounds, Horticulture Building Info: jlsyracuse.org
Nov. 9 & 10
CNY Folksmarch
What: The CNY Folksmarch is a recreational walking club. A folksmarch is a non-competitive walking event conducted monthly for people of all ages and abilities in Central New York. Where: Meadowbrook, Syracuse.
When: 9 a.m. to Noon on Nov. 9 and 1 to 3 p.m. on Nov. 10. Info: folksmarch.wordpress.com
Sunday, Nov. 10
Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet
What: Enjoy one of America’s favorite Christmas traditions! The ballet brings together world-class dancers, whimsical puppets, and stunning acrobatics set against Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.
Where: The Landmark Theatre, Downtown Syracuse. When: 1 p.m.
Info: Tickets starting at $42. www.landmarktheatre.org
Nov. 15-23
Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night
What: Orsino loves Olivia, but Olivia wants Cesario. Or is it Sebastian? Or Viola? Enjoy this comedy of love, music, and mistaken identities.
Where: The Storch Theater, Syracuse. Info: www.syracusestage.org/drama
Saturday, Nov. 16
American Women Fundraising Gala
What: Celebrate and raise money for the YWCA’s programs with dinner, speakers, networking, and awarding three local women with the Spirit of American Women Award. When: 6 to 11 p.m.
Info: $100 per person. www.ywca-syracuse.org
Sunday, Nov. 17
Hope and Heels Fashion Show and Brunch
What: Join for an afternoon of hope to benefit local ovarian cancer awareness. Featuring fashion, vendors, brunch, cash bar, silent auction, and a celebration of survivors. Where: Traditions at the Links, East Syracuse. When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Info: Tickets available at www.hopeforheather.org/hopeandheels
Thursday, Nov. 21
A Holiday Ladies Night
What: Join Welch & Co. Jewelers and Syracuse Woman Magazine for an evening fun, including a special gift and door prizes.
When: 4 to 8 p.m.
Where: Welch & Co. Jewelers, 513 S. Main St. Route 11, N. Syracuse
RSVP: Text your RSVP to 315.847.3801
Saturday, Nov. 30
Night Market
What: Eat, drink, and shop from over 70+ CNY artisans and makers. Featuring food, cocktails, and entertainment.
Where: SKY Armory, Downtown Syracuse.
When: 3 to 9 p.m.
Info: All ages welcome. Tickets available at www.skyarmory.com/event-details/night-market.
Wednesday, Dec. 4th
WBOC's Holiday Hoedown!
What: Grab your denim & boots! Food, fun, friendship, and philanthropy as we celebrate the season. Music, raffles, and surprises, too!
When: 5 to 9 p.m.
Where: Drumlins Country Club, 800 Nottingham Rd., Syracuse
Cost: $60 early bird until Nov. 20th, then $75 Info: https://wboconnection.org
