Pictured above: The Haven at Skanda | Picture by: Ben Cleeton

Two women standing — *BEA GONZÁLEZ AND MELANIE LITTLEJOHN*

DEAR FRIENDS,

Taking the helm of an established community organization is both a privilege and a tremendous responsibility. As I reflect on my first year of leadership here, I feel deeply grateful for all I have learned and experienced. This year has been one of listening to the hopes and needs of our neighbors, leaning on the support of family and friends, and leading alongside inspiring colleagues and dedicated community partners.

It has been filled with challenges, yes — but also with countless moments of joy, gratitude, and inspiration that far outweigh the trials. More than anything, what I carry forward from this year is a deep sense of hope. Your generosity gives me hope. Your resilience strengthens it. And your smiles and stories remind me why this work matters every single day.

Our region is on the cusp of exciting, transformative change. With so much ahead of us — new opportunities, growing industries, and shifting landscapes — it can feel daunting to know where to focus our energy. But everywhere we look, there are signs of progress: cranes dotting the skyline, shovels breaking ground, and communities imagining what’s next. Just as roadwork can reroute our daily commutes, sometimes we need to forge new pathways to arrive at our desired destination. We may encounter roadblocks and bumps along the way. We may even need to pull over and ask for directions. The path to progress may not always unfold in a straight line, but together, we can chart a course toward a stronger, more vibrant Central New York.

Like Ted Lasso, I believe in hope. But hope alone is not enough — it becomes powerful only when paired with action. Together, we are already laying the groundwork for lasting change. By staying true to our mission of building a community where everyone has equal access to opportunity, we are turning this hopeful moment into positive momentum.
We already have a solid foundation, and with your partnership, we can transform our region to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all who call Central New York home.

With gratitude and optimism,

Signature