Pamela Monaco sitting with her dog

Giving Voice Winter 2024: Giving Matters

Man and woman stand together

The Community Foundation’s 5forCNY initiative, which invites community members to give back to the region by setting aside a portion of their assets for Central New York charities, immediately resonated with Michael and Susan Meath.

Linda Verni Williams

When Linda Verni Williams first opened the Oneida Lakes Arts & Heritage Center (“the center”) in October 2021, she wasn’t sure anyone would show up. She had long dreamt of creating a central gathering place for artists and people of all ages to learn, share...

Erie Canal

John Winter's legacy as a devoted father, philanthropist, and advocate for marginalized communities lives on. We are honored to be the stewards of his charitable intentions and to continue his mission of making a positive difference in the lives of children.

Woman standing in front of statue

Gwen's parents grew up in the Jim Crow South and met while studying at North Carolina A&T, a historically Black college and university. Her father entered a segregated Army and her mother was a teacher. It is this keen awareness of the sacrifices and triumphs...

Headshot of Rhoda Sikes along with a photo of Onondaga Lake

Even well after her tenure ended at Heman Street Elementary School, Rhoda Sike's passion for teaching never wavered and she found a way to continue making an impact on students.

Pamela Monaco sitting with her dog

It was an “a-ha” moment for Pamela Kip Reisman Monaco when she read another woman’s story of leaving a planned gift to the Community Foundation.

Angel Winfield and Lance Lyons stand in front of the Rev Theatre Company in Auburn

Giving Voice Fall 2022: Donor Story

Aerial view of houses

Per household, the average value of assets set to transfer over the next 10 years is $79,700, so an average gift of $4,000 from each household could make a significant difference!

Caragh Fahy and her two sons stand in from of a playground

Caragh believes that building a financial plan is like putting together a puzzle and charitable giving is an important piece.