Mid-Hudson Works is hosting their 1st Annual Red, White, and Blue Tricky Tray!

Location: Pleasant Valley Fire Company, 1619 Main Street, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569

This fun-filled event will directly support Mid-Hudson Workshop for the Disabled, Inc. and North River Roasters Coffee Roastery, helping fund workforce development programs for veterans and individuals with disabilities. These programs provide hands-on training and real business experience, empowering participants with valuable skills.

Proceeds from the event will support Mid-Hudson Works' mission to provide workforce development opportunities for Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

With exciting prizes and a great cause to support, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Funds raised will help modernize programs, upgrade equipment, and enhance facilities to better serve the community.

Stay tuned for prize updates and event details!
Bring your friends and family, and join in on the fun while making a difference!

Call for Speakers: Join the Workforce Development Conference 2025

Are you ready to inspire change and drive innovation in workforce development? We are seeking dynamic speakers to share their expertise and insights at the Workforce Development Conference, a transformative event focused on addressing critical challenges and opportunities in today’s workforce.

Event Date: June 27, 2025
Location: Marist University, Poughkeepsie, NY

Speaker Tracks Include:

• Innovations in Housing: Explore accessible, affordable, and inclusive housing solutions through design innovations, policy advancements, and community-based models.

• Innovations in Employment: Discuss adaptive hiring practices, inclusive work environments, and entrepreneurial opportunities, focusing on expanding workforce opportunities across industries.

• Innovations in Technology & Education: Highlight the transformative role of technology in enhancing job accessibility and skill development for all abilities.

Why Present?

• Inspire an engaged audience of decision makers, workforce influencers, educators, industry leaders, and community members.

• Invest time in marginalized communities: low income, intellectually and developmentally disabled, veterans, foster youth, mentally ill, and others.

• Share your expertise and showcase your innovative work.

• Be part of a transformative event shaping community and workforce development across New York State.

Ready to apply?
Contact us at team@hvnexus.com to submit your application today. Let’s work together to drive innovation, foster inclusivity, and create opportunities for all. Apply by February 14, 2025 to assist in content strategy.

Rally in the Valley: Advocating for the Future of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

On Friday, March 7, join us for Jawonio’s Rally in the Valley at New York Boulders Stadium in Pomona, NY, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM EST. This two-hour outdoor event will unite families, advocates, and individuals who are committed to urging the Governor and New York State Legislature to prioritize investments in people with developmental disabilities and the vital services that support them.

Why Attend?

• Raise Your Voice: Stand with thousands of advocates to send a clear message that New York State must invest in its most vulnerable citizens.

• Support Essential Services: Highlight the critical need for sustainable funding to ensure continued care and services for individuals with developmental disabilities.

• Connect with the Community: Meet like-minded individuals and organizations dedicated to making a difference.

Hosted by Jawonio:

This important rally is hosted by Jawonio, a leading organization dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities. Jawonio provides comprehensive services to individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health challenges, and chronic medical conditions, striving to ensure they lead fulfilling and independent lives. Through advocacy, education, and community-building efforts, Jawonio continues to be a driving force for positive change.

Learn more about Jawonio and their critical work by visiting their website: Jawonio.org.

Details:

• Date & Time: Friday, March 7, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST (Doors open at 9:00 AM)

• Location: New York Boulders Stadium, 1 Phil Tisi Way, Pomona, NY 10970

• Free Venue Parking

• Outdoor Event: Dress warmly and comfortably to enjoy the rally in the open air!

This is more than just a rally, it's a call to action. Join us to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities receive the support and services they deserve. Together, we can make a difference!

As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of Community Nexus, we reflect on our journey of growth, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to the Hudson Valley. Over these years, we've become a vital hub for sharing resources and fostering a strong support network.

Sharing Resources

Our mission has always been to empower individuals and families by providing essential resources. Programs like "Be Your Own Boss," "Building Bridges," and "Gatherings for Social Impact" have equipped participants with skills, confidence, and connections. We've also prioritized creating a nurturing environment for families, especially those with children with special needs through the "Building Stronger Families" program.

Building a Support Network

Our success is a testament to the incredible network of supporters, partners, and community members. Together, we've created a vibrant ecosystem where everyone can thrive. Professional partnerships, educational alliances, and social connections have enriched our programs and fostered personal and professional growth.

Looking Ahead

As we look to the future, we remain committed to expanding our reach, embracing innovation, and strengthening our network. Thank you for being a part of Community Nexus. With your continued support, the next five years promise even greater achievements.

Here's to the future of sharing resources, building a support network, and empowering our community!

Join Us for Our Celebration!

To commemorate this milestone, we will be hosting a celebration on September 7, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. For more details and to register, please visit our event page.

Thank you for being a part of Community Nexus. With your continued support, the next five years promise even greater achievements. Here's to the future of sharing resources, building a support network, and empowering our community!

In the heart of New York lies a region brimming with natural beauty, historical richness, and a vibrant community spirit, the Hudson Valley. Beyond its picturesque landscapes and quaint towns, the Hudson Valley offers ample opportunities for individuals to give back and make a meaningful difference through volunteerism and community service.

Embracing Community Engagement

At its core, community engagement involves actively participating in initiatives that enhance the well-being of the local populace. Whether you're a long-time resident or a newcomer to the area, there are countless ways to get involved and contribute positively to the community fabric.

Volunteer Opportunities Galore

The Hudson Valley boasts a diverse array of organizations and non-profits dedicated to various causes, providing an extensive list of volunteer opportunities. From environmental conservation to social justice advocacy, there's something for everyone looking to lend a helping hand.

• Environmental Stewardship: Organizations like Riverkeeper and Scenic Hudson focus on preserving the region's natural beauty and safeguarding its waterways. Volunteers participate in clean-up efforts, habitat restoration projects, and educational initiatives to promote environmental awareness.

• Food Security Initiatives: Food banks and community kitchens, such as the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley and Dutchess Outreach, work tirelessly to combat hunger and food insecurity. Volunteers can assist with food distribution, meal preparation, and fundraising events to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry.

• Youth Mentorship Programs: Non-profits like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County and Ulster County strive to empower young people through mentorship and educational support. Volunteers serve as positive role models, offering guidance, encouragement, and friendship to children and adolescents facing various challenges.

links to these orgs or make a list of orgs we currently work with and also include links for those.

The Power of Community Outreach

Community outreach initiatives play a pivotal role in fostering connections, raising awareness, and addressing pressing issues within the Hudson Valley. By actively engaging with residents and stakeholders, organizations can amplify their impact and effect positive change on a broader scale.

• Public Health Initiatives: Local health departments and grassroots organizations collaborate on initiatives aimed at promoting wellness and disease prevention. From organizing health fairs to conducting vaccination drives, community outreach efforts help ensure that residents have access to vital healthcare resources and information.

• Civic Engagement Campaigns: Voter registration drives, town hall meetings, and community forums provide platforms for residents to voice their concerns, participate in decision-making processes, and hold elected officials accountable. By encouraging civic participation, community organizations empower individuals to become active agents of change in their communities.

Nurturing a Culture of Community Service

In a region as diverse and dynamic as the Hudson Valley, community involvement isn't just a one-time commitment, it's a way of life. By fostering a culture of service and volunteerism, residents can work together to address shared challenges, celebrate their collective achievements, and build a stronger, more resilient community for future generations.

• Volunteer Appreciation Events: Recognizing and celebrating the contributions of volunteers is essential for sustaining a culture of community service. Annual appreciation events, volunteer awards ceremonies, and social gatherings provide opportunities to express gratitude and foster camaraderie among volunteers and community members.

• Youth Leadership Development: Investing in the next generation of community leaders is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of volunteer efforts. Youth leadership programs, internships, and service-learning opportunities empower young people to develop valuable skills, cultivate empathy, and become active participants in shaping the future of their communities.

Conclusion

In the Hudson Valley, community involvement isn't just a choice, it's a calling. Whether you're passionate about environmental conservation, social justice, or youth empowerment, there are countless ways to make a difference and leave a lasting impact on the communities you call home. By embracing the spirit of volunteerism, community outreach, and engagement, residents can come together to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

In the realm of healthcare, direct care workers play a pivotal role in providing essential services to individuals in need. From nursing to home health aides, these frontline professionals are the backbone of our healthcare system. However, the direct care field is facing a crisis, characterized by workforce shortages and challenging working conditions. To address this pressing issue, it's imperative to mobilize communities through engagement and advocacy efforts.

Community Involvement: Engaging local communities is key to attracting individuals to direct care professions. Recruitment drives and informational campaigns can raise awareness about career opportunities in these fields. Moreover, establishing support networks within communities can aid in retaining workers by providing mentorship and resources for professional development.

Community Engagement: Active engagement with community members and organizations is crucial for understanding local needs and tailoring solutions accordingly. Conducting needs assessments and building partnerships with community-based organizations can inform targeted interventions and support initiatives. Raising awareness about the importance of direct care professions through educational campaigns can also garner community support for advocacy efforts.

Advocacy: Advocacy plays a vital role in driving policy changes and securing resources to support direct care workers. Advocacy organizations can lobby policymakers and mobilize grassroots support to influence legislation that improves wages, benefits, and working conditions. By building coalitions with stakeholders and amplifying advocacy efforts, we can collectively address the workforce crisis and promote meaningful change.

In conclusion, strengthening the direct care workforce requires a multifaceted approach that mobilizes communities through engagement and advocacy. By working together, we can empower direct care workers, improve the quality of care for vulnerable populations, and build a more resilient healthcare system for the future.

In the intricate web of human interactions, social dynamics play a pivotal role in shaping our lives, relationships, and communities. From casual conversations to collective endeavors, every interaction contributes to the rich tapestry of our social fabric. Let's delve into the nuances of five key components that define and drive our social world: social engagement, connection, interaction, gathering, and impact.

Social Engagement:

Social engagement encapsulates the active participation and involvement of individuals within their social spheres. It goes beyond mere presence, emphasizing the genuine interest, enthusiasm, and commitment people bring to their interactions. Whether it's volunteering for a cause, joining community initiatives, or participating in group discussions, social engagement fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, enriching both individuals and communities.

Social Connection:

At the heart of human experience lies the innate need for connection. Social connection transcends superficial acquaintanceships, encompassing deep bonds, empathy, and understanding. It thrives on authentic communication, mutual respect, and shared experiences, nurturing relationships that withstand the test of time. Cultivating meaningful connections not only satisfies our emotional cravings but also cultivates a support system that sustains us through life's ups and downs.

Social Interaction:

Every conversation, gesture, and exchange forms the building blocks of social interaction. Whether it's a lighthearted chat with a friend or a heated debate on pressing issues, these interactions shape our perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. Effective communication skills, empathy, and cultural competence enhance the quality of interactions, fostering mutual respect and harmony. Through continuous interaction, individuals learn, adapt, and evolve, contributing to the ever-evolving social landscape.

Social Gathering:

Social gatherings serve as the crucible where relationships are forged, memories are created, and bonds are strengthened. From intimate dinners to grand celebrations, these communal gatherings provide platforms for connection, celebration, and collective joy. Whether it's a family reunion, a cultural festival, or a neighborhood block party, these gatherings foster a sense of belonging and solidarity, transcending barriers of age, gender, and background.

Social Impact:

Beyond the realm of personal interactions lies the broader sphere of social impact. Every action, no matter how small, ripples through the interconnected network of society, influencing individuals, communities, and institutions. Whether it's grassroots activism, corporate social responsibility initiatives, or policy advocacy, social impact initiatives strive to address pressing issues, promote equality, and drive positive change. By harnessing the collective power of individuals and organizations, social impact endeavors tackle complex challenges, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

In essence, social engagement, connection, interaction, gathering, and impact are the cornerstones of our social architecture, shaping the way we relate to one another and the world around us. By fostering meaningful connections, embracing diverse perspectives, and championing collective action, we can harness the transformative potential of social dynamics to build a more inclusive, empathetic, and resilient society.

The Community Nexus Team

Community organizations play a substantial role in society. They introduce new ways of meeting people, spending time with people, and engaging in meaningful conversations that can change lives! Non-profit organizations not only care about the community as a whole, but each individual in the group. Community events can help organizations really focus on the people as individuals, and get to know what they really need in their lives, and what they can do to help everyone at the same time. 

Not just this year, but in the past 3 years, everyone’s lives have changed, or been impacted in one way or another. Lots of things during the pandemic made it a lot harder for many people to effectively communicate, work, and even live. Here at Community Nexus, we offer a variety of professional and social skills training programs, as we work with local schools and community organizations to create programs that are impactful, and effective, being tailored to the individual for their best results. We have many upcoming pilot programs ahead of us this year in community wellness, family services, and career & life skills that we can’t wait to see roll out into our communities!  

As we bring in the new year, make sure you reflect on this year, and remember everything you are grateful for, and what you can do as an individual, to get involved with your community. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who supported us through partnership, collaboration, and sponsorship to expand our existing programs and to facilitate the creation of 4 new pilot programs for individuals of all abilities as well. Once again, THANK YOU! 

Have a Happy New Year!

The Community Nexus Team

Caroline Angiello Begins Tenure as Community Nexus, Chairman of the Board

Community Nexus board of directors is pleased to announce the official start of Caroline Shenefield Angiello, LCSW-R as Chairman of the Board.

Angiello, who began her official duties earlier this week, will work together with Kristin Mayo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Executive Leadership Team, to enhance the system of care that Community Nexus provides to the children, adults, and families they serve each year, throughout the Hudson Valley Region of New York State.

Angiello brings more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit and private sector organizations. Most recently, she served as Assistant Director of Clinical Services, for Berkshire Farm Center & Services for Youth, for the Southern Region of New York State. She also held the role of Director of Clinical and Behavioral Services for Opengate Inc. 

Angiello earned her master’s degree in social work from Fordham University. She is a member of the New York State Society for Clinical Social Work. Angiello is the former New York State Parent Teachers Association (PTA) Special Education Chairperson.

“Caroline joins us at a transformational point in our organization,” said Kristin Mayo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Community Nexus. “We are confident that she is the right person to lead us in developing an infrastructure that will support us in continuing to provide care for those we serve – and guide us as we grow.”

“I am looking forward to jumping right in and getting to work with the team so we can continue to provide services to the children, adults and families that we serve.” said Caroline Angiello, “The Executive Leadership Team and I are committed to supporting the communities, while keeping an eye toward the future.”

The Community Nexus Team