More than $12,000 was raised to support programs serving women and girls in Ontario and Yates counties during a recent fundraiser in Geneva.
The funds were raised at the Ontario Yates Fund’s annual Bud to Bloom event on May 30 at the 41 Lakefront Hotel. Proceeds will help fund future grants for nonprofit organizations that provide education, intervention services, legal assistance and other programs aimed at helping women and girls become independent and self-sufficient.
“With the current state of the economy, local nonprofits that deliver the programs to women and girls need our assistance now more than ever,” ONYA President Deb Gregory said. “We’re grateful to our members and donors who allow us to continue our work, and to help us celebrate the 2026 grantee organizations.”
More than 100 people attended the fundraiser, which featured a silent auction, luncheon and keynote address by retired Judge Debra Martin, a former New York State Court of Claims judge and Supreme Court justice. Martin spoke about her experiences as a lifelong volunteer and encouraged attendees to become involved in their communities.
Attendees also heard updates from organizations receiving ONYA funding in 2026. Those organizations include the Boys and Girls Club of Geneva, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Yates County, Family Counseling Services of the Finger Lakes, Family Hope Center, Geneva 2030, Pro Action of Steuben and Yates Counties, Quail Summit of Canandaigua and the Wood Library.
Applications for ONYA’s 2027 grant cycle are expected to open within the next month.
