Pathfinder Bank continues to support Fulton Block Builders

“Pathfinder Bank supports the community in countless ways” said Linda Eagan, Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Administrative Director.  “This year’s donation to the FBB program is critical in helping us reach our 2023 fundraising goal of $50,000. What’s equally important is the bank inspires its employees to be civically engaged- several employees are FBB volunteers.”

Jennifer Kaljeskie was recently promoted by Pathfinder Bank to Branch Manager in Fulton. “I’m just getting to know the Fulton community and have been very impressed with the friendliness of everyone I meet. My boys now play hockey in Fulton and the support has been outstanding. This is an impressive community and I’m proud to work for an organization that supports transformative initiatives like Fulton Block Builders.”

Pathfinder Bank believes their success is intertwined with the success of the communities served. For that reason, and because Pathfinder believes it is the right thing to do, the bank invests resources, time, and talents in those communities. Pathfinder Bank is proud to be the largest corporate sponsor of the highly impactful, community-driven Fulton Block Builders program.

Jennifer Kaljeskie, Pathfinder Bank Fulton Office Branch Manager, presents Fulton Block Builder Administrative Director Linda Eagan with a donation.

Fulton Block Builders announces new volunteers for 2023

The Fulton Block Builder (FBB) program has many opportunities for people to serve their community through this exciting new initiative. In 2023, FBB begins its seventh year, and more growth is expected. This year, Alan Baker, Shannon Sawyer, Vicki Hohman and Tracy Cavalier have stepped up to help the Fulton Block Builders. Each has been a participant in the program in the past and feel “It is time to give back!”

“The excitement in the city is strong, the pride is growing, and work is being done in every Ward,” said Linda Eagan, Administrative Director.  “From the start of this program, I have been amazed by the residents and businesses support. Every lofty goal we have set has been achieved and surpassed. I expect 2023 to continue in this manner and that’s why we are seeking more volunteers.”

Fulton Block Builders is proud to be a grassroots initiative. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Eagan at fultonblockbuilders@gmail.com or call 315-529-9181.

Fulton Block Builders welcomes four new volunteers for 2023. From left to right- Alan Baker, Shannon Sawyer, Vicki Hohman and Tracy Cavalier

N.E.T. & Die contributes to the Fulton Block Builder Program

N.E.T. & Die President and CEO, Michelle Shatrau has noticed the positive changes happening in the city of Fulton and wanted N.E.T. & Die to be a part of this success. “We are pleased to make a donation of $1,000 and support the Fulton Block Builderr (FBB) transformation initiative. We are proud to be a part of the City of Fulton and want to support projects that make the city a better place to live and work. “

Wanda and Len Langdon participated in the FBB program in 2022. They purchased a house that had been abandoned for 12 years and made an amazing transformation in just one year. “I grew up in Fulton but have been out of state for many years. I remembered what a great community Fulton is and convinced Wanda to move here. Thanks to FBB we have met somany neighbors and felt so welcome right from the start. We are hoping to have a neighborhood block party here when the pool is open. Can’t say enough good things about FBB” said Len.

N.E.T. & Die, Inc. is a third generation family-owned and operated CNC machine shop located in Fulton since the 1960s.  They provide custom, prototype, low volume production and repair machined products. They have manufactured large items such as staging equipment for cruise ships and Las Vegas casinos and small items like tank scopes for the military. With over 500 years of manufacturing experience, their team can provide unparalleled engineering support and machining expertise.

Linda Eagan, FBB Director said “the support of our local businesses has been heartwarming and inspiring. We welcome N.E.T. & Die’s support and thank them for their confidence in the work FBB is doing.”

The Fulton Block Builder project is dedicated to revitalizing Fulton’s neighborhoods one block at a time. The core feature of this approach is to build on strengths rather than just fix weaknesses. Property owners working together in one block builds community and generates confidence.  Pride is what comes through. Pride is the name of the game. It is the essence of stability which in turn is the backbone of good schools, a strong tax base, a vibrant civic and cultural life, and a thriving downtown.

From left to right are Fulton residents and FBB participants, Wanda and Len Langdon and Michelle Shatrau, President and CEO of N.E.T. & Die and Patrick Poyneer, Purchasing Lead.

Fulton Block Builders receive support from Dental Health Solutions

“Fulton Block Builders are very happy to announce Dental Health Solutions’ support of $450” said Ann Casey of the Fulton Block Builders (FBB) Fundraising Committee. “The support of local businesses is so important for us to reach our $50,000 goal and realize the entire Richard S. Shineman Foundation 2 to 1 match.”

Dr. Juan Lopez has seen the changes FBB is bringing to Fulton. Much like our businesses that strives to bring about improved natural beauty to your smile, FBB is beautifying life in Fulton. “I can see how FBB is lifting Fulton through the work that is being done. I honestly believe this is how we raise the pride for everyone living and working here” said Lopez.

Skill and compassion go hand in hand when providing exceptional patient care. Dental Health Solutions stays up to date on the latest advancements in dentistry to provide the most current treatment options for its patients. That is just one reason why the Dental Health Solutions team values each and every patient relationship.

If you’d like to learn more about Fulton Block Builders or donate, go to https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/

More information on Dental Heath Solutions can be found at: https://www.dentalhealthsolutionspllc.com/

Dr. Juan Lopez of Dental Health Solutions presents Ann Casey of Fulton Block Builders with a donation.

Compass Credit Union Supports Fulton Block Builders

Recently, Julie Tombolillo, Compass Federal Credit Union Fulton Branch Manager, presented Linda Eagan, Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Director, with a check for $500 to support FBB’s community revitalization grant program. “If you’re looking for credit unions in Fulton, NY, Compass Federal Credit Union is pointing the way to better tomorrows,” said Tombolillo. “As your credit union, we’re owned by account holders and loan recipients like you. That means that our goal is to best serve you. People living, working, or worshipping in the credit union's geographic area can become a member and access banking services. Membership is also open to immediate family of current members.”

Now that FBB is in its seventh year, Tombolillo added, “Compass can see a dramatic change in the look and attitude around the city. Therefore, Compass is proud to support this program.”

“In the six short years FBB has been in existence, Fulton residents’ confidence has grown so quickly that by 2022 residents have invested $3.3 million in their properties and families are once again choosing Fulton as a place to live, work, and play,” said Eagan. “Since its start in 2017, FBB has awarded 1,236 matching grants. Furthermore, this $500 donation from Compass will be compounded by the 2-to-1 match from the Richard S Shineman Foundation and the 4-to-1 match made by the participating residents. That’s a win-win-win!”

To make a donation, visit the FBB website at: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/donate/or by mailing a check to:

CenterState CEO Foundation Inc.-Fulton Block Builders

115 W. Fayette Street

Syracuse, New York 13202

Compass Federal Credit Union’s Branch Manager Julie Tombolillo gives Fulton Block Builder’s Executive Director Linda Eagan a donation for $500.

Huhtamaki Kicks off Fulton Block Builders Fundraising Campaign

Mark Southwick, Huhtamaki Plant Manager for Fulton Operations, presented Fulton Block Builders (FBB) Administrative Director Linda Eagan with a check for $3,000 to support FBB’s community revitalization grant program.

“Grounded in our core values of Care, Dare and Deliver, Huhtamaki believes it is important to do the right thing by each other and our customers: including the communities where we work and live,” said Southwick.

“FBB’s work aligns strongly with Huhtamaki’s beliefs. Therefore, Huhtamaki is proud to support this program. FBB is starting the seventh year of the program and Huhtamaki can see a dramatic change in the look and attitude around the city. Furthermore, this $3,000 donation will be compounded by the 2-to-1 match from the Richard S Shineman Foundation and the 4-to-1 match made by the participating residents. That’s a win-win-win!”

“In the six short years, Fulton residents have invested $3.3 million in their properties and families are once again choosing Fulton as a place to live, work, and play,” said Eagan. “FBB approved 25 blocks and 201 properties for grants in 2022. Since its start in 2017, FBB has awarded 1,236 matching grants. We are proud of our successes and thank our supporters, particularly Huhtamaki. Without this local funding, FBB wouldn’t be in existence.”

Please join all Fultonians by making your donation to rebuild our neighborhoods. Become a part of this exciting piece of Fulton’s history by donating to the 2022 Campaign today.

FBB donations can be made on the website at: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/donate/

Or by mail, send checks to:

CenterState CEO Foundation, Inc.

Fulton Block Builders

115 W. Fayette Street

Syracuse, New York 13202

Mark Southwick, Huhtamaki Plant Manager for Fulton Operations and Laurie Smith, Huhtamaki HR Assistant, present a check for $3,000 to Linda Eagan, Fulton Block Builders Administrative Director.

Fulton Block Builders Announce Start of 2023 Fundraising Campaign

The Fulton Block Builder (FBB) fundraising committee has announced the start of its 2023 Fundraising Campaign. Once again, the Richard S. Shineman Foundation has approved matching funds for FBB in the spring of 2023 following completion of the Campaign. In order to secure the entire Shineman award, FBB will strive to raise $50,000 by April 30,2023.

“2022 was another fantastic year for the Fulton Block Builder (FBB) program,” commented Reyne Pierce, FBB Fundraising Chair. “Nearly $625,000 was invested in Fulton’s participating properties! For every dollar invested by Fulton Block Builders, property owners invested four times that amount. Twenty-five Blocks were awarded Block Challenge Grants and Pride Grants. FBB supported 201 properties spread throughout the six wards of the city, 16 Landlords participated, and 11 homeowners used the historical color palettes available through Paint Fulton Grants. Pride Grants flourished to bring about age-friendly cultural events, beautification projects, park improvements and safe entries.

“Confidence is growing in the city, and it once again makes sense for residents to invest. FBB promotes pride of property ownership, incentivizes resident investment, and breaks the disinvestment cycle by reconnecting neighbors to each another. In the six short years FBB has been in existence, Fulton residents’ confidence has grown so quickly that in total, residents have invested $3.3 million in their properties and families are once again choosing Fulton as a place to live, work, and play.”

“You can keep that momentum going by supporting Fulton Block Builders in its aim to reach our $50,000 goal,” said Eagan.  “Every dollar goes toward a reimbursement fund for property owners who qualify for eligible improvements and for promotion of the program. Your contribution is tax deductible, thanks to our partnership with CenterState CEO Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit.

Please join all Fultonians by making your donation to rebuild our neighborhoods. Become a part of this exciting piece of Fulton’s history by donating to the 2022 Campaign today.

FBB donations can be made on the website at: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/donate/

Or by mail, send checks to:

CenterState CEO Foundation, Inc.

Fulton Block Builders

115 W. Fayette Street

Syracuse, New York 13202

Reyne Pierce, Fulton Block Builder (FBB) Fundraising Chair, and Linda Eagan, FBB Director, announce the start of the 2023 Campaign.

Fulton Block Builders Accepting Applications for 2023 Block Challenge

Fulton Block Builders (FBB) has announced details for its 2023 Block Challenge, a program that offers matching funds to each participating homeowner for exterior home improvements. The program encourages and rewards neighborhood groups to work together and reinvest in their own community.  The Block Challenge Grant’s Pre-Applications must be submitted by March 17. The Pre-Application is required in order to submit a Final Application.

To complete the Pre-Application, city residents must first form a neighborhood cluster with 5 to 15 property owners in close proximity. The group can include homeowners or landlords. The closer the clusters are grouped and the larger the number of participants, the more competitive the application becomes. Clusters that can be geographically "linked" with other participating clusters in an area become even more competitive. And clusters that develop a strategic plan for their neighborhood's continued revitalization in the future will be the most competitive. Once a cluster has formed, the Pre-Application process begins.

Once submitted, the Pre-Application is reviewed, and applicants work with their FBB Ambassadors, who assist neighborhood teams, to start the Final Application. At this time, detailed plans for each home project and a joint meeting with the cluster’s neighbors are reviewed with an FBB representative. Final Applications are due April 28. An independent panel reviews them and awarded blocks are announced by May 13.

The matching grant funding will cover up to 50% of the expenses for exterior property improvements. Aside from matching grant funding, participating homeowners have access to discounts from sponsoring hardware stores and garden centers.

Grant Applications are competitive. Not all applications can be funded, and the number of awards made is dependent upon funding levels and the number and quality of applications.

IMPORTANT DATES REGARDING 2023 Fulton Block Builders:

●        Pre-Qualification Forms due by Friday, March 17. Required in order to submit a Final Application

●        Final applications due by Friday, April 28

●        Awards announced Saturday, May 13

●        Kick off Dinner for Sponsors and Awardees TBD

●        August FBB Family Picnic TBD

●        Improvement projects must be completed by October 31

Pre-applications for the 2023 program can be found here: https://www.fultonblockbuilders.com/apply/ or call 315-529-9181

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