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TRI-COUNTY UNITED WAY
Our October Highlights
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The ongoing federal government shutdown has created uncertainty for many across our service area and we understand how deeply it can affect families who rely on essential programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
If you or someone you know is in need of support, call 2-1-1 for free, confidential assistance. Our trained specialists can help connect you to food and housing resources, financial guidance, and mental health support.
At Tri-County United Way, we remain steadfast in our commitment to serving our neighbors throughout Warren, Washington, and Northern Saratoga Counties. We are proud to support a strong network of community partners and to continue offering our services free of charge throughout this uncertain time.
If you’d like to make a difference and help your neighbors in need, below are a few meaningful ways to partner with us:
Support: Your contribution helps sustain essential programs and provides direct assistance to families impacted by the shutdown.
Volunteer: Join us in supporting local efforts that uplift and strengthen our community.
Donate: Help keep local youth warm this winter by donating brand-new winter clothing essentials. Your generosity brings comfort and hope to families during the colder months.
The holiday season is a time for hope, gratitude, and connection but we also know that, with the challenges our communities face, it can be overwhelming for many. Together, we can make sure no one feels alone this season.
Together, we can ensure everyone feels supported and connected this holiday season, finding strength in the generosity, resilience, and compassion that define our communities. Remember: help is right here at home.
Interested in getting involved with our mission this holiday season? Contact Laura Jensen at Ljensen@tricountyunitedway.com (518) 793-3136 ext. 102 to learn how you can make an impact with us.
| | Local Community Guide & Holiday Resources | | At Tri-County United Way, we believe that no one should face challenges alone. With the ongoing federal government shutdown creating uncertainty for many families, we want our community to know that support is available. That’s why we’ve created the 'Food & Holiday Resources Guide' a comprehensive listing of local programs and services supported by Tri-County United Way across Warren, Washington, and Saratoga Counties. This guide helps connect individuals and families with the assistance they need this season. If you or someone you know is in need, please remember that help is right here in our community. | | Tri-County United Way Resource Guide & 211 | | |
We are deeply concerned for our community members who rely on food assistance programs, like SNAP, and are now facing increased uncertainty.
Thousands of local families across our service area are feeling the impact.
Tri-County United Way continues to work closely with our food security partners to monitor the situation, prepare for disruptions and ensure that support reaches those who need it most.
If you or someone you know has been affected, 211 is available 24/7, along with our Resource Guide, to help connect you with local food, housing, and utility assistance. Call or text 211 for free, confidential support.
Together, we remain United to Thrive, standing with our partners and neighbors during this challenging time.
| | We're On The Air With Adirondack Broadcasting | | |
Our Director of Community Engagement & Communications, Laura Jensen, along with our VITA Outreach Coordinator, Joan Prouty, joined Mike Morgan at Adirondack Broadcasting this week.
They were invited into the studio to discuss upcoming TCUW programming, VITA, the influence of TCUW on our service area during these challenging times and the vital role Tri-County United Way plays in supporting local youth, seniors and families. Tune in to the Community Issues program on Froggy 100.3 FM this Sunday morning, November 2, at 6:00 a.m. to hear the full conversation.
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Starting Wednesday, November 12th, Tri-County United Way is collecting new winter new essentials for local children in need: gloves, hats, mittens, scarves and more to help those less fortunate than us.
Donations will be accepted through Monday, December 9th and will be distributed to youth in our service area. Get involved by donating, volunteering or hosting a collection drive. Donation boxes are available while supplies last. Host a drop off location today!
| | An Unforgettable Evening Under The Stars | | |
Thank you to our incredible community for an unforgettable 'Evening Under the Stars' at The Queensbury Hotel. From the bottom of our hearts, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who joined us and helped make our Fall Gala truly extraordinary. A special thank you especially to our elected officials, dignitaries and keynote speakers for taking the time to be part of this special night:
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Fleece, Fun & Full Hearts:
Our 'Pop Up Fall Fleece Drive' Wrap Up
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And that’s a wrap on our 'Fall Fleece Drive'! Last week we began our distributions to local youth. While our ‘Fall Fleece Drive’ has concluded for the season, it has once again shown us just how remarkable our community truly is. In just 2 weeks, we’ve collected dozens and dozens of cozy fleece items that will be distributed to several local schools and youth in our area thanks to the kindness and generosity of SO many individuals. The response we received, the calls, the support was absolutely incredible.
Special thanks especially to:
• Amazon Distribution Center in Granville
• The Post-Star
• Glens Falls Chronicle
• Warren County, New York
… and the many kindhearted private donors who stepped up to make a difference for local children and families.
We are so fortunate to live in a community that shares our vision that every child deserves more than a good start: they deserve a strong one.
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Tri-County United Way Welcomes
New Board Leadership
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Please join us in welcoming the newest members of our Tri-County United Way Board of Directors! These passionate community leaders bring heart, expertise and a shared vision for what’s possible when we come together to make an impact. Their leadership helps ensure your support reaches those who need it most: helping kids succeed, families thrive, and individuals build brighter futures.
We are also proud to congratulate Lauren Cygan, Executive Director of the Family YMCA of the Glens Falls Area, and Thomas Iwinski, Customer and Community Management at National Grid, on their appointments as the new Co-Chairs of the Board. Together, we’re strengthening our communities so everyone has the chance to learn, earn, and live well.
| | Volunteer Orientation: Join Us In Service | | |
We’re hosting a Volunteer Orientation for anyone ages 15 and up interested in joining our mission for 2026.
This is a great opportunity to connect with others, learn about the needs in our region and engage directly with local nonprofit organizations working to strengthen our communities. Through hands-on volunteer experiences, volunteers will:
- See the real impact of giving back
- Learn about philanthropy and community service
- Build teamwork and leadership skills
No prior experience is needed. Just bring your enthusiasm to make a difference! Tri-County United Way looks forward to welcoming you and shaping a stronger, more connected community together. Volunteer opportunities include event planning, administrative support, program assistance, VITA support, and more. Must RSVP by November 15. Space is limited.
| | JOIN US FOR THE 'ADIRONDACK THUNDER & TRI-COUNTY UNITED WAY FAMILY NIGHT' | | 'A Taste of France' Dinner In Partnership With Seasoned on Thursday, December 4 | | |
Join us for “Taste of France,” an elegant evening of fine food, wine, and community.
- Thursday, December 4 | Doors open at 5:30 PM
- Seasoned, Glens Falls
Indulge in a specially curated French dinner with wine pairings, thoughtfully crafted and served by the talented student chefs of the SUNY Adirondack Culinary Program.
All proceeds benefit Tri-County United Way and our work to strengthen local communities. Seats are limited.
| | Local Non-Profit News & Regional Events | | Small Action. Big Impact. Join Us. | | Through 'CLYNK to Give' you can donate your bottle and can redemption proceeds directly to Tri-County United Way, supporting our essential programs for local neighbors. Sign up today to receive free CLYNK bags and tags, and start creating real impact — one bottle at a time. | | Thank You Amazing Volunteers from WWAARC! | | |
A huge shoutout to the incredible volunteer team from Warren, Washington & Albany Counties ARC (WWAARC). Your time, talents, and teamwork helped us get ready for our Gala at The Queensbury Hotel and we couldn’t be more grateful.
We love our WWAARC family of volunteers! Your energy, enthusiasm and dedication truly make a difference. Thank you for being such wonderful friends and partners in our mission.
| Volunteers Needed For VITA 2026 | |
Volunteers are needed for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. No prior experience is required. All volunteers will be provided with training tailored and will also receive resources for independent study on fundamental income tax laws for both federal and state returns.
How can you contribute? It's easy. Volunteer to assist your community by offering free tax preparation services through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. Call (518) 793-3136 ext. 102 to learn more.
| | Thank You Glens Falls Senior Center For Hosting a Wonderful Senior Expo | | Earlier this October we tabled at the 'Glens Falls Senior Expo' at The Queensbury Hotel today. A tremendous thank you to the Glens Falls Senior Center for sharing resources that help our senior communities thrive. | | Thank You Seniors On The Go For Hosting a Terrific Senior Health Fair | Thank you to everyone who stopped by Tri-County United Way's table at the Senior Center's Health Fair! We had a great time connecting with our wonderful community, sharing information about our senior programs, transportation services, and the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. | | We're Celebrating Over '400 Followers' on Facebook - Thank You! | |
Thank you to each and every one of you who continue to support us by sharing our resources, events and programs on our Facebook page, helping us strengthen and uplift our Warren, Washington and Northern Saratoga Counties.
Let's keep the momentum going. Please continue to share & 'like' our Facebook page so we can continue expanding our reach and making an even greater impact throughout our Tri-County service area. Together, we’re creating a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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The Kringle Kottage Foundation is looking for cheerful, caring volunteers to help Santa and his guests have the most magical experience possible this season. Kringle Kottage was created to provide an inclusive and joyful Christmas experience that caters to the needs of neurodivergent individuals. While open to the public, the core mission is to offer a safe, welcoming space where all guests feel seen, valued, and embraced.
Volunteer Hours:
- Tues–Thurs: 3 PM – 7 PM
- Fri & Sat (Special Guests): 12 PM – 4 PM
- Fri & Sat (Public Hours): 5 PM – 8 PM
All volunteers will participate in a brief Accessibility & Neurodiversity Training to help ensure every guest feels welcomed and included. Live Training: November 15 at Fort William Henry, 11 AM – 2 PM (lunch provided!)
If you’re unable to attend in person, an online option will be available soon after.
| | Member Agency Highlight: Supporting Comfort Food Community | | At Tri-County United Way, we are proud to and support organizations that make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors across Washington, Warren, and Saratoga counties. One such partner is the Comfort Food Community (CFC) in Greenwich, a truly inspiring organization working tirelessly to address food insecurity with compassion, innovation, and a deep commitment to community while serving Washington County. | | SALVATION ARMY: Offering Free Coffee & Donuts 5x A Week | | Join the Salvation Army Monday through Friday 7:30 am to 8:30 am at 37 Broad Street, Glens Falls for 'Free Coffee & Donuts'. Contact the office at 518-792-1960 to learn more. | | GLENS FALLS ASSOCIATION FOR THE BLIND: What is Glaucoma? | | Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the *optic nerve', which is vital for good vision. It's often caused by 'high pressure' inside the eye due to fluid buildup. This damage can lead to a gradual loss of vision, starting with your side (peripheral) vision, and eventually leading to 'blindness' if untreated. | | FAMILY SERVICES ASSOCIATION: Holiday Support 'We're Here To Help' | We are available to assist in any way we can, either through providing help or connecting you with another resource that may be better equipped to assist you. Not sure who to call about a situation? Call us, and we’ll help you figure out who the proper contact would be. Please give us a call if you are in need. Our number is 518-793-0797. | CATHOLIC CHARITIES: Hiring NOEP Coordinator for Washington County | Join us in our mission as an NOEP Coordinator at Catholic Charities of Saratoga, Warren & Washington Counties. Make a difference helping local families and feeding local families. Call (518) 793-6212 to learn more. | | SENIOR CENTER OF KINGSBURY & FORT EDWARD AREA INC.: Holiday Free Food Run | | Looking for support this Holiday Season? Join the 'Holiday Free Food Run' in partnership with Comfort Food Community at the Senior Center on Wednesday 19 at 10:00 am + Wednesday, December 17 at 10:00 am. Call us at 518-747-9352 to learn more. | | |
CONNECT.DONATE.VOLUNTEER.
This monthly newsletter is thoughtfully created and curated by Laura Jensen, Director of Community Engagement & Communications. If you're interested in getting involved with Tri-County United Way as a sponsor, partner or volunteer, please reach out to Laura at Ljensen@tricountyunitedway.org. We are incredibly grateful for your continued support and interest in our mission.
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