News
We’re proud to highlighting the impact of Tri-County United Way’s mission through our Kids With Packs youth program.
This April, Tri-County United Way had the opportunity to present to the Rotary Club of Glens Falls, sharing more about our work and the partnerships that make it possible. Our Director of Community Engagement & Communications, Laura Jensen, provided an overview of our programs and the collective impact we’re making across our service area of Warren, Washington and Northern Saratoga Counties.
During the presentation we were grateful to be joined by members of our Board of Directors, including Board Co-Chair Tom Iwinski of National Grid, Joan Tarantino, Executive Director of The Conkling Center and Glens Falls Rotarian, and Kevin O’Brien, Board Chair of United Way of New York State. Their presence reflects the strong collaboration between staff, board leadership and community partners.
Throughout the presentation community leaders highlighted our reach across our three-county service area, including support for 23 local schools, funding for more than 15 partner agencies and programs and continued
efforts to build partnerships that strengthen our communities.
A key focus was our Kids With Packs program, made possible through the generosity of Mr. Robert Nemer of Nemer Ford, the Charles Wood Foundation, Marilyn & Shaun Rivers and many dedicated private donors. This initiative provides thousands of students in our region with essential school supplies and fully stocked backpacks—helping them start the school year prepared and confident.
We also congratulated Mr. and Mrs. Nemer, who were recently recognized with the Rotary Club’s “Citizen of the Year Award,” honoring their ongoing commitment to our community.
Through Kids With Packs and our broader work, Tri-County United Way remains deeply connected to the needs of local youth and the communities we serve. To get involved with Tri-County United Way, please connect with Laura Jensen at [email protected]. Upcoming dates to volunteer include the following:
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Volunteers needed to sort and unpack boxes and help set up the Nemer Ford showroom.
- Great opportunity for youth volunteers
- Ideal for youth involvement
Friday, August 21, 2026
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Volunteer backpack packing event
- Estimated need: ~75 volunteers
- Last year included a waitlist due to high interest
- Corporate and community groups already signing up