November 2017
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The Philanthropy Edition
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November C O N T E N T S
Letter from the Editor ............................................................. 6
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Past SWM Events ..................................................................... 7 Fashion Forward: Fashion, Food and Philanthropy ............ 8
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Syracuse Eats: Regional Donut Authority ......................... 10 Special Feature: Founding a Foundation ......................... 18 In Her Own Words: Brenda McCutcheon ......................... 19 For a Good Cause: Real Men Wear Pink........................... 22 WISE Woman: Kerry Heckman ..............................................24
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Cover Story: Nicole Watts .......................................................27 Special Feature: A Networking Guide............................... 34
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Inspire: Tracy Foss ................................................................. 36 Inspire: Venecia DeRoose........................................................40 Inspire: Deborah Bender & Marilyn Sanson ..................... 44 Upcoming Events ................................................................. 48
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Movers and Shakers ............................................................. 50 Healthy Woman: Alzheimer's and Dementia ................... 51
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The Philanthropy Edition
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LETTER from the Editor
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his month marks my two-year anniversary as editor of Syracuse Woman Magazine. As a happy coincidence, it happens to line up with the philanthropythemed issue. Since I was hired, there’s one question I get asked a lot: “What’s your favorite part of being editor?” Learning and sharing people’s stories is definitely at the top of the list. That’s why I became a journalist in the first place. Getting to know the nonprofit community in our area is a very close second. I’ve interviewed and reported on so many amazing and inspiring nonprofit staff members and volunteers. And when I’m lucky, I get to stay in touch with them and find a way to help. Father Champlin’s Guardian Angel Society, an organization that aims to provide tuition assistance, mentoring and tutoring services to children in financial need from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds, is a great example. Last year, someone emailed me with a suggestion to write about the group’s executive director, Kathy Fedrizzi. Prior to that email, I’d heard mention of Father Champlin (I was raised Catholic, after all), but hadn’t heard of the Guardian Angel Society. After getting to know Kathy and publishing the article, I realized a good friend of mine leads the Guardian Angel Society’s mentorship program at Bishop Grimes Junior/ Senior High School, my alma mater. Now, I’m not a huge believer in fate, but the stars certainly did seem to align. Knowing I could easily spare an hour or so each week, I signed up to be a mentor. I’m so happy I made that choice. It’s a great group of students. Each week, we go over different study skills and help with school work. Along with those basics, I hope the children in the program take away the importance of giving back and being part of something bigger than yourself. When I was in high school, I was one of the “smart ones,” but I was also just getting over being intensely shy, so I wasn’t much of a joiner. If I could give young Lorna one piece of advice, it would be: “Don’t be afraid to join in and give back.” So, I encourage you to explore ways of helping the nonprofit community in the Syracuse area. There are so many options. If you’re interested in connecting with any of the organizations we’ve featured in this or any issue of Syracuse Woman Magazine and don’t know where to begin, please don’t hesitate to email me. I’d be happy to connect you! This month, I’ll leave you with one of my favorite quotes from one of my favorite books, David Nicholls’ “One Day”: “Better by far to be good and courageous and bold and to make a difference. Not change the world exactly, but the bit around you. Cherish your friends, stay true to your principles, live passionately and fully and well. Experience new things.”
Lorna
On Our Cover: Nicole Watts was photographed by Alice G. Patterson of Alice G. Patterson Photography. Special thanks to Jillain Pastella Salomone, owner of J. Luxe Salon, for Nicole’s makeup styling.
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OUR TEAM Publisher
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
David Tyler
Editor Lorna Oppedisano
Design Andrea Reeves
Photography James Bass Cindy Bell Alexis Emm Mary Grace Johnson Steven J. Pallone Alice G. Patterson
Chris Allen Lisa Marie Butler Riley Bunch Jasmine Gomez Brenda McCutcheon Lorna Oppedisano Colette Powers
Advertising sales Linda Jabbour 315.657.0849
Renée Moonan 315.657.7690
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.
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The Philanthropy Edition
PAST SWM Events
The annual Syracuse Style fashion show, presented by Syracuse Fashion Week, highlighted local designers, shops and models. This year’s show was on Thursday, Sept. 14, at the Landmark Theatre.
November 2017
Photography by James Bass. Mark your calendars for next year’s Syracuse Fashion Week, slated for April 26, 2018, through April 29, 2018.
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FASHION FORWARD Fashion, Food and Philanthropy
Fashion, Food and Philanthropy
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hether you’re reading this magazine over morning coffee, on a work break or on a treadmill at the gym, please remember one thing: there is a human being less than one mile from you who doesn’t know where his or her next meal is coming from. It’s a sad truth we often forget as we pursue our busy lives. Even sadder is the fact that these people are the most vulnerable in our community. They are elderly, ill, poor, young or simply working folks who have trouble making ends meet. I find this to be unacceptable. A few years ago, I decided to do something in my small way to affect change in my community. My “a-ha” moment was in December 2013. After presenting individual fashion shows for quite a few years, including Syracuse Style, Syracuse Snarl and others, I was
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ready to take the plunge for an entire week of fashion events. I had just begun preliminary plans for the inaugural season of Syracuse Fashion Week. Between gathering a committee, researching designers and boutiques, looking for sponsors and searching for venues, I heard about an interesting documentary film entitled, “A Place at the Table.” What caught my attention was the fact that it was executive produced by Tom Colicchio, celebrity restaurateur and judge of one of my favorite TV reality shows, “Top Chef.” I didn’t know exactly what the plot or premise was, but thought I’d give it a chance. The film changed my life. Please see it. You’ll learn about hunger and food insecurity in America. You’ll meet children who go to school hungry, and then wonder why they can’t focus and learn. You’ll see elderly people who worked all their life, and now have to make a choice between food and medicine. You’ll see how one unlucky life event, like losing a job or getting sick, has a dire ripple effect on families. You’ll see inner-city residents who live in a food desert. As it did for me, the film will open your eyes. Among the plans for Syracuse Fashion Week, I wanted to raise funds for a local organization. In past events, I’d partnered with a couple of local charities to raise a few hundred dollars for them. But after seeing the film, I realized that going forward, my goal was to help feed hungry people. Humans have a few essential needs; shelter, clothing and food are the most basic of them.
Somehow, in my mind, food and fashion simply clicked. My next move was to implement my goal. I looked around the websites of quite a few charities and discovered the Food Bank of Central New York. I contacted Lynn Hy, the director of philanthropic giving, and explained my plan. After a meeting and tour of the facility, my plans crystalized. Syracuse Fashion Week would raise funds and awareness for the Food Bank. And, as they say, the rest is history. It’s with enormous pride on behalf of me, my team, our sponsors and audiences that we can say in the four years of Syracuse Fashion Week events, we’ve fed thousands upon thousands of Central New Yorkers. The word “philanthropy” has its roots in ancient Greek, and means love of mankind. I was raised by a wonderful Greek woman. Like many oldschool mothers, life revolved around three meals a day, family dinners and holidays that involved cooking for a week. She believed food was more than mere survival. It was love. I believe fashion is more than just clothes. It’s art and culture. And I believe Syracuse Fashion Week is more than entertainment. It’s community — art, culture, community and love. Without adequate food, none of these higher aspirations of civilization are possible. So, please take a minute and think about the hungry person a mile away from you. And, if possible, help them out. SWM Lisa Marie Butler is the executive director of Syracuse Fashion Week. For more information, visit syracusefashionweek.com. The Philanthropy Edition
Photography provided by Syracuse Fashion Week
By Lisa Marie Butler
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SYRACUSE EATS Regional Donut Authority
rich & sue lickfield
Photography by Steven J. Pallone
REGIONAL DONUT AUTHORITY OWNERS
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The Philanthropy Edition
From Pizza to Doughnuts By Riley Bunch
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s Rich Lickfield stood back and looked at the doughnut by a bright purple door and black and white checkered walls. machine he’d hooked up in his home, propped atop of his Inside, old records dangle from the ceiling, while customers are washer and dryer, he wondered what was wrong with it. welcomed with songs like “Mr. Sandman” playing over the radio It wasn’t making doughnuts. and a large sign that reads, “Have a hot donut and smile.” “So, we are reading the directions, trying to make doughnuts, Unconventional doughnuts line the glass case at the front of the bakery. On slow days, Rich spends his time inventing new and they were just terrible. They weren’t even doughnuts. They were like balls,” Rich laughed as he thought back. flavor combinations, trying to top his former creations, like Sticky “We figured it was the machine. It wasn’t the machine. It was us.” Bun doughnuts with honey glaze; Pebbles and Bam Bam, featuring For two years prior, the longtime pizza stand owner watched fruity pebbles; S’mores with blow-torched marshmallows; and the from his spot in the Central New York Regional Market to see if Wild Samoa, modeled from the popular Girl Scout cookie. One of his favorites, rightfully named the Syracuse Orange, is decorated anyone was going to rent the empty Paine Family doughnut stand at the market. Not long after, Rich and his high school with one-of-a-kind orange candies, made by Speech Family Candy company exclusively for Regional Donut Authority. sweetheart and wife, Sue, made the bold decision to ditch the pizza business and fill the gap in the “I’m always combining different things doughnut market. and trying things out,” Rich said. The Lickfield’s leap of faith paid off. Now, after 16 months in business, After gathering the necessary equipment Regional Donut Authority caters to both I’m always combining different and many hours of testing doughnut its loyal customers from the market and [flavor combinations] and trying new customers drawn by its growing social recipes, the doughnut stand proved to be more popular than the pizza stand ever was. things out.” — Rich Lickfield, media presence. To meet the demand for In the first five years of selling doughnuts pizza at the market, their son, Rich, opened Regional Donut Authority at the market, they sold more than half his own pizza stand. Their son, Logan, a million doughnuts to eager customers helps with the doughnut stand on the co-owner waiting in lines up to 30 people deep. weekends, and daughter, Amanda, helps “Every single year since we’ve been selling doughnuts, we sell promote the new shop through social media. more and more at the market,” Rich said. “However, at the Sue, who works in catering at Syracuse University, has been market, you are at the mercy of the weather. So, in the winter with Rich through all their culinary businesses, from their first time, it’s freezing. We have to use the coffee water to get it hot hot dog cart at Williams Beach in Cicero to their new donut shop enough to make the doughnuts.” in Liverpool. Five years later, Mike Smith, Rich’s good friend who owns “It’s been a long time,” Sue said. After years of various food Wizards Pinball, invited Rich to check out properties Mike was ventures, the Lickfields have finally found a business that fits the considering for a new pinball arcade. The small space they visited family perfectly. SWM at 207 Oswego St. in Liverpool wasn’t right for pinball, but proved perfect for the expansion of the doughnut business. Regional Donut Authority is located at 207 Oswego St. in Liverpool. Hours are 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays, and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends. Now selling seven days a week, Rich and Sue operate the Regional Donut Authority shop in Liverpool, easily distinguishable For more information, visit donutauthority.com.
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Holiday Gift Giving Guide
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The Philanthropy Edition
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November 2017
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Holiday Gift Giving Guide
Infinite Light Center for Yoga and Wellness Holiday Shops Sunday November 12th 10 am to 4 pm Many Local Vendors! FREE Admission
6499 E. Seneca Tpke, Jamesville InfiniteLightCenter.com
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The Philanthropy Edition
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Cheers!
Celebrate the Season with Friends! Greenwood Winery & Bistro 7 to 10 p.m. Fri., Nov. 3: Joe Whiting Fri., Nov. 10: PG Unplugged Fri., Nov. 17: Edgar Pagan HARVEST HOUR Monday - Thursday 4 to 6 p.m. $5 Drafts, $2 off glasses of wine, $10 charcuterie platter WINE WEDNESDAY MUSIC at 1060 Restaurant Wed., Nov. 1: Howie Bartolo
Tailwater Grille
Tasting & Tunes Sundays 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 5: John McConnell Nov. 12: Brittany Cean Nov. 19: Phil DuMond and Holiday shopping in the barn featuring vendors, local crafters, artists and craft beer tastings from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 26: Cameron Caruso 16
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SPECIAL FEATURE Founding a Foundation
What do you want your foundation to do? By Colette Powers
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ow does your family want to leave its mark? The option of creating a private foundation offers families a flexible vehicle to help important causes and affect positive change in the world. This can be rewarding for a family and help create a legacy that can continue long after the family members are gone. Narrowing down options to one cause can be a challenge. It’s important for families to take time, come together and think about what they’d like their wealth to do. There are many details to consider. What do you want to accomplish? What change would you like to help facilitate? What are some of the toughest problems the world is facing? What is your family’s strength? What do you want to be remembered for? Creating a mission statement can help ensure the foundation’s priorities are adhered to. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy document; actually, too many details could limit the foundation’s ability to grow and adapt as it evolves. A concise statement summarizing the foundation’s goals will suffice. Another way to help define your foundation’s focus is to examine practices of other local private foundations, community foundations and nonprofit organizations. What is their focus and why? Is there a need in the community that these entities feel is not being met? What are their successes? Having conversations with universities and local colleges can be helpful, too. These organizations can usually provide a perspective beyond the local community and may offer ideas to help impact more global issues. Connecting with outside organizations and perhaps other experts may help a family better understand how their mission could be molded to have a greater impact locally and globally. Another option is to partner with other private foundations. Finding a private foundation with a similar scope and combining research, money and
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capabilities can lead to greater impact than if one single foundation worked alone. Potential partner foundations may be found by attending conferences or exploring like-minded associations. Sometimes foundations create a charity they wish to support. This allows the charity to receive funds from other foundations and organizations to help further support their cause. However, starting and managing a charity organization can be time-consuming, expensive and difficult. An alternative approach might be to find an existing charity with similar goals to support through your foundation. This will allow you to stay focused on the foundation’s goals while still making an impact. This may all seem overwhelming, but remember a first important step: just do it. Don’t let the process of defining the foundation’s mission slow you down. Too many times, families get stuck in the foundation’s development and delay its creation. Remember that creating a foundation is a work in progress. Mistakes will happen and the mission can expand or change. Part of the fun is discovering what you want to do and coming together as a family to make a difference in the world. SWM Colette Powers is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc., 440 S. Warren St., Syracuse, NY 13202. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment, tax or legal advice. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The information provided may be deemedreliable; however, the accuracy and completeness is not guaranteed by UBS Financial Services Inc. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus.
The Philanthropy Edition
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IN HER OWN WORDS Brenda McCutcheon
Caring for the Caregiver By Brenda McCutcheon
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hether choosing caregiving as a profession, planning to be a caregiver for a family member or becoming a family caregiver unexpectedly, women in caregiver roles often find themselves suffering from denial, anger, social withdrawal, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, guilt and other health problems. November is National Family Caregivers Month. It’s important for family caregivers to be able to handle the challenges they face, as well as recognize when — and how — to utilize professional support. Becoming a caregiver doesn’t always mean caring for an older family member. While we often see adult children caring for older parents, we also see older parents caring for adult children with physical or mental disabilities, or even adults caring for their siblings. More than 40 million Americans provide unpaid care to an adult older than the age of 50 or an adult with a disability or illness. Being a family caregiver, in addition to the expectations that come with being a woman, can create an unhealthy and unsustainable situation if not properly managed. Many women feel they need to do it all: work all day, care for a young family at home in addition to caring for a family member with increased medical needs, maintain a social life, etc. It’s important that caregivers find balance in their lives with this new role, ensuring they get proper nutrition, exercise and sleep, as well as support from friends, family and religion or other spirituality. And be careful what you promise – for example, you will “never put a loved one in a nursing home” and you will “take care of everything.” It may not be a promise you can, or should, keep. One of the best ways women (and men) can deal with physical and emotional stress that comes from being a caregiver is knowing what to expect. Sometimes the hardest part is knowing the person you love will change, and then experiencing it. Know there will be a learning curve as family caregivers sort out their new roles. It takes time to understand you’re not expected to have all the answers; it’s not only OK, but appropriate, to be asking questions. You’re expected to experience many different emotions.
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Caregiving taught me I’m not Superwoman, though I’ve tried to be. I’ve learned about a new level of fatigue – one that’s not about being tired, but is often referenced as “compassion” fatigue. Sometimes we hit a wall; the well may be dry; there’s nothing left to give. Then comes the question: Why do we care so much for others, yet fail to care for ourselves in the process? Family caregivers make sacrifices in their own lives. Some are short-term as they adjust to their new roles. Some have a more lasting effect. Because of the physical and emotional toll family caregiving can take on a person, it’s critical to plan with your loved ones ahead of time and explore the resources available. Remember, it’s hard to care for someone else when you’re exhausted. There are a wide array of resources locally available for those who are caregivers and those in need of care. For those ready for full-time residence in long-term care, local organizations, including Loretto, can provide support, assistance and relief to all family members when adjusting to the effects of social, emotional and physical losses of loved ones. For individuals who don’t need full-time residence in long-term care, PACE CNY programs are available, which provide home-care services, health services and activities in day centers, transportation services and care in hospitals or long-term facilities. It’s important for family caregivers to understand it’s OK to seek professional support. There are also several other local community support groups for caregivers – many of them focused on specific patient needs, conditions or ages – as well as national resources from organizations like AARP and the Alzheimer’s Association. Most importantly, support – whether professional or simply from a friend – reminds family caregivers there is hope and they can do this. It’s never too late to help any family member who needs care. SWM Brenda McCutcheon is vice president of mission, therapeutic recreation and spiritual care at Loretto. For more information, visit lorettocny.org.
The Philanthropy Edition
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for a good cause Real Men Wear Pink
real men wear pink Each year, Syracuse men join the fight against breast cancer with the Real Men Wear Pink of Syracuse campaign, raising tens of thousands of dollars for the cause. Content and photography contributed by the American Cancer Society.
Top Five Real Men Laurence Segal, Community Ambassador This year, I am using the Real Men Wear Pink campaign to again focus my efforts. BUT, I can’t do it without YOU. All bottles, cans, pennies and dollars come together to make us successful in raising the dollars so future generations will have more HOPE against this awful disease. I am a believer that with a focus on supporting a cause that affects so many of us, cancer, especially breast cancer, together we can make a difference.
Rob Hack, Healthe-Connections CEO Bruce Hathaway, Healthe-Connections director of community engagement Every day, the American Cancer Society is saving more lives from breast cancer than ever before. They’re helping people take steps to reduce their risk of breast cancer orfind it early, when it’s easier to treat. They provide free information and services when and where people need it. They fund ground-breaking breast cancer research and they’re working to ensure access to mammograms for women who need them.
Jim Fox, OBG (formerly O’Brien & Gere) CEO OBG (formerly O’Brien & Gere) is a company dedicated to the communities in which OBG employees and customers live and work. As CEO of the company, Skaneateles resident Jim Fox takes this dedication to heart. That is why he has chosen to join the American Cancer Society’s inaugural Real Men Wear Pink campaign this October. His people have expressed an interest in supporting the education, research, and fundraising efforts of the American Cancer Society to address the issue of breast cancer, a key health concern.
Paul Torrisi, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney certified financial planner Paul has been involved with many local organizations, formerly serving on the Crouse Health Foundation Board of Trustees, and as a Board Member for the Skaneateles Country Club, serving as the Sailing Committee Chair. Serving on the Estate Planning Council of CNY since 2004, Paul is currently the Immediate Past President of the Board of Trustees. Under his leadership, the Council was awarded the national recipient of the Council of Excellence. Paul participates in Real Men Wear Pink to honor his aunt, who is currently battling breast cancer.
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The Philanthropy Edition
Brett Maring, White Glove Waste and Recycling founder If your garbage pick up day is looking a little pink, you can thank Brett Maring of White Glove Waste and Recycling. Since launching White Glove in 2009, Brett’s company has grown to serve almost 2,000 customers for weekly waste pick up, with a recent expansion to include pink dumpsters for home cleanouts, construction, and commercial businesses. Since its inception, the company has donated over $10,000 to the fight to end breast cancer. Brett is joining the Real Men Wear Pink campaign this year to take his commitment to the next level. Not only does he believe in running a business with a larger purpose, but breast cancer is a personal cause for him. He has two aunts who have heard the words, “You have breast cancer.” SWM
....real men wear pink? November 2017
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wise woman Kerry Heckman
FEATURED ENTREPRENEUR Kerry Heckman Owner, Knitty Gritty Yarns
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sk Kerry Heckman if she loves to create and she will tell you, “It keeps me sane!” She learned to knit when she was 7 or 8 years old and frankly can’t remember a time when she didn’t paint, sculpt, or even knit. In her previous career as a student affairs professional at Syracuse University, she would come home at night and process the day by escaping into her latest knitting project- diving into the colors, textures, and repetition as total therapy. While creating, she would often dream about the idea of having a yarn shop surrounded by its welcoming environment and her favorite customers, or as she puts it, “her tribe.” But she also said in response to those dreams… me? Nah. Never! How could I afford to do this? Four months ago, Kerry did what she considered “the impossible” and opened an edgy new yarn shop in one of the hottest sections of Syracuse on the Near West Side – the Cosmopolitan Building. In this reclaimed factory building, Kerry utilizes the cement and rough wood look to her advantage and to her surprise, she has been totally busy since opening in June. In fact she says, “There were 150 people at our grand opening. Since that time, ‘my Groupies’ love to just hang here. I had to buy another couch!” Kerry had assistance
in her friends and fans but her father stepped forward as an investor in the project and when all seemed impossible, he was the one who said, “This is a great idea. Go for it!” Kerry began her journey at the WISE Women’s Business Center and found the guidance and, support, to power through the business plan and the final leap off the cliff to actually open her shop. “Maria and Joanne have been an incredible source of support through this entire process. They’ve provided feedback as I developed my business plan, connected me with resources to continue my research, and helped promote the business as I launched.” Kerry is considering the growth of Knitty Gritty Yarn and feels she now has the foundation of the dream to truly create not only a retail shop but a true customer experience.
wise words of wisdom… “Trust in your vision. You have the strength to see this through from start to finish!”
PHOTO BY CINDY BELL PHOTOGRAPHY PAGE DESIGN BY GRIT BRANDS
– Kerry Heckman
WISE WISE HAPPENINGS: HAPPENINGS: Check out wisecenter.org/events for a complete list of upcoming events!
The Building Blocks for Starting a Business
November 7, 12:00-1:00pm
Women as Career Changers Roundtable Discussion
November 2, 12:00-1:00pm November 16, 12:00-1:00pm
Women in Creative Businesses Roundtable Discussion
November 9, 12:00-1:00pm November 30,12:00-1:00pm
The Building Blocks for Starting a Business
November 29, 5:30-7:00pm
A program of the Falcone Center for Entrepreneurship at Syracuse University Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least 2 weeks in advance. Call (315) 443-8634.
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The Philanthropy Edition
COVER STORY Nicole Watts
NICOLE WATTS HOPEPRINT FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Photography by Alice G. Patterson
Get in here. This is where life is. This is exciting. Participate.” — Nicole Watts, Hopeprint founder and executive director
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COVER STORY Nicole Watts
Imprinting Hope By Lorna Oppedisano
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icole Watts was angry. Since her teenage years, she’d felt a calling toward “diverse, urban community development,” but couldn’t pinpoint exactly what that calling would entail. And then, in the midst of what she referred to as a “very angry prayer,” she had a vision of what would evolve into Hopeprint, a locally-based organization aimed at empowering resettled refugees to thrive.
Our home was just this beating heart in the neighborhood.” — Nicole Watts, Hopeprint founder and executive director
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The Philanthropy Edition
And my face was glowing with that look of, ‘This is where life is. This is the thing I’ve been looking for.’” Other people who seemed to have been from a similar context as Nicole were watching from the sidelines, and she motioned for them to join. “Get in here,” she said to them. “This is where life is. This is exciting. Participate.”
Hopeprint founder and executive director Nicole Watts walks alongside Hopeprint families in the Northside of Syracuse. October 2017 November 2017
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Photography by Alice G. Patterson
She saw herself on a street in an economically struggling neighborhood in the middle of the road, in the midst of some sort of parade. “And the whole street was filled, as far as my eye could see, with people from every corner of the globe — like the whole world in one place,” Nicole said. “And I was towards the back of this really huge parade, the only person who looked like me.
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COVER STORY Nicole Watts Imprinting Hope continued from page 29
Starting the journey Hopeprint’s roots run deep, to when Nicole was 14 years old. Spending the majority of her childhood in Virginia and Colorado, she knew from a young age she was a natural-born leader. Then, at age 14, a service trip to the heart of Chicago exposed her for the first time to “what the faces of poverty look like — the names and the people and the stories,” she said. It ignited something in her, she explained — a holy anger and need for justice. Seeing children about her age with such a severe lack of access to opportunities she might take for granted left a mark. "That’s something that continues to always hit me upside the head,” Nicole said, “that too many children who are raised in an impoverished context are not given the opportunity to witness or even dream beyond what they know.” She decided she’d go to college to earn a degree in urban studies, and do what she could to help the children. “I’ll just love kids until their lives are changed,” Nicole thought. So, she followed that path, and it led her to a neighborhood in the heart of Chicago. It happened to be election season. While she was visiting with the children, some of their mothers asked her about who she’d be voting for and why. The conversation was about so much more than politics, Nicole remembered. No one had really questioned her “why” before, she explained.
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“I realized I had no idea what to do to really address the problem,” she said. “And I think within a few months, I became very aware that just being a person who showed up and loved and hugged kids was not actually going to address the issue.”
Finding family Nicole switched majors, and graduated with a youth ministry degree instead. Finding a leadership role as a woman in that field can be difficult, Nicole explained; so, when she was offered a job in Manlius at Eastern Hills Bible Church, she welcomed the opportunity. The position started as a nine-month-long internship, but eventually Nicole was ordained, and served as a minister for 11 years. Nicole still felt a tug in her heart toward the fight for justice. But each time she did, it was accompanied with a feeling of, “not yet, not yet,” she remembered. In early 2009, Nicole was traveling between Syracuse and Chicago, where she was taking classes. Having associated the sense of calling with Chicago, she was also looking for jobs in that area. As time passed, and plans to move fell through, Nicole got angry. Here she was, knowing she had a calling to fulfill, without any inkling of how to do it. Then she had the vision. But, despite its clarity — “It was as if someone had just put a painting right in front of my face,” she remembered — the future was still murky. She wondered, where could she find the world all in one place — the United Nations? No, she thought, that’s not it. Soon after the vision, Nicole began to learn more about refugee resettlement. “Huh, well, this is like people from a bunch of different countries all living in one place,” she thought. After looking into it, she realized Syracuse had a strong refugee resettlement culture. Through friends, she began to connect with the community. Meeting one refugee family after another, Nicole learned more about the systems of refugee resettlement, and local organizations that facilitated them, InterFaith Works and Catholic Charities. According to a woman familiar with the system at that point, by 2009, about 10,000 refugees had been resettled in Syracuse, Nicole remembered. With the exception of this year, between 700 and 1,300 refugees are resettled in the Syracuse area each year. It’s “a pretty significant influx,” Nicole said, adding many of them settle on the Northside. As they began to welcome her into their homes, Nicole’s connections with the refugee community grew. “So, I was drinking tea, and eating way too much food,” she said with a laugh, “and falling absolutely in love with these friends from all around the world.” Nicole’s family lives in Atlanta, so her new friends soon became a surrogate family. And while she got to know them, she noticed she was making a difference in their lives, too. It wasn’t any grandiose gestures or huge expenditures on her part, she explained. It was just simple things, like helping sort mail or figuring out where to buy school supplies. “I was just being a friend and being present in their lives,” she said. The Philanthropy Edition
Finding her hopeprint About a year later, Nicole found herself spending a lot of time with her new family, and then making the commute back to Manlius each night. She wanted to have her friends over to her home, but transportation from across the city was complicated. She decided to move to the Northside, but not until she could find at least one person to move with her. To relocate alone would set her up for burnout, she explained. “One of the biggest things that happens in these communities is well-intending people move in and they pour their lives out. They burn out. And then, they ultimately end up hurting the people who they were there to love and help,” Nicole said, “because they disappear out of their lives — because they have the option to disappear.” So, she found one person willing to make the leap with her and found a house. A few more people moved in with them, and they all lived like a family, with their extended family of refugee families around them. For the next year and a half, Nicole and her new family lived a “crazy, full life,” she remembered with a smile. Dozens of
people joined them for dinner each night. They held impromptu college prep classes. They saw a need for after-school care and created a program. They realized someone needed to learn English, so a bedroom transformed into a classroom. Every space in the house was utilized. “Our home was just this beating heart in the neighborhood,” she said. When Nicole and her family moved into the house on the Northside, they began using the name Hopeprint. The word comes from the belief that “every single individual has a unique ability to imprint the world with hope and with who they are and their uniqueness,” she explained. “We’re all better when people are able to live into their fullest sense of their own uniqueness,” Nicole said. “So, Hopeprint is indicative of this idea that justice is a fingerprint.” Whether someone is American-born or a refugee, they have a hopeprint, Nicole explained, adding that quite often, it gets covered up with rubble. For some, it’s the rubble of war and trauma, she said; for others, it’s that of wealth and indifference. “In many cases, we need to dust it off,” she said. Continued on page 32
Nicole’s Words on Hopeprint’s Values: Practicing Hospitality
“[Hopeprint] started just by having an open invitation for dinner. I had some of the most treasured moments of my whole life happen in those first few months, of just cooking dinners together and kids coming over after school.” “You’re going to have to try hard to be intentional about [mutual mentorship], until it becomes your normal, because it’s so countercultural for too many of us to sit at another’s feet and learn. And so, until it becomesyour norm, practice it, practice it, practice it. And then, if you do, the types of friendships and relationships that emerge are so beautiful.”
Community Collaboration “We realize that power is more concentrated and inequitable in certain places, and that it is part of our task to leverage power towards equity and community transformation that affirms all human dignity.”
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Photography by Alice G. Patterson
Mutual Mentorship
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COVER STORY Nicole Watts Imprinting Hope continued from page 31
The mission As Hopeprint evolved, Nicole and her neighborhood family realized they would need more space, and eventually expanded into two other houses on the same street in the Northside. The organization’s programming evolved as the needs of the refugee community changed. At Hopeprint’s founding, it was hard to find an English as a second language class, so volunteers provided them. Now, as more community resources offer the classes, Hopeprint can point refugees in that direction, and focus its own programming elsewhere. One of Hopeprint’s key programs, Her Village, was developed to meet a need for a community support system among mothers. “Most are used to living in a village or highly relational context, where there were people around all the time,” Nicole said. “Parenting is different. Marriage is different. Everything’s different.” From the unfamiliarity can spring loneliness and depression, she explained. So, Her Village is a means to foster relationships between mothers, hopefully building a network of friends in their neighborhood. Along with ever-evolving programming, the team at Hopeprint aims to impact policies and structures affecting the refugee community. “We do not live under a rock,” Nicole said. “We realize that power lies in certain places and that it lies among some of us who are part of this family, and that it is part of our task that we must leverage that power towards equity.” To do this means to show up in conversations, she explained. Most of the discussions that ultimately impact the community happen around big conference tables, she said. The goal, Nicole explained, is to reserve a seat and culturally equip members of the resettled refugee population to take those seats as the expert leaders they can be for their own families and communities. These conversations center around community collaboration. Hopeprint is working with a number of community organizations — including InterFaith Works, Catholic Charities, Northside Learning Center, RISE, SCSD Refugee Assistance Program, CNY Fair Housing, CenterState CEO Economic Inclusion, the Gifford Foundation, CNY Community Foundation, Onondaga County and the city of Syracuse — on the Refugee Alliance. The alliance has a mission to “gather key influencers towards collective impact in our city’s resettled refugee communities, and neighborhoods where they live,” according to Hopeprint’s website. The Hopeprint team also aims to be present at neighborhood meetings. While Hopeprint’s mission focuses on the refugee community, Nicole realizes they’re not the only members of the Northside affected by issues like racial inequality and economic opportunity and inclusion. “To create equitable situations for New Americans at the loss of our American-born, most especially those who have been silenced or unheard for years, is to our detriment,” she explained. “All those voices have to be brought up together.” In January 2016, Nicole became Hopeprint’s first — and, so far, only — full-time staff member, with the help of funding from 32
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a friend’s family foundation. It’s given Nicole the opportunity to focus leadership energy on policy conversations and meetings, as well as a fresh perspective to strategically manage volunteer resources, she explained. Now, Hopeprint employs five part-time staff members, and is helped by a team of more than 100 volunteers, ranging from high school students to college interns to professionals. “They come from everywhere, but one of the biggest ways we get people are other team members,” Nicole said. “Our volunteers are part of the family. They catch it. And so, they start talking about it, and then their friends want to participate, and then they bring them down. So, our highest way that we get people is just word of mouth.”
A hope-filled future Hopeprint has evolved organically since its inception in 2010, and it’s only the beginning. Along with the local conversations, Nicole stays tuned in with national discussions, as well. “As we show up in those conferences and in those spaces and interact with other communities, we repeatedly hear, ‘I wish our city had something like that,’ about Hopeprint,” she said. “So, after several years of hearing that, I went, ‘Well, there’s no reason why your city can’t have Hopeprint.’” In some places, that means connecting with organizations that have similar missions. Or, in other cases, it could mean coming alongside resettled refugees in those other communities, like Nicole did in Syracuse. She’d like to eventually see a network of Hopeprintlike organizations throughout the country. The first of those sister Hopeprint programs is slated for Kansas City later this year. The ultimate goal isn’t to establish a million Hopeprints, Nicole said. “The point is that we want every community to have this for the families that are moving in. In order to do that, we’ve had to figure out what our DNA is,” she said, explaining that at its core, Hopeprint doesn’t necessarily equate to a residential house on Syracuse’s Northside. “What it means is spaces of hospitality with people who have the posture of mutual mentorship with an orientation and intentionality around community collaboration — all towards empowering these new members of our community to thrive." SWM For more information on Hopeprint, visit hopeprint.org.
How to Help: - Donate online at www.hopeprint.org/donate. - Attend the annual Culture Gala each spring. - Take part in the Kindred Campaign this November. Design your own fundraiser as an individual or team, and use your unique skill — yourhopeprint — to raise money and awareness for Hopeprint. Prizes awarded for most money raised, most creative idea and largest number of people engaged. Check online for more details. - Connect with executive director, Nicole Watts, or the Hopeprint team to learn more. The Philanthropy Edition
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Special Feature A Networking Guide
Successful Networking in the Digital Age By Chris Allen
S
ince we live in a digital world dominated by social media, it may be tempting to think face-to-face networking doesn’t matter anymore. This notion may appeal particularly to people who prefer to avoid networking. Business and sales depend on relationship building. Since we can all access reliable information about any product or service at our fingertips, how do we decide what to buy or who to hire? If you’re like me, when you need a new primary care doctor, auto mechanic or hairdresser, you typically ask a friend or family member for a recommendation. Forming trusting relationships with others is a way businesses have always won customers. If anything, that’s even truer today. Given that networking remains highly valuable, how do we get better at it? Even folks who love networking (there are some!) don’t necessarily network as well as they could. The bottom line: we can all improve our networking skills.
Tips for More Successful Networking 1) Find a few good places or groups for regular networking, rather than attend occasional events. It takes time to build relationships. It’s more helpful to see the same people at a monthly networking event, be it a business organization or a women’s business group, than to meet people at one-off opportunities. The more someone gets to know you, understand you and learn about your area of expertise and offerings, the more likely they are to give you referrals or business leads. Trust takes time. 2) Prepare ahead of time. Spend some time on your appearance and “elevator speech,” and prep some interesting, open-ended questions to ask. When you feel good about how you look and are ready with initial and follow-up questions, you’ll feel more confident and be more likely to come across as comfortable with yourself. 3) Have at least ONE goal (however modest) in mind. For example: • I am going to meet five new people tonight. • I will identify two people I can help. • I will choose three people to follow up with after the meeting. • I will practice breaking into groups rather than just chatting one-on-one. When we have a specific goal in mind, it calms the brain, gives us something to focus on and provides a way to measure success. Research also shows we accomplish more when we set a goal.
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4) Manage nervousness or anxiety strategically. Go with a friend, as long as you agree to split up on arrival and check in with each other only briefly or after the event. With someone else you know there, you may feel more confident. Other strategies for anxiety include reminding yourself why you’re doing this. Train yourself to interpret increased heart rate and butterflies in the stomach as positive. When we use a mindset about our purpose, we are more likely to experience a “challenge” response in the body rather than a “threat” response to the stress. Reducing our stress response also makes it more likely we’ll try again, and practice is essential for skill-building. 5) Pay full attention to the person with whom you’re talking. Turn off devices so you aren’t distracted, and never glance over someone’s shoulder. Giving someone your undivided attention for a few minutes is good practice. Train yourself to focus and listen deeply. 6) Plan strategies to break off conversations and do so frequently. This becomes easier with practice. Having prepared exit strategies will help this go more smoothly. For example: • “Thank you for speaking with me.” • “I made a promise to myself I would meet five people, so I should circulate.” • “Excuse me, I am going to get some food.” Don’t say you will follow up unless you truly intend to do so, and don’t feel obligated to follow up with everyone you meet. 7) Bring a pen to note anything important, as well as a plan to follow up, on the back of business cards. This habit makes it more likely you will follow up after — which is important if you said you would. 8) Remember: Networking is about relationship-building, not about selling. We need to have the longer-term perspective on its value. People get turned off when we talk too much about ourselves and when we try to sell them something right away. Instead, actively think about how you could be helpful to the person you just met — what kinds of referrals do they need? 9) Develop a learning mindset. While practice doesn’t make perfect, it can definitely make better. We’re all learning. Track your progress. What was your goal? What was your key takeaway? Plan some reflection time. If you can ask anyone for feedback, that’s even better! 10) Be light and playful in your mindset about networking. When we’re too serious, we may try too hard, which interferes with performance and learning. We learn and grow best when we give ourselves permission to make mistakes and be human. So get out there, network and have fun. Let me know how it goes! SWM Chris Allen, a workplace psychologist and executive coach, is the president of Insight Business Works. For more information, visit insightbusinessworks.com. Contact Chris at chris@insightbusinessworks.com. The Philanthropy Edition
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Inspire Tracy Foss
TRACY FOSS JDRF EXECTUIVE DIRECTOR
Photography by Mary Grace Johnson
Our goal is to do the greatest good for the largest number of people in the shortest period of time.” — Tracy Foss, JDRF executive director
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The Philanthropy Edition
Paying Hope Forward By Jasmine Gomez
O
n a family road trip to her in-laws’ house in Boston for Thanksgiving, Tracy Foss began to wonder if something was wrong. Her daughter, Madeline, was remarkably thirsty. She just couldn’t seem to get enough water. The family had to keep pulling over to let Maddy use the restroom. The same thing happened on the way home, and then again when Maddy returned to preschool. Wondering if something was off, Tracy took her 5-year-old daughter to see a doctor, not expecting life to change completely. Now, it’s been about 10 years since Maddy was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease that causes the pancreas to produce little to no insulin. There’s currently no prevention or cure for type 1 diabetes. No one else in the family had been diagnosed with the disease. For Tracy, it really felt like the diagnosis came out of nowhere. “It was an absolute shock,” Tracy said. “She was a happy, healthy little girl.” Looking for an outlet, Tracy became involved with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation — now simply known as JDRF — a nonprofit organization dedicated to funding type 1 diabetes research. Within a year of Maddy’s diagnosis, she attended a fundraising event for the JDRF One walk, an annual family event aimed at supporting the JDRF’s mission. The walk also serves to connect families caring for those with type 1 diabetes. Through the JDRF, Tracy learned how other families managed the diagnosis. That knowledge helped Tracy and her family decide what would work best for her daughter. Finding the organization’s events to be an excellent resource, Tracy became a dedicated volunteer. She helped with the walk and became co-chair of the JDRF’s annual spring gala. “Diabetes can be really challenging and overwhelming and sad. So, I felt if I started to get involved, the volunteering was cathartic and therapeutic,” Tracy said. “It gave me a sense of
November 2017
empowerment and that I could do something positive in light of this bleak diagnosis.” As her children got older and life busier, Tracy always stayed connected with the JDRF in some way. Then, in December 2016, Tracy made the transition from volunteer to full-time staff member. Now, she serves as executive director for the Central New York chapter of the JDRF. “If you’re going to spend time away from your family, you want it to mean something and you want to make a difference,” Tracy said. “And in this particular case, I’m able to combine my personal passion to find a cure for Maddy and everyone like her along with my career, so I think that that’s an ideal combination.” In addition to community outreach, Tracy’s responsibilities as executive director include fundraising to support the management of type 1 diabetes, as well as the search for its cure. “Our goal is to do the greatest good for the largest number of people in the shortest period of time,” Tracy said. The JDRF is constantly working to support families who have received a new diagnosis. Each person who has been recently diagnosed receives a Bag of Hope, filled with toys, a glucose meter and information on life with type 1 diabetes. For Tracy, the JDRF and the families involved with the organization gave her a support net-work, something she needed when Maddy was diagnosed. Now, as executive director, Tracy has the chance to pay that support and hope forward to other families faced with new diagnoses. “The greatest source of hope for me is knowing [about] all of the research that’s happening, knowing that there is a possibility that Maddy won’t have to live with this disease for the rest of her life,” Tracy said. “That helps make really bad days a little bit better.” SWM For more information on the JDRF, visit jdrf.org/centralny. Mark your calendars for the organization’s upcoming One Night Gala, slated for Saturday, April 7, at SKY Armory in downtown Syracuse.
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INspire Venecia DeRoose
venecia Deroose
Photography by Alexis Emm
CLEAR PATH FOR VETERANS PEER MENTOR
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The Philanthropy Edition
Peering to Solid Ground
Saturday, November 11, is Veterans Day!
By Lorna Oppedisano
W
hen Venecia DeRoose left the United States Navy, she knew she wanted to help veterans. The following year, shortly after Veterans Day in 2014, she joined the team at Clear Path for Veterans as a peer mentor. Now, she’s nearly a year into heading up the organization’s expansion of services into the Broome County area. “We want to give [veterans in the Broome County area] the full experience of Clear Path headquarters,” Venecia said. Venecia was born in Trinidad, and moved to Brooklyn in 2000 to attend college. She held a full-time job and took a full load of classes, but soon realized it wasn’t the most sustainable way to live. A friend of the family had joined the Navy, inspiring Venecia to consider that option. She asked a couple people for their opinions, and they responded, “It couldn’t hurt.” And by enlisting, she wouldn’t have years of paying back student loans looming ahead of her. So, she signed up in 2005, and began bootcamp in June 2006. “It was a culture shock for me, because they started yelling at us as soon as we got off the bus,” she remembered. Venecia trained to be a mechanic. After getting ranked, she was assigned to an aircraft carrier in 2007, and deployed to the Mediterranean from June to December that year. She was then assigned to shore duty. In June 2011, she was again deployed, this time to Afghanistan. When President Obama began to call troops back, she returned to the United States in December 2011. In March 2013, she left the Navy, after almost seven years of active duty. On a new path, Venecia then devoted her energy to helping fellow veterans. She initially worked at Catholic Charities on a grant designed to help homeless or vulnerably-housed veterans. In that position, Venecia often had meetings at Clear Path for Veterans, and would refer veterans she worked with to services at Clear Path. Then, a position in the Clear Path for Veterans Wingman Program opened, and Venecia was hired. As a peer mentor, Venecia’s No. 1 goal is to help veterans establish stability. This happens in a variety of ways, from connections to help with housing to SNAP benefits to employment. She usually assists 15 to 20 people at any given time. Sometimes, it means
checking once every week or two. Sometimes, it means more time devoted to a specific veteran. It always depends on the needs of the individual, she said. “It’s all about empowering them to become independent and self-sustaining,” she explained. The Clear Path for Veterans Wingman Program is funded in part by New York State’s Joseph Dwyer Grant, a grant in honor and remembrance of PFC Joseph Dwyer, a veteran who took his life after returning home from serving in Iraq. Joseph’s family thought if he’d had “someone to walk the path with him,” Venecia said, he might still be alive today. Now, the grant is also helping to fund peer-to-peer support in Broome County, efforts Venecia began heading up at the end of last year. Since Clear Path only has office space in Broome County — and not an area for veteran services — connections with the community have been important, Venecia explained, adding that area politicians have been happy to be involved and attend events, too. Venecia isn’t working alone, she stressed. Early this year, two more Clear Path staff members joined the team. Now, they all work to continue forging connections with community members, businesses and leaders, get the word out to veterans in the area, and, of course, offer peer support. They’re currently working to establish a “one-stop shop” for veterans. “It’s going to be one place where veterans can come in and receive multiple services,” Venecia said. The Broome County Clear Path team is also working to establish veteran housing in a central location. Overall, the new responsibilities can be overwhelming at times, Venecia admitted, since three people are replicating many of the services the entire Clear Path campus offers in Syracuse. But their efforts have been met well and successful so far, she said with a smile. It’s been “very rewarding,” Venecia said. “I wouldn't change it for the world.” SWM For more information on Clear Path for Veterans, visit clearpath4vets.com.
It’s all about empowering them to become independent and self-sustaining.” — Venecia DeRoose, Clear Path for Veterans peer mentor
November 2017
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INSPIRE Deborah Bender & Marilyn Sanson
deborah bender & marilyn Sanson
Photography by Alexis Emm
MAKE-A-WISH VOLUNTEERS
You finish a wish, and see the excitement of the child and the family involved. You just want to go on to another wish.” — Deborah Bender, 25-year Make-A-Wish volunteer 44
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The Philanthropy Edition
25 Years of Wishes By Lorna Oppedisano
M
ake-A-Wish of Central New York has granted more than 1,500 wishes since its inception in 1985. It’s also nurtured a long-lasting friendship between longtime Make-A-Wish wishgranting volunteers, Marilyn Sanson and Deborah "Debbie" Bender. Marilyn and Debbie’s sons started kindergarten together in 1974, and continued school together into their first two years at Le Moyne College. It was then they decided to go on a cross-country bicycle trip after finishing undergrad. Debbie’s son completed his studies at SUNY Oswego, while Marilyn’s stayed at Le Moyne. Then, they packed up their bikes, and used their graduation gifts — two one-way tickets to Seattle — to begin their adventure on the west coast. They wanted to report back to a radio station in the Syracuse area to share their travels. “Well, what’s your cause?” they were asked. When Debbie’s son was at Oswego, he’d met a child who’d been granted a wish through Make-A-Wish. So, they picked that organization. Debbie and Marilyn started a letter-writing campaign back home, and by the time their sons returned, they had raised approximately $3,400 — just about the cost of a wish at the time. “Could we do a wish?” they asked. “And we did not know that 25 years later, we’d still be doing those wishes,” Marilyn said with a laugh. In the quarter-century since, Marilyn and Debbie have granted more than 75 wishes together in Make-A-Wish’s 15-county territory. When they began, Make-A-Wish was a much smaller organization, and their wish granting was very hands-on, from planning the wish to orchestrating the travel itinerary.
“Now it’s more that we try to enhance the wish — to make it exciting, to make it personal,” Debbie said. For example, if it’s a travel wish, rather than planning the plane ride, they might bring the child a calendar to count down the days until the trip, or a backpack for their adventure. It’s also important to Marilyn and Debbie that they make the child’s whole family part of the wish. Sometimes, it can be as simple as stopping by to make cookies with the siblings left at home while the child’s wish is granted. Over the years, Make-A-Wish has given the duo many unique opportunities — from building furniture to learning about the local Amish culture to dressing up in dinosaur costumes — and one thing that’s stood out above all else is the strength of the children, they said. “The children — their maturity is above and beyond, because of what they’ve gone through,” Debbie said. You might think wish granting could get to be emotionally difficult at times, but Marilyn and Debbie agreed that’s never been the case. In the eyes of the children, they’re “the good people,” Marilyn explained. “We’re the fairy godmothers. So, they don’t see us with a needle. They don’t see us with medicine. They don’t see us bring any harm,” Debbie added. “And all of the sudden, they realize that we’re bringing happiness. We’re bringing something different to their lives.” With 25 years of wish-granting experience behind them, the MakeA-Wish fairy godmothers aren’t ready to stop yet. “You finish a wish, and see the excitement of the child and the family involved,” Debbie said. “You just want to go on to another wish.” SWM
For more information about Make-A-Wish Central New York, visit cny.wish.org. November 2017
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The Philanthropy Edition
November 2017
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UPCOMING SWM Events Wednesday, Nov. 1 WBOC Monthly Meeting When: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. What: This month’s program covers public speaking, led by CenterState CEO’s Sandy Jurkiewicz. Cost: $25; member, $10. Where: Genesee Grande Hotel, 1060 E. Genesee St., Syracuse. Info: wboconnection.org. Wednesday, Nov. 1 1 Million Cups When: Doors open, 8:30 a.m.; presentation, 9 to 10 a.m. What: Presentations by local early-stage startup companies aim to draw feedback from peers, mentors, educators and advisors. Open to the public. Cost: Free admission. Where: Syracuse CoWorks, 201 E. Jefferson St., Syracuse. Info: 1millioncups.com/syracuse. Thursday, Nov. 2 Bon Bons & Boutiques When: 3 to 9 p.m. What: Event includes door prizes, discounts, shop passport, chocolate and more at various Baldwinsville businesses. Where: Downtown Baldwinsville. Info: facebook.com/Baldwinsvillechocolateevent. Thursday, Nov. 2 Fair Housing Turns 50 Policy Conference & Luncheon When: 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. What: Features workshop and luncheon with keynote speaker, National Magazine Award-winning New York Times journalist, Nikole Hannah-Jones. Cost: Luncheon and conference, $75; luncheon only, $50. Where: Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 100 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse. Info: cnyfairhousing.org. Friday, Nov. 3 Paranormal Dinner When: 5:30 to 9 p.m. What: Enjoy cocktails and tapas prepared by Chef4Rent’s DeAnna Germano, along with Tarot and palm readers at a registered Haunted Trailway of NY venue. Cost: $45. Where: Wayside Inn, 101 W. Main St., Syracuse. Info: cheffourrent.com/events. Friday, Nov. 3 21st Annual Taste of the Tier When: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. What: Fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of CNY features food and drinks from the Southern Tier. Cost: $50. Where: DoubleTree Hotel, 225 Water St., Binghamton. Info: centralny.cff.org.
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Saturdays, Nov. 4, 11 & 18 Yoga with heART When: 10 a.m. to noon. What: Yoga led by long-time instructor Dara Harper. Cost: Members, $10; nonmembers, $15; first class is free. Where: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Info: everson.org. Friday, Nov. 10, & Saturday, Nov. 11 You Can’t Fail Conference 2017 When: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. What: Event explores journey of professional women of color through workshops, educational presentations, messages from regional and national leaders, vendor expo and live musical performances. Cost: $100. Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 6301 NY Route 298, E. Syracuse. Info: youcantfailinc.org/the-conference. Friday, Nov. 10, through Sunday, Nov. 12 Ceramics Symposium When: Check online for schedule of events. What: Weekend-long symposium celebrating opening of new exhibition, From Funk to Punk: Left Coast Ceramics, includes conversations, lectures, gallery tours and more. Cost: $100; students, $75. Where: Everson Museum of Art, 401 Harrison St., Syracuse. Info: everson.org. Friday, Nov. 10, through Sunday, Nov. 12 Holiday Shoppes 2017 Presented by Junior League of Syracuse When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. What: Annual fundraiser to support Junior League of Syracuse. Cost: Presale, $7; at door, $8; ages 9 and younger, free. Where: NYS Horticulture Building, 581 State Fair Blvd., Syracuse. Info: jlsyracuse.org. Saturday, Nov. 11 Stomp Out Hunger 5K Run/Walk When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. What: Proceeds benefit Baldwinsville Community Food Pantry and Baldwinsville Rotary Club. Cost: $40. Where: Race starts and ends between Elden and Durgee Schools, 29 E. Oneida St., Baldwinsville. Info: baldwinsvillerotary.org/Page/5k-run-walk. Saturday, Nov. 11 Ladies Night at the Palace When: 7 to 10 p.m. What: Presented by Red Shoes Black Bag Productions, featuring 19 CNY female artists. A portion of proceeds benefit Vera House. Cost: $20. Where: The Palace Theatre, 2384 James St., Syracuse. Info: redshoesblackbag.com. The Philanthropy Edition
Saturday, Nov. 11 Symphoria Masterworks: The Planets When: 7:30 p.m. What: Conducted by Lawrence Loh, featuring Melissa Marse on piano. Cost: $53 to $82. Where: Crouse Hinds Theater, 800 Montgomery St., Syracuse. Info: experiencesymphoria.org/concert/the-planets. Saturday, Nov. 11, & Sunday, Nov. 12 CoreLife Presents Yoga/Barre/Pilates Feast When: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday. What: Two-day event features yoga, barre and pilates classes, as well as giveaways, vision board workshop, vendors and more. Cost: Classes are donation-based, proceeds benefit Ophelia’s Place. Where: CoreLife Eatery/Chuck Hafner’s Farmer’s Market, 7265 Buckley Road, Syracuse. Info: corelifeeatery.com. Sunday, Nov. 12 Styles & Sweets for Scholars When: 1 to 3:30 p.m. What: Includes fashions by Lord & Taylor, dessert tastings, live auction, raffles and more. All proceeds benefit Syracuse Zonta Foundation. Cost: In advance, $25; at door, $35. Where: Embassy Suites by Hilton At Destiny USA, 311 Hiawatha Blvd., Syracuse. Info: zontadistrict2.org/syracuse. Sunday, Nov. 12 Syracuse Half Marathon When: Race start, 7:45 a.m.; award ceremony, 10:30 a.m. What: 13.1-mile race presented by Byrne Dairy. Where: Look online for race info. Info: syracusehalf.com. Tuesday, Nov. 14 Rosamond Gifford Lecture Series Presents Zadie Smith When: 7:30 p.m. What: Featuring award-winning author, Zadie Smith. Cost: $30 to $35. Where: Mulroy Civic Center, 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse. Info: foclsyracuse.org. Wednesday, Nov. 15, through Sunday, Nov. 19 Cirque du Soleil: Varekai When: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; 4 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 1:30 and 5 p.m. Sunday. What: One of Cirque du Soleil’s critically-acclaimed signature productions,inspired by the myth of Icarus. Cost: Tickets range from $38 to $165. Where: Oncenter, 515 Montgomery St., Syracuse. Info: cirquedusoleil.com/usa/syracuse/shows. Thursday, Nov. 16 Great American Smokeout When: Look online for details. What: GASO candlelight vigil. Cost: Free. Where: Upstate Cancer Center, 750 E. Adams St., Syracuse. Info: Matt Capagreco, CapogreM@upstate.edu. November 2017
Thursday, Nov. 16 2017 40 Under Forty Awards When: 7:30 p.m. What: Event celebrating present and future community leaders features live music, beer and wine tastings, networking, passed hors d’oeuvres and more. Presented by BizEventz. Cost: $70. Where: SRC Arena & Events Center, 4585 W. Seneca Turnpike, Syracuse. Info: cnybj.com/bizeventz/event-listing/40-under-forty-2017. Friday, Nov. 17 Art Gone Wild Reception, Art Sale & Auction When: 6 to 8 p.m. What: Proceeds from animal art sold benefit RGZ chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Light refreshments and cash bar available. Cost: In advance, $8; at door, $10. Where: Rosamond Gifford Zoo, 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse. Info: rosamondgiffordzoo.org/art-gone-wild. Friday, Nov. 17, & Saturday, Nov. 18 Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus Live! When: 8 p.m. What: Off-Broadway hit comedy based on No. 1 best-selling book by John Gray. Cost: $48. Where: Oncenter Carrier Theater, 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse. Info: marsvenuslive.com. Sunday, Nov. 19 Sip and Shop Holiday Open House When: Noon to 5 p.m. What: Third annual event hosted by Annie Taylor Design, Stella & Dot and Salt City Coffee. Where: 64 Lyndon Road, Fayetteville. Info: Search “2017 Sip and Shop Holiday Open House” on Facebook. Monday, Nov. 20 Eighth Annual Buy Local Bash When: 5 to 9 p.m. What: Event features locally-owned, independent businesses in Central New York. Cost: $15; two for $25. Where: F-Shed at the CNY Regional Market, 2100 Park St., Syracuse. Info: buylocalbash.syracusefirst.org. Thursday, Nov. 23 Thanksgiving Dinner When: 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. What: Classic Thanksgiving dinner in the Persian Terrace. Cost: $42; children, $12. Where: Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 100 E. Onondaga St., Syracuse. Info: marriottsyracusedowntown.com/event-calendar. Saturday, Nov. 25 Night Market: Urban Pop-Up Market When: 3 to 10 p.m. What: Semi-annual market features local artists, designers, craftspeople and independent businesses. Cost: Entry, $5. Where: Sky Armory, 351 S. Clinton St., Syracuse. Info: skyarmory.com. SYRACUSEWOMANMAG.COM
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movers AND Shakers
CBA to hold dress drive Two Christian Brothers Academy seniors, Marina Hatem and Alessandra Sommers, are organizing a dress drive to benefit girls in the region, as well as raise money to combat injustices around the world. The class is planning a sale of dresses collected for the winter or early spring, open to anyone in the area. Proceeds from the sale will benefit Child Discovery Center, CBA’s sister school in Kenya. Anyone interested is invited to leave gently used semiformal and prom dresses in the office at CBA. For more information, contact Marina at marinahatem@aol.com.
Syracuse physician named Obesity Medicine Association president Dr. Wendy Scinta, a board-certified weight loss physician practicing in the Syracuse area, was sworn in as the 34th president of the Obesity Medicine Association on September 16, during the organization’s fall meeting in San Antonio, Texas. Prior to her election, Wendy had served two one-year terms as president-elect, vice president and secretary/treasurer of the association.
FUNDRAISERS TO END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND GIRLS This month, the Zonta Club of Syracuse is campaigning
Special counsel joins firm Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP recently announced Michelle Whitton Cowan has joined the firm as special counsel in the Syracuse office. Michelle is a member of Hinman, Howard & Kattell’s Workers’ Compensation and Disability Benefits Practice Group and handles both workers’ compensation and social security disability claims. She is experienced in handling all matters involving workers’ compensation law, including representing injured workers, defending insurance companies and representing self-insured employers.
Bank of America invests in local programs Bank of America recently announced $115,500 in grants focused on improving economic mobility to be distributed to 11 nonprofits working to increase access to basic needs, as well as workforce development and education opportunities in Central New York. Organizations receiving grants include: Boilermaker Road Race Youth Olympics; Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse; Economic Development Growth Enterprises (Mohawk Valley EDGE); Food Bank of Central New York; Junior Achievement of Central Upstate New York; On Point for College; Onondaga Community College Foundation; Rescue Mission Alliance of Syracuse; The Upstate Foundation; United Way of Central New York; and United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area. The grants in Syracuse and Utica are part of nearly $43 million in grants the Bank of America Charitable Foundation is providing across the country to advance economic mobility through work-force development and basic needs. Submitted content has been edited for length and clarity.
to end violence against women and girls. The Syracuse club holds two fundraisers per year, awarding nearly $20,000 in scholarships, awards and grants to women and girls in Central New York.
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The Philanthropy Edition
HEALTHY WOMAN Fighting Alzheimer's and Dementia
Critical Concerns for Women Submitted by the Central New York Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association
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lzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disease that has no cure, but what many don’t realize is that nearly two-thirds of the 5 million Americans diagnosed are women, according to a recent report from the Alzheimer’s Association. This means a woman in her 60s is now twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s as breast cancer. This data from the Alzheimer’s Association also revealed that two-thirds of the 15 million caregivers for persons with Alzheimer’s are women, and twice as many women as men stopped working to provide care for someone with Alzheimer’s. “Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are a critical concern for women’s health, whether they have been diagnosed or they are a caregiver for a loved one with the disease,” said Mary Koenig, administrator for The Heritage, a dementia-focused facility at local elder care provider, Loretto. “At this time, the medical community is not certain as to why women are affected more often than men.” What we do know is that while researchers work to identify the “why,” it’s important that communities have programs and services to provide the necessary support and education on the disease for both patients and caregivers. The likelihood of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis increases as people reach the age of 65. And experts predict a rapid increase in Alzheimer’s diagnoses as the baby boomer generation ages. “More frequent diagnosis translates to the need for more and better patient and caregiver supports,” Mary explained. In fact, in our state alone, it’s estimated the number of adults with Alzheimer’s will increase by nearly 20 percent in the next 10 years. Caring for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia is a 24/7 responsibility, and the daily stress of providing care can have detrimental impact on caregiver health. In addition to the physical demands of meeting the daily needs of someone who’s been diagnosed, caregivers endure emotional stresses, such as constant worry and feelings of guilt and resentment. This is why the work of organizations like Loretto and the Alzheimer’s Association is crucial. Loretto’s comprehensive memory care program is designed to transition individuals and their families through the stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia using a collaborative and holistic, patient-centered approach. In partnership with organizations like the Central New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, Loretto also provides and promotes community-based training and support groups throughout the region. “Through our partnership with the local Alzheimer’s Association, we are able to provide substantial education and consulting on an ongoing basis,” Mary explained,
November 2017
“arming families with the support and skills they need to cope with the responsibilities and emotions that accompany an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.” Locally, the Alzheimer’s Association offers care consultations to help individuals with dementia and their families solve problems and plan for the future, support groups for families and caregivers, emergency response services for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia who wander or have a medical emergency, respite services, and a 24-hour Helpline at 800-272-3900. The association also offers education and training programs throughout the year and across the community. “The Alzheimer’s Association is also investing millions of dollars in research to not only help fight the disease, but also to better understand it—including why it affects so many more women than men,” said Katrina Skeval, LMSW, chief program officer for the Alzheimer’s Association Central New York Chapter. “When residents and families feel more at ease, they are able to commit themselves to concentrating on spending time together and making the most of every moment,” Mary said. SWM For more information about Loretto’s services and facilities, visit lorettocny. org. To learn more about the Central New York chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, visit alz.org/centralnewyork.
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The Philanthropy Edition