In this episode of the 'This is Beacon' podcast, hosts Brooke, Ruben, Brianna, and Brandon recount the highlights of 2024, share personal growth stories, and discuss their organizational goals for 2025. They talk about the impact of events such as the Back to School Block Party, the I Am Beacon 5K, and the Turkey on Every Table initiative, expressing gratitude to sponsors and community partners. Additionally, they detail their mental health resilience workshops for high school students and adults. Looking forward to 2025, the hosts emphasize the importance of community collaboration, personal well-being, and sustaining growth while maintaining the organization's authentic spirit.

00:00 Welcome to This is Beacon

00:31 Reflecting on 2024: Personal Growth and Achievements

11:51 Community Events Recap: Highlights and Successes

28:50 Mental Health Initiatives: Workshops and Impact

36:47 Community Foundation of Hudson Valley

36:49 Early Days and Impact

37:50 Challenges and Successes

39:06 Reflecting on Growth

41:31 Collaboration and Community

46:07 Looking Ahead to 2025

52:48 Authenticity and Inclusivity

01:06:27 Gratitude and Support

In this special episode for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are honored to sit down with Tara Simmons, founder of Flip It for Life and a powerful voice for change. Tara shares her personal journey, shedding light on the challenges she has faced, the strengths she has discovered along the way, and what drives her to help others overcome adversity. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and empowerment, making this a conversation you won’t want to miss. Join us as we dive deep into Tara's mission to uplift and inspire those impacted by domestic violence.

In this episode, Brooke, Reuben, and Brandon chat with Beaconite Command Master Chief from Submarine Squadron One. With a distinguished career in the US Navy, Command Master Chief shares his remarkable journey and offers deep insights into leadership and personal development. Discover how his experiences have shaped his leadership philosophy and how he’s now channeling these lessons into his podcast, Leadership State Of Mind, co-hosted with Armon Owens. Tune in to learn how you can explore new avenues for personal growth.

To learn more about Leadership State Of Mind and gain insights from seasoned Navy leaders, visit: Leadership State Of Mind" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer nofollow">Leadership State Of Mind

On this episode of This Is Beacon, Reuben, Brooke, and Brandon are back with the latest updates from Beacon.

They recap the I Am Beacon Making A Difference Scholarship, discuss the Elks 100th Celebration Parade, and the Brain and Body Coalition's Mental Wellness event. The team also explores the current discussion surrounding Veteran Banners.

- Register for the Back to School Block Party: https://iambeacon.org/beacon-back-to-school/

-Register for I Run Beacon 5K:

https://iambeacon.org/i-run-beacon-5k/

- Learn more about the Brain and Body Coalition: https://brainandbodycoalition.org/

- Check out City Council meetings and recordings: https://youtu.be/ybw9xdfH0sk?si=MkzWW-ORH42sKK55

Join us for an insightful episode of "This is Beacon" as we sit down with JC Calderon, a passionate architect, local business owner, and dedicated community member of Beacon since 2011. In this engaging conversation, JC shares his profound perspective on urban development, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public benefits in architectural and urban planning. He delves into the crucial role of good urban spaces that attract people and add value to the community, underscoring the city's responsibility to consider public interests alongside private developments.

JC also takes us through his journey from growing up in Brooklyn to becoming an architect influenced by his early exposure to building and creativity, leading him to pursue architecture in college. He reflects on his experiences and the transitions from public to private education, highlighting the inspirations that shaped his career path.

We explore JC’s views on the current and future developments in Beacon, discussing the challenges and opportunities that lie in maintaining a balance between preserving community heritage and embracing modern urban growth. Through his story and visions, this episode paints a picture of how thoughtful architecture and community-focused urban planning can foster a vibrant, sustainable urban environment.

Tune in to "This is Beacon" for a deep dive into how architecture touches every aspect of our lives and how proactive community involvement can shape the future of urban spaces.

Welcome back to another episode of "This is Beacon," part of our #JoinTheConversation series, where we break down the stigmas surrounding mental health. Today, we're joined by a very special guest, Michael Hanrahan. Michael's incredible journey from a diverse upbringing in Upper Manhattan to a dedicated career in mental health counseling is nothing short of inspiring.

Michael shares his unique path, including his time as a college student, his struggles with alcoholism, and his transformative experience working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation. His candid storytelling offers a deep dive into his time at Beacon High School, where he pioneered the role of a student assistance counselor, advocating for students and creating safe spaces for those in need.

Through heartfelt anecdotes and powerful insights, Michael discusses the importance of non-judgmental listening, the impact of creating supportive environments for adolescents, and his ongoing commitment to mental health even in semi-retirement. Join us for this engaging conversation as we explore the vital role of mental health support in schools and communities.

Tune in to hear about Michael's legacy and the lasting impact he has had on countless lives. This episode is a testament to the power of compassion, resilience, and the importance of breaking down mental health stigmas. Don't miss it!

Call to Action: If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, remember that help is available. Reach out, talk to someone, and know that you are not alone. #JoinTheConversation

In this episode of our #jointheconversation series on "This is Beacon," aimed at ending the stigma surrounding mental health, we are thrilled to welcome Jeff Hartford. Jeff, a lifelong athlete and a professional dedicated to the study and teaching of wellness practices, brings over 20 years of experience as a licensed massage therapist and fitness trainer. From his initial plans to become an elementary teacher to his profound shift towards health and wellness due to economic and personal revelations, Jeff's journey is a testament to following one’s passion and the deep interconnection between mental and physical health.

Today, Jeff will share insights on the influence of mindset on physical health, the critical roles of the nervous system, including the vagus nerve in wellness, and practical advice on incorporating breathwork, gut health management, and exercise into daily routines. His holistic approach not only encompasses physical health but extends to emotional and mental well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of our entire body system.

Join us as we delve into how small changes in perspective and behavior can lead to significant life enhancements. Welcome, Jeff Hartford, to "This is Beacon." Let’s dive into this enriching journey together and continue our conversation on mental health.