Press Releases

June 12, 2009 -- White Plains, NY – Westchester’s top leaders in income, banking, finance, and community issues gathered at Pace University’s Graduate Center on Wednesday for United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s first Income Forum. Community agencies, volunteers, and business leaders worked in collaboration with United Way to develop strategies that revolve around the most pressing issues in income facing families and individuals in Westchester County today.

In the morning’s plenary session, President and CEO Naomi Adler remarked, “It’s so important to have this Income Forum in light of the worsening economy and we thank you for lending your expertise. Issues this size and complexity can only be resolved by tackling and addressing them as a community. The collaborative brain power in the room today will be key to finding the most effective and workable strategies to actually move the needle on these key issues.”

The United Way Income Task Force, a dynamic group of business professionals and community leaders have worked, for the last four months, to determine the root causes and indicators for the most critical income issues affecting Westchester residents. Their work resulted in the following three goals to be discussed at the Income Forum:

1. Individuals in Westchester will be able to adapt to changing employment opportunities.
2. Individuals and families in Westchester will have adequate income to meet their basic needs.
3. Individuals and families in Westchester will gain and sustain assets that lead towards financial independence.

The goal of the forum is to create realistic strategies for these goals that United Way will work with in the next three to five years that will lead to measurable results. Adler said, “This is the dialogue we want to have and we want you to be pro-active and reactive.” At the end of June, United Way will ask all interested agencies to submit a letter of intent outlining how their agency’s programs could best work with the chosen strategies to achieve these income goals.

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

The Westchester Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) Board chaired by UWWP President and CEO Naomi Adler, has been chosen to receive an additional $258,461 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. These funds have been made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA).

The program meets the emergent needs of hungry and homeless people in Westchester County.

The program's objectives are:
• to allocate funds to the neediest areas,
• to ensure fast response,
• to foster public/private sector cooperation,
• to ensure local decision making, and
• to maintain minimal, but accountable, reporting.

This summer, United Way of Westchester and Putnam will convene the Local Westchester EFSP Board to determine how the ARRA funds are to be distributed among the emergency food and shelter programs run by local service agencies in the area.

Eligible applicants must: 1) be a private voluntary nonprofit or unit of government; 2) be eligible to receive federal funds 3) have an accounting system or an approved fiscal agent; 4) conduct an annual audit if awarded $25,000 or more in federal funds; 5) practice non-discrimination; 6) have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and shelter services; 7) have a voluntary board, if the applicant is a private voluntary organization.

In 2008, the Local Westchester EFSP Board distributed EFSP funds to 61 participating programs/agencies that were responsible for providing 306,550 meals, awarded 189 grants for rent/mortgage assistance and paid 35 utility bills.

Qualifying agencies are urged to apply by 5:00 P.M., Monday, June 1, 2009

Applications can be downloaded here. Further information on the program may be obtained by contacting:

Mary Ann Luna, EFSP Director
United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Inc.
336 Central Park Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
(914) 997-6700 ext.740 or email at mluna@uwwp.org

Media contact: Lynn Honeysett (914) 997.6700 X 720 Return to the top of the page

When:             May 11, 8:00AM-4:00PM

Where:            Doubletree Hotel Tarrytown, Tarrytown, NY

Who:               Presented by United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester Community Foundation and ArtsWestchester

Speakers:      NYS Governor David A. Paterson (luncheon keynote) and Thomas A. McLaughlin (breakfast keynote)

Contact:         Lynn Honeysett, SVP Marketing and Communications, United Way of Westchester and Putnam (914.997.6700 ext 720).

With funding cuts and donor resources plummeting, how does the nonprofit sector respond to the rising tide of human need resulting from job and health insurance losses, foreclosure, eviction and other by-products of the recession?

The seventh annual Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit will offer practical guidance, tools and inspiration for nonprofits struggling to meet the needs of the community. The keynote speakers will be New York State Governor David A. Paterson and Thomas A. McLaughlin, Director, Consulting Services, Nonprofit Finance Fund. Both keynote speakers will have a Q&A session from the nonprofit audience. Governor Paterson will answer questions from the media in the press room following his speech and public Q&A. The Not-for-Profit Leadership Summit usually attracts 800-1,000 nonprofits and other professionals from Westchester and surrounding counties.

Sixteen morning and afternoon NFP Leadership Summit breakouts and workshops will focus on everything from leveraging the volunteer talents of unemployed professionals to management tools for turbulent times, to crisis communication skills, to finding new donor markets, and more. Along with workshops and breakfast and luncheon presenters, an afternoon networking reception encourages further opportunities for discussion and exchange.

The fee for initial registrants is $30, and $20 for each additional person from the same organization. For more information or to register, please click here or call 914 997 6700 x 704 Return to the top of the page

May 6, 2009 - 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.

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 public health.  For the 2009-10 academic year, awards will range between $1,000 and $5,000. The application deadline is June 8, 2009.

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. Find out more. Return to the top of the page

White Plains, NY – A stellar group of nearly 100 experts in education and youth-serving organizations gathered at United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s first Education Forum to develop strategies in order to move the needle on three key education goals:

1. Children and Youth Are Academically Successful
2. Children and Youth Make Healthy and Safe Decisions
3. Young Children Enter School Prepared to Achieve

“You are the true education experts in our community,” declared Naomi Adler, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, to the group. “Your expertise will guide us to the strategies that can actually make measurable progress towards these education goals.”

The education goals were developed in response to a United Way community assessment conducted last fall that identified the most critical issues in Westchester. The Education Forum is one of three forums that United Way of Westchester and Putnam will be conducting over the coming year to tackle these critical issues. An upcoming Income Forum will develop strategies around financial stability. A forum on Health will follow late this year or early 2010.

The Education Forum took place on March 31st at Pace University’s Lubin Graduate Center in White Plains. Later this month, organizations will be invited to submit letters of intent to work collaboratively on the United Way education initiatives resulting from the Forum.

“We need everyone working together to meet these large, important community goals in education. We can’t do it alone, nor can any one agency or school address the social, academic, economic and environmental ingredients to a child’s success in school,” stated Ms. Adler. “With collaborative teams of partners focusing on several key initiatives we can establish benchmarks, measure our successes, find efficiencies and leverage organizations’ strengths. With this kind of community participation, and buy-in to the goals, we can move the needle on critical issues – to everyone’s benefit.” Return to the top of the page

(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

Board members participated in United Way of Pelham's annual phone-a-thon on November 14 at the office of Meridian Risk Management (Joe Solimine Jr., president), 629 Fifth Avenue. The evening began with dinner, compliments of Depot Market, 146 Fifth Avenue. Callers included Jeffrey Marcks, campaign co-chair, and Susan Reddy, past president. Missing from the photo were Christine Cowan, Jay Hays, Mark Minter, and Mary Quintin, phone-a-thon chair.

Residents wishing to join their neighbors in investing in the community may send a gift to United Way of Pelham, P.O. Box 44, Pelham, NY 10803-0044. Return to the top of the page

Former New York Giants blocking tight end, Howard Cross, was the special guest speaker at United Way of Northern Westchester’s Annual Leadership Dinner and Silent Auction at Crabtree’s Kittle House in Chappaqua on September 25th.  The annual event recognizes the generosity of United Way contributors in Northern Westchester.

Cross played with the New York Giants for 13 years in a franchise-record 207 games.  He has shown that same dedication to the community, working tirelessly on many charitable endeavors during his career with the New York Giants and since his 2001 retirement.

Cross has devoted many hours to the Colleen Giblin Foundation, which is dedicated to research in pediatric cancer and neurological disorders as well as assistance to patients’ families; My Sisters Place/Giants Courage House; Tomorrow’s Children’s Fund; Kids for Kids – Pediatric AIDS event and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He also continues to share his knowledge with young people on and off the football field, encouraging youth to stay in school and to focus on academics as much as athletics.

The Annual Leadership Dinner and Silent Auction highlighted the successes of United Way Community School at Sleepy Hollow Middle School.  United Way developed the Community Schools Initiative twelve years ago to create an environment in which middle school students can succeed, helped by a collaborative of academic, social and health service supports, and increased family participation.  Guest speakers included Sandra Ocasio, MS, founding director of the school; and Linda Breton, LCSW, MPA, the Assistant Executive Director for Community-Based programs at Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS). 

Residents wishing to join their neighbors in investing in initiatives that are producing significant results, such as helping youth achieve success through United Way’s Community Schools, may send a gift to United Way of Northern Westchester, P.O. Box 68, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Return to the top of the page

More than 130 people, including elected officials, business and civic leaders, residents and family members, turned out to honor Dick and Mollye Selinka and George and Norma Homer at United Way of New Rochelle’s annual Leadership Dinner.  Held on October 17th at Beckwith Pointe, the dinner was the first public event of the 2007-2008 campaign year and was the first time United Way of New Rochelle has honored two couples.  Both the Homers and Selinkas are longtime United Way supporters and have served the New Rochelle community in countless ways.

Ralph Gregory, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam (UWWP), presented the Community Award to Mr. and Mrs. Homer.  Marjorie Zimmerman, Co-Chair of the Dinner Committee, presented the Service Award to Mr. and Mrs. Selinka.  Both couples received proclamations from Mayor Noam Bramson, and from Assemblymembers Amy Paulin and George Latimer.

Mr. Gregory, who will retire on December 31st after 26 years at the helm of UWWP, was praised for his accomplishments by Angela Brock-Kyle, president of the United Way of New Rochelle board of directors.  Before presenting him with a proclamation from Mayor Bramson and a gift from the board, Ms. Brock-Kyle called Mr. Gregory a leader of “utmost integrity” and commitment. 

There was no shortage of exciting news during the course of the evening, including an announcement by Campaign Chair Frederick Wiener that several of United Way’s Tocqueville Society members ($10,000+ donors) had come together to establish a $200,000 two-county challenge match.  Among the donors contributing to the match are New Rochelle residents Meyer and Ellen Koplow.  Every new dollar raised during the 2007-2008 campaign will be matched dollar for dollar until the full $200,000 is consumed. 

During the cocktail hour and throughout the dinner, guests were able to purchase raffle tickets or bid on a wide array of gifts donated by local businesses.  Among the highlights were a work of original fiber art created, and donated, by Leni Levenson Wiener and a Judith Ripka necklace donated by Talner Jewelry.  Pink chrysanthemum plants graced the tables, courtesy of Rose Hill Nurseries, while corsages and boutonnières for the honorees were donated by Michael’s Floral Craft.  Dinner music was provided by New Rochelle High School student Dana Mancuso, who sang popular standards along with one of her own compositions.  Rosemary Calderalo, Executive Director of Hudson Valley 2-1-1, United Way’s free, confidential information and referral hotline, was the guest speaker. Return to the top of the page

During a board meeting on October 10 at the home of Mary and Stephen Quintin, Jeffrey Marcks and Pamela Sloan, co-campaign chairs of United Way of Pelham, announced that Susan and George Evans have joined eight Tocqueville Society members – the most committed supporters of United Way of Westchester and Putnam – to create a $200,000 challenge match.  Susan is Pelham’s president and George is a member of the Steering Committee of the Tocqueville Society. 

The Celebration Year Challenge Match is a dollar for dollar match for new gifts and gift increases.  All fifteen local United Way communities, which include Pelham, have the opportunity to draw down the $200,000.  Pelham’s board is asking its supporters to increase their gifts this year and for Pelhamites to make a first-time gift so that United Way of Pelham may receive matching dollars towards its community campaign.  An enclosed United Way brochure explains how the work of United Way re-ignites hope in the community by creating the opportunities that change lives for the better.

Members of the United Way Tocqueville Society of Westchester and Putnam underwriting the match are Barbara and Giles Kemp, lead gift, Scarsdale; Marigold and Robert Bischoff, chair of the Tocqueville Society, Sleepy Hollow; Ellan and George Batavick, Harrison; Susan and George Evans, Pelham; Anita and Michael Hegarty, Briarcliff Manor; Maren Hexter, Armonk; Ellen and Meyer Koplow, New Rochelle; Gay and William McCreery, Scarsdale; and Laurie and Thomas Saylak, Scarsdale.

The challenge match is in celebration of the 45th anniversary of United Way of Westchester and Putnam; retiring CEO and President of United Way of Westchester and Putnam Ralph A. Gregory’s quarter century of service; and the 20th anniversary of the Tocqueville Society of Westchester and Putnam.

For further information on the match, contact Kathleen Haverlack, vice president, major gifts and gift planning, 997-6700, ext. 760 or khaverla@uwwp.org  Residents wishing to match dollars from the Celebration Year Challenge Match may send a gift to United Way of Pelham, P.O. Box 44, Pelham, NY 10803-0044. Return to the top of the page

United Way Kicks off "Celebration Year" for its 07-08 Annual Campaign

Celebrating a 45th anniversary and the announcement
of a record-breaking $200,000 challenge match

October 5, 2007 (Rye Brook, New York) Yesterday United Way of Westchester and Putnam kicked off its 2007-08 annual campaign, with a look back at 45 years of community involvement as well as forward to furthering its community impact thrust.  Ralph Gregory, President and CEO of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, who will retire at the end of 2007 after 26 years as United Way’s head, led the audience through a series of video clips and live interviews highlighting the ways in which the two counties and their residents were helped by United Way and its partners from its inception in Westchester in 1962.  During his tenure Gregory has been instrumental in creating transformational initiatives that have strengthened the community on dozens of fronts, notably United Way’s Hudson Valley Region 2-1-1 24/7 information and referral hotline.

The goal for the 2007-08 campaign year is $13,000,000. An impressive challenge match was also announced, the largest in United Way of Westchester and Putnam’s history.  Leading the way again this year, Barbara and Giles Kemp of Scarsdale offered a $117,000 challenge match gift.  The challenge grant was increased to $200,000, led by Robert Bischoff, the new United Way Tocqueville Society chair, and other Tocqueville Society members. Members of the United Way Tocqueville Society donate $10,000 or more annually.

 “The commitment our leadership donors have shown to United Way’s community impact strategy is deeply gratifying,” said Gregory. “Their serious investment is a testament to United Way’s capabilities to rally our partners around, and answer to, complex community problems.”

The challenge can be drawn down by any new gift or any increase in a gift by a local community United Way donor.  There are 15 local community member United Ways of United Way of Westchester and Putnam that work with a range of partners to address their communities’ serious challenges, such as a lack of affordable housing, childcare and healthcare, with the end result of changing lives in for the better. Return to the top of the page

Supporters Will Be Honored as United Way Highlights Youth Intervention Initiatives

United Way will be honoring long-time leadership donors from the greater White Plains area at its Autumn Splendor Celebration Dinner on Wednesday, October 3, 2007 at Westchester Hills Golf Club in White Plains.

Among those being honored for their generous support of United Way through the years are: Melvyn Bergman, Hartsdale; The Rev. John Davis, White Plains; Kevin and Marla Dierking, White Plains; Ann & Robert Edwards, White Plains; Robert and Bernice Lowell, Hartsdale; Ed & Mary Beth Morrissey, White Plains; Dawn Patterson, Hartsdale; Majorie and Harry Phillips III, Hartsdale; Chester & Barbara Ross; White Plains; and Syd and Joan Silverman, Rye.

During the dinner United Way will celebrate several success stories from its Youth Intervention Initiative. By partnering with youth-serving agencies and schools, United Way helps children and teens with emotional and social problems to develop positive values and constructive coping skills through conflict-resolution training, mental-health counseling, and mentoring programs.

Cocktail hour begins at 6:00 PM; the program and dinner at 7:00.  United Way’s Autumn Splendor Celebration is made possible by the generosity of the following event sponsors:  Radio Computing Services; The College of Westchester; Century 21 Wolff; Concept: CARE; Kensico Cemetery;  White Plains Hospital Center; Barback, Uliano and Company; Ferncliff Cemetery Association; PARACO GAS; and Pragmatix.

For more information, or to make a reservation, please call (914) 997-2385. Return to the top of the page

Volunteers "Dig" United Way Family Day

On a chilly, but sunny fall day, seven adults and five children got their hands dirty—literally—to plant a spring garden for senior citizens living in a group home in Thornwood. The Sunday afternoon bulb planting was one of several “Family Volunteer Day” activities held over the past year by the Young Leaders Society of United Way of Westchester and Putnam. Other activities have included a family night at the Ossining Children’s Center; and sorting donated food for the Mt. Kisco Interfaith Food Center.  The October 28th garden spruce-up was organized with the help of one of United Way’s agency partners, A-Home, which developed and runs the home for seniors with disabilities.

For Lara Morrison, an avid gardener and co-chair of the event, United Way’s Volunteer Day was truly a family affair.  Her husband Scott, president of United Way of Northern Westchester, hauled mulch.  Their children, Andrew, 9 and Samantha, 7, planted a variety of flower bulbs and raked the garden beds smooth.  Morrison noted “This is the perfect way to spend time together as a family, and serve the community at the same time—both important values to pass on to our children.”

After planting 180 narcissus and daffodil bulbs in two garden beds, the United Way volunteers lined up, shovels and rakes in hand, for a photo in front of their work.  Though a long way off, it was not hard for the families to imagine the smiles that would greet the blooms next spring.

As a member community of United Way of Westchester and Putnam (www.uwwp.org), United Way of Northern Westchester works throughout the year to support United Way’s mission: bringing together people and resources to address the underlying causes of our area's most pressing health and human service issues, and creating positive and lasting change in the lives of those who live and work here. For more information about Family Volunteer Days, the Young Leaders Society, or United Way of Northern Westchester, call Sarah Moore at 997-6700, ext. 725. Return to the top of the page

United Way of New Rochelle to Honor Local Leaders
Celebrating Community Service in the Non-Profit and Business Sectors

United Way of New Rochelle, a member community of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, will hold its 2007 Leadership Dinner on Wednesday, October 17th at Beckwith Pointe.  For the first time, the organization will honor two sets of distinguished community residents: George and Norma Homer of Murray, Schoen & Homer will receive the Community Award, and Richard Selinka, a United Way of New Rochelle board member, and wife Mollye will receive the Service Award.  Both couples are longtime United Way supporters and have served the New Rochelle community in countless ways. 

A veteran of World War II, Mr. Homer joined the insurance agency of Murray, Schoen and Morgan (now Murray, Schoen and Homer) in 1954.  After the death of Phillip Murray in 1963, Mr. Homer acquired the agency and a new employee: his wife Norma, who worked part-time and attended classes to learn the insurance business.  The company now employs 16 people, including the Homers’ son Robert and daughter Leslie. 

Mr. Homer is the past president of the Independent Insurance Agents Association of Westchester County and a recipient of its prestigious Fred Dayton Award.  He has also served as the president of the Rotary Club of Larchmont, president of the YMCA of Mt. Vernon and on the board of United Way of Westchester and Putnam, among other professional and community organizations.  He currently volunteers as a board member of the Larchmont Rotary Club and serves on the Executive Committee of the YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester.  He received his bachelor’s degree from Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

Norma Homer also received her bachelor’s degree from Gettysburg College.  She was the first woman to serve as president of the Independent Insurance Agents Association of Westchester County as well as the Downstate Council of Insurance Agents, and has also received the Fred Dayton Award for Outstanding Agent and Community Involvement.  She is the past chairperson and current board member of VNSW and of hospice.  Mrs. Homer has also been active with the Mamaroneck PTA and the League of Women Voters.  Both George and Norma Homer are leaders in the Larchmont Avenue Church.  In addition to Robert and Leslie, they have a daughter, Pamela, who is a college professor in California.

Dick and Mollye Selinka are long-time community activists with deep roots in New Rochelle.  In addition to his membership on the United Way of New Rochelle board, Mr. Selinka serves on the boards of the New Rochelle Opera, Great Potential at SUNY Purchase, the Guidance Center, and the New Rochelle High School Fund for Educational Excellence.  He has also served as Vice President of the Jewish Community Center of Mid-Westchester. Dick and Mollye have also established scholarship funds at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa, and at the University of Vermont.  

Born in New York City during the Great Depression, Mr. Selinka earned his bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Drake University and a graduate degree in banking from New York University.  Over the course of his long career, he applied his knowledge of finance to the retail, restaurant and manufacturing sectors, and also worked in the production end of the entertainment world.  A license pilot, Mr. Selinka flew all over the country for business.

Mrs. Selinka was born in Zanesville, Ohio.  After her marriage, she worked with her husband in his retail ventures while rearing two daughters and a son.  Mrs. Selinka has been active in ORT America, a non-profit organization that raises funds for World ORT, a global network of schools and training programs. 
Mr. and Mrs. Selinka have been married for more than 50 years and have lived in New Rochelle for 40 years.  Their daughters live in New Rochelle and New Jersey and their son lives in California.  Mr. and Mrs. Selinka also have five grandchildren.

The Annual Leadership Dinner will be the first public event of United Way of New Rochelle’s 2007-2008 campaign year.  Rosemary Calderalo, Executive Director of Hudson Valley 2-1-1, will be the special guest speaker.  Students from the New Rochelle High School Performing and Visual Arts Education (PAVE) program will provide background instrumental music during the dinner.  For information regarding tickets, sponsorships, journal ads or making a donation to the Silent Auction, contact Denise Woodin at 632-4213. Return to the top of the page

United Way of The Tarrytowns Held Top Chefs in Sleepy Hollow Country with Wine Tasting

On October 2, 2007, United Way of the Tarrytowns held its annual benefit “Top Chefs in Sleepy Hollow Country, An Evening of Culinary Talents with Wine Tastings” at Abigail Kirsch at Tappan Hill Mansion, Tarrytown, NY. 

Lead corporate sponsors included Abigail Kirsch at Tappan Hill Mansion, Hitachi America, Ltd., Marriott Westchester and Proftech Office Products as Diamond Chefs; The Rey Insurance Agency, Inc. as Platinum Chef; and M&T Bank and Union State Bank as Gold Chefs. 

Local participating restaurants with their executive chefs included Abigail Kirsch at Tappan Hill Mansion, Café Kandoor, 80 West at the Renaissance Westchester Hotel, Equus Restaurant at the Castle on the Hudson, Harvest Grille/The Tavern at the Marriott Westchester, Jack & Dyl’s Restaurant, Mint Premium Foods, River City Grille, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse at the Marriott Westchester, Striped Bass, Sunset Cove, and Tarrytown House Estate & Conference Center.

Grape Expectations, Tarrytown, arranged the wine tasting and Coffee Labs Roasters, Tarrytown, offered hot beverages.

Many local restaurants, hotels and shop owners donated prizes to the raffle and silent auction.

During the program, the local board of United Way of The Tarrytowns honored Ralph A. Gregory, President and CEO, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, for his twenty-six years of service.  Mayor Drew Fixell, Village of Tarrytown, and Mayor Philip Zegarelli, Village of Sleepy Hollow, made presentations and declared October 2, 2007 as Ralph A. Gregory/United Way Day.  Superintendent Howard Smith spoke on Mr. Gregory’s and United Way’s work in creating the Community School Initiative at the Sleepy Hollow Middle School.

Local board members who served on the special event committee were Co-Chairs Anne Marie Basher and Herbert Hennas, President R.F. Windas, and Board Members Laura Rey Iannarelli and Marian Randazzo.

Top Chefs is the kickoff for the 2007-2008 local campaign for the Tarrytowns.  Marian A. Randazzo is the local campaign chair.  Residents and businesses wishing to join their neighbors in supporting critical community services may send a gift to United Way of The Tarrytowns, P.O. Box 564, Tarrytown, NY 10591-0564.” Return to the top of the page

United Way Supports Chappaqua High School Scholarship Program

Chappaqua, NY. It’s a sweltering August afternoon and while many teenagers are at the pool or relaxing with friends at the mall, students in the Chappaqua Summer Scholarship Program (CSSP) have been in class all morning.  They are a select group of just over a dozen New York City high school students who are attending Horace Greeley Summer School for three consecutive years, an experience that has led many to enroll in Ivy League universities and pursue careers in engineering, law, and education.

This summer, a Local Presence grant from United Way of Northern Westchester helped CSSP cover tuition costs and cultural activities for students in the program.  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.    

“The Local Presence grant program, led by volunteers with United Way of Northern Westchester, seeks to identify local programs that have a special impact right here in our community. It supplements the critical work that United Way is doing throughout the county through strategic partnerships and initiatives that address pressing human care concerns,” said Local Presence Chair, Edward Zapson of Granite Springs.  This year’s grantees included CSSP, Family Ties in Mount Kisco, The Field Library in Peekskill, and Caring for the Homeless of Peekskill. Return to the top of the page

County Executive Andy Spano to Speak at United Way Event

Westchester County Executive Andrew J. Spano will be the guest speaker at United Way of Scarsdale-Edgemont’s annual Leadership Appreciation Reception, which will be held on Sunday, September 9th at the Scarsdale home of David and Cheryl Bunzel.  As the first public event of United Way of Scarsdale-Edgemont’s 2007-2008 campaign year, the reception is expected to draw over 125 civic and business leaders, community residents and major contributors.

County Executive Andrew Spano took office in January 1998.  Since that time, he has initiated dozens of programs to improve the quality of life in Westchester and protect children and families. He has also supported programs that protect the environment, encourage affordable housing, combat domestic violence and enhance the security and safety of all county residents.  Prior to his career in government--Mr. Spano also served as Westchester County Clerk from 1982-1994-- he spent 25 years in public education where he distinguished himself as a teacher, counselor, and administrator, serving children with special needs.

Michaeline Curtis, Chair of United Way of Scarsdale-Edgemont, noted “United Way and Westchester County have been partners on many initiatives over the years, including the 9/11 Family Response Center; the Partnership for Affordable Childcare; the 2-1-1 information and referral hotline; and most recently, a disaster recovery fund to assist Westchester County residents affected by last spring’s devastating floods.  We are delighted and honored to have County Executive Spano as our guest speaker.”

Rosalyn Binday, President and Campaign Chair of United Way of Scarsdale-Edgemont added: “Through his government service, and his work as an educator, Mr. Spano has shown his commitment to resolving the kinds of human needs issues that are at the h