Supporting Families from the Start

Every family deserves a strong and stable start, and every family deserves to have someone in their corner when they welcome a new baby. That’s why Monroe County is committing $4.6 million in ARPA funding to support evidence-based, community-driven strategies that address racial and economic disparities in prenatal and postpartum care. These investments will expand access to critical services, strengthen care coordination, and build lasting systems of support for mothers and families. Funding will be directed to established community programs, enabling them to sustain and expand their proven work serving families across Monroe County.

Apply for 2026 Community Festival Funding 

Festivals play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for residents of Monroe County, and I’m proud that we’ve increased funding this year to help make the upcoming festival season the best yet. Applications for the 2026 Community Festival Funding Program are now open and will be accepted through April 13.

School Food Waste Diversion Program Applications Open

The Monroe County School Food Waste Diversion Program is now accepting grant applications for the 2026-2027 academic year from school districts that start or expand food waste programs like composting. Share this opportunity with your local school district to see if they are participating! Applications are due April 20 - apply here: 

Probation Department Body-Worn Camera Program

Monroe County Probation Officers confront many of the same risks and unpredictable challenges as their law enforcement counterparts. Equipping them with body-worn cameras will enhance officer safety during field visits, provide an objective record of client interactions, and support best practices in community supervision. This investment not only safeguards our officers, but reinforces our commitment to a safer, more effective probation process for the communities we serve.

Celebrating Irish American Heritage

This year’s Tops St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Flag Raising Ceremony was especially meaningful as we celebrated Irish American heritage alongside America’s 250th anniversary—and welcomed two-time Olympic gold medalist Chris Lillis. Thank you to the parade committee and to everyone who bundled up and came out to make it such a memorable day!

National Reading Month

March was National Reading Month, and I had the honor of serving as a guest reader at several elementary schools, helping to build strong reading habits. “What Do You Do with an Idea?” by Kobi Yamada is a personal favorite book of mine that encourages young learners that their ideas can change the world.

Lilac Festival Musical Lineup

For over 100 years, the Rochester Lilac Festival has made Highland Park a showcase for local musical talent. This year’s musical lineup continues the tradition, featuring nationally touring headliners and outstanding regional and community performers from Friday, May 8, through Sunday, May 17.

STOP DWI & Traffic Safety Awards Luncheon 

This annual award luncheon honors law enforcement, EMS professionals, county employees, and community partners who work tirelessly, often behind scenes and under challenging circumstances, to prevent impaired driving and save lives.Thank you for making our roads safer for everyone and your dedication to protecting our community every day.

Red Wings Opening Day

The Rochester Red Wings dodged the rain and took the field for their home opener at ESL Ballpark—nothing says spring like baseball (and a little unpredictable weather).Join me in cheering on our hometown team and wishing them an exciting season ahead. Let’s go, Red Wings!  

Helping Students Learn About Local Agriculture

Monroe County has a vibrant agriculture community, and to celebrate Agriculture Literacy Month, I partnered with 4-H Cornell Cooperative Extension to visit three local schools. I read “Seasons on the Farm” by Chelsea Tornetto and discussed how farms change throughout the seasons and different types of crops and animals.  

Learn More about Recycling

Earth Day is a reminder that simple actions—like recycling—can make a big difference for our environment. Throughout April, Monroe County educators will be out in the community, ready to answer your questions about local recycling programs, the Monroe County/WM Ecopark, and curbside recycling.

Monroe County Home Fair

We’re bringing housing resources directly to you! Join us at the Monroe County Home Fair to explore programs for first-time homebuyers, home repair grants, and affordable rental opportunities. The event will be held at Monroe Community Hospital on April 18 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

Be part of something BIGGER.

Work for Monroe County.

See our open opportunities.