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Second Chance Foods is elevating health in the Hudson Valley by recovering nutritious food and delivering it to hungry families.

PUTNAM COUNTY
Creating local impact

Help us to invest in our community

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Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) is your partner for good.
We understand the power of local philanthropy, working with donors and nonprofits to develop innovative strategies and creative partnerships. We are vested in building stronger and more vibrant communities through focused giving that addresses vital needs and delivers lasting impact.

Partner with Us and Transform Our Counties Through Purposeful Philanthropy.

What We Do for The Community

Art & Culture

Education

$437,000
Scholarships

Awarded in 2023 – 2024

$542,000
Community Grants

Awarded in 2025

Environment

Food Security

Community Improvement

Animal Welfare

$164.2 mil

Grants Made Since 2000

What is a Community Foundation?

A Legacy of Giving

It all began in Cleveland in 1914, when Frederick Goff established the Cleveland Foundation in Ohio. Unlike private foundations, which often manage resources for a single family, community foundations were created to support thousands of givers with a shared vision of making a lasting impact. More than a century later, we remain committed to that vision: helping generosity thrive and improving lives across the Hudson Valley.

In short, we’re part of something bigger. There are more than 800 community foundations across the U.S., each dedicated to serving its unique region. While we operate independently, we share a common mission:

  • To be a resource for local people who want to pay it forward.
  • To channel resources into effective charitable programs.
  • To strengthen and support the communities we call home.

Community Foundations Upcoming Events

  • A Regional Conversation Hosted by the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley Gen Z 101: Connect, Engage, and Inspire Young Audiences in the Hudson Valley

    Tuesday, May 5, 2026

    10:00 am -

     11:00 am

    The Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley is pleased to convene regional history, cultural, and civic organizations for a timely conversation on engaging the next generation. Gen Z isn't a future audience-they're engaging with history and civic life right now. As stewards of the Hudson Valley's rich history and cultural life, we have an opportunity to meet this moment with intention, Join Caroline Klibanoff, Executive Director of Made By Us, for a practical and engaging session on how to better understand and connect with Gen Z (ages 18-30). Drawing on work with more than 500 institutions nationwide, this session will offer insights and tools that can be applied locally across our region. Participants will explore: What motivates Gen Z and how they engage with history today How authentic engagement can strengthen institutional relevance Practical, field-tested tools-such as the Youth250 Toolkit-to build and sustain meaningful connections During America's 250th anniversary year, this convening is an opportunity to share ideas, strengthen practice, and build lasting relationships with the generation that will carry this history forward. Register here

Our Donor Stories

Stan Beinstein: A Lifelong Champion of the Arts and Community in the Hudson Valley

Stan Beinstein’s journey through the arts began in 1969 at SUNY New Paltz, where he helped produce concerts featuring legendary acts like Chicago, The Who, Jefferson Airplane, Chuck Berry, Seals and Crofts, and The Band. That formative experience ignited a lifelong passion for music and culture, guiding his career and his enduring impact on the Hudson Valley.

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Deacon Bill Mennenga: Addressing the Critical Issue of Housing Through Philanthropy

Deacon Bill Mennenga has long championed the belief that stable housing builds a stable society. Through his donor advised fund—the Deacon Bill Mennenga Fund—he has become a passionate and consistent supporter of RUPCO’s housing initiatives, helping families across Ulster County access safe, affordable housing.

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George C. Whipple III: Honoring History, Inspiring the Future

A true Renaissance man, George C. Whipple III is known for his multifaceted contributions as a journalist, employment lawyer, philanthropist, and even a farmer. Among his many passions, George holds a deep reverence for the rich history of Putnam County, where his family has lived for three generations.

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