Connecting Communities in Action in Your Neighborhood

(August 2026 Edition)

CCA Builds Resilient Communities By Helping People Achieve Economic, Physical, and Emotional Security.

Your source for staying up to date with CCA's latest programming, happenings, stories, and more!

STUDLEY'S SPOTLIGHT


As I sat down to write this quarter's Studley Spotlight, it's hard to believe we're already deep into summer. The days seem to move a little faster this time of year, especially when there is so much happening across CCA.


One thing I know for certain: our team doesn't slow down just because the temperatures go up.


In June, CCA held our Annual Board Meeting where our private sector representatives were up for reappointment, and we officially reseated our Board of Directors. I want to thank our board members for their continued service, leadership, and commitment to our mission. Strong boards help build strong organizations, and we are fortunate to have individuals who care deeply about the communities we serve.


On July 16, we participated in GIVE716, a day dedicated to supporting local nonprofits and strengthening our communities. To everyone who donated, shared our mission on social media, told a friend about CCA, or simply helped spread the word, thank you. Your support allows us to continue creating opportunities and changing lives.


July 16 was also a busy day for another reason. Members of our C-Level leadership team, along with several members of our Board of Directors, met with Senator George Borrello, Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski, and members of their staffs. These conversations are incredibly important. They provide an opportunity to share not only the successes we achieve as a TEAM, but also the growing challenges and pressures facing nonprofit organizations.


Collaboration and representation matter. We appreciate their willingness to listen, engage, and support the important work being done. Progress happens when people come together around a common purpose, and we are grateful for those partnerships.


Of course, summer at CCA wouldn't be complete without one of my favorite traditions, our Annual Staff and Family Picnic. This is a chance for staff to step away from their desks, computers, meetings, emails, and the occasional "I've got just one more thing to finish before lunch" moment. It's an opportunity to relax, connect with one another, and strengthen our TEAM outside the office walls.


There is something special about seeing co-workers become cornhole champions, hearing kids tell you what their parents really do at work and enjoying a few hours where the only deadlines involve getting to the food table before the food disappears.


August also brings another CCA signature event, our Back-to-School Bash. As summer begins to wind down, we look forward to welcoming students, families, and community partners to our front lawn. There is something special about helping young people head into a new school year feeling prepared, supported, and welcomed.


Before I wrap up, I'll leave you with a question:


What is your favorite thing about summer?


For me, it's hard to pick just one. I enjoy the longer days, the sunshine, firing up the grill, sitting around a bonfire with family and friends, and, of course, attempting to golf. I say "attempting" because my scorecard and I rarely agree on what success looks like. But that's part of the fun.


Whatever summer means to you, I hope you've found time to enjoy it.


Thank you for being part of the CCA family and for supporting our mission.


Until next time,


Andrew Studley

CEO

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"More than anything, I want to be clear that this work is not driven by one person or a small group. It takes all of us, along with our volunteers, partners, funders, and the people in the community who place their trust in us.


There has been a lot of change over the past couple of years. You have handled it, adapted, and kept the work moving forward. The results we are seeing are because of that." ~ Andrew Studley, CEO

NYS LEADERS VISIT CCA

On July 16th, CCA had the privilege of hosting Senator George Borrello, Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski, and members of their staff at our 25 Jefferson Street offices.


The purpose of the visit was to discuss our current programming, share the current landscape of CCA, highlight our successes, and openly discuss the challenges we face. It was also an opportunity to have meaningful conversations about potential solutions, ways to improve efficiency, and opportunities to strengthen services and outcomes for the communities we serve.


Each department was represented by its C-Level leader, and we were also joined by Board President Kerrie Parr and Vice-President Don Jones. Together, we were able to showcase the impact of CCA's work and the dedication of our team.


Senator Borrello and Assemblyman Sempolinski have both been supporters of CCA, and yesterday's visit reinforced their appreciation for the work being done across our organization. They expressed how impressed they are with our team and the positive difference staff make every day in the lives of individuals and families throughout our communities.


The recognition we received from our NYS leaders is a direct reflection of the outstanding work that CCA employees do every day.

CARES RE-ENTRY HUB

Pictured L - R: Steve Kilburn, Sheriff James Quattrone, and Vito Randazzo

On June 9, 2026, Chautauqua County Sheriff, James Quattrone, CCSO Chautauqua CARES Project Director, Vito Randazzo and Chautauqua County Health Department Public Heath Planner, Steve Kilburn presented a seminar at the National Sheriffs Association Annual Conference, which was held in Omaha, Nebraska. The seminar presented was titled “From Jail to Stability: How Sheriffs Are Using Situation Tables and Re-Entry Hubs to Prevent Crisis and Reduce Recidivism”. The seminar included information regarding the Chautauqua CARES Re-Entry hub and the Situation Table.  

CCA'S STAFF APPRECIATION DAY!

CCA and DCS staff celebrated summer and each other at the Eric Peters Memorial Park on July 30th! The weather was beautiful. The park was nice. The food was good. But, the company shared was even better!

CCA'S ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL BASH

Connecting Communities in Action held its annual Back to School Bash on the front lawn at 25 Jefferson Street on August 13th. This event is always free and open to all area children.

 

The goal of the event is to end the summer on a fun note and provide awareness of the services that are available in our communities to assist individuals and families in their day-to-day lives in the areas of health and safety, economic, and social issues. There were 20+ community partners in attendance helping to make this day a fun, collaborative, and educational event!

Kids and their families enjoyed an afternoon of carnival-type activities and prizes and crafts! Each of CCA’s departments hosted an activity for the kids to play and win prizes to celebrate the end of summer. There was also a temporary tattoo station and balloon shapes for the kids to express their creative sides!

CCA’s Back to School Bash was able to provide over 200 kids with backpacks and school & personal supplies, as well as gift cards for back to school haircuts from local businesses Oaks Barber Shop and Hairmaxx!


CCA builds resilient communities by helping people achieve economic, physical, and emotional security.

CCA NUTRITION DEPARTMENT's SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH INITIATIVES

Recently, the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation created a video featuring CCA's Nutrition Department and its Social Determinants of Health initiatives focused on reducing food insecurity and improving health outcomes. Check it out here:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iv56xDugIZk


Great job to the Nutrition Services Team for this recognition and for the meaningful work you ALL continue to do every day. The success and impact of all of CCA programs are made possible through the strong internal and external collaborations, partnerships, and teamwork that help us better serve our communities.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE MOST ABOUT THE MOBILE FOOD PANTRY/POP-UP PANTRY?


"Convenience;" "I liked everything!;" I always love the friendliness of your staff and the variety of items offered;" "Very easy to access and quick, friendly people;" "Arrives when scheduled and loads food into your car;" "It was on time and staff were very friendly;" "The weather was bad, but they still showed up; "Convenient;" "Friendly;" and "Very helpful"


~ Customer comments from Cattaraugus, Delevan, Franklinville, Great Valley, Little Valley, Machias, Randolph, Salamanca, West Valley, and Yorkshire


FIND US HERE!

DADS, TAKE YOUR KIDS TO SCHOOL


Building Emotional Resilience


Dads and caring adults play a crucial role in strengthening family relationships, promoting emotional well-being, and supporting their children's social and academic success. September 17th is "Dads, Take Your Kids to School Day."

GOOD FOR THE SOUL COMEDY 2!

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!


It was so fun and therapeutic last year, we thought we'd do it again this year! Seating is limited, so get your tickets soon! We hope to see you there!


https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/besnt55/lp/b134cfc1-cbb8-47ba-87e4-96b32e1378c8

CCA_NEW_EMPLOYEE_KLINGENFELTER_p1.png

JOHN B. SAMPSON SERVICE OFFICER OF THE YEAR

The NYS Legion Convention was held July 16-18, 2026, at the downtown Marriott in Syracuse, New York, with an awards ceremony taking place on the 17th. Steve McCord, husband of Mary McCord, CCA's Victim Services Data Coordinator, won the John B. Sampson Service Officer of the Year Award for the State of New York. 

 

Steve has been the Veteran Service Officer for Cattaraugus County for 14 years. In 2010, he retired as a Major of the United States Army after 32 years of active duty, serving in both the Panama and Iraqi wars. 

29 YEARS

Ken Tomczak


19 YEARS

Corrie Phetteplace


14 YEARS

Cheryl Tingley


12 YEARS

Dave Spencer


7 YEARS

Eileen Williams


2 YEARS

Cynthia Rinehart


32 YEARS

Milt Sworts


31 YEARS

Jodi Fuller


21 YEARS

Andrew Studley


20 YEARS

Jane Folts


14 YEARS

Breanne Abbott


6 YEARS

Whitney Verbridge


4 YEARS

Victoria Blinn

Jodell Laumer

Jessica Whalen


2 YEARS

Tammy Hubbard

Connor McCarthy

Ian Normand

Shellie Stead


1 YEAR

Alexander Mager

Keana Sherlock



13 YEARS

Joshua Dry


11 YEARS

Dennis Bittinger


9 YEARS

Bonnie Gilray


8 YEARS

Wendi Brookins

Aubrey Coast

Zachary Patmore


7 YEARS

Denise Bartoszek


5 YEARS

Olivia Brooks

Jacob Fellows

Jennifer Scott


4 YEARS

Sarah Tripodi


1 YEAR

Ian Graves

EVENT:

  • CLOSED - Independence Day Holiday
  • CCA Bonus Box Day
  • CLOSED - Staff Development
  • CCA Back to School Bash
  • CCA Bonus Box Day
  • CLOSED - Labor Day
  • CCA Bonus Box Day
  • Board of Directors Meeting
  • CLOSED - Indigenous Peoples Day
  • Board of Directors Meeting
  • CCA Bonus Box Day
  • CLOSED - Veterans' Day
  • CLOSED - Thanksgiving Holiday
  • Board of Directors Meeting
  • CLOSED - Christmas & New Year Holidays

DATE:


  • 7/3/26
  • 7/23/26
  • 7/30/26
  • 8/13/26
  • 8/27/26
  • 9/7/26
  • 9/24/26
  • 9/24/26
  • 10/12/26
  • 10/22/26
  • 10/29/26
  • 11/11/26
  • 11/26-27/26
  • 12/3/26


  • 12/25/26 - 1/1/27
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Connecting Communities in Action

25 Jefferson Street

Salamanca, New York 14779

(716) 945-1041

www.ccaction.org

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