We believe in the power ofconnection-to each other, to our values, and to the place we call home. That's why we're proud to support United Way ofthe Dutchess-Orange Region. Central Hudson. Your energy partner. Your proud neighbor.
We are thrilled to welcome you to this year’s Imagination Breakfast, the official kickoff of our annual workplace campaign. This event is a celebration of community, education and the power of imagination.
Today, we are honored to recognize the remarkable work of the Webutuck and Pine Bush Central School Districts for their dedication to enriching the lives of students and families. Their tireless efforts are truly making our communities a better place to live and learn.
We are also delighted to feature local author and speaker Mark Bendel Jr., who will share a special message about his book, Scout The Firehouse Mascot: A True Story
Kindness doesn’t have to be loud, the quiet acts echo for years. Check out our 12 kindness finalists and the wonderful work they are doing in our community.
Your presence here today shows your commitment to our community. The support you provide allows the United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region to continue its work, helping to ensure that every individual has access to the resources they need to thrive. We couldn’t do this without you. Thank you for your continued partnership.
Jeannie Montano, President & CEO
Kevin Cleary, Chair of the Board
BOARD OFFICERS
Kevin Cleary, Chair Retired, IBM
Tim Eisentraut, 1st Vice Chair UPS
Catherine (Candy) E. Davies, 2nd Vice Chair Retired, SUNY New Paltz
Susan L. Howell, Treasurer RBT CPAs, LLP
Michael Mazzuca, Secretary TEG Federal Credit Union
BOARD MEMBERS
Heather Bell
President & CEO, Orange County Chamber of Commerce
Amy J. Berger* Retired, IBM
Fred Clarke, Esq.
Law Office of Fred Clarke
Matthew Cruz
DSL Financial Services
Jasmin Davis
Sun River Health Foundation
Arthur DeDominicis, CPA Certified Public Accountant & Consultants
Christopher Gilbert
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.
Timothy Kane Retired, IBM
Phillip Lekanides * Rhinebeck Bank
Michael Lesler Orange Bank & Trust
Sharon A. McGinnis
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp
Matthew Murphy
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP.
Marta Newkirk Dutchess Community College
Kimberly Pennington KeyBank
Barry Rothfeld * Retired, Poughkeepsie Journal
John Stroligo
TD Bank
Mark Villanti Retired Educator
* Advisory Board
Jeannie Montano
President & CEO
Lauren Spangler
Executive Assistant to the President & Office Manager
Elizabeth Manning
Vice President of
Resource Development
Michelle Nepton
Senior Director of Development
Susan Marchewka
Senior Events Manager
Isabella Hamel
Development Coordinator
Anne Marie Schoonhoven
Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving
Brienne Cliadakis
Business Development Manager
Melissa Clark, MA
Vice President of Community Impact
Rebecca Lull
Director of Community Impact
Sharon Shah
Data and Prospect Research Manager
Michelle Macina
Community Navigator
Barbara Nectow
Food Security VISTA
Deidre Sepp
Food Security VISTA
Sue Manning
Vice President of Finance & Administration
Jane Johnson
Director of Finance
Samantha Lowe-Durling Director of Marketing
Patricia Ten
Marketing Associate
Welcome • Annie Leamy & Ryan Dutcher
Pledge of Allegiance
Invocation • Pastor Patrick Guarracino
Centerpiece Giveaway
UWDOR President & CEO • Jeannie Montano
UWDOR Board Chair • Kevin Cleary
Talent United Singer Performs • Caroline Sottile
Kindness Champion Awards
2025 Campaign Chair • Nicole Gilmartin
Author of Scout • Mark Bendel, Jr.
Door Prize & Raffles
Pine Bush CSD Superintendent • Joseph Lenz
Webutuck Deputy CSD Superintendent • Robert Farrier
Raffles • Raffles • Raffles!
Have a Wonderful Day! Spread Kindness!
Anne Marie “Annie” Leamy has been hosting mornings on the radio for close to 20 years. Her rock all these years has been her husband Sean. He’s an elementary school teacher and collegiate basketball coach at Pace University. She has three boys, Michael, Christian and Aidan. Being outnumbered by the boys, she’s grateful to have her rescue dog Maple. She resides in the Hudson Valley. She’s always ready to make new friends. Find her @annieonair on social media.
Ryan Dutcher is a full time entertainer, illusionist, and comedian, born and raised in the Hudson Valley. Voted Best Comedian of the Hudson Valley two years running. Ryan loves to make people laugh. He launched his career through philanthropic work for charitable organizations and still to this day knows how important it is to be engaged in the community. You have seen him on some of your favorite TV shows and movies. He has opened for some of today’s biggest superstars, and travels the country restoring laughter and wonder! When not performing, Ryan loves spending time with his rescue pup, Copper (extra bonus points if you know who he’s named after). Wow you’re invested, you’re still reading this bio… in all seriousness thanks for reading and for being here! Connect with him on social media @illusionistryandutcher or visit www.RyanDutcher.com .
Superintendent Joseph Lenz
Joe has served the Pine Bush Central School District for the past three years as its assistant superintendent for business. He was appointed to the superintendent’s role by the board of education in April and took the reins on July 1.
Prior to his move to the district, he served as an assistant superintendent for a business for 10 years. He is chief finance officer of the OU Health Plan and the newly appointed chairperson of the Orange – Ulster School Districts Workers Compensation Plan, both volunteer positions.
Joe’s passion for education stems from a strong desire to ensure that every student has access to a high-quality education that meets their unique needs and prepares them for success in any path they choose.
When he is not working or volunteering his time, Lenz likes to explore new places and attend concerts with his wife, Deana, and spend time with their dog, Mr. Barkley.
Robert Farrier is currently Deputy Superintendent School Business Official of the North East (Webutuck) School District. Robert started his career at Webutuck in 2019, prior to that he was a banking executive for twenty-four years. He resides in Highland Falls with his wife and children, a son age 22 and daughter age 18.
Robert has a Bachelors in Finance, a Masters in Business Administration, a certificate in Executive Leadership, and NYS educational certification in Education Leadership.
Mark Bendel, Jr. is a retired Fire Lieutenant with a Bachelor of Science from Marist University. Mark served at firehouses throughout the region for over 20 years. He recently authored the children’s book, Scout the Firehouse Mascot: A True Story, which offers a unique perspective on a firefighter’s connection with the community. He is the owner and lead instructor at West Mountain, LLC, providing high-quality technical firearms and public safety training. Mark resides in Poughquag with his wife, Amy, and their two daughters.
Premier Annual Sponsors
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.
Pratt & Whitney
Annual Sponsors
CDPHP
IBM Corporation
RBT CPAs, LLP
Resorts World Hudson Valley
TD Bank
Ulster Savings Bank
Silver Sponsors
Petro Home Services
Bronze Sponsors
Kevin Cleary & Holly Wahlberg
DSL Financial Services
Partner Sponsors
Bruderhof Community at Fox Hill
Cassalina & Marquis Group of Merrill Lynch
Marist University
PKF O’Connor Davies
Centerpiece Sponsor
M&O Sanitation
Media Sponsors
iHeart Radio/Q92
Mid-Hudson News
Pamal Broadcasting
Sunrise Media
WTBQ & WGHT Radio
Wall Radio
Nicole graduated from SUNY New Paltz with a Master of Business Administration in Public Accountancy. She is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in New York State. Nicole joined RBT CPAs, LLP in 2016 and is a partner in the client advisory department. She serves clients across diverse industries including professional services, real estate, manufacturing and construction. Her experience includes preparation of interim and annual financial statements, financial statement analysis, and comprehensive tax planning. Gilmartin excels in helping business owners not only understand their financial statements, but also uses them as meaningful tools for informed decision-making and business growth. Nicole is dedicated to building lasting relationships with her clients, striving to be a long-term partner and advisor to support them in reaching their goals.
Nicole is a longtime United Way volunteer. She has previously chaired the RBT CPA’s workplace campaign and is currently a member of both the United Way Emerging Leaders and Women United Committee. We are thrilled to welcome Nicole as Chair of the 2025 United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region campaign.
Catherine (Candy) Davis Chair
Kevin Cleary
Chair of United Way Board of Directors
Retired, IBM Corporation
Matthew Cruz
DSL Financial Services
Tim Eisentraut UPS
Mark Villanti Retired Educator
We want to extend our gratitude to the more than 200 individuals who have committed to manage the campaigns for your workplace. We know the hard work and commitment it takes to run a great campaign and share the work of United Way within your organization. You are the backbone of our workplace campaign.
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange
Adams Fairacre Farms
American Express*
AT&T*
Athene USA
Ball Corp*
BNY Mellon Community Partnership*
Bon Secours Health System
C&S Wholesale Grocers*
Carpenter & Smith
Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp.*
Children’s Home of Poughkeepsie
Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County
Destination Dutchess
Dutchess Day School
EFCO Products Inc.*
Elevance Health*
Emery & Webb Inc.
Enlarged City School District of Middletown
Enterprise*
Ethan Allen Workforce Solutions
Family Services Inc.
Federal Reserve Bank of New York
FedEx Corp
Global Foundries*
Hannaford Supermarkets*
Hickey Finn and Company Insurance*
HONOR ehg Inc.
Hudson Valley Credit Union*
IBM Corporation
Illinois Tool Works*
James L. Taylor Manufacturing Company*
JC Penney
Joy Insurance Agency Inc.
JP Morgan Chase*
KeyBank*
Kiryas Joel Village Union Free School District
Legal Services of the Hudson Valley
Liscum McCormack VanVoorhis
Literacy Connections - Hudson Valley
Macy’s
Manpower
Marshall+Sterling
Masci, Hale & Wilson Family Dentistry
McCabe and Mack LLP
Metal Container Corp.*
Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union
Millbrook Central School District
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
New York Life Insurance Company
onsemi
Orange & Rockland Utilities, Inc.*
Orange Bank & Trust Company*
Orange County Government
Orange-Ulster BOCES
O’Reilly Auto Parts
Pawling Corp.
Paychex Inc.
Pine Bush Central School District
Pine Plains Central School District
Port Jervis City School District
Poughkeepsie City School District
Poughkeepsie Public Library District
Prager Metis
Raymond James Financial Services*
RBT CPAs, LLP
Rhinebeck Bank*
Rhinebeck Central School District
SEI
Spackenkill Union Free School District
SUNY Orange
Target
TD Bank*
TEG Federal Credit Union*
The ARC Sullivan-Orange Counties New York
Think Dutchess Alliance for Business
Tompkins Financial Corporation
Tops Markets
Town of Chester
Town of Hyde Park
Ulster Savings Bank*
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region
UPS*
USAA*
Valley Central School District
Verizon
Walden Savings Bank*
Wappingers Central School District
Washingtonville Central School District
Westage Management LLC
*Indicates the organization has given a corporate gift in 2024 campaign
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region
Alex’s Restaurant
Chipotle
Coppola’s Restaurant
Crew Restaurant
Crown Maple
Samantha Lowe-Durling
Marist University
Meyers Olde Dutch, Poughkeepsie
Millbrook Vineyards & Winery
Jeannie Montano
Oblong Books
Once Upon a Child Bookstore
Savonna’s Restaurant
Heidi Woodward Sheffield
UWDOR Board
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region
United
Goal: Develop opportunities for lifelong learning to increase skill-based development
Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County Dress for Success (DFS) is dedicated to fostering economic independence for women. Through its comprehensive programs, DFS offers a robust network of support, professional clothing, and crucial development tools. These resources are designed to help women not only succeed in the workplace but also to flourish in all aspects of life. Participants gain invaluable skills and confidence, understanding they have the power to shape their own lives and achieve personal success.
The Art Effect
Spark Studios offers film and media arts instruction to 60 underserved teens (ages 14-19). The program also provides paid work experiences and a safe, after-school environment where participants can acquire valuable technical and workforce skills, access technology, explore creative sector careers, build positive relationships, engage in creative activities and establish community connections.
Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh
Youth Force is a workforce development program that addresses barriers to career and college success by providing academic support, mentoring, paid internships, college readiness, and financial literacy. It helps students gain skills, real-world experience, and guidance to navigate higher education and career pathways, fostering long-term economic stability.
Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County
Through its Workforce Training Program, Green Teen Youth Vocational Training actively engages at-risk youth aged 14-19. Participants earn wages while developing essential vocational and employment skills. The program operates after school three times a week in the Spring and Fall, and during the day throughout the Summer. Staff members are committed to identifying and building on individual strengths, which helps youth gain the confidence and social-emotional tools necessary to manage their behaviors and navigate their social environments effectively. All activities are strategically designed for comprehensive life and vocational skills development.
Community Connect is an after-school and summer academic enrichment program specifically designed for K-5 English as a New Language (ENL) students within the Rhinebeck and Red Hook School Districts. The program delivers essential academic support, addressing challenges that language barriers might present in the home environment. As a result, students experience improved language, reading, and writing skills, leading to increased literacy and academic performance, enhanced confidence, and better social development.
Youth in communities like Poughkeepsie are facing an escalating mental health crisis, compounded by significant disparities in accessing support. THRIVE: Advancing Mental Wellness for Youth directly addresses this by providing essential behavioral health services. They are dedicated to helping young people overcome the long-term effects of trauma, such as violence, poverty, and food insecurity, which can lead to poor social outcomes and health disparities.
River Haven provides emergency shelter for runaway and homeless youth, assisting them as they collaborate with a Care Manager to either reunite with family or find alternative safe housing. The program offers a range of evidence-based Positive Youth Development opportunities and learning experiences designed to help youth heal from past trauma, acquire new skills, and cultivate protective factors essential for healthy development.
SproutEd in Newburgh & Beacon offers a garden-based educational program specifically for K-2 students. The program involves maintaining school food gardens and providing lessons throughout the school year that focus on nutrition, cooking, plant science, ecology, and food systems. Its curriculum emphasizes experiential, hands-on learning, which allows students to engage in a fun and effective way to build their academic and social-emotional abilities.
Book Buddies works to improve reading proficiency by recruiting volunteers to read individually with 3rd and 4th-grade students who are reading below their grade level. Volunteers are equipped with training on various materials to build students’ reading skills and confidence. Additionally, classroom Book Buddies volunteers engage in dialogic read-alouds, ensuring children have a positive and enriching experience with literature.
Ending the Silence (ETS) delivers a powerful presentation to middle and high school students, featuring a certified NAMI lead presenter alongside a young adult who shares their personal story of navigating a mental health condition. This program directly addresses critical concerns including substance/alcohol abuse, suicide prevention, bullying, and the fight against stigma. By sharing these experiences, ETS works to increase awareness, alter perceptions of mental health, and cultivate essential citizenship skills that enable students to support their peers.
Pawling Library’s Children and Young Adult Programs aim to improve social and educational outcomes for children by providing opportunities to learn, play, and interact positively with others. The staff focus on developmentally appropriate programs that utilize kids’ interests to improve the skills that will help them achieve ongoing school and career success. Literacy is a primary focus.
The Vassar College-English Language Learners Outreach Program (VELLOP) endeavors to boost the academic success of English Language Learners (ELLs) within the Poughkeepsie City School District, a district challenged by a scarcity of Spanish-speaking teachers. VELLOP tutors, comprised of Vassar students (many of whom are Spanish speakers), work in partnership with teachers to support ELL performance. A total of thirty college students commit as much as eight hours per week to tutoring these schoolchildren.
DBA Warwick Valley Community Center
Educational Non Profit
Life Skills for Teens is designed to cultivate internal assets and instill protective factors in teenagers. The program incorporates various prevention, educational, and cultural diversity activities, and supports students as they transition between elementary, middle, and high school. Participants engage in both community service and leadership skill-building initiatives. The program is further strengthened by the implementation of evidence-based environmental strategies and evidence-based/informed programs.
Goal: Improve access to resources to alleviate short-term financial crisis in order to increase local families’ economic position
Catholic Charities Community Services of Dutchess County
The Financial Stability program provides a vital hotline for neighbors facing crisis and seeking to meet their basic needs. The program prioritizes direct, person-to-person communication, understanding that immediate connection is crucial during difficult times. All calls are either answered live or returned the same business day. Requests for assistance are promptly triaged by their Coordinator and Executive Director, with case managers assigned as appropriate to provide comprehensive support.
Charities Community Services of Orange, Sullivan, Ulster
The Financial Stability program offers essential care coordination services to help vulnerable individuals and families achieve financial security. They provide crucial support like rental assistance, utility assistance, and financial crisis intervention for challenges such as medical expenses, eviction, or homelessness. By addressing these critical needs, they empower children to thrive and enable families to become more engaged, contributing members of their community.
Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County, Inc.
The Crisis Intervention and Case Management program offers emergency financial assistance to families facing economic hardship. It also provides essential case management support to guide them out of crisis and toward stability. Many families are currently struggling to maintain housing and utility payments as the post-pandemic recovery continues to be difficult and protracted.
Dutchess Outreach
Emergency Assistance Program works with families and individuals who are facing various emergencies in their lives and help them become self-sufficient through case management and advocacy to overcome a financial crisis.
Fearless! Hudson Valley
Financial Assistance Program (FAP) supports access to emergency financial assistance for the crisis intervention needs of victims and survivors engaged with Fearless! services. The program is intended to increase access to safety and sustainability by minimizing the harmful and ongoing impacts of intimate partner victimization and abuse, including financial/economic injury.
Grace Smith House
Meets Basic Needs helps survivors of domestic violence stabilize their lives. The program provides direct financial assistance to resolve impending financial crises, while also offering the necessary support and services to empower them and their children toward building a solid foundation of financial stability and independence from their abuser.
Hudson River Housing Inc.
Housing Navigator program provides emergency housing assistance to low-income households. The Housing Navigator works closely with households to help them develop housing stability plans tailored to their needs. The Navigator may assist them in applying for public benefits, connect them with employment opportunities and/or refer them to child care, health care, legal services and other community resources.
The Financial Empowerment Program offers a one-time financial aid solution for families and individuals facing temporary financial challenges. Applications are meticulously reviewed by a committee, which evaluates documentation of the short-term circumstance and the applicant’s potential for self-sufficiency post-assistance. Payments are disbursed directly to landlords, utility providers, or for auto-related costs.
Legal Services of the Hudson Valley
Income Stabilization and Homelessness Prevention offers legal assistance to individuals who have been incorrectly denied or terminated from public assistance programs, including TANF, SNAP/Food Stamps, WIC, Unemployment Insurance, Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, and Veterans Benefits. The program also provides Emergency Cash Assistance for rental and utility arrears and handles Consumer Law cases. This ultimately stabilizes household incomes at a subsistence level.
Through the CA$H Coalition Program, low and moderate-income residents receive crucial support with free tax preparation. The program is designed to assist them in identifying and claiming every refund applicable to their personal tax situation.
The Beacon Schools Food Access program actively works to ensure vulnerable students receive fresh, nutritious food. Each Friday, the program distributes groceries to students, providing essential food for their weekends. Furthermore, it engages families in broader food access initiatives by supplying double-up coupons and market cards for use at the Beacon Farmers’ Market.
The Food for Dutchess & Orange County Feeding Program aims to provide nutritious food to low-income residents of Dutchess and Orange Counties through local food pantries and soup kitchens. The program achieves this by funding lines of credit at the Food Bank for these agencies. This funding covers handling fees for donated food and the cost of purchased food, allowing agencies to serve more people.
Food For Kids supports an average of 250 students each week within the Washingtonville Central School District’s five buildings. The program offers sufficient provisions to cover two breakfasts, two lunches, beverages, and snacks for the weekend. For extended holiday weekends or school breaks, extra food is distributed. During the summer, the program supplied breakfast, lunch, snacks, and drinks for a six-week duration.
The Nourish Newburgh project will utilize the educational resources of NAUC to create comprehensive programming designed to overcome long-standing, systemic barriers to nutrition and healthy eating. This initiative will be integrated into an established food distribution program that feeds 500 local families monthly at NAUC, providing mutual benefit to clients of both programs.
The Food Access Program is dedicated to distributing fresh food across Northeast Dutchess. It operates a food pantry that provides both weekly walk-in service and convenient home delivery. The program partners with farms to ensure the sourcing of fresh foods that align with cultural needs. Food distribution occurs in environments designed to uphold dignity, foster self-efficacy, and offer comprehensive wraparound services. Additionally, the program’s hub actively supports coalition efforts aimed at enhancing the resilience and equity of the regional food system.
VetZero Program aids low-income veterans who are homeless or nearly so, with the primary goal of securing stable housing. It achieves this by providing vital services such as outreach, housing counseling, assistance with upfront housing costs, transportation, benefit support, and service linkages. This enables the program to quickly transition veterans into housing and offer the ongoing support required for them to maintain housing stability.
The Food Insecurity Program provides a food pantry accessible to individuals and families connected to Pawling/Holmes, NY, whether through residence, employment, schooling, or church attendance. The pantry offers clients access twice a month, with hours from 10 AM to 4 PM on weekdays (extended to 5 PM on Wednesdays), and from 10 AM to 12 PM on the second Saturday of each month. For homebound clients, food delivery is also available twice a month when requested.
The City FRESH program actively works to remove obstacles to healthy food choices, simultaneously encouraging healthy eating and lifestyle habits for youth and families. This is accomplished through providing access to nutritious foods, with a special emphasis on fresh vegetables, and by delivering positive, engaging learning experiences at PFP, PCSD schools, and throughout the community.
Legal Services for Veterans & Military Families provides free, comprehensive civil legal services to veterans and military family members residing in Dutchess and Orange County. These services span a range of practice areas, including Public Benefits/Income Stabilization; Housing/Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention, and Intensive STEHP Casework Services (Orange County only); Domestic Violence/Family Law; Disability Law; Elder Law; LGBTQ; and Veterans & Military Families Law.
We work with partner agencies to offer one-time grants or direct financial assistance to help individuals facing various emergencies. This can include help with vital medications, bills and other urgent financial needs. This fund helps ensure that children and families have access to their essential needs.
The Hub is a central location that collects, stores and distributes essential items to local organizations in need. This ensures that resources are efficiently allocated to those who require them most. These items typically include books, baby/youth supplies, household items, clothing, hygiene products, bedding and more.
A free, confidential, multilingual service to assist the public in finding the answers to a variety of health and human services related questions. It is open 365 days a year, 24 hours a day.
Community Profiles is an indicator project and resource that assesses our Mid-Hudson Valley region to quantify strengths and challenges, and help determine priorities and launch community-wide discussions about improving quality of life.
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region is proud to partner with SingleCare to provide community members with access to affordable prescription medications, ensuring greater health and financial stability.
Get immediate support, right from your phone! Our free 20-30 minute phone screening is the fastest, easiest way to connect with the helpful resources and support you need. Individuals are eligible for our services if you’re enrolled in Medicaid and need one or more of the health-related social assistances listed here: nutrition counseling, emergency food, emergency housing, transportation support, metal health support and more.
After retiring from 40 years as a career development professional at Mount Saint Mary College, Susquehanna University, and Marist College, I joined AmeriCorps as a Financial Empowerment VISTA for the United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region. My role is to help those living in our area who are at or below the poverty line to achieve financial stability and independence. I have served on the boards of the American Cancer Society and Mount Gulian Historic Site, and as president of the PTO at Poughkeepsie Day School. I am a member of the Mid-Hudson Chapter of the Citizen’s Climate Lobby and have served as a facilitator for Parents’ Anonymous, a self-help group for parents with the goal of preventing child abuse and providing support for parents. I am also a theater nerd, performing with a number local theater companies. Offstage, I work in the summer at the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival in Garrison. Thanks to the fabulous team at United Way for putting me to good use!
Barbara Nectow
I first served as a VISTA volunteer in 1980 as a community organizer stationed in Denver, Colorado. As I progressed through my various careers (social worker, public interest lawyer, catering director and labor leader - yes, in that order!) I always knew that I was not destined to retire quietly. I have always been interested in the issues of food security and hunger relief and since retiring I served a year as an AmeriCorps volunteer in Ann Arbor, Michigan coordinating a “food as medicine” project for three health clinics. While in Michigan I also volunteered at food pantries, delivered for Meals on Wheels and made and served food for the Jewish Family Services Nourish Nutrition Kitchen. I am thrilled to be able to continue this work here at home for the United Way through their VISTA program.
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region
Faith was born and raised in Dutchess County, NY, and the youngest of three siblings. She is now a proud parent of two teenage daughters. Faith currently works at Petro Home Services in Poughkeepsie, where she has not only grown professionally but also had the privilege of supporting a variety of meaningful community initiatives. Petro has provided her with the opportunity to combine her career with purpose-driven work that positively impacts others.
“Faith has organized the diaper drive for Petro Poughkeepsie and collected over 4000 diapers to help the community.” - Robert M.
“Nivanni has been an employee at our non profit childcare center for about 3 months now. She is one of our lead toddler educators. In her short time with us, she has adv cated for children’s needs, worked closely with families and coworkers, and has shown true, remarkable kindness and grace in all that she does. Her interactions with the children are warm, developmentally appropriate, and affectionate. Nivanni leads her classroom with kindness and fosters an environment in which all children feel loved, seen, and cared for. Nivanni is kind and generous to her coworkers--covering shifts, picking up extra hours as needed, and being a true team player. As the director of this program, I am truly fortunate to have found such a wonderful addition to the staff and center as a whole.” - Sara Whitley
LaShawne Granger serves as Employee Engagement & Benefits Manager at Family Services in Poughkeepsie, NY, where she is dedicated to supporting everyone’s right to thrive through compassionate care and community engagement. In her role, she helps cultivate a positive workplace culture rooted in the agency’s values and commitment to employee well-being, ensuring staff are supported to carry out Family Services’ mission of delivering critical programs in behavioral health, youth services, victim support, and community safety. Her efforts ensure that those most in need feel seen, supported, and valued, while also uplifting the employees who make this work possible. Beyond her professional role, LaShawne is committed to fostering kindness and connection in everyday life.
“What makes LaShawne stand out is that kindness isn’t something she performs—it’s who she is. She’s deeply considerate of others and always aware of how her actions affect those around her. She checks in when someone seems off, helps without being asked, and contributes quietly in ways that make a big difference. She never seeks recognition, yet her efforts are essential to our culture and success.”
- Rachel P.
Thank you to all our Kindness Champions! Your lives inspire us to give more and do more.
Dr. Ebony Green is a child of humble beginnings. She lost her father at the age of 7 and struggled to make sense of the loss. Growing up in rural northwest New York, she knew she was different. She spent her childhood struggling to fit in and dreamed about changing the world by creating a space where everyone could fit regardless of difference. She has since devoted herself to creating containers of learning, peace, joy, and happiness for children and adults.
Dr. Green, Founder of Hello Kind Soul, is a teacher, principal, district leader, and nationally recognized champion for inclusion. She draws on over 25 years of experience in leading schools, organizations, and people into deep introspection and building confidence to change.
“Through her work, she has built a platform that not only celebrates everyday acts of goodness but also mobilizes people to do kindness as a practice, not just for others but for themselves as well.” - LaShawnna H.
Stephen Haff is the chief of Still Waters in a Storm, an organization he founded in 2007. Still Waters is a one-room schoolhouse for immigrant children where “Everyone listens to everyone.” In 2016, the school launched the KID QUIXOTE project, a seven-year program that culminated in a touring musical performance. HarperCollins published his memoir, KID QUIXOTES, in 2020. After relocating to Poughkeepsie in 2021, Stephen re-created Still Waters to teach English as a Second Language to adult refugees and their families. He also created the radio series NEW ARABIAN NIGHTS, which features stories written by his students. Stephen holds a master’s degree in Theater Studies from Yale University.
“ As an immigrant advocate, Stephen organizes teams of volunteers to teach English, understanding that language is not just about communication—it’s a bridge to belonging, independence, and healing.” -Bintou H.
Inginia Roselis Jackson immigrated to the U.S. at 14 with no knowledge of English. Through hard work and determination, she earned her high school diploma in 2008, followed by a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Bilingual Education. For over a decade, she has been an educator in the Bedford School District. Her passion for helping others inspired her to co-found @caminoalexitopfa, a nonprofit that has helped over 1,500 families in Northeast Dutchess County. Inginia’s mission is to “ignite dreams, bridge gaps, and inspire others to rise.”
“Inginia has been passionately striving to fulfill our mission of inspiring low-income youth and their families. RTS is gaining remarkable momentum, bringing a powerful sense of belonging to those who often feel unseen and unheard.”
- Shannon J.
Debbie Major, a native of Dallas, Texas, moved to New York at 17 to pursue her passion for music. She quickly became a sought-after vocalist, leading and performing in several bands throughout the Hudson Valley. After her twin boys were diagnosed with lifelong challenges—Jacob with ASD and Gage with Cerebral Palsy and Asperger’s Syndrome— she began using music as a tool for their development. This led her to become a music teacher at Inspire Kids, a school for children with cerebral palsy, where she shared the benefits of music for both enjoyment and learning. Recognizing the lack of opportunities for individuals with challenges as her sons got older, Debbie founded Zylofone Studios, Inc., a nonprofit that used music to develop life skills, confidence, and independence. Though the organization was impacted by the pandemic, Debbie continues her advocacy today. She is a member of Think Differently Orange, co-founder of HV Connecting, and will soon take over as the leader of TRAP Learning, a global educational program that uses rhythm and drumming to teach.
“Deb never looks for adulation only the immense joy she receives from those she helps. Truly an incredible woman who I am honored to call friend.” - Taylor S.
Nyla Pichardo, a graduate of Mount Saint Mary College with a degree in Visual Communication-Graphic Design, is the Engagement Manager at Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newburgh. In her role, she strengthens community partnerships, manages volunteer initiatives, and supports the organization’s mission of building homes. Nyla is also the founder of Raising Solo Inc., a nonprofit that provides resources and support to single parents. With her extensive experience in community engagement and event coordination, she is dedicated to creating inclusive, community-focused solutions that make a lasting impact.
“Her work with Raising Solo shows how deeply committed she is to supporting families and individuals navigating life on their own. She brings empathy into every space she is in and uses her voice to uplift others. She makes people feel seen, supported, and never alone..” - Brianna M.
As a Database Specialist at Adams Fairacre Farms, I’ve learned that small acts of kindness - offering encouragement, lending a hand, or simply brightening someone’s day can make a big difference. I also make it a point to attend local community events, showing up to support others and help build connections. I am a proud mom of 2 little ones, and truly love my job in and out of work.
“I’ve never seen her have a bad day. She exudes happiness and positivity everywhere she goes, and she spreads smiles to employees, customers and everyone she meets. It’s impossible to feel grumpy when Becca is around.” - Sarah M.
A lifelong Dutchess County resident who lives in Millbrook, Lori began her career working with at-risk youth and families. In October 2015, she became executive director of the Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club, serving northern Orange and Sullivan Counties. For over 30 years she has worked in communities throughout New York and Connecticut to help connect families to services and supports. Formerly, she was executive director of Women’s Support Services, now Project S.A.G.E. a domestic violence intervention and prevention agency in Connecticut.
The Chamber Foundation, Inc. of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce honored her as a 2015 ATHENA Award Honoree. She served as a board member for the Connecticut Coalition Against Domestic Violence, on the the Connecticut Domestic Violence Fatality Committee and chair of the Near Fatality Review Subcommittee.
“In a world increasingly overshadowed by challenges and division, Lori Rivenburgh shines as a beacon of kindness and compassion. As the Executive Director of the Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club, Inc., her tireless dedication and selfless actions have significantly uplifted our community, embodying the true essence of a Kindness Champion.”
- Melissa D.
My name is Shaniya Trinity Warren. I was born and raised in Harlem, New York, and later moved to Orange County after graduating from Vanguard High School. I earned my undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in Education from St. Thomas Aquinas College, where I discovered my passion for supporting adolescents in navigating their mental health within academic settings.
Motivated by this calling, I pursued my Master’s in Social Work, which provided me with the flexibility to serve individuals across a variety of settings. Today, I am a licensed social worker employed with both the Council on Addiction Prevention and Education (CAPE) and Journey to Pathways.
My long-term goals are to build a transitional home for homeless and runaway youth and a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young people.
“Shaniya’s relationship with students is truly special. Their faces light up when they see her, and many look forward to their one-on-one sessions. In her care, they feel seen, heard, and valued. She meets students where they are, offering encouragement that helps them believe in themselves..” - Brittani R.
Shawn White has dedicated over 20 years to working in Human Services which she has found to be very rewarding. She currently serves as a Human Resources employee at the Mental Health Association in Orange County, NY. Shawn is the mother of two beautiful children. In her spare time she enjoys hosting networking events to empower women to come together and build meaningful connections. Her mission is to bring Christmas in July to a children’s hospital where children can feel celebrated outside of the traditional holidays.
Her motto is: See it, touch it, obtain it.
“Ms. Shawn X. White has consistently demonstrated kindness and professionalism in her interactions with others. She is also a dedicated mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and godmother, embodying compassion and care for her family and community. I am proud to know her and grateful for the positive influence she has had on my life and the lives of my children. I sincerely respect and commend her for her dedication, kindness, and compassion.” - Pamela M.
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region
United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region
Thank you to our Centerpiece Sponsor
We are proud to partner with the United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region to help support the health, education, and financial stability of our local community. Together we’re improving life where we live and work. When we connect, we all move forward.
Learn more at rtx.com/community
