Foundation Newsletter 2016-17

newsletter 2016-17

Leadership Connections

The Chamber Foundation Staff

Making a difference through mentorship

T

Frank Castella, Jr. President & CEO 845-454-1700 Ext. 1008 frank@dcrcoc.org

his past May, Leadership Connections, in partnership with the Dutchess County Workforce Development Program and Poughkeepsie High School, was proud to recognize over 35 students for successful completion of this exclusive mentorship program. Leadership Connections pairs Poughkeepsie High School juniors and seniors with community business professionals Mentors and Mentees pose for a final picture during for a unique mentorship their recognition lunch at O’Sho Japanese Steak House. experience. The goal of the program is to give their high school years. Session activities includeach student out-of-the- ed team-building, health and career day, college classroom experiences campus tours, golf mentoring and much more. The that broaden thinking, Chamber Foundation thanks the 15 adult mentors who took time out of their workdays build conEADERSHIP to spend with each of the students. fidence, Connections Programming for the 2016/17 school and deyear is well under way. velop perLeadership Connections is supported by a sonal and professional Lieutenant Robert Ridley habits benefitting the grant from the Dyson Foundation along with supdemonstrates firefighting students well beyond port from TD Bank. training techniques.

Audra B. Gerty Vice President 845-454-1700 Ext. 1007 audra@dcrcoc.org

L

Coming in 2017...

Nicholas Shannon Executive Director 845-454-1700 Ext. 1026 nick@chamberfdn.org Brianne Kelly Programming Coordinator 845-454-1700 Ext. 1025 brianne@chamberfdn.org Louise McLoughlin Senior Vice President of Business Services 845-454-1700 Ext. 1024 louise@dcrcoc.org

Youth One Stop Staff Jessica Vitolano Coordinator Diane DeDominicis Director of Employment Services Rosemary Grabowska Youth One Stop Assistant Coordinator Jacki McLoughlin Program Specialist Ashley Wright Case Manager

T

he Chamber Foundation is proud to announce the launch of Hudson Valley KidVenture, proudly presented by Central Hudson Gas and Electric, IBM, and Westchester Medical Center Health Network!

On May 20 and 21, 2017, Hudson Valley KidVenture will take over downtown Poughkeepsie including Market Street, the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and The Changepoint Theater and feature over 60 kid-friendly exhibitors each with hands-on learning experiences and activities. Highlights will include an Agricultural Arena exhibiting local farms and livestock, an Arts Stage featuring local non-profits with unique activities, and a TouchA-Truck showcasing over 20 vehicles for kids

Board of Directors Officers

Thursday, March 30

Tina Walz, Chair M & T Bank

roceeds benefit the Cosimo DiBrizzi Memorial P Scholarship.

Amy Dittmar, Treasurer Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

Cosimo’s Celebrity Server Dinner

KidVenture coming to downtown Poughkeepsie

Stacey Langenthal, Vice-Chair Bank of Millbrook

to explore. KidVenture will also boast an assortment of food trucks, street performances, educational shows, and much more.

This year’s event is cochaired by Laraine Kautz of Dutchess Community College and David Wise of Mackey, Butts, & Wise, LLP. The honorary chair is Sheila Appel of IBM. “Thanks to the efforts of an outstanding planning committee and the contributions of some generous partners, KidVenture promises to be an unforgettable event that will provide fun, entertainment and education for school-aged children,” said David Wise. “This one-ofa-kind event focusing on the Hudson Valley will feature a

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

Peter Maher, Secretary Mid-Hudson Subaru Stephen E. Diamond, Of Counsel Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond, LLP

Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21

Directors

KidVenture

Tina Hawkinson Red Cap Cleaners

More info at HVKidVenture.org

Maureen Kangas Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center

Wednesday, June 21

Scholarship Breakfast The Chamber Foundation will present scholarships to local students at this annual education breakfast.

Anthony Morando Cuddy & Feder LLP Barbara E. Ostrander RBT CPAs, LLP Dr. Greer Rychcik Hyde Park Central School District Christopher Short DragonSearch Charles “Chip” Simon Taconic Advisors, Inc.

Fall 2017

Day Of Golf

To benefit the Norman and Rita Nussbickel Memorial Scholarship.

Visit ChamberFDN.org to find out more!

Skip Weisman Weisman Success Resources, Inc. Robyn Williams Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union David Wise Mackey, Butts, & Wise, LLP

The Chamber Foundation, Inc.

One Civic Center Plaza, Suite 400 | Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 ChamberFDN.org

tremendous number of entertainers and vendors covering several different educational themes. KidVenture will be a fun-packed two days that will mark the kickoff of this annual gathering.”

“This is a fantastic way for local businesses to get in front of our community, connect with our area youth and be a part of a positive event,” said Frank Castella, President and CEO of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Both Chamber members and nonmembers are encouraged to get involved in what is sure to be a signature event in the Hudson Valley.”

Stay up-to-date with the latest on KidVenture by visiting HVKidVenture.org. Tickets can be purchased online for $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are also available.

MEDIA SPONSORS:

Left photo: Katrina Gobins and Kadiyah Lodge promote KidVenture.

Right photo: Joe Daily and crew officially announce KidVenture at Chamber’s Contact Breakfast.

Karen Lo – Recipient of Community Service Award

B

eing a Hudson Valley native, Karen Lo developed a passion for protecting the environment, which influenced her decision to become an environmental professional. She currently works at Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation as an Environmental Specialist where she assists with ensuring the company remains compliant with regulatory agency laws while practicing best management practices.

In 2012, Karen was selected to participate in the Leadership Dutchess Program, through the support of Central Hudson, where she learned about the various programs and services The Chamber Foundation provides to the local community.

After graduating, Karen was asked to join the Foundation’s Youth Leadership Program as a mentor. Over the years, she has volunteered in many levels of the programming offered including leading part of Youth Leadership with

Executive Director Nicholas Shannon.

Karen says she has enjoyed her time with Youth Leadership and sees how essential it is to helping participants and volunteers develop essential skills.

“Volunteering allows me to give back to the community I live in and help the students develop skills they may not have an opportunity to exercise in school,” Karen said.

Karen’s steadfast support and dedication was rewarded this past June when she was selected as a recipient of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation’s Community Service Award.

“I am honored to be recognized for my efforts in teaching valuable life lessons and professional skills to students to help them succeed in today’s environment. I hope the students recognize the opportunity they have and ‘pay it forward’ in the future,” she said.

If you would like to become a volunteer for The Chamber Foundation, call (845) 4541700, ext. 1026. Chamber Foundation volunteers are the lifeblood of our programming.

Nearly 200 individuals donated over 2,500 hours this past year!

Left to right - Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation, President and CEO, Michael Mosher, along with Karen Lo and Chamber staff members, Audra Gerty and Diane DeDominicis.

newsletter 2016-17

ChamberFDN.org

Volunteers give much needed TLC

Youth overcomes challenges, faces a bright future

T

T

he Leadership Dutchess Class of 2016 participated in their annual Day of Service working with Abilities First to benefit the restoration of the nonprofit’s art facility.

Melissa McCoy, Chief Advancement Officer of Abilities First, was very pleased with the outcome. The class turned the un-winterized facility, which was little more than a garage, into a place where program residents could use the space year-round for art therapy.

“The renovation of the Art Garage, surrounding garden and green space has resulted in a beautiful, welcoming environment where our adults and students can explore their abilities and independence year-round,” McCoy said.

The project involved the complete res-

From left to right Joe Cook, Melissa McCoy, Dr. Jeffery Fox and Bill Francis cut the ribbon to the newly renovated Art Garage.

toration of the garage. Abilities First prepared the space by clearing it and installing new subflooring. Then, in April, Leadership Dutchess participants worked inside and out painting, restoring the gardens, power washing, and more. The class also bought furnishings including shelving units, lighting and fans, and a desk was also donated.

According to McCoy, the most meaningful part of the day was seeing the enjoyment and pride on the faces of the Abilities First participants working alongside

the volunteers.

Every year, the Leadership Dutchess class participants volunteer for a Day of Service to benefit a local community organization. Recipients of the Day of Service must be a community based service organization within Dutchess County. Applicants are chosen by a committee based on the project’s potential to impact the community, overall benefit to the organization, engagement of multiple audiences and other criteria.

Want to be a part of the Leadership Dutchess Class of 2017? Apply today at chamberfdn.org. Deadline is June 2.

Ollive making moves, thanks Youth Leadership

L

iam Ollive graduated from Youth Leadership in 2014 and this past spring, before graduating Beacon High School, Liam was honored with the 2016 Richard W. Mitchell Memorial Scholarship from The Chamber Foundation.

Now a freshman at Marist College majoring in Communications/Game Design, his mother was excited to provide an update to Liam’s friends and family, including the staff at The Chamber Foundation.

“Liam was inducted into the Upstate New York Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall Of Fame during an induction ceremony and banquet on Sunday. Liam gave an amazing acceptance speech, which brought me and others to tears for its honesty and humility. As one of the other inductees said after Liam’s speech ‘Liam certainly deserved the Medal of Courage Award.’ The event in Syracuse was … a very big honor for Liam. I am so proud of all he has accomplished.”

Mrs. Ollive went on to write in a separate note, “Thank you for all that the Youth Leadership program has done for Liam.”

As a survivor of Rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of cancer, Liam has been a fighter since an early age. Though Liam’s courage was strong, he credits some of his academic success in part to The Youth Leadership Program.

“Youth Leadership gave me the resourc-

es and the opportunity to collaborate with others to help build my teamwork and communication skills,” he said. “Being a part of the program was a unique experience that brought me together with students from different schools and provided me with an opportunity to participate in an internship in a field of my interest. If it were not for Youth Leadership, I would not have had this important learning experience.”

Liam reports he is enjoying studying at Marist and is keeping very busy. He has a job on campus and, although he is a commuter student, he spends a lot of time at the school.

Youth Leadership is an innovative, leadership program designed to develop the academic, social and life skills of area youth.

Sophomore and junior high school students are eligible for the program. Program applications are due June 2, 2017. Students are accepted on a first come, first served basis and are encouraged to submit applications early due to a limited amount of seats. Visit chamberFDN.org or call (845) 454-1700, ext.

1026 for more information.

Thank You to our 2016 Sponsors Liam Ollive holding his 2016 Medal of Courage Award

The Gap, Inc. | Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. | Cosimo’s Restaurant Group | RBT Accounting & Consulting Services | DCH WappingersFalls Toyota EmbroidMe | M&T Bank | IBM | KeyBank | MidHudson Regional Hospital | Mobile Life Support Services | Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center Riverside Bank - A division of Salisbury Bank and Trust Company | Therapeutic Equestrian Center | Tompkins Mahopac Bank

he Chamber Foundation is proud to host the Dutchess County Youth One Stop program. Youth One Stop is a comprehensive education and jobtraining program utilizing local resources to benefit at-risk youth in Dutchess County. The program is open to income-eligible youth, ages 14-24, who face obstacles inhibiting them from completing school, finishing their High School Equivalency diploma or gaining employment. As participants explore career options in the community and gain practical experience through jobs and internships they are supported with tutoring, mentorship and degree/certification programs. By the time 2016 comes to a close, the program will have served upwards of 150 individuals for the year.

Courtney Mitchell is one of the staff’s favorite success stories at Youth One Stop. Courtney currently balances her full-time job with going to school for her Bachelor’s Degree, drives a car she bought herself, and has moved out of her parents’ house. But there were times when

Jessica Vitolano (left) and Rosemary Grabowska (right) share in Courtney Mitchell’s (center) success.

she didn’t know if she’d make it.

Courtney came to Youth One Stop with the intent to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A). The staff signed her up for class with BOCES Adult Learning Institute, where she maintained good attendance while also working part-time.

On her exam, Courtney passed the hands-on clinical portion, but failed the written test. Her case manager reminded her that this wasn’t the end, and urged Courtney to take advantage of all Youth One Stop’s tutoring sessions. Courtney listened by coming to tutoring sessions and studying hard.

The second time she took the test, she failed.

By then, Courtney was wondering if maybe she just was not meant to be a C.N.A. Youth One Stop, on the other hand, knew Courtney had a bright future ahead of her, so they worked with her to overcome her self-doubts. Courtney dug deep, continued coming to tutoring, and studied even harder – and then it was time for her third and final try at the written test.

On the morning after her results were posted, she came into the office earlier than most employees. The first words out of her mouth: “I passed!”

After that there was no stopping her.

Courtney took and passed her road test, became a full-time employee of The Pines at Poughkeepsie, and decided she would become a Registered Nurse.

When asked her thoughts on the Youth One Stop program, Courtney said, “Youth One Stop helped me believe in myself. They cared for me, mentored me, and provided me a support system that I don’t know if I could get anywhere else.”

Visit MyYOS.org for more information on the Youth One Stop program.

Career Achievement Program In May, The Chamber Foundation officially expanded its professional development programming by launching the Career Achievement Program (CAP). This program pairs individuals with similar interests to form meaningful mentorship relationships that aim to accomplish mentee self-identified goals over a year-long period. Formerly known as the Women’s Leadership Alliance Mentor Program, and with seven years of successful mentorship pairings, the committee recognized the need to continue to diversify and broaden the program’s reach. With The Chamber Foundation being recognized for its signature leadership initiatives, this mentorship program was seen as a perfect addition. Proudly sponsored by M&T Bank, the Career Achievement Program is free to all participants!

Our current mentorship group consists of 11 pairings. Here is one success story: Mentee, Micah Bennett, owner of Hudson Valley Concierge Service I couldn’t be more thankful for being accepted in the Career Achievement Program through The Chamber Foundation. It has been overwhelmingly beneficial since working with my mentor Rebecca Simpson.

At first I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but after our introductory meeting I knew Rebecca was the mentor that could help me succeed. Working with Rebecca allowed me to see opportunities in my

business that I could leverage. She has given me a boost of self-confidence when approaching corporate clients (preparing for meetings, follow-ups, planning, and execution). Critical thinking is definitely Rebecca’s strong point - she can always come up with a solution.

The program has also allowed me to realize my potential, see how far I have come, and push myself one step closer to my dream. I can’t thank The Chamber Foundation and Rebecca Simpson enough for all the help and guidance I have received.

Mentor, Rebecca Simpson, Assistant Administrator for The Pines at Poughkeepsie Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation In 2010 I decided to pursue my Master’s degree. I was in my thirties, a mother of two young children, and newly returned to the workforce. During my internship at The Pines, the Administrator saw my potential and took me under her wing. This mentorship has resulted in a healthcare career with an extraordinary company. The Career Achievement Program presented a unique opportunity to pay it forward. Although I was very excited to mentor someone I also had reservations.

I have trained numerous people but had never mentored anyone. Was I qualified to mentor a professional? What could I offer to someone not in my field? I met Micah Bennett for our initial meeting over lunch. I

Micah Bennett and Rebecca Simpson take a selfie.

learned he was a business owner looking for some guidance on how to market his concierge service to local businesses. I learned Micah was a devoted father, fiancé and business owner. His ambition and positive energy made my job as his mentor incredibly easy. We meet approximately once a month to discuss his upcoming marketing ventures and to catch up. I’m invested in his progress and I’ve learned that even though we operate vastly different businesses, we are connected by our need to succeed. On a personal level the program has taught me that I can make a difference for others, despite my initial reservations. I felt that I had little to offer Micah when we started the program, and now I understand that sometimes just taking the time to listen and believing in someone can be the catalyst for monumental growth. I have no doubt that Micah will continue to successfully grow his business over the next few years and I look forward to hearing all about it.

Visit ChamberFDN.org/Career-Achievement-Program for more information on the Career Achievement Program.

newsletter 2016-17

ChamberFDN.org

Volunteers give much needed TLC

Youth overcomes challenges, faces a bright future

T

T

he Leadership Dutchess Class of 2016 participated in their annual Day of Service working with Abilities First to benefit the restoration of the nonprofit’s art facility.

Melissa McCoy, Chief Advancement Officer of Abilities First, was very pleased with the outcome. The class turned the un-winterized facility, which was little more than a garage, into a place where program residents could use the space year-round for art therapy.

“The renovation of the Art Garage, surrounding garden and green space has resulted in a beautiful, welcoming environment where our adults and students can explore their abilities and independence year-round,” McCoy said.

The project involved the complete res-

From left to right Joe Cook, Melissa McCoy, Dr. Jeffery Fox and Bill Francis cut the ribbon to the newly renovated Art Garage.

toration of the garage. Abilities First prepared the space by clearing it and installing new subflooring. Then, in April, Leadership Dutchess participants worked inside and out painting, restoring the gardens, power washing, and more. The class also bought furnishings including shelving units, lighting and fans, and a desk was also donated.

According to McCoy, the most meaningful part of the day was seeing the enjoyment and pride on the faces of the Abilities First participants working alongside

the volunteers.

Every year, the Leadership Dutchess class participants volunteer for a Day of Service to benefit a local community organization. Recipients of the Day of Service must be a community based service organization within Dutchess County. Applicants are chosen by a committee based on the project’s potential to impact the community, overall benefit to the organization, engagement of multiple audiences and other criteria.

Want to be a part of the Leadership Dutchess Class of 2017? Apply today at chamberfdn.org. Deadline is June 2.

Ollive making moves, thanks Youth Leadership

L

iam Ollive graduated from Youth Leadership in 2014 and this past spring, before graduating Beacon High School, Liam was honored with the 2016 Richard W. Mitchell Memorial Scholarship from The Chamber Foundation.

Now a freshman at Marist College majoring in Communications/Game Design, his mother was excited to provide an update to Liam’s friends and family, including the staff at The Chamber Foundation.

“Liam was inducted into the Upstate New York Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall Of Fame during an induction ceremony and banquet on Sunday. Liam gave an amazing acceptance speech, which brought me and others to tears for its honesty and humility. As one of the other inductees said after Liam’s speech ‘Liam certainly deserved the Medal of Courage Award.’ The event in Syracuse was … a very big honor for Liam. I am so proud of all he has accomplished.”

Mrs. Ollive went on to write in a separate note, “Thank you for all that the Youth Leadership program has done for Liam.”

As a survivor of Rhabdomyosarcoma, a form of cancer, Liam has been a fighter since an early age. Though Liam’s courage was strong, he credits some of his academic success in part to The Youth Leadership Program.

“Youth Leadership gave me the resourc-

es and the opportunity to collaborate with others to help build my teamwork and communication skills,” he said. “Being a part of the program was a unique experience that brought me together with students from different schools and provided me with an opportunity to participate in an internship in a field of my interest. If it were not for Youth Leadership, I would not have had this important learning experience.”

Liam reports he is enjoying studying at Marist and is keeping very busy. He has a job on campus and, although he is a commuter student, he spends a lot of time at the school.

Youth Leadership is an innovative, leadership program designed to develop the academic, social and life skills of area youth.

Sophomore and junior high school students are eligible for the program. Program applications are due June 2, 2017. Students are accepted on a first come, first served basis and are encouraged to submit applications early due to a limited amount of seats. Visit chamberFDN.org or call (845) 454-1700, ext.

1026 for more information.

Thank You to our 2016 Sponsors Liam Ollive holding his 2016 Medal of Courage Award

The Gap, Inc. | Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. | Cosimo’s Restaurant Group | RBT Accounting & Consulting Services | DCH WappingersFalls Toyota EmbroidMe | M&T Bank | IBM | KeyBank | MidHudson Regional Hospital | Mobile Life Support Services | Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center Riverside Bank - A division of Salisbury Bank and Trust Company | Therapeutic Equestrian Center | Tompkins Mahopac Bank

he Chamber Foundation is proud to host the Dutchess County Youth One Stop program. Youth One Stop is a comprehensive education and jobtraining program utilizing local resources to benefit at-risk youth in Dutchess County. The program is open to income-eligible youth, ages 14-24, who face obstacles inhibiting them from completing school, finishing their High School Equivalency diploma or gaining employment. As participants explore career options in the community and gain practical experience through jobs and internships they are supported with tutoring, mentorship and degree/certification programs. By the time 2016 comes to a close, the program will have served upwards of 150 individuals for the year.

Courtney Mitchell is one of the staff’s favorite success stories at Youth One Stop. Courtney currently balances her full-time job with going to school for her Bachelor’s Degree, drives a car she bought herself, and has moved out of her parents’ house. But there were times when

Jessica Vitolano (left) and Rosemary Grabowska (right) share in Courtney Mitchell’s (center) success.

she didn’t know if she’d make it.

Courtney came to Youth One Stop with the intent to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (C.N.A). The staff signed her up for class with BOCES Adult Learning Institute, where she maintained good attendance while also working part-time.

On her exam, Courtney passed the hands-on clinical portion, but failed the written test. Her case manager reminded her that this wasn’t the end, and urged Courtney to take advantage of all Youth One Stop’s tutoring sessions. Courtney listened by coming to tutoring sessions and studying hard.

The second time she took the test, she failed.

By then, Courtney was wondering if maybe she just was not meant to be a C.N.A. Youth One Stop, on the other hand, knew Courtney had a bright future ahead of her, so they worked with her to overcome her self-doubts. Courtney dug deep, continued coming to tutoring, and studied even harder – and then it was time for her third and final try at the written test.

On the morning after her results were posted, she came into the office earlier than most employees. The first words out of her mouth: “I passed!”

After that there was no stopping her.

Courtney took and passed her road test, became a full-time employee of The Pines at Poughkeepsie, and decided she would become a Registered Nurse.

When asked her thoughts on the Youth One Stop program, Courtney said, “Youth One Stop helped me believe in myself. They cared for me, mentored me, and provided me a support system that I don’t know if I could get anywhere else.”

Visit MyYOS.org for more information on the Youth One Stop program.

Career Achievement Program In May, The Chamber Foundation officially expanded its professional development programming by launching the Career Achievement Program (CAP). This program pairs individuals with similar interests to form meaningful mentorship relationships that aim to accomplish mentee self-identified goals over a year-long period. Formerly known as the Women’s Leadership Alliance Mentor Program, and with seven years of successful mentorship pairings, the committee recognized the need to continue to diversify and broaden the program’s reach. With The Chamber Foundation being recognized for its signature leadership initiatives, this mentorship program was seen as a perfect addition. Proudly sponsored by M&T Bank, the Career Achievement Program is free to all participants!

Our current mentorship group consists of 11 pairings. Here is one success story: Mentee, Micah Bennett, owner of Hudson Valley Concierge Service I couldn’t be more thankful for being accepted in the Career Achievement Program through The Chamber Foundation. It has been overwhelmingly beneficial since working with my mentor Rebecca Simpson.

At first I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but after our introductory meeting I knew Rebecca was the mentor that could help me succeed. Working with Rebecca allowed me to see opportunities in my

business that I could leverage. She has given me a boost of self-confidence when approaching corporate clients (preparing for meetings, follow-ups, planning, and execution). Critical thinking is definitely Rebecca’s strong point - she can always come up with a solution.

The program has also allowed me to realize my potential, see how far I have come, and push myself one step closer to my dream. I can’t thank The Chamber Foundation and Rebecca Simpson enough for all the help and guidance I have received.

Mentor, Rebecca Simpson, Assistant Administrator for The Pines at Poughkeepsie Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation In 2010 I decided to pursue my Master’s degree. I was in my thirties, a mother of two young children, and newly returned to the workforce. During my internship at The Pines, the Administrator saw my potential and took me under her wing. This mentorship has resulted in a healthcare career with an extraordinary company. The Career Achievement Program presented a unique opportunity to pay it forward. Although I was very excited to mentor someone I also had reservations.

I have trained numerous people but had never mentored anyone. Was I qualified to mentor a professional? What could I offer to someone not in my field? I met Micah Bennett for our initial meeting over lunch. I

Micah Bennett and Rebecca Simpson take a selfie.

learned he was a business owner looking for some guidance on how to market his concierge service to local businesses. I learned Micah was a devoted father, fiancé and business owner. His ambition and positive energy made my job as his mentor incredibly easy. We meet approximately once a month to discuss his upcoming marketing ventures and to catch up. I’m invested in his progress and I’ve learned that even though we operate vastly different businesses, we are connected by our need to succeed. On a personal level the program has taught me that I can make a difference for others, despite my initial reservations. I felt that I had little to offer Micah when we started the program, and now I understand that sometimes just taking the time to listen and believing in someone can be the catalyst for monumental growth. I have no doubt that Micah will continue to successfully grow his business over the next few years and I look forward to hearing all about it.

Visit ChamberFDN.org/Career-Achievement-Program for more information on the Career Achievement Program.

newsletter 2016-17

Leadership Connections

The Chamber Foundation Staff

Making a difference through mentorship

T

Frank Castella, Jr. President & CEO 845-454-1700 Ext. 1008 frank@dcrcoc.org

his past May, Leadership Connections, in partnership with the Dutchess County Workforce Development Program and Poughkeepsie High School, was proud to recognize over 35 students for successful completion of this exclusive mentorship program. Leadership Connections pairs Poughkeepsie High School juniors and seniors with community business professionals Mentors and Mentees pose for a final picture during for a unique mentorship their recognition lunch at O’Sho Japanese Steak House. experience. The goal of the program is to give their high school years. Session activities includeach student out-of-the- ed team-building, health and career day, college classroom experiences campus tours, golf mentoring and much more. The that broaden thinking, Chamber Foundation thanks the 15 adult mentors who took time out of their workdays build conEADERSHIP to spend with each of the students. fidence, Connections Programming for the 2016/17 school and deyear is well under way. velop perLeadership Connections is supported by a sonal and professional Lieutenant Robert Ridley habits benefitting the grant from the Dyson Foundation along with supdemonstrates firefighting students well beyond port from TD Bank. training techniques.

Audra B. Gerty Vice President 845-454-1700 Ext. 1007 audra@dcrcoc.org

L

Coming in 2017...

Nicholas Shannon Executive Director 845-454-1700 Ext. 1026 nick@chamberfdn.org Brianne Kelly Programming Coordinator 845-454-1700 Ext. 1025 brianne@chamberfdn.org Louise McLoughlin Senior Vice President of Business Services 845-454-1700 Ext. 1024 louise@dcrcoc.org

Youth One Stop Staff Jessica Vitolano Coordinator Diane DeDominicis Director of Employment Services Rosemary Grabowska Youth One Stop Assistant Coordinator Jacki McLoughlin Program Specialist Ashley Wright Case Manager

T

he Chamber Foundation is proud to announce the launch of Hudson Valley KidVenture, proudly presented by Central Hudson Gas and Electric, IBM, and Westchester Medical Center Health Network!

On May 20 and 21, 2017, Hudson Valley KidVenture will take over downtown Poughkeepsie including Market Street, the Mid-Hudson Civic Center and The Changepoint Theater and feature over 60 kid-friendly exhibitors each with hands-on learning experiences and activities. Highlights will include an Agricultural Arena exhibiting local farms and livestock, an Arts Stage featuring local non-profits with unique activities, and a TouchA-Truck showcasing over 20 vehicles for kids

Board of Directors Officers

Thursday, March 30

Tina Walz, Chair M & T Bank

roceeds benefit the Cosimo DiBrizzi Memorial P Scholarship.

Amy Dittmar, Treasurer Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.

Cosimo’s Celebrity Server Dinner

KidVenture coming to downtown Poughkeepsie

Stacey Langenthal, Vice-Chair Bank of Millbrook

to explore. KidVenture will also boast an assortment of food trucks, street performances, educational shows, and much more.

This year’s event is cochaired by Laraine Kautz of Dutchess Community College and David Wise of Mackey, Butts, & Wise, LLP. The honorary chair is Sheila Appel of IBM. “Thanks to the efforts of an outstanding planning committee and the contributions of some generous partners, KidVenture promises to be an unforgettable event that will provide fun, entertainment and education for school-aged children,” said David Wise. “This one-ofa-kind event focusing on the Hudson Valley will feature a

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

Peter Maher, Secretary Mid-Hudson Subaru Stephen E. Diamond, Of Counsel Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond, LLP

Saturday, May 20 and Sunday, May 21

Directors

KidVenture

Tina Hawkinson Red Cap Cleaners

More info at HVKidVenture.org

Maureen Kangas Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel & Conference Center

Wednesday, June 21

Scholarship Breakfast The Chamber Foundation will present scholarships to local students at this annual education breakfast.

Anthony Morando Cuddy & Feder LLP Barbara E. Ostrander RBT CPAs, LLP Dr. Greer Rychcik Hyde Park Central School District Christopher Short DragonSearch Charles “Chip” Simon Taconic Advisors, Inc.

Fall 2017

Day Of Golf

To benefit the Norman and Rita Nussbickel Memorial Scholarship.

Visit ChamberFDN.org to find out more!

Skip Weisman Weisman Success Resources, Inc. Robyn Williams Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union David Wise Mackey, Butts, & Wise, LLP

The Chamber Foundation, Inc.

One Civic Center Plaza, Suite 400 | Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 ChamberFDN.org

tremendous number of entertainers and vendors covering several different educational themes. KidVenture will be a fun-packed two days that will mark the kickoff of this annual gathering.”

“This is a fantastic way for local businesses to get in front of our community, connect with our area youth and be a part of a positive event,” said Frank Castella, President and CEO of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Both Chamber members and nonmembers are encouraged to get involved in what is sure to be a signature event in the Hudson Valley.”

Stay up-to-date with the latest on KidVenture by visiting HVKidVenture.org. Tickets can be purchased online for $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are also available.

MEDIA SPONSORS:

Left photo: Katrina Gobins and Kadiyah Lodge promote KidVenture.

Right photo: Joe Daily and crew officially announce KidVenture at Chamber’s Contact Breakfast.

Karen Lo – Recipient of Community Service Award

B

eing a Hudson Valley native, Karen Lo developed a passion for protecting the environment, which influenced her decision to become an environmental professional. She currently works at Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation as an Environmental Specialist where she assists with ensuring the company remains compliant with regulatory agency laws while practicing best management practices.

In 2012, Karen was selected to participate in the Leadership Dutchess Program, through the support of Central Hudson, where she learned about the various programs and services The Chamber Foundation provides to the local community.

After graduating, Karen was asked to join the Foundation’s Youth Leadership Program as a mentor. Over the years, she has volunteered in many levels of the programming offered including leading part of Youth Leadership with

Executive Director Nicholas Shannon.

Karen says she has enjoyed her time with Youth Leadership and sees how essential it is to helping participants and volunteers develop essential skills.

“Volunteering allows me to give back to the community I live in and help the students develop skills they may not have an opportunity to exercise in school,” Karen said.

Karen’s steadfast support and dedication was rewarded this past June when she was selected as a recipient of Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation’s Community Service Award.

“I am honored to be recognized for my efforts in teaching valuable life lessons and professional skills to students to help them succeed in today’s environment. I hope the students recognize the opportunity they have and ‘pay it forward’ in the future,” she said.

If you would like to become a volunteer for The Chamber Foundation, call (845) 4541700, ext. 1026. Chamber Foundation volunteers are the lifeblood of our programming.

Nearly 200 individuals donated over 2,500 hours this past year!

Left to right - Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation, President and CEO, Michael Mosher, along with Karen Lo and Chamber staff members, Audra Gerty and Diane DeDominicis.