Apr 24 Friday
Join FOCUS for a hybrid public forum where panelists will explore what it takes to ensure young children in our community are healthy, supported, and ready to thrive. Panelists from the Early Childhood Alliance of Onondaga, which works to build a coordinated system of early childhood supports across Onondaga County, and Child Care Solutions, a local nonprofit that helps families find quality care and connects them to financial assistance and other resources, will share what they see working with local families every day, what resources are available, and what still needs to change. After opening remarks from our panel, the conversation moves to a moderated Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and discover ways to engage with local priorities and partnerships. This is a welcoming, respectful space for community members to learn, engage, and explore ways to be actively involved in shaping the civic life of Central New York.
May 13 Wednesday
April - Nov Engage With GageTo celebrate Matilda’s 200th Birthday we will be reading her book, Woman, Church & State in sections throughout the remainder of the year. All sessions take place on the second Wednesday of the month and start at 5:30pm. Participants are welcome to attend in person at the Gage Center or online via zoom. Each session is $10/person or sign up for all sessions (Complete WCS Series) for $75.
May 14 Thursday
Time & LocationMay 14, 2026, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Zoom Webinar
About the EventRegister for the Zoom Webinar: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_r8xhLVBHQ2KV5CJEwTD-AQ
Cost: Free!
Big News! The Oneida Community Mansion House is embarking on PHASE 2 of its multi-year historic preservation project in 2026!
Be the first to hear all about the exciting work we have spent years preparing for, including the projects completed in Phase 1 and plans for roof repair, brick facade preservation, porch work, and so much more! You are not going to want to miss this exciting kick off to construction at OCMH!
This free and open to the public webinar will feature Tom Guiler, Director of Museum Affairs, Mike Colmey, Director of Buildings and Grounds, and Board Member and Architect, Jamie Trevvett, speaking about the past, present, and future of historic preservation and architecture at the Oneida Community Mansion House!
*All registrants will receive a Zoom link within 48 hours of registration.
May 22 Friday
Join FOCUS for a hybrid public forum where local leaders representing literacy education, digital skills development, and community advocacy will explore how access to strong foundational literacy, both reading and digital, affects individuals' ability to thrive in school, the workplace, and civic life, and how gaps in these skills can compound challenges across generations. Panelists will examine not only reading science and digital fluency, but also the ways these issues intersect with educational equity, workforce readiness, and full participation in an increasingly digital world. Panelists will provide an overview of the topic, share insights from direct experience working with learners and educators, and highlight evidence-based approaches and local resources that support literacy development at every stage of life. After opening remarks from our panel, the conversation moves to a moderated Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and discover ways to engage with local priorities and partnerships. This is a welcoming, respectful space for community members to learn, engage, and explore ways to be actively involved in shaping the civic life of Central New York.
Jun 10 Wednesday
Jul 08 Wednesday
Jul 24 Friday
Join FOCUS for a hybrid public forum where panelists will explore the future of transportation in Central New York and the shared responsibility of building a connected, accessible, and sustainable network for all residents. This discussion is informed by local conditions, recent developments, and ongoing efforts to ensure safe, reliable, and equitable mobility across our communities. Panelists will provide an overview of transportation planning, infrastructure investment, and mobility initiatives across Onondaga County and the City of Syracuse, drawing on their professional roles and direct experience managing, developing, and improving local transit and transportation systems. The conversation will highlight public agencies and planning organizations, and the ways residents can stay informed and engaged in shaping how our region moves. The Forum will emphasize practical civic participation, including understanding local transportation planning processes, supporting multimodal and transit initiatives, and engaging with community partners, while allowing panelists to address emerging issues and priorities as they see fit. After opening remarks from our panel, the conversation moves to a moderated Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and discover ways to engage with local priorities and initiatives. This is a welcoming, respectful space for community members to learn, engage, and explore ways to be actively involved in shaping the civic life of Central New York.
Aug 12 Wednesday
Sep 09 Wednesday
Oct 07 Wednesday