POUGHKEEPSIE — The United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region is thrilled to be hosting their second annual Women’s United Empowerment Luncheon on February 26, 2025 at The Grandview in Poughkeepsie from 11:30am - 2:00pm. Jeannie Montano, President & CEO, shares these words of invitation: "Together, let us embrace collaboration and empowerment as we uplift and support one another in our shared mission of ensuring women in our community that are in need have the resources and support that give them a safe and secure space."
Guests will be inspired by keynote speaker Rella Fogliano, CEO of The MacQuesten Companies, a seasoned real estate developer with a legacy spanning decades. With a deep-rooted passion for affordable housing, she has successfully led numerous projects in the New York Metropolitan area, including groundbreaking developments like Tony Mendez Apartments, Hughes Avenue Crescent and Palmer Court Homes.
The event will be emceed by Anne Marie "Annie" Leamy, a beloved Hudson Valley morning radio host for
over 17 years, who will bring energy, positivity, and community focus to your daily routine. With her husband, Sean, and their three sons as her inspiration, Annie delights listeners with local insights, business spotlights, and community engagement. Tune in to Foxx and Annie in the Morning on WCBS FM 101.1 and connect with her on FB/Instagram @annieonair.
Two women in leadership who are nonprofit partners will also be speaking and sharing from their experiences in service to the community. Dareshanie D’Arpino, the Vice President of Club Operations of the Boys & Girls Club of Newburgh who has over two decades of experience in childcare and education, brings a wealth of expertise in managing and enhancing programs that inspire and empower young people. Her leadership is rooted in a passion for creating opportunities that help children and teens reach their full potential.
Additionally, Kellyann Kostyal-Larrier the Executive Director of Fearless! Hudson Valley, Inc. f/k/a Safe Homes of Orange County will present. Kellyann works alongside an amazing team every day that is working towards building an informed, just and accountable society so all people can experience supportive and safe relationships free from abuse, exploitation and oppression. They do this through education, prevention, advocacy, and providing comprehensive services, including shelter, to victims and survivors of interpersonal violence, human trafficking, sexual violence, and other types of crime victimization.
A delicious lunch will be served with opportunities for raffles, a silent auction and door prizes. Enjoy meeting individuals who share your interests and take advantage of the opportunity to view and purchase products shared by women-owned and operated businesses.
A delicious lunch will be served with opportunities for raffles, a silent auction and door prizes. Enjoy meeting individuals who share your interests and take advantage of the opportunity to view and purchase products shared by women-owned and operated businesses.
Thank you to our Sponsors who have helped to make this event possible:
Annual Sponsors:
- Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp
- IBM Corporation
- M&T Bank
- Orange & Rockland Utilities
- Pratt & Whitney
- Resorts World
- RBT, CPAs, LLP
- TD Bank
- Ulster Savings Bank
Annual Media Sponsors:
- Mid Hudson News
- Pamal Media
- Sunrise Media
- Wall Radio
- iHeartMedia, Inc.
- WTBQ, WGHT
Event Sponsors:
Gold
- MacQuesten Development
- Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union
Silver
- Kevin Cleary & Holly Wahlberg
- Golden Meals
- M & O Sanitation
Bronze
- Abilities First
- PKF O'Connor Davies
- Sisters of the Presentation
Parting Gift Sponsor
- Arthur DeDominicis, Accountants & Consultants