Place-Based Empowerment

Provides financial support and volunteerism to advance humanitarian, educational, and community causes.

Acts as a liaison between downtown business members and the City of Auburn, Cayuga County, and other public entities to advocate for policies and resources supporting downtown economic vitality.

Funds programs that serve approximately 30,000 people annually in Cayuga County through grantmaking initiatives.

Operates and promotes a self-guided public art walking trail featuring over a dozen mosaics, murals, and sculptures in downtown Auburn, including the co-development and installation of public art such as the Thommie Walsh mural on Dill Street; provides printed and online maps with photos and video segments to guide visitors.

Operates a beautification crew that cleans downtown streets and parks, and manages an annual flower program that plants and maintains over 100 flowerpots, flower beds, and 120 hanging baskets across downtown Auburn parks and streets each summer.

Plans and hosts special events and festivals to promote community engagement and economic vitality, including First Fridays, the Crow Cawcus Convention, the Memorial Day Food Truck Rodeo, the Alter Ego Fashion Show, and the Annual City Tree Lighting.

Hosts workshops and training events on grant seeking, proposal writing, nonprofit governance, and fundraising; operates Leadership Cayuga, a leadership development program that trains community members to become informed and active civic leaders.

Markets and promotes existing downtown businesses in Auburn, NY, and supports the establishment of new businesses through targeted outreach and directory services, including listings for local barbers, spas, and salons.

Operates the Finger Lakes Grants Information Center, which provides public access to grant-writing resources, databases, and technology to help local organizations identify and apply for funding from foundations, government, and other funders.

Provides financial support and platforms to organizations serving Western New York, with a focus on youth hockey, underprivileged and disadvantaged youth, military personnel, and physically and mentally challenged athletes.

Provides financial distributions to the Town of Alstead, New Hampshire, to support municipal purposes and ensure long-term community stability.

Provides financial support to local organizations that deliver essential goods and services to low-income and vulnerable populations in New York City.

Engages in community development and improvement activities in Wellsville, NY, focusing on local economic and social revitalization efforts.

Provides financial support to local charities and community-based organizations in the Long Island area to support their operations and programs.

Organizes an annual Pumpkin Park Event and invites local nonprofits to apply to participate, providing them with a platform to engage with the community.

Hosts drone light shows featuring 100 drones forming aerial displays up to 350 feet in altitude, with each show lasting 10 minutes.

Organizes recurring DJ events titled "Party on The Midway" held on select Saturdays from 5 PM to 9 PM.

Hosts weekly appearances by princesses and superheroes for photos, dancing, and interactive experiences with guests.