In this episode of Common Unity, hosts Tony Marmo and Reverend Don Mapes Jr. welcome Ravin Williams from Place Corps, a Hudson Valley–based educational institute dedicated to helping the next generation build sustainable and meaningful livelihoods. Ravin explains how Place Corps creates place-based, community-engaged learning experiences that empower young people to know, love, and serve themselves, their communities, and the world around them.

The conversation dives into the challenges young people face as they navigate their path into the workforce and adulthood. Ravin emphasizes the importance of creating secure foundations—personally and professionally—so that individuals can grow into contributors who enrich and strengthen their communities. This inspiring discussion highlights how investing in our youth today helps shape a brighter, more connected tomorrow.

The Common Unity Podcast is back! Hosts Tony Marmo and Rev Mapes sat down with Stephanie Kearns, President & CEO of United Way of Ulster County, for a powerful conversation about the upcoming Children’s Charity Classic on August 29th at HITS-on-the-Hudson and, above all, the importance of community. Together, they explore what it means to raise families as a village, how coming together strengthens us all, and why events like the Charity Classic are about so much more than fundraising—they’re about nurturing collaboration to build connection, hope, and opportunity for every child in Ulster County. Tune in to be inspired and reminded that united truly is the way forward!

If you are interested in attending or donating to the Children's Charity Classic please follow this link: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/chichacla/event/childrenscharityclassic

In this episode of Common Unity, hosts Tony Marmo and Reverend Don Mapes Jr. sit down with Heidi Kirschner, President and CEO of the YMCA of Kingston and Ulster County. They recap the success of the YMCA’s recent fundraising event (Bowties and Blue Jeans) and talk about the vital role the Y plays in our community through its camps, youth programs, and family activities.

Heidi shares the Y’s ongoing mission to create fun, safe, and enriching spaces for children and teens—places that not only inspire personal growth, but also help guide the next generation toward becoming kind, capable, and connected adults. The conversation also touches on exciting plans for the future and the continued importance of investing in our youth through community-driven support.