Fulton Block Builders (FBB) was founded in 2017, when Linda Eagan noticed the changes that were occurring in Oswego as a result of a program called Oswego Renaissance Association (ORA). She reached out to the ORA Director, Paul Stewart, who shared the Healthy Neighborhood concepts. It made so much sense; Fulton too needed to find a way back from the decades of decline.
Fulton Block Builders was formed to revitalize neighborhoods, block by block, and inspire pride and community camaraderie. FBB provides small grants to groups of homeowners to help them restore, beautify, and ultimately transform their block. But it is not just about planting flowers, hanging a new storm door, or trimming the hedges. Residents play a role in the decision-making process, the planning, and the implementation of neighborhood projects. They must apply as a group, help one another with projects, and plan at least one celebratory event. As a result, Fulton has experienced substantial transformations.
It is not time for those transformations to stop, but it is time for a leadership change. In 2024, Linda will mentor Tina Eusepi in her new role as FBB Director. “I have truly enjoyed every aspect of FBB, from the amazing volunteers, the incredible community support, The changes throughout the city, block-by-block, the Richard S Shineman Foundation's belief and grant sponsorship, BUT most of all, watching our community come back to a sense of pride and civic engagement! I am so proud of everyone and everything we have accomplished,” said Eagan. “ Tina Eusepi will take over as the FBB Director. She is highly qualified, understands completely the Healthy Neighborhood approach and LOVES what has been accomplished and is eager to do more. Tina was born and raised in Fulton, has been with FBB as a volunteer since its beginning, knows virtually everyone and can’t wait to get started.”
Tina responded with, "I am honored and excited by this opportunity to serve our community and our amazing volunteers as we enter the next phase of Fulton Block Builders. Together, we will build on the positive changes happening in our neighborhoods and throughout the city."
IMPORTANT DATES REGARDING 2024 Fulton Block Builders
City Informational Wednesday January 10, 2024
Pre-Qualification Forms due by Monday, March 18, 2024
Final applications due by Monday, April 29, 2024
Awards announced Friday, May 17, 2024
Kick off Dinner for Sponsors and Awardees Wednesday, June 5th, 2024
Summer Social- August 4, 2024
Improvement projects must be completed by October 31, 2024
Tina Eusepi, left works with Linda Eagan to take on the role of Fulton Block Builder Director