CNY Community Connections

Shelley Hoffman
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Heart, Home, & Community's mission is to interconnect Central New York residents, businesses, and organizations together. Our goal is to create a better, more vibrant place to live, work, and play. This podcast will have guest who are community leaders, organizers or key players in making CNY the best part of New York State.

  1. Jul 27

    CNY Community Connections: Ray Manassa of United Way of CNY

    In this episode of CNY Community Connections, Shelley Hoffman welcomes Ray Manassa, Chief Marketing Officer of United Way of Central New York, for a conversation about community, collaboration, and creating lasting impact. Ray shares his journey into nonprofit leadership, explains how United Way supports local organizations, and discusses the importance of volunteerism, community partnerships, and addressing some of Central New York's greatest needs, including food insecurity and housing. You'll also learn about VolunteerCNY, a platform that connects individuals with volunteer opportunities throughout the region, making it easier than ever to give back. Whether you're passionate about supporting local nonprofits, looking for ways to volunteer, or simply curious about the work United Way does behind the scenes, this episode highlights the power of neighbors helping neighbors.

  2. Jun 2

    CNY Community Connections: Supporting Families Through Childhood Cancer with Jennifer Huntley

    In this episode of CNY Community Connections, Shelley Hoffman speaks with Jennifer Huntley, Executive Director of Paige's Childhood Cancer Fund, about the organization's mission to support children and families affected by childhood cancer throughout Central New York. Jennifer shares the story of how the organization began in memory of Paige, a Baldwinsville child who lost her battle with leukemia, and how that legacy has grown into a nonprofit serving hundreds of families across 17 counties. The conversation explores the emotional, financial, and practical challenges families face after a childhood cancer diagnosis, as well as the many ways the community can help. From Paige's Butterfly Run to year-round family support programs, this episode shines a light on the incredible impact of compassion, awareness, and community connection. Learn how you can get involved and help support local children and families facing childhood cancer.

  3. May 16

    CNY Community Connections: Community, Leadership & Giving Back with Leroy Collins Jr.

    In this episode of CNY Community Connections, Shelley Hoffman sits down with Leroy Collins Jr. for a conversation centered around leadership, perseverance, community impact, and giving back. As President of the Upstate NFL Alumni Chapter Syracuse, Leroy shares how community involvement and charitable initiatives continue to make a difference across Central New York. The episode also highlights upcoming events and the importance of supporting local organizations and families in need. From personal experiences to inspiring community work, this conversation is all about using your platform to create positive change. #CNYCommunityConnections #HeartHomeCommunity #LeroyCollinsJr #NFLAlumni #CommunityLeadership #GiveBackCNY #SyracuseNY

  4. Apr 7

    Protecting Children in CNY | Conversation with Erin Bates of McMahon Ryan

    In this episode, Shelley Hoffman sits down with Erin Bates, Executive Director of McMahon Ryan Child Advocacy Center, to discuss the important work being done to protect children and support families across Central New York. In recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month, this conversation highlights how our community can come together to raise awareness, support local initiatives, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of children. Learn more about how you can get involved and support the mission right here in CNY. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more community-focused conversations. #CNYCommunityConnections #HeartHomeCommunity #McMahonRyan #ChildAbusePreventionMonth #CNYCommunity #Podcast

  5. Feb 25

    CNY Community Update with Sheila Ohstrom

    In this insightful podcast episode, Shelly Hoffman sits down with Sheila Ohmstrom to discuss the inspiring journey of Sheila's career and her impactful work in the field of dementia care. Sheila shares her personal connection to the cause, having lost her mother to vascular dementia, which inspired her to start a home care company specializing in dementia care. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish "Living with Dementia Central New York," a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting caregivers and raising awareness about dementia. Sheila highlights the importance of community support, resource awareness, and the emotional impact of caregiving. The nonprofit aims to provide practical help and respite care for caregivers, offering summits across various counties to bring caregivers together, share practical caregiving tips, and foster a supportive community. As they discuss the future goals for the nonprofit, Sheila emphasizes the need for volunteer networks and foundational sponsors to expand their reach. This episode is a testament to the power of passion and adaptability, reminding listeners of the profound impact one can make by pursuing meaningful work. Follow "Living with Dementia CNY" on their website and Facebook to stay updated on their initiatives and support this vital cause.

    CNY Community Update with Sheila Ohstrom

  6. Feb 14

    CNY Community Update with County Executive Ryan McMahon

    Shelley Hoffman interviews County Executive Ryan McMahon. They discuss the extensive planning and collaboration required to bring the Micron project to fruition. McMahon expresses optimism about the economic benefits and job creation the project will bring to the community, acknowledging the complexities and negotiations involved in such a large-scale endeavor.

    CNY Community Update with County Executive Ryan McMahon

  7. Feb 11

    From Bucket List to Center Stage: Laura Stisser

    In this episode, Shelley welcomes her longtime friend, Laura Stisser, who is courageously turning a bucket list dream into reality. Laura opens up about the ups and downs of pursuing acting later in life—the doubts, the resilience, and the moments of joy that come with chasing something new. Together, they share a conversation about friendship, growth, and the powerful reminder that it’s never too late to follow your passion.

    From Bucket List to Center Stage: Laura Stisser

  8. Jan 26

    Taking the Plunge for the Community

    Shelley Hoffman hosts "CNY Community Connections" with guest Don Grovine, a fellow real estate professional, to discuss community involvement, specifically focusing on the B’Ville Big Chill event and its impact on the community. The B’Ville Big Chill isa major fundraising event organized by the Greater Baldwinsville Chamber of Commerce. Despite initial reluctance, Don participates annually, motivated by the opportunity to give back to the community. The event is a significant fundraiser for the Chamber, which relies on such events for financial support. Don discusses the connection between real estate professionals and community involvement, noting that giving back is an integral part of their work. He cites his company's ethos, "We're not in a business selling houses. We're in a people business," as a guiding principle for engaging with the community.

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Heart, Home, & Community's mission is to interconnect Central New York residents, businesses, and organizations together. Our goal is to create a better, more vibrant place to live, work, and play. This podcast will have guest who are community leaders, organizers or key players in making CNY the best part of New York State.

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