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Winter 2015


 
IN THIS ISSUE...
U.S. Congressman Chris Gibson and RUPCO CEO Kevin O'Connor at Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress breakfast
U.S. Congressman Chris Gibson and RUPCO CEO Kevin O'Connor at Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress breakfast at Marist College
carmen Torres, female homebuyer with housingcunselor Frank Robusto, tall with big smile
Congratulations to first-time homebuyer Carmen Torres on achieving her American Dream (with RUPCO Certified Housing Counselor Frank Robusto).
Francisca looking over the shoulder of a woman signing in at orientation.
Certified Housing Counselor Francisca Castellanos (at left) helps soon-to-be homebuyers at a HomeOwnership Center Orientation Workshop at The Kirkland.





The Lace Mill: The Architectural Concept
The Lace Mill: The Architectural Concept


The Lace Mill Virtual Tour
Curious what's inside The Lace Mill? We're planning a walk-about tour closer to the July opening, but for now we've compiled Scott Dutton Associates' architectural vision through their computer-generated designs. This video gives you a sense of what's in store for you at The Lace Mill.

We're accepting applications now through March 31 for the first lottery phase of The Lace Mill lease-up.  We've been listening and posted a 6-page FAQ that answers many of your questions. We're also posting a question-answer every day on the RUPCO Facebook Page; "Like" us there and get the most up-to-date information.

Bottom line: We encourage everyone to apply. This is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity, to live and work where artists live, in this newly renovated, historic landmark. The Lace Mill is an experiment in creative placemaking smack-dab in the heart of Kingston's midtown arts district. A creative, vibrant community awaits you... but you have to apply to have a shot at it.

RUPCO: 2014 Year in Review
RUPCO: 2014 Year in Review


2014 Snapshot
Watch this T-minus-3-minute video for a look at what RUPCO accomplished this year thanks to the wonderful collaborations, partners, funders and supporters like you. Last year's highlights include:
- renovation of The Lace Mill
- Housing Choice Voucher Program Wait List opened
Thanks to your support, we get to do it all again in 2015!
Give Housing a Voice, April 16

30-something black ma yelling: Give Housing a VoiceSave the Date -- Thursday, April 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. -- for a night of storytelling, the unveiling of artist Stephen Hargash's latest commission interpreting community involvement, and a wine-cheese artist reception at 721 Media Center, KingstonRUPCO hosts the artwork unveiling and campaign relaunch of "Give Housing a Voice." This awareness-advocacy effort helps individuals and towns hold the intelligent conversation about why affordable housing has a place in every community. Limited edition, numbered and signed print reproductions are available for purchase, with proceeds supporting the Give Housing a Voice campaign. How-to-have-the-talk tool kits will also be available online in April. Feel deeply connect to this topic? Sponsor the evening by contacting Tara Collins (845) 331-2140, ext. 210. 

Share Your "Why Home Matters" Story
RUPCO Storytelling - Krista
RUPCO Storytelling - Krista

As part of the Give Housing a Voice campaign, we're highlighting your local stories about "Why Home Matters."

Want to share yours? Answer this 10-question survey and tell us what makes a Home for you. It can be a story of homelessness or stability, a childhood memory or adult struggle. We're compiling these stories to share with others looking to advocate for affordable housing in their neighborhoods.

Here's an sample of what we're looking for, maybe a written testimonial like this one from Theresa Handelman or this video with Krista DuBois Ortiz. 
Energy Saving Tips and More
Use curtains to save energy

Who doesn't like to save money and energy? Find helpful tips on RUPCO's Green Jobs | Green New York Facebook Page. You can also sign up for their periodic enewsletter with frequent workshops and lectures on saving energy in the Hudson Valley.

 

Green Jobs | Green New York can also help you assess your current home situation, be it drafty doorways or inefficient boilers. Learn how you can save money with free and low-cost home energy audit. Apply today to find out if you are eligible for this consultation and the accompanying grant opportunities to improve your home's energy-efficiency.


Spotlight on...
Hands holding a house; blog titled Priority plus Resources equals Progress in 2015
Wondering what to make of a housing topic? Each week, we're sharing a viewpoint on a variety of topics in our blog, Home Matters. Read more from thought-leaders like CEO Kevin O'Connor, program staffers Laura Nordstrom and Guy Kempe, and periodic guest partner-bloggers.
The City of Newburgh and Newburgh Community Land Bank are moving forward with asbestos/lead abatement. This brings us one step closer to revitalizing this community, one building at a time.













Have a question about resident services? Ask Kim Mapes, recently promoted to Program Services Manager.