News
This past March, community leaders and partners came together for “Rooted in Resilience: Creating a Future of Hope,” a leadership discussion hosted by Tri-County United Way in partnership with SUNY Adirondack and the Warren County Historical Society.
The gathering brought together voices from across sectors for an afternoon of conversation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to strengthening the connections that make this region home for so many.
In the months leading up to the event, facilitators Dr. Stan Cianfarano and Teri Rogers of the Warren County Historical Society, Laura Jensen of Tri-County United Way, and Susan Wynkoop and Christopher Foley of SUNY Adirondack worked collaboratively to review local trends, examine current challenges, and consider key socioeconomic factors. Their goal was to design a discussion that would be both relevant and action-oriented for the community.
At the heart of the convening was a simple but powerful purpose: to spark meaningful dialogue, strengthen cross-sector relationships, and identify collaborative solutions that support families, youth, and future generations.
Throughout the discussion, Gina Mintzer, Executive Director of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce & CVB, emphasized the importance of sustaining the local economy and supporting businesses and families with deep generational roots in the region. She highlighted the value of intergenerational relationships—connecting the region’s history with its younger residents through mentorship and shared community knowledge.
Other leaders echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of collaboration, in-person engagement, and building bridges across generations.
Participants explored a range of issues impacting daily life in the region, including housing stability, workforce shortages, transportation barriers, mental health access, senior services, and supports for individuals with disabilities. A key focus was the ALICE population (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), individuals and families who earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford the basic cost of living and often fall outside eligibility for traditional assistance programs.
The conversation reinforced that supporting ALICE households requires more than services alone—it requires strong community connections. Parents, youth, grandparents, and older adults each bring valuable experience, perspective, and mentorship that can help strengthen opportunities for future generations.
A central theme emerged clearly throughout the day: meaningful, multi-generational connection is essential to community resilience.
The region’s history also played a vital role in the discussion. From long-standing family businesses to multi-generational households that have shaped local identity, the Lake George region offers enduring lessons in perseverance, collaboration, and innovation.
The next convening, “Turning the Roots of Resilience into Action,” will take place on Monday, June 15. This session will build on prior discussions with a deeper focus on youth mentorship, intergenerational collaboration, and actionable community solutions. For more information, contact Laura Jensen at [email protected].
This work is more than a conversation, it is a commitment to the Lake George region and its people. By connecting generations and fostering relationships across the community, we are building a more resilient and hopeful future, one connection at a time.
Thank you to Glens Falls Mayor Diana Palmer for joining us, along with all of the community leaders who generously contributed their time, valued at nearly $1,000. Their support will benefit America Gives, a nationwide initiative launched by America250 to help make 2026 the largest year of volunteer service in U.S. history.
Blog written by Laura Jensen