Head Start: Building Foundations for the Future

Weatherization Works: NYSWDA's Role in Safer, Warmer Homes

S3E2 – Weatherization Works: NYSWDA's Role in Safer, Warmer Homes ----more---- In our second episode of Season 3, we're joined by Andy Stone, Executive Director of the New York State Weatherization Directors Association (NYSWDA), to explore the often-overlooked world of weatherization and its powerful impact on families, communities, and the environment. Andy shares his 40+ year journey from energy auditor to state leader, explains the evolution of the Weatherization Assistance Program, and breaks down how the work goes far beyond energy savings — offering real outcomes like safer homes, lower utility bills, and even life-saving interventions. We discuss: * What weatherization is and why it matters * How NYSWDA trains and certifies a statewide workforce * Success stories that show the human side of the program * The future of weatherization as a recognized skilled trade * How Community Action Agencies can collaborate to reach more families Whether you're new to the program or a longtime advocate, this episode will leave you inspired by the powerful connection between housing, health, and hope.

Head Start: Building Foundations for the Future

In our first episode of Season 3, we sit down with Tia Nunziato, Early Childhood Program/Human Resources Officer at the Commission on Economic Opportunity (CEO) [https://www.ceoempowers.org/], and Marianne Suchocki, Associate Deputy Director at Fulmont Community Action Agency [https://fulmont.org/]. During this conversation, Heidi, Tia, and Marianne explore the transformative impact of Head Start in New York and across the country. From early childhood development to family support, the group discusses how this vital program continues to break the cycle of poverty and strengthen communities. Tune in to hear firsthand insights on Head Start’s legacy, its ongoing challenges, and why it remains a cornerstone of opportunity for children and families.

New York's Housing Challenges

In our second episode of Season, 2 we sit down with Mike Borges, Executive Director of the NYS Rural Housing Coalition [https://ruralhousing.org/], and Josiah Lamp, Director of Housing and Community Development at Chautauqua Opportunities [https://www.chautauquaopportunities.com/] and Board President for the NYS Rural Housing Coalition. In this conversation, they delve into the pressing issues surrounding the preservation and maintenance of affordable housing in New York State. Mike and Josiah share their experiences and discuss the challenges they face, as well as the significant strides they have made in securing funding to address these issues. Tune in to hear about their successes and ongoing efforts to ensure affordable housing for all New Yorkers.

Creating a Trauma-Informed Organization

In the first episode of Season 2, we sit down with Tina Zerbian, CEO at Connecting Communities in Action [https://www.ccaction.org/], and Wendy Robords, Director of Culture and Workforce Development at Pro Action of Steuben and Yates [https://proactioninc.org/]. Tina and Wendy discuss the steps they’ve taken to make their Community Action Agencies (CAA) more trauma-informed, and provide helpful tips and resources for CAAs looking to begin this process. Resources: * Resilience: The Biology of Stress & The Science of Hope [https://kpjrfilms.co/resilience/] * The Institute on Trauma and Trauma-Informed Care [https://socialwork.buffalo.edu/social-research/institutes-centers/institute-on-trauma-and-trauma-informed-care.html] * New York State Trauma-Informed Network & Resource Center [https://www.traumainformedny.org/] Click here [https://nyscaa.memberclicks.net/assets/docs/Creating%20a%20Trauma-Informed%20Organization.pdf] for the full transcript.

Affirming Fatherhood

In this episode, we sit down with Jacki Evans, Parent Engagement and Male Involvement Coordinator for Head Start/Early Head Start at PEACE, Inc. [https://www.peace-caa.org/]; Scott Leach, Director of Fatherhood Initiatives and Community Engagement at NYC Department of Youth & Community Development [https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiAnbD-mrSBAxX-k4kEHfcPBXMQFnoECA4QAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nyc.gov%2Fsite%2Fdycd%2Findex.page&usg=AOvVaw2lMXqbiPSeObSmT04uEND8&opi=89978449]; and Al Meyers, Safe Harbor Coordinator at Connecting Communities in Action [https://www.ccaction.org/]. Jacki, Scott, and Al discuss the importance of fatherhood initiatives, their agency's programs, the challenges associated with engaging with the fathers in their community, success stories, and more. Also, stick around until the end of the podcast to hear from one father who participates in Connecting Communities in Action’s fatherhood program.