Catharine Street, Inc. receives $10,000 Grant from Ulster Savings Bank Foundation

Catharine Street, Inc. is pleased t o announce that it has received a $10,000 grant from the Ulster Savings Bank Foundation to launch a new community initiative focused on capturing, preserving, and sharing the stories of local residents whose experiences have helped shape the Greater Poughkeepsie/Dutchess community. The project will create opportunities for young people to connect with community leaders, longtime residents, and local change makers through interviews, conversations, and storytelling activities that celebrate the values of service, leadership, perseverance, and civic engagement.

For over 35 years, Catharine Street’s project has honored those same values through its Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Breakfast, which brings together residents from across the region to recognize individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the community and to support educational opportunities for local students. “This project reflects the very spirit of what Catharine Street has stood for throughout its history-bringing people together, learning from one another, and investing in future generations,” said Anita Jones, President of the Board of Directors. “We are grateful to the Ulster Savings Bank Foundation for recognizing the importance of preserving community stories and ensuring that young people have the opportunity to learn from those who came before them.

Through this project, we hope to celebrate voices from our past while inspiring young people to see themselves as future leaders and active participants in their community.” The initiative will document local stories of leadership, resilience, service, and community involvement while creating meaningful connections between generations. The project aligns closely with the Ulster Savings Bank Foundation’s commitment to strengthening communities and supporting initiatives that improve quality of life throughout the Hudson Valley.

Catharine St., Inc. extends its sincere appreciation t o the Ulster Savings Bank Foundation for its partnership and investment in preserving community heritage while helping to build a brighter future. More details about the project will be announced in the coming months.

About Catharine Street Program (Formerly the Catharine Street Community Center)

Since 1922, Catharine Street Community Center has worked to strengthen children and families through programs and initiatives that promote leadership, educational opportunity, and civic engagement. The organization’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Breakfast remains one of its signature events, celebrating community service while supporting opportunities for local students. I n 2022 the Center rebranded to become Catharine Street, Inc. while continuing t o carry on its mission to support children and families.

(Courtesy Photo: Valerie Belton, Wappingers Branch Manager with staff from Ulster Savings Bank Anita Jones, Catharine St, Inc. Board President with Darcy McCourt, Board Member & Shirley Adams.)