Press Releases

Dec. 26, 2008 (White Plains, NY) United Way of Westchester and Putnam is proud to announce a generous grant from JPMorgan Chase. In an effort to help strengthen United Way’s ability to assist residents, workers, and not-for-profit organizations, the Chase grant entitled “Access to Help, Financial Stability and Technical Assistance” will help to support a three-pronged strategy intended to strengthen United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline, United Way-Pace University Wilson Center Not-For-Profit Management Center, and the launch of United Way’s new Financial Education Initiative.

“We are deeply grateful to JPMorgan Chase for assisting us in these important areas as we broaden our existing collaboration with this important community partner,” stated United Way of Westchester and Putnam President and CEO Naomi Adler.  “Because of JPMorgan Chase’s support, we will ensure that thousands of residents, workers and Not-For-Profit professionals in the lower Hudson Valley will have access to vital information that can help improve countless lives over the next year.”

The majority of the grant will help grow United Way’s 2-1-1.  The award money will be used to help maintain and train database staff needed to keep all the counties’ listings current, as well as to compile government-required disaster guides.  A key component of 2-1-1’s success is its comprehensive database of Health and Human Services information, the resource for caller referrals which is updated on an on-going basis by the system’s regional database managers.

The United Way-Pace University Wilson Center Not-For-Profit Management Center will receive a share of the award money to help underwrite the cost of the Center’s courses and sustain its ability to provide much needed scholarships. The Management Center provides our two-county health and human service professionals with courses and workshops on issues of critical interest.  These offerings are vital to local providers as they seek to enhance their knowledge, increase their professional skills and network with their colleagues to better serve their constituencies.

In this current economic climate, United Way believes it is more urgent than ever to provide sound financial advice in the community in order to create lasting financial stability.  As a result, The Financial Education Initiative will be launched next year with support from Chase, and which will provide financial education workshops that will teach workplace employees how to attain and preserve assets in order to become more financially secure.  Financial education programs are greatly needed, as people of lower and middle-income strive to maintain solid financial footing in today’s volatile economy.

Said Ms. Adler, “During these difficult times, we are grateful that Chase has teamed up with United Way to support initiatives that help advance the common good. Their organization is a perfect example of what it means to “Live United.”
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(White Plains, NY) Monday, January 19th on Martin Luther King Day, seven young people will be honored for extraordinary service to their communities following the principles of Dr. King at the eighth annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Luncheon to be held at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown beginning at 11:30 a.m. An estimated 500 people will attend this popular event, sponsored by the African American Men of Westchester and United Way of Westchester and Putnam and the Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Committee.

This partnership between the United Way of Westchester and Putnam and the African American Men of Westchester along with the Youth Bureaus of Westchester County, White Plains and Peekskill, as well as the Carver Center, the YMCA of Mt. Vernon, the Links, Family Services of Westchester, and The Volunteer Center of United Way, created this prestigious event to further Dr. King’s ideals by recognizing the young people in Westchester and Putnam whose lives and activities reflect the teachings of Dr. King. Awards will be given to young people devoted to community service in the following categories: Building Bridges; Peace and Non-Violence: Social Action: Social Justice; Spirit of Love; and Dr. King’s Vision.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Luncheon has become a highlight event on Martin Luther King Day, and the awards are increasingly competitive. The honorees are chosen from a pool of top choices for service excellence from hundreds of youth agencies, schools, faith-based organizations and civic groups throughout Westchester and Putnam.

Russell Ross, Senior Vice President for Community Impact, United Way of Westchester and Putnam and co-founder of the MLK awards said, “This is a tremendous opportunity to promote Dr. King’s core values as well as a United Way major area of emphasis: the importance of giving back to the community. The partnership and scope of the Martin Luther King Legacy Youth awards has had a major impact in promoting community service in youth through this wide-reaching and truly successful event.” William Carter, Commissioner of Community Resources for the Town of Greenburgh concurred and said, “The MLK Legacy for Youth Awards continues to illuminate the ideals of Dr. King. These young people personify “the dream” that Dr. King so eloquently described 45 years ago. The continued effort to uplift our young people will hopefully inspire them to dream big and to continue to serve their community.”

If you are interested in attending the eighth annual Martin Luther King Legacy Youth Awards, please visit the African American Men of Westchester or United Way of Westechester and Putnam to register online. You can also contact Tiffany Lattimer c/o MLK Legacy Youth Awards at the Westchester County Youth Bureau; 112 E. Post Road, 3rd Floor, White Plains, NY 10601 or call Ms. Lattimer at 914-995-8608 to register or get more information. Return to the top of the page

Nearly 200 people--including grateful parents and students, elected officials and civic leaders--turned out to honor Michael Tedesco at United Way of New Rochelle’s annual Leadership Dinner. Held on November 12th at Beckwith Pointe, the dinner celebrated the work of United Way and Tedesco’s dedication to New Rochelle’s children. The program also featured music by the students of Songcatchers, a United Way special grant recipient, and remarks by Bob Marrone, host of WVOX’s Good Morning Westchester. Naomi Adler, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, also spoke to the crowd.

During the program, high school seniors Stefanie Dorman and Alex Armiento spoke movingly about their beloved guidance counselor. Their classmates came to the podium to present “Mr. Tedesco” with United Way’s community service award. Tedesco also received proclamations from New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson and New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin.

Bob Marrone entertained the crowd with anecdotes about his time as an Employee Campaign Manager for United Way’s workplace campaign and stories about the popularity of the evening’s honoree.

Throughout the evening, guests were reminded of what it means to “Live United” by supporting United Way’s mission – donating, volunteering and advocating – to better lives through improved education, income and health “To Live United,” Adler noted after the dinner, “is to recognize that when we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all. It was so gratifying to be in a room with so many people who understand this call to action and support our work.”

Two other organizations were also recognized for their work in the community: The New Rochelle Fund for Educational Excellence and the United Community Center of Westchester split the Margaret S. Muir Endowment Fund Award. Established in 1992 in memory of Margaret S. Muir, this grant is used to strengthen health and human services in New Rochelle.

During the cocktail hour and dinner, guests were able to purchase raffle tickets or bid on an enticing array of gifts donated by local businesses. Chrysanthemum plants graced the tables, courtesy of Rose Hill Nurseries, while the boutonnière for the honoree was donated by Michael’s Floral Craft. The committee for the 2008 Leadership Dinner included Lisa Dorman, Co-Chair; Marjorie Zimmerman, Co-Chair; Gustav and Ruth Getter; Barbara Robinson and Denise Woodin.

Mike Tedesco’s began his career in 1967 as a teacher at St. Michael’s Academy in the Bronx. He later served as the Youth Minister for “RELIG”, and the coordinator of the Financial Aid for College and Technical Schools (FACT$) office at New Rochelle High School. He was instrumental in founding both of these programs.

Tedesco is best known for his 18 years as a conscientious and caring guidance counselor at New Rochelle High School. During his long tenure, he helped over 2,000 students with scheduling, (continued education research), college choices and applications, activity selection and personal crises and challenges. He is famous for sending birthday cards to every one of his students, just one of the ways he let students and their families know how much he cared about their lives.

Bob Marrone began his broadcasting career in 2002 as a stringer for Time Warner Cable News, where he wrote and produced daily and feature news stories. Since then, Marrone has worked as a board operator and staff announcer, and hosted evening talk radio programs on WVOX and WRTN FM--WVIP’s predecessor--and on the World Talk Radio Network. He has been the host of Good Morning Westchester since March of 2007.

Before coming to radio, Marrone set up and ran training schools and communications functions for such organizations as Merrill Lynch, Thomson Financial and the Securities Industry Association.

As a member community of United Way of Westchester and Putnam (www.uwwp.org), United Way of New Rochelle works throughout the year to support United Way’s mission: advancing the common good by providing opportunities for a better life for all. United Way of New Rochelle has set a goal of $185,000 for the 2008-2009 campaign year. For further information, contact Community Director Denise Woodin via email. Return to the top of the page

United Way of Westchester and Putnam is conducting a 2008-2009 assessment of community issues and needs, from October 6th through November 10th. This survey will update the findings from our previous assessment to determine shifts in issues of major concern here in Westchester and Putnam, as well as to identify emerging issues. To do this we need your help to reach as many residents and workers in our two-county area as possible, so they can share their opinions by taking our online survey.

We need your help in three ways:

• Click on the web link below and complete the survey once
• Forward this email to as many people as possible (colleagues, family, friends, acquaintances, etc.)
• Please encourage them to forward the survey to their families, colleagues, friends, etc

SURVEY WEB LINK:

http://surveys.knowledgenetworks.com/mrIWeb/mrIWeb.dll?I.Project=S12098&I.User1=E03

If you have any questions, please email Karen Bonaparte, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives

Thank you so much for your help! The survey results will be announced in early 2009.

Respectfully yours,
Naomi. L. Adler, Esq.
President and CEO
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The Ruth Taylor Award Fund today announced the recipients of the first round of this year’s scholarship awards.

The awardees of the Ruth Taylor Award Fund first round are: Ridvan Foxhall (Peekskill), of the Mercy College Occupational Therapy Program, Valerie McDermott (Hastings of Hudson) of the Sarah Lawrence Health Advocacy Program; Amy Burkhard (Cortlandt Manor), Anabel Espin (Yonkers), and Hanif Benjamin (New Rochelle) of the Fordham University Graduate School of Social Welfare.

Winners of the award will be recognized at United Way of Westchester and Putnam's annual meeting October 7th.

The award provides grants for scholarship awards, for tuition or maintenance, or both. To be eligible, individuals must be Westchester residents pursing graduate level education in the field of social welfare or public health from an accredited U.S. college. For the 2008-09 academic year, awards range between $1,000 and $5,000 and are issued in two rounds.

The deadline for applications in the second round of 2008 Ruth Taylor Award Fund scholarships is November 7, 2008.  Awards will be determined in December and distributed in January 2009. Click here to download the application.

Criteria used in evaluating applications are financial need, public service and scholastic capacity. Recipients must maintain the minimum cumulative University GPA for the duration of the award, and are eligible on a one-time only basis. A change in major or enrollment status will result in loss of the scholarship award.

United Way of Westchester and Putnam oversees the administration of the Fund and the processing of applications and awards. Inquiries can be directed to: Karen Bonaparte, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, at United Way, via email. Return to the top of the page

On the beautiful fall evening of September 23rd, more than 170 attendees gathered to recognize United Way of Northern Westchester’s leadership donors and celebrate the member community’s Golden Anniversary – 50 years of advancing the common good. The annual leadership dinner, held at Crabtree’s Kittle House in Chappaqua, took on a new dimension and enthusiasm this year, highlighting the history and spirit of giving in Northern Westchester.

Tim Lupfer, of Yorktown Heights, United Way of Northern Westchester board member and Leadership Chair, welcomed the celebrants and proudly announced that over two dozen individuals, many of whom were present, had already pledged or given as “pacesetters” to the current United Way campaign. The enthusiasm continued as Mr. Lupfer recognized the 15 members of the 50th Anniversary Committee, many of whom are former board presidents of UWNW.

Greeted with resounding applause, the 50th Anniversary Co-Chairs, Ursula LaMotte of Bedford and Robert Unger of Chappaqua, spoke about the mission of United Way as it focuses its efforts on three specific areas to make our community a better place to live and work: education, income and health. As Mr. Unger outlined for the audience, “A quality education that leads to a stable job, income that can support a family through retirement and good health are the building blocks for a better life.” The co-chairs then recognized two special individuals serving on the anniversary committee for all that they have done and continue to do to support United Way: Lucia Maloney of Chappaqua, who along with her late husband Jack were founders of UWNW in 1959; and John Crabtree of Pound Ridge, the Honorary Chair of the 50th Anniversary and current UWNW board member, who once again served as the host for this annual leadership celebration.

Master of Ceremonies and current President of the UWNW board, Dr. John Pinckney of Bedford thanked the attendees for their exceptional support of United Way’s community initiatives. He then announced that a 50th Anniversary Challenge Match had been established to increase leadership gifts to the campaign. Increased and first time gifts will be matched dollar for dollar by the match to help increase the impact of United Way’s work in our communities. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bischoff of Sleepy Hollow, Mrs. Maren Hexter, Mr. Robert Tully and Ms. Sandra Cooksey Tully of Armonk, were greeted with tremendous applause for their leadership in establishing this important challenge match. Naomi Adler, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, spoke to the audience about the importance to the community of United Way’s work to advance the common good, and thanked them for their continuing support. She cited several real stories of people helped in life-changing ways through United Way’s programs, including United Way’s 2-1-1 – a free, confidential 24/7 information referral service that gets people who need help the help they need by simply dialing 2-1-1. Ms. Adler also thanked and recognized the sponsors of United Way of Northern Westchester’s 50th anniversary: White Plains Linen of Peekskill, and Curtis Instruments, State Farm Insurance, and People’s United Bank, of Mount Kisco, as well as media sponsors, Inside Chappaqua and the Bedford Pound Ridge Record Review.

Of the many special highlights of the evening, the guest speaker was clearly a stand out. Stephen Paletta, a Bedford-native, was the winner of the ABC reality show Oprah’s Big Give in 2008. Having already established one non-profit organization (International Education Exchange), Paletta used his award to found another non-profit organization, Stephen’s Journey, whose mission is to shine a light on social entrepreneurs around the world and the organizations they have founded to benefit others. Paletta delivered a moving, inspirational and witty address on what it means to be a leader – that leadership giving should be coupled with “leadership living.” He called on everyone to carve out time in their daily lives to connect to other people in their community and beyond – echoing the motto of his latest non-profit which is “change your life by helping others.” Those in attendance responded enthusiastically to his words, which clearly reflect the call of United Way to give, advocate and volunteer.

The exceptional evening, complete with fine food and fine wines, compliments of Crabtree’s Kittle House, concluded with a spirited live auction of unique prizes conducted by Robert Heath of Armonk. The silent and live auctions combined garnered almost $12,000 to support the continuing work of United Way.
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June 9, 2008 (Yonkers, NY) Odds are, the average Westchester resident has had a personal experience with cancer – whether it’s a colleague, a friend, family member, or the individual himself. But what many residents may not know is that nearly seventeen hundred of their neighbors who are battling the illness have no transportation to and from their best bet for recovery – medical treatment.

United Way of Westchester and Putnam is addressing this pressing need by supporting cancer patient transportation services. To that end, the community is invited to partner with UWWP by joining the 2008 RACING TO SAVE LIVES event on Thursday, June 12, 2008, at Yonkers Raceway, 810 Yonkers Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y. A buffet dinner will be served at 6:30 PM in the glass-enclosed Empire Terrace Restaurant, to be followed by UWWP’s expression of thanks to sponsors. Post time for the first of nine races is at 7:40 PM.

Contact: Lynn Honeysett 914.997.6700 Ext. 720
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United Way of Scarsdale-Edgemont has awarded more than $7,000 to eight non-profit organizations serving the Scarsdale-Edgemont community, announced Janice Cohen, chair of the group’s Local Presence Committee.

Local Presence awards are grants to community-based organizations that provide services in line with United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s (UWWP) four impact areas: Strengthening Families, Fostering Self Sufficiency, Building Neighborhoods and Communities and Helping Children and Youth Succeed. While United Way’s focus has shifted in recent years from a funding agency to an agency that sets the agenda for lasting change, the Local Presence grants allow UWWP’s member communities to support vital services in their own area.

This year’s local presence grants were awarded to:

• Grace Church Community Center
  The Local Presence grant will be used to purchase “rainy day” equipment for the Center’s summer camp for homeless and underprivileged children.
• Gilda’s Club Westchester
  Gilda's Club Westchester provides a place where men, women, and children with cancer and their families and friends join with others to build social and emotional support. The Local Presence grant will support the Club’s “Family Time” series, half day activities for families with young children.
• Scarsdale High School PTA Scholarship Fund
  The Fund awards freshman year financial aid to enable graduating Scarsdale High School seniors to attend college.
• Scarsdale Council of Parent Teacher Associations
  This volunteer-run Council is using the Local Presence grant to partially fund a public lecture by Rachel Simmons, the best-selling author of “Odd Girl Out: The Hidden Culture of Aggression in Girls.” The goal is to foster dialogue in the Scarsdale community on how to address bullying among girls.
  
• Edgemont Scholarship Council - Scholarship Fund
  The Edgemont Scholarship Council offers financial aid for college to graduates of Edgemont High School who demonstrate financial need.
• El Centro Hispano
  Based in White Plains, El Centro Hispano offers a variety of outreach services, educational and training programs and various other programs to the Westchester Hispanic community, serving some 16,000 people a year. The grant will support El Centro’s Mother and Family Program.
• Hospice and Palliative Care of Westchester
  Hospice and Palliative Care of Westchester provides hospice and related services to patients and their families wherever the patient is located – home, hospital or other facility. The Local Presence grant will support the Complementary Care Program, which provides therapeutic services such as massage, reflexology and art, music and acupuncture therapies.
  
• Heartsong
  Heartsong offers a music and art therapy program for children with disabilities that enhances functioning level and improves quality of life. The Local Presence grant will be used to fund a laptop computer, which will allow therapists in the field to document the progress of children.
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(Rye, NY) Over six hundred volunteer and professional not-for-profit leaders gathered on Monday, May 12th at the Hilton Rye Town for the sixth annual Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit, presented by United Way of Westchester and Putnam and the Westchester Community Foundation.

The Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit brought together leaders in the not-for-profit sector to identify emerging challenges and opportunities, shape new leadership strategies, and build successful organizations. The participants come from a range of organizations engaged in health and human services, the arts, and the environment. This thought-leadership forum examined emerging trends, and provided learning and growth opportunities for leaders in this sector.

The Summit kicked off with Lorie Slutsky, long-time president of the New York Community Trust, one of the nation’s largest community foundations, and co-convener of the Panel on Nonprofit Sector discussing the Panel’s publication Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice: A Guide for Charities and Foundation. The Guide represents the first time that charities and foundations have come together to develop principles of ethical conduct, accountability and transparency and encourage all organizations to follow. “In addition to laying out the elements of good governance, the Guide will help strengthen the commitment to responsible conduct, for individual nonprofits and for the sector as a whole,” noted Ms. Slutsky.

The Principles for Good Governance and Ethical Practice are organized into four categories:

• Legal Compliance and Public Disclosure -- responsibilities and practices, such as implementing conflict of interest and whistleblower policies, to assist charitable organizations in complying with their legal obligations and providing information to the public.
• Effective Governance -- to fulfill its oversight and governance responsibilities effectively.
• Strong Financial Oversight -- to ensure wise stewardship of charitable resources.
• Responsible Fundraising -- to build donor support and confidence.

The principles in their entirety are available at http://www.nonprofitpanel.org
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May 8, 2008 – White Plains, NY – The Ruth Taylor Award Fund, established in tribute to Ruth Taylor upon her retirement as Commissioner of Public Welfare of Westchester County and in recognition of her nearly four decades of outstanding service to the County in the field of social welfare and health, gives grants for scholarship awards, for tuition or maintenance, or both. Application deadline is June 16, 2008.

Eligible individuals must be residents of Westchester County pursuing graduate level education on a full-time basis at accredited U.S. colleges or schools in social welfare or health. For the 2008-09 academic year, awards will range between $1,000 and $5,000. The application deadline is June 16, 2008.

Financial need, public service and scholastic capacity are part of the evaluation criteria. Recipients must maintain the minimum cumulative University GPA for the duration of the award. Awards are issued annually, and recipients are eligible on a one-time only basis. A change in major or enrollment status will result in loss of the scholarship award.

Inquiries can be directed to: United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Karen Bonaparte, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives via email at kbonapar@uwwp.org
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White Plains – A choice of 15 workshops and two keynote speakers will be among the highlights of the First Annual Westchester Fathers’ Conference, scheduled for Saturday, April 26th from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm at the Highlands Middle School, 128 Grandview Avenue in White Plains. Hugh Price, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and former president and CEO of the National Urban League, will discuss ways fathers can help boost their child’s academic achievements and self-esteem. His book, Achievement Matters: Getting Your Child the Best Education Possible, will be available at the conference. Bruce Harper, former MVP for the New York Jets and President of Heroes & Cool Kids, will talk about the role fathers can play in their children’s athletic and academic life and the benefits of mentoring. The conference is sponsored by Family Services of Westchester and United Way of Westchester and Putnam.

Workshop topics will run the gamut from “Blended Families” to “Getting Ready for Adolescence,” from “Handling Discipline” to “Balancing Work and Family.” Other workshops will address the specific challenges facing Latino fathers and African-American dads as well as the different relationships fathers have with their sons and with their daughters. Another workshop will address the challenges facing dads reuniting with their children after serving time in prison.

“We want to assist all types of fathers – step-dads, foster care fathers, divorced dads, even grandfathers with responsibility for their grandchildren – in raising their children,” says Marissa Malett, one of the conference planners and director of Fathers Count, a voluntary program serving men in Westchester who are newly released or about to be released from the County Department of Corrections in Westchester. Fathers Count, a program of Family Services of Westchester, provides parent training and job placement assistance to these fathers. “This is a chance for all fathers to learn, share experiences and generate new ideas on how to better their parenting skills and build even stronger relationships with their children,” said Russell Ross, a senior vice president with United Way of Westchester and Putnam.

The admission price for the conference is $15 in advance and includes continental breakfast and lunch. People can register by calling 997-6700, ext. 702. The registration deadline is April 18th. Walk-in registrations will be accepted on the day of the conference for $20 per person. Some scholarships are available, and a van will be available to transport attendees to the school from the White Plains Train Station and the Westchester County Center.

Representatives from many area organizations have helped plan the conference, including: Westchester Children’s Association, Westchester Jewish Community Services, EPIC (Every Person Influences Children), Parent/Child Center, Planned Parenthood, Barnes & Noble of Rockland County, Volunteer Center of United Way, White Plains Youth Bureau, Yonkers Public Library, Geri Shapiro, Westchester Regional Director for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health and Nepperhan Community Center and the United Way of Westechester and Putnam.

A resource room with materials from workshop presenters will be available to attendees. Hugh Price will deliver his keynote address from 10 to 11 am while breakfast is served. The first workshop session will take place from 11:15 to 12:30 pm, followed by lunch and a keynote presentation by Bruce Harper from 12:30 to 1:30. The second workshop session extends from 1:45 to 3:00 pm and is followed by a half-hour closing session.

This conference and last year’s was spearheaded by Bob Stien, chairman and founder of New York Fathers Conference and board member of the national non-profit, Dads and Daughters. Stien, who has appeared on “Oprah” and “Dateline,” facilitates programs for fathers and daughters throughout the New York metropolitan area.

United Way of Westchester and Putnam (uwwp.org) is a local organization that brings together people and resources to address the underlying causes of our area's most pressing health and human service issues, and to create positive and lasting change in the lives of those who live and work in Westchester and Putnam.

Since 1954, FSW has been helping children, teens, adults and families with their social service and mental health needs. Today the agency serves more than 30,000 people a year through its 50 plus programs. To volunteer or donate, call the Development Office at 937-2320, ext. 116. To learn more about the organization, check out www.fsw.org. To register or find out more about the conference, please click here.
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White Plains, NY – April 4, 2008 – As the debut United Way of Westchester and Putnam event for both new CEO Naomi Adler and Board Chair David Yawman, a decidedly energetic and upbeat tone was immediately apparent. The annual United Way Spirit of Caring luncheon was held at the Renaissance Westchester Hotel in White Plains on Friday, with more than 180 attendees. The audience responded enthusiastically to the speakers, as well as to the honorees and their many accomplishments on behalf of United Way of Westchester and Putnam. Video segments detailing their outstanding contributions were shown for each of the five major awards.

Partnership seemed to be the biggest theme for this year’s prestigious United Way Spirit of Westchester and Putnam awards. Larchmont-Mamaroneck received the 2008 Community Leadership Award for coordinating agencies, government, faith-based organizations and community leaders to help flood victims recover from disaster. Three tables of Larchmont and Mamaroneck residents and employees rose to receive the award honoring the year’s exceptional community, including Rev. Deborah Tammearu of St. Thomas Episcopal Church and President of WINDER; Legislator Judy Myers; Mariana Boneo, Executive Director of the Hispanic Resource Center; former Senior Community Director David Currie and Board Chair Gill Watt for United Way of Larchmont-Mamaroneck; along with firefighters, police, agency representatives and other key community leaders who all played such a vital role in the intensely collaborative effort to help storm victims put their lives back together following the April 07 flood devastation.

In order to most effectively get help to the residents that need it, Westchester County Government, which received the Partnership Award, has worked with United Way on a variety of initiatives, especially United Way’s 2-1-1 helpline. Shared initiatives also include help for youth and seniors. Westchester County Clerk Tim Idoni, Special Advisor to the County Executive, Susan Tolchin; Legislators Mike Kaplowitz and Bill Ryan, Judy Myers and Lois Bronz were there on behalf of the county government to receive the award for the outstanding partnership of the year.

For exceptional support of United Way and service to the communities of Westchester and Putnam, Nordstrom Inc., Westchester received the Corporate Leadership Award. Store Manager Chris Wanless, Maureen Tryon and Brian Pew accepted on behalf of the Westchester store. Nordstrom Westchester had not only increased its United Way campaign by 300%, but Nordstrom stores across the country are strong supporters of United Way’s community impact work.

The Mahopac Teachers Association received the Labor Leadership Award due to its enthusiastic community volunteering and fundraising efforts as well as its strong United Way campaign. Mahopac Teachers Association president Michael Hunt as well as representatives from the MTA were at the luncheon to receive their award, and were joined by Superintendent of Mahopac Central School District, Dr. Robert Reidy.

To a protracted standing ovation, Edgemont resident Dr. Glen Nygreen walked to the stage to receive the Volunteer Leadership Award from David Yawman. An empathetic and knowledgeable volunteer for United Way for more than 40 years and a member of the board of directors, Dr. Nygreen is also involved in other community organizations, including the Rotary Club. A retired professor and senior vice president emeritus for Lehman College, Dr. Nygreen was warmly recognized for his outstanding service to his community and the hundreds of lives he has touched. He was accompanied by his son, Ted, a fellow Rotarian; his family and friends.

Other awards, based on strong campaign support, were given to the corporations, organizations, individuals and communities that have helped United Way of Westchester and Putnam tackle the issues of most concern in our two counties. Their support has been critical to United Way’s ability to assess these issues, and get to the underlying conditions in order to create opportunities for residents that result in lasting, positive change in Westchester and Putnam.

United Way partners with organizations, government and businesses that share a common vision and commitment to resolve community problems, with measurable results. The Spirit of Caring Awards Luncheon honored partners that, with United Way, have invested in strengthening Westchester and Putnam. Return to the top of the page

Sleepy Hollow, NY – Two hundred 7th and 8th graders were treated to first-hand accounts from over two dozen professionals representing a wide variety of jobs for Career Day at Sleepy Hollow Middle School. The lawyers, photographers, interior designers, insurance brokers and other professionals talked with four classrooms of students for 20 minutes at a time, answering questions about college, salary, and career paths.

A program of Community School Initiative at the middle school, Sleepy Hollow’s the annual Career Day was launched six years ago by United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester Jewish Community Services, and the Tarrytown Unified School District.

United Way’s Community Schools Initiative is an extended-day program that keeps students on track at school through a caring network of tutoring, counseling and family participation. Positive intervention at this critical age can prevent youth from making the kinds of bad decisions that could damage their futures.

Several of this year’s career day participants are also members of United Way’s Young Leaders Society, a program for young professionals who want to get involved in community service and philanthropy. Some participants included (a full list is attached):

• David Yawman of Sleepy Hollow, board chair of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, is Vice President, Assistant General Counsel & Assistant Secretary of The Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. in Somers.
• Laura Rey Iannarelli of Sleepy Hollow, serves on the board of the United Way of the Tarrytowns and is part owner of Rey Insurance Agency, Inc. in Sleepy Hollow, where she is a member of Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce.
• David Rubin of Carmel, is Campaign Chair of United Way of Putnam, and a financial representative for Northwestern Mutual Financial Network.
• Brandon Bersch of Mahopac is a Financial Planner at Ameriprise Financial
• Cynthia De Carlo of Pound Ridge is an interior designer.

United Way’s Community School Initiative is currently in Sleepy Hollow Middle School, A.B. Davis Middle School in Mount Vernon, and is soon to open at Isaac Young Middle School in New Rochelle. The Community School Initiative in Sleepy Hollow is a program of Westchester Jewish Community Services in collaboration with Sleepy Hollow Middle School and sponsored by United Way. Return to the top of the page

On February 10, 2008, United Way of Pelham honored Susan and George Evans with the Outstanding Volunteer Award for their service in Pelham and beyond, for epitomizing the role and mission of United Way.  Over sixty people attended the afternoon reception held at the home of Lisa and John Kiernan.

Pamela Sloan, campaign co-chair, read the proclamation highlighting the Evanses’ service to their community of Pelham, United Way and regional non profits.  The reading concluded with, “Susan and George, we honor you today for your understanding of community, your advocacy for helping others and your philanthropy and recognize you as United Way of Pelham’s Outstanding Volunteers.”

Jeffrey Marcks, campaign co-chair, presented the Evanses with a jade crystal etched award with the inscription, “For your extraordinary dedication to improving the quality and availability of human services within our community.”  

Residents wishing information on or to join their neighbors in investing in United Way’s Community Impact may contact Kathleen Haverlack, community director, United Way of Pelham, P.O. Box 44, Pelham, NY 10803-0044, 914.997.6700 ext. 760 or khaverla@uwwp.org. Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY, January 11, 2008 – The Board of Directors of United Way of Westchester and Putnam has named Naomi L. Adler, Esq., 41, as the organization’s new President and CEO. Effective February 25, 2008, Ms. Adler will succeed Ralph Gregory, who is retiring after 26 years at the helm of the organization. Chairman of the Board Harry O. Bright said, “We welcome Naomi and her many talents, energy and determination to meet the challenge of further strengthening United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s efforts to most effectively tackle today’s complex community problems at their roots.”

Ms. Adler has been the president and CEO of United Way of Rockland County since May of 2001. Her leadership in working with underserved populations prompted the County of Rockland to name her a “Hero of Humanity.”  Also during her tenure, United Way of Rockland championed disaster relief efforts following the September 11, 2001 tragedy, which lead to a nonprofit effort dedicated to future disaster relief. Ms. Adler said, “I am very enthusiastic about the prospect of continuing United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s extraordinary work helping children and youth succeed, fostering financial stability, and strengthening families, neighborhoods and the community at large.  I look forward to forging new partnerships as well as strengthening existing relationships for a common purpose – to change lives for the better in our communities.”

The board search committee conducted an extensive search that included interview tours to gather input from leaders in the business community, health and human service agencies, government, labor, and other sectors throughout the two counties. The committee noted that Ms. Adler’s community activism, strategic alliances, and a forward-looking United Way community impact agenda ideally fit an organization serving a complex and diverse region. “Naomi’s strong track record in fundraising and relationship management are particularly important in our two counties’ competitive environment,” said Maren Hexter, co-chair of the United Way board search committee. Added co-chair Walter Hosp, “We know that Naomi’s leadership will further United Way’s community impact mission and provide corporations and individuals with the confidence that their investment in United Way is met with positive change in our community.”   

A former Monroe County Assistant District Attorney, Ms. Adler’s success in prosecuting cases of violence against women and children led to her appointment as director of the SAFE (Stop Abuse in the Family Environment) prosecutorial program. A personal and professional commitment to those who need help led her to fundraising at the Jewish Federation in Dayton, Ohio and Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where she was particularly successful in relationship building and raising major gifts.

A recipient of the Forty Under Forty award given by the Rockland Business World, The Rockland Economic Development Corporation and the Rockland Business Association, Ms. Adler is particularly well known for her skills in creating strategic alliances among community leaders of different sectors, leading to workable solutions that benefit the community. 

Retiring president and CEO Ralph Gregory said, “I’ve worked collaboratively with Naomi since she became CEO of United Way of Rockland County on several important projects. Naomi has been a tireless crusader for our Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1 information and referral helpline. Her strength has been her unflagging commitment to helping people and her ability to rally partners around a problem in order to produce real change. I know that Naomi will bring that same passion and drive to our area as she becomes the fourth president and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam in its 45-year history.”

Originally from Rochester, Ms. Adler graduated from Mount Holyoke College and SUNY Buffalo School of Law.

A graduate of Leadership Rochester and Leadership Rockland, Ms. Adler has been on a number of non-profit boards including the Hillel Foundation, NCCJ/National Conference, the Jewish Federation of Rochester, and the Women's Bar Association of New York.

She is currently serving on the boards of the United Way of New York State, the Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1 collaborative, the Community Foundation of Rockland and Rockland 21st Century Collaborative for Children & Youth.

Ms. Adler has received a number of honors, including several awards for her Rockland County disaster relief work in the wake of the September 11th tragedy as well as her role in establishing a Hate Crime Task Force in Ohio. Ms. Adler is also the recipient of The Doris S. Hoffman Outstanding Young/New Attorney Award for New York State by the Women's Bar Association of New York State for her "outstanding achievements within the profession and her significant contributions to her community." Return to the top of the page

(WHITE PLAINS, NY)  The Board of Directors of United Way of Westchester and Putnam unanimously elected David Yawman, Vice President, Assistant General Counsel & Assistant Secretary for The Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. (PBG), to Board Chair. His term begins immediately. 

Yawman, 39, succeeds outgoing Board Chair Harry O. Bright, Jr., who served the 41-member Board as Chair for four years.  Yawman’s appointment follows the announcement of Naomi Adler as United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s new President and CEO.  

“I am truly humbled to succeed Harry as Chair, whose deep caring for people exemplifies community service,” said Yawman.  “I look forward to working with Naomi and our highly committed Board.  I am confident that together we will find new ways to tap into our communities’ many resources in order to most effectively, efficiently and responsibly tackle the problems that concern our residents, and to create opportunities in our community that measurably change lives for the better.” 

“I am very excited by this partnership,” said Adler, who assumed her role as United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s CEO and president February 25th.  “Dave and I share the same vision and goals for United Way.  Coming from The Pepsi Bottling Group, a strong United Way supporter, he will bring a corporate perspective that will help extend our reach into the community.”

Outgoing Chair Harry Bright, a well-known community activist, volunteer and longtime United Way supporter, successfully oversaw the shift from United Way as a funder of agencies to a solutions-oriented community impact organization. “I know absolutely that Dave will bring a special kind of leadership to United Way as the organization’s positive impact on our communities continues to grow.  His energy and vision will be a great benefit to the organization as well as to the Westchester and Putnam residents that United Way serves.”

A member of the Board of Directors of the United Way of Westchester and Putnam since 2004, Yawman served as Secretary and as a member of the Executive Committee.  He is the former President of the Board of Directors of F.I.R.S.T., Inc., which merged its 2-1-1 operations into the United Way beginning in 2005.  Today, 2-1-1 is a free, confidential, multi-lingual information and referral telephone service that United Way operates in seven counties in the Hudson Valley.

At PBG, Yawman manages PBG’s corporate legal group, which has responsibility for all legal issues relating to SEC reporting, corporate governance, mergers and acquisitions, compensation & benefits, and intellectual property.  Prior to joining PBG in 2005, Yawman was a member of PepsiCo’s legal department for six years. Before joining PepsiCo, Yawman was an associate with the law firm of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson in New York City and served as a law clerk to a Federal judge in the US District Court of New Jersey. 

Yawman also sits on the Board of Directors of The Pro Bono Partnership, which provides free business legal services, educational workshops and other legal resources to nonprofit community-based organizations.    Return to the top of the page

(WHITE PLAINS, NY) United Way’s Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1 information and referral help line received its 50,000th call this month, a major milestone in its community reach and impact. The seven-county 2-1-1 collaborative is providing people in our area with free, confidential, professional assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in 150 languages.

Since its inception in September of 2005, 2-1-1 has fielded calls across the spectrum of human need, including calls for assistance resulting from local natural disasters such as the April 07 floods.  Through 2-1-1, 50,000 people in our region were connected to the resources, help and information they were searching for, such as child- and eldercare, legal services, tax assistance; substance abuse, domestic violence, and mental health counseling; volunteer activities, after-school programs, emergency food and shelter, and storm and flood updates.  The Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1 is a collaborative effort of the six United Ways of Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Westchester and Ulster counties, along with other community partners that include state and local governments, corporations and community leaders.

As was proven in the days shortly after its launch, when 2-1-1 answered hundreds of Katrina-related phone calls, 2-1-1 helps relieve 9-1-1 of the burden of non-emergency calls, especially during disasters such as flooding, hurricanes and snowstorms. The service saves callers time by offering personalized guidance and appropriate referrals to organizations that can truly help them. 

2-1-1 is funded by New York State, United Ways, local governments, foundations and numerous in-kind supporters. As budget cuts are currently under consideration, 2-1-1’s state funding could be in jeopardy. To sustain 2-1-1’s level of service it is essential that the state funding remain at its current level.

“2-1-1 has become essential to the communities it serves,” said Dr. Rosemary Calderalo, executive director of United Way’s Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1.  “I can’t think of a resource that helps so many people in so many different ways, literally around the clock.”

Nationwide, 2-1-1 covers 75% of the population, and has proved to be invaluable during natural and other disasters when other lines of communication were overtaxed or shut down.  In 2007, 2-1-1 helped almost 360,000 callers in New York.  “I would strongly suggest contacting your elected representatives to ensure that support for this essential service continues,” said Dr. Calderalo. Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY, January 21, 2008 - On Martin Luther King Day, six students were honored for extraordinary service to their communities following the principles of Dr. King at the seventh annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Luncheon held at the Doubletree Hotel in Tarrytown. More than 400 people attended the popular event, sponsored by the African American Men of Westchester, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Committee.

A result of a partnership of the African American Men of Westchester and United Way of Westchester and Putnam, and a wide range of youth-serving organizations, the purpose of the prestigious awards is to further Dr. King’s ideals by recognizing the young people of Westchester and Putnam whose lives reflect the teachings of Dr. King. Awards were given to the following young people for their extraordinary accomplishments:

• Building Bridges: Laurie Zane, Pleasantville
• Peace and Non-Violence: Renee McDougal, White Plains
• Social Action: Nnamdi Anuforo, Tarrytown
• Social Justice: Barron Bass, White Plains (Woodlands HS) and David La'Shannon, White Plains (Woodlands) (Shared Award)
• Spirit of Love: Derek Badger, Ossining
• Vision: Zachary Semenetz, Mahopac

Teen CEO Hezekiah Griggs III was the keynote speaker. Nineteen years old, Griggs built a successful video production company and created TRUE (Teens Reaching for a Unified Era) magazine. Realizing that teens often lacked the money to purchase products such as magazines, Griggs made the magazine free by successfully attracted dozens of corporate advertisers.

Admired for his business acumen and "make no excuses and get it done" attitude, Griggs is a popular national speaker. He was acknowledged by former U.S. President Bill Clinton and US Senator Frank Lautenberg, and has been featured in numerous magazines and newspapers and my local and national talk shows.

The Rev. Richard Dixon was also featured at the luncheon. Rev. Dixon, a friend of Martin Luther King Jr., accompanied Dr. King to Norway in 1964 to accept the Nobel Peace Prize.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Legacy Youth Awards Luncheon has become a highlight event on Martin Luther King Day, and the awards are increasingly competitive. The honorees are chosen from a pool of top choices for service excellence from over 200 youth agencies and faith-based organizations throughout Westchester County.

Russell Ross, Senior Vice President for Community Initiatives, United Way of Westchester and Putnam and co-founder of the MLK awards said, "This is a tremendous opportunity to promote Dr. King's core values as well as a United Way major area of emphasis - the importance of giving back to the community. The partnership and scope of the Martin Luther King Legacy Youth awards has had a major impact in promoting community service in youth through this wide-reaching and truly successful event."

Bill Carter, Assistant Director with the Westchester County Youth Bureau, concurred, "The legacy of Dr. King's teachings and action lives on through these young people who selflessly offer themselves, their time, and their hearts to improve the communities in which they live. It is a privilege to be a part of the committee that recognizes these young people's accomplishments and their deeds. It is also a privilege to honor Dr. Dixon for a lifetime of service to humanity promoting racial and social justice on the 50th anniversary of Dr. King receiving the Nobel Peace Prize." Return to the top of the page

On Sunday, February 10, 2008, United Way of Pelham will honor Susan and George Evans with its prestigious Outstanding Volunteer Award. The reception will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the home of Lisa and John Kienan at 645 Esplanade in Pelham. Pelham's board unanimously agreed to honor the Evanses at the board meeting on September 12, 2007 for their extraordinary commitment to United Way's mission of community impact.

As part of their commitment to United Way, Susan and George offered United Way of Pelham's first challenge match in 2004, inspiring others in the Pelham community, as well as leaders in United Way's fourteen other communities, to join them. This year, the Evanses and eight other members of the Tocqueville Society are offering a $200,000 challenge match for residents of Westchester and Putnam counties.

The Evanses have lived in Pelham for over 25 years, where they raised their two sons who graduated from Pelham High School. They have been members of the United Way Tocqueville Society of Westchester and Putnam, the most committed supporters of United Way, for over ten years. Susan is the current president of United Way of Pelham, for which she served as a board member since 2002. She also served as a board member of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, United Way of Pelham's parent organization. George was a member of the Tocqueville Society of Westchester and Putnam's steering committee.

In addition to their commitment to United Way, the Evanses support many other local and regional nonprofits as well as Williams College and Columbia Law School. Return to the top of the page