RadioRotary Jonah Triebwasser

In the heart of Dutchess County, Habitat for Humanity is transforming lives and landscapes. Through the tireless efforts of individuals like Rotarians Todd Bowen, the Senior Project Manager, and Jessica Muccio, the Director of Development, this organization is making the dream of homeownership a reality for families in need. With over 40 homes built for first-time owners and more than 250 repairs completed to help existing homeowners maintain their residences, Habitat for Humanity is addressing the critical need for safe and affordable housing.

Dutchess County faces a significant challenge, with 6,000 families lacking suitable housing. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between need and availability,” says Jessica Muccio. “Every family deserves a safe place to call home, and every hand helps us come closer to making that a reality for our neighbors.”

The projects led by Habitat for Humanity are funded through a mix of corporate partnerships, individual contributions, and ReStore outlets. These stores sell donated home goods and furniture, with proceeds going directly into building new homes. “It’s the cycle of giving that sustains our projects,” Muccio explains. “When you shop or donate at a ReStore, you’re not just clearing out your space; you’re helping to build a home.”

Volunteers are crucial to Habitat for Humanity’s mission. From construction sites to the ReStores, people from all walks of life come together to lend a hand. Todd Bowen, overseeing the construction projects, emphasizes the value of this community effort. “Seeing volunteers work side by side with future homeowners is incredibly rewarding. Our builds are about more than just houses; they’re about community, hard work, and shared dreams,” he shares.

Bowen’s role involves meticulous planning and coordination to ensure that homes are not only built but are tailored to the needs of each family. “Every family is different, and so is every home we build. From laying the foundation to selecting the siding, it’s a collaborative process that makes each house unique,” Bowen remarks.

The success of Habitat for Humanity in Dutchess County is a testament to the power of community and the enduring belief that everyone deserves a decent place to live. Through the dedication of individuals like Todd Bowen and Jessica Muccio, and the support of volunteers and donors, Habitat for Humanity is building more than homes; it’s building hope.






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In a world where the shadow of homelessness looms large for many, Hudson River Housing emerges as a beacon of hope. Led by the passionate Christa Hines, Hudson River Housing dedicates itself to combating homelessness and housing insecurity. Serving approximately 3,000 individuals annually, their mission extends across Dutchess County, focusing on providing not just a roof over heads but a foundation for a brighter future.

Hudson River Housing’s endeavors span a broad spectrum, from emergency shelters accommodating an unprecedented number of individuals nightly to transitional housing and affordable apartments. Amidst rising economic pressures and the lingering aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization witnesses an escalating need for its services, a testament to the ongoing housing crisis that grips the community.

But Hudson River Housing’s impact doesn’t end with providing shelter. They stand at the forefront of developing affordable housing projects, fostering opportunities for homeownership, and tailoring services to meet the diverse needs of veterans, seniors, and youth. In Pine Plains, for example, they are working on a project to create 36 affordable apartments, demonstrating their commitment to expanding their reach and addressing the housing shortage.

However, the journey to creating a world where everyone has access to safe and affordable housing is fraught with challenges. The stigma surrounding low-income housing and the “not in my backyard” mentality persist as barriers. Yet, Christa Hines and her team remain undeterred, fueled by compassion and the belief in the dignity of every individual they serve.

As we reflect on the critical work of Hudson River Housing, it’s evident that the path to overcoming homelessness is paved with collective action, understanding, and unwavering support for organizations like these. They remind us that behind every statistic is a story, a life yearning for stability, and a place to call home. In supporting Hudson River Housing, we embrace the opportunity to be part of a solution that not only transforms lives but strengthens the very fabric of our community.






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Dive Heart, a unique initiative founded 22 years ago, has been changing lives through the power of adaptive scuba and scuba therapy. This nonprofit organization, spearheaded by Rotarians Jim Elliott and Tina Marie Hernandez, focuses on empowering children, veterans, and others with disabilities. By offering them an opportunity to experience the weightlessness of underwater environments, Dive Heart helps improve their confidence, independence, and self-esteem.

The transformative effect of adaptive scuba diving is profound. For individuals who have spent much of their lives confined to wheelchairs or limited by their disabilities, the experience of standing upright underwater is nothing short of miraculous. Dive Heart doesn’t just offer a temporary escape; it facilitates a shift in perception, enabling participants to see themselves as divers, adventurers, capable of achieving more than they or others might have thought possible.

Beyond the individual benefits, Dive Heart is committed to advancing research and education in the field of adaptive scuba diving. Collaborating with university medical centers worldwide, the organization is exploring the therapeutic benefits of scuba diving, particularly in deep warm water pools. Their ambition is to build the world’s deepest warm water therapy pool in the Chicagoland area, a project estimated to cost between $130 to $150 million. This facility will not only serve as a therapeutic space but also as a center for research, training, and rehabilitation, inviting students, therapists, and professionals to learn and innovate in the realm of adaptive diving.

The initiative is rooted in a deep belief in the transformative power of diving. From aiding pain management and PTSD symptoms to providing a unique form of therapy for individuals with autism, the potential health benefits are vast. Dive Heart’s approach is inclusive, offering programs in pools for those who might not be ready or able to dive in open water. Importantly, these pool programs are offered at no charge, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to accessibility and empowerment.

Dive Heart’s vision extends beyond the individual, aiming to inspire communities and foster a sense of purpose among people of all abilities. By highlighting the stories of participants and volunteers, Dive Heart showcases the profound impact of seeing beyond disabilities to the possibilities that lie within each person. Their work is a testament to the power of community, innovation, and the belief that everyone deserves to experience the joy and freedom of diving into new challenges.

For those interested in supporting Dive Heart’s mission or learning more about their programs, visit www.diveheart.org. Whether it’s through participating in a dive, volunteering, or contributing to their ambitious pool project, there are numerous ways to get involved and help make a difference in the lives of many.






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In the spirit of giving and community service, Keith O’Hanlon, known for his striking resemblance to Santa Claus, has been making waves across local communities by offering his time as Santa to support food pantries and veterans. His journey into becoming Santa began in 2015 when he was asked to play Santa Claus for a veterans’ Christmas party organized by Angela Flesland. Despite initial hesitations, Keith felt a calling, a destiny to embrace the role, especially after his first interaction with a child at the event, which left a profound impact on him.

Keith’s commitment goes beyond just appearances; he requests donations of non-perishable food items or checks written to the Pleasant Valley Ecumenical Food Pantry as his appearance fee. This initiative has seen him supporting not just veterans but also local food pantries that have been under increased strain since the COVID-19 pandemic, doubling their food distribution efforts to meet the growing need within the community.

Apart from his solo efforts, Keith has enlisted the help of friends who have volunteered to become Mrs. Claus and elves, further enriching the experience for children and adults alike. These volunteers, who also invest their own resources into their costumes, assist Keith in understanding the latest toys and wishes from children, ensuring every child’s request is met with a knowing nod from Santa.

Keith’s unique approach to playing Santa extends to his mode of transportation – a 1970 M35A2 military deuce and a half truck, affectionately named Lucy Deucy, which he uses to deliver the collected food donations. This, along with his Victorian and European-inspired Santa suit, sets him apart from the traditional Coca-Cola image of Santa, aligning more closely with the historical and cultural depictions of Saint Nicholas.

Beyond his Santa duties, Keith is a retired Marine, emphasizing the lifelong commitment and service ethos of the Marines. His work as Santa is an extension of his service, offering joy, hope, and assistance to those in need during the holiday season. Keith’s story is not just about playing a role; it’s about embodying the spirit of giving and community service, making him a true embodiment of Santa Claus.






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In a recent humanitarian effort, Rotarians in Zambia, assisted by various organizations, accomplished the remarkable feat of delivering 8.5 tons of medical equipment and supplies to Machili, Zambia. The focus of this substantial aid was primarily on improving maternal and dental health care in the region. This initiative was particularly crucial given Zambia’s high rates of dental issues and maternal mortality. The project, which was significantly funded through a global grant, cost around $350,000, although the initial budget was set at $49,000.

One of the key organizations involved in this project was Project Cure, known for its commitment to providing medical supplies to needy areas. Their contribution and continuous efforts can be supported through online donations.

Further details of the project were discussed by Rotarian Stephen Caine on Radio Rotary. He elaborated on the challenging journey of shipping the medical equipment to a refurbished health center in rural Zambia. The Bernhills-Baltimore Lake Rotary Club played a pivotal role in raising the necessary funds for this mission. Despite facing delays and the potential for scams, the equipment was successfully shipped in a 40-foot container from Savannah, Georgia, to Zambia. The project saw contributions from various individuals and organizations, including a notable donation of $5,000 from a 90-year-old man.

Stephen Caine, a retired military officer and active Rotarian, was instrumental in coordinating the delivery of medical supplies to Zambia. The Rotary Club, which meets at Boston Spa Town Hall on Monday nights, continues to be a beacon of service and support in various community and international projects.


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Radio Rotary recently featured an inspiring segment on Rotary’s humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. BJ Mickelson, a dedicated Rotarian, took center stage in discussing his remarkable contributions to aiding Ukrainian refugees. Initially, BJ successfully raised between $2,500 and $3,000, which he used to distribute essential supplies in Germany to those fleeing the conflict in Ukraine.

Demonstrating an unwavering commitment, BJ later ramped up his efforts by raising an impressive $28,000. He not only made informative presentations in the Hudson Valley about the situation but also personally traveled to Ukraine as part of the relief initiatives. This hands-on approach in the conflict zone included delivering critical medical supplies and securing housing for internally displaced persons, underscoring the dire needs of those affected by the conflict.

BJ spoke about the historic and culturally rich town of Lviv in Ukraine, which he highlighted for its significance. Beyond his immediate relief efforts, BJ plans to continue supporting Ukraine, particularly with a focus on helping children during Christmas. This year, his mission involves a unique approach – using his Santa Claus persona to raise funds.

The initiative aims to provide Ukrainian children with Ukrainian language Paddington Bear books during the holiday season. These books, priced at $15 each, are more than just gifts; they are symbols of hope and comfort to the young recipients. The proceeds from this initiative are dedicated to this cause, with BJ’s Rotary club, Highland, playing an active role. The effort is part of a broader mission encapsulated on the website www.hudsonvalleyhelpsrefugees.org, which serves as a platform for donations and spreading awareness.

This heartwarming story not only highlights the relentless spirit of Rotarians in bringing aid and solace but also sheds light on the wider impact of conflict on communities, especially children. As BJ continues his commendable work, he also harbors hopes for peace and the eventual return of Crimea to Ukraine.


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