The Next Generation of Philanthropists making an impact on Giving Tuesday
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United Way gives every individual in our community the power to make a difference, making philanthropy accessible to everybody. When we harness the power of the community for good, we can work to unlock everyone’s potential. As we approach Giving Tuesday, we are proud to announce this year's group of local young professionals as The Next Generation of Philanthropists who have stepped up to lead Emerging Leaders United next year.
Here in the Capital Region, 11% of households earn an income below the Federal Poverty Level and 30% of households live below the ALICE threshold. With inflation at its highest level in more than four decades and the cost of goods and services near all-time highs, we know the number of families and individuals who are struggling to make ends meet is even higher than what's reflected in this map.
As this Next Generation of Philanthropists strives to lift up and lend a hand to our friends and neighbors in each of the eight counties served by United Way of the Greater Captial Region, please consider supporting their campaigns by helping them raise $5,000 over the next week!
Meet the 2022 Next Generation of Philanthropists
A native of Massachusetts, Kevin has worked at Bank of America for the past four years, where he serves as a Senior Relationship Manager in its Global Commercial Banking Group. Kevin and his wife, Nerissa, love spending time with their two daughters and Golden Retriever.
"I have been very lucky in my life and had a lot of things go my way. Volunteering is a chance to take moments to recognize that no schedule is too busy to do something that’s right and can have a meaningful impact on other people’s lives," Kevin said. "Everyone can benefit from taking care of each other and being helped, regardless of your good fortune or challenges."
In her time as a realtor at Berkshire Hathaway, Emily's relentless work ethic and dedication to her clients have earned her the prestigious Leading Edge and Rising Star awards. When she's not selling homes, you can often find her volunteering at one of her favorite local nonprofits.
An animal lover who also has a passion for giving back to youth in the Capital Region, Emily is a member of the Development Committee for the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and serves as a mentor for Sponsor-A-Scholar.
Church. Science. Basketball. Those are what Corey calls the three centers of his life growing up in Albany, where he works as a Financial Representative at Northwestern Mutual. Corey is passionate about helping clients devise a plan to achieve their long and short-term goals.
"I have always wanted to use all of the gifts and resources God has given me to create a better society for all who inhabit this place called Earth."
A lifelong resident and graduate of North Colonie Schools, Melissa is proud to serve as a Town Board Member in her native Colonie. Before entering public service, Melissa's career began in the Albany County Alternate Public Defender's Office and Albany County Office of Immigration Assistance, where she worked tirelessly to help detained immigrants seeking asylum in the U.S.
"Volunteering is important to me because it builds the foundation for a strong community and helps individuals feel positively connected to one another while supporting worthwhile causes," Melissa said. "I believe the best way to change the world is through kindness and service to others."
Kate has called the Capital Region home ever since leaving Long Island to attend SUNY Albany. Earlier this year she began working as the first-ever SBA Relationship Manager at Pioneer Bank, where helps small business owners achieve their dreams. Don't be surprised to catch her at a pilates studio or hanging out at home with her cat, Eddy.
"I’m passionate about volunteering because it gives me the ability to explore and learn more about all the facets of my community while developing new skills and relationships," Kate said. "It's my greatest goal to empower those who feel powerless, no matter the situation they're in."
A social media guru, Belinda works as a Marketing Associate at AAA Hudson Valley, where her love of graphic design and event planning keeps her busy. A longtime resident of Troy, Belinda keeps strong ties to her community by volunteering at the local food pantry and with disaster relief.
"Volunteering is important to me because it allows me to create a change that aids people in need while also promoting unity within a community I care deeply about," Belinda said. "I would change the world by encouraging more people to volunteer. If we all donated just some time and effort, we would see a powerful and positive impact in this world."
