TV Press
Catch up on our televised appearances, where YWCA leaders and community partners share insight on our programs, events, and the issues that matter most to women, families, and marginalized communities in Ulster County.
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Radio Press
Tune into radio features and interviews where our mission is brought to life through powerful conversations on social justice, local advocacy, and intergenerational community building.
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Print Press
Explore articles, op-eds, and features from newspapers and magazines that spotlight our work, celebrate our honorees, and recognize the YWCA’s role in creating a more just and inclusive Ulster County.
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TV PRESS

Seen. Heard. Impactful.

Television gives us the opportunity to visually connect with our community and share the impact of our work in real time. Through interviews, news coverage, and special segments, our team and program leaders highlight the vital services we provide, elevate community voices, and advocate for equity and change. These appearances help us reach a broad audience and bring visibility to the issues we care about most — from gender-based violence to youth empowerment.

Spectrum News: New York's nonprofit sector sees decline in employment

In a recent interview with Spectrum News, Athena Fliakos of YWCA Ulster County sheds light on the growing strain within New York’s nonprofit sector. As organizations like the YWCA work to meet increasing community needs with fewer resources, Athena discusses the very real consequences of funding cuts on essential services such as childcare and women’s support programs. Her voice highlights the urgency for renewed investment in the nonprofits that form the backbone of local care and advocacy.

Learn more here:

https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/capital-region/news/2025/04/23/new-york-nonprofit-sector-shrinking-

Spectrum News: Discussing the role the YWCA plays across New York state

An interview with YWCA Ulster County's CEO discussing the crucial services provided by YWCA's across NYS (New York State) and the upcoming elections, which constitute an existential referendum on democracy, reproductive rights, climate justice, gun safety, global stability and pandemic prevention.

Check out the interview here: https://spectruminfocus.com/section/in-focus/in-focus/2024/10/26/discussing-the-role-the-ywca-plays-across-new-york-state

Let's Talk, Kingston WOMEN WHO ROAR FOR THE Y

In a recent interview on Let's Talk, Kingston, Erica engaged in a conversation with Athena Fliakos, the CEO of YWCA Ulster County. Together, they celebrated the commencement of Women's History Month.

The YWCA Ulster County is committed to serving women and families throughout their lifetimes. Their mission is to empower women by enhancing their educational, economic, political, legal, and social opportunities. Additionally, they advocate for racial justice and human rights.

Listen to the conversation here: https://radiokingston.org/en/broadcast/lets-talk-kingston/episodes/lets-talk-kingston-women-who-roar-for-the-y

La Voz con Mariel Fiori:

Cultural humility

Good Wednesday friends! Today on La Voz with Mariel Fiori is education and family day.

I spoke with the holistic psychologist Dora Inés Grosso Garcia about addictions to technology, as she wrote in her column The Power of Love in the February issue of La Voz magazine.

Isis Benitez, Lead Director of Communications with the YWCA of Ulster County, invited us to participate in an anti-racist talk for Black Heritage Month. Why are we still here asking for equality and equity? tomorrow at 6pm at the Ulster County Restorative Justice Center, 733 Broadway.

Dr. Jerel Ezell explained to us why it is important to destigmatize immigrant populations through trauma-informed care and cultural humility, a topic he teaches at the University of California, Berkeley.

Listen to the conversation here: https://radiokingston.org/en/broadcast/la-voz-con-mariel-fiori/episodes/cultural-humility

La Voz con Mariel Fiori:

Women Making Change

🌟 Empowerment Alert! 🌟

Knowledge is power, and this Hispanic Heritage Month, we're shining a spotlight on the impactful work of La Voz con Mariel Fiori La Voz con Mariel Fiori Group. 🎙️✨ Our Lead Director of Communications, Advocacy, and Outreach, Isis Benitez, had the incredible opportunity to feature on their "Women Making Change" Show last Wednesday.

🌍 Isis delved into our 12-month Stand Against Racism Campaign, passionately discussing the mission to drive change. Tomorrow, we're hosting the Mindfulness Matters Workshop, a pivotal step in our commitment to race equity practices. Isis explored the workshop's essence, touching on racism, allyship, and navigating micro-aggressions.

🎧 Tune in to the enlightening conversation: https://tinyurl.com/ywcawomenchangehhmlavoz 🎧

Spectrum News:

"YWCA Ulster County turns 100"

Discover the inspiring journey of the YWCA Ulster County as it celebrates its momentous 100th anniversary. This insightful interview highlights the organization's unwavering commitment to empowering women, especially women of color, through workforce development, healthcare, and ownership opportunities. Learn about their advocacy efforts, challenges faced by marginalized women, and the importance of allyship in creating positive change. Gain valuable insights into the YWCA's impactful work over the past century and its vision for a future that continues to promote equality and empowerment. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the YWCA's remarkable legacy and its dedication to building a more inclusive and empowered community.

Link to the interview: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/hudson-valley/ctv-only/2023/07/14/ywca-ulster-county-turns-100#

Help Paying for the Funeral and 100 Years of the YWCA Ulster County

Spectrum News:

Exploring services the YWCA provides for women and girls of all ages

May 8, 2022

Tune into @spectrumnews1hv to see YWCA Ulster County CEO, Athena Filakos, join JoDee Kenney for a conversation about how we can help young women navigate the world — including guiding them through changes in their bodies, mental health and relationships. Fliakos also discusses the services that the YWCA can provide for women and girls of all ages.

Tune in here: https://spectruminfocus.com/section/in-focus/in-focus/2022/05/07/in-focus--athena-fliakos---ywca-of-ulster-county-ceo#

Spectrum News:

YWCA in Ulster County receives computers to help writing program

December 1, 2021

The YWCA Ulster County has some new tools heading into next year.

The organization received $2,500 and 20 Chromebooks from Spectrum on Wednesday.

The Chromebooks will be used to support their Be the Change youth leadership program, and the eracism program, a writing program to help young people develop ideas for eliminating racism.

Among those on hand was state Sen. Michelle Hinchey who said the YWCA has been instrumental in shaping the future of the community.

Tune in here: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/hudson-valley/news/2021/12/01/ywca-ulster-county-chromebooks#

La Voz con Mariel Fiori:

Help Paying for the Funeral and 100 Years of the YWCA Ulster County

Wednesday, November 17th

The Common Council passed eviction legislation for a good cause on Monday. There are already four cities with similar legislation that supports tenant rights. Will Kingston be next?

Meet and support dance and martial arts teacher Toni Llanos, previous adjunct professor of Black and African Dance Studies at SUNY New Paltz and director of the Poughkeepsie Performing Arts Academy. Please consider financially supporting unemployed Llanos with funeral costs for their mother’s funeral. Cash App, $ Phoenix315, Zelle to the phone number (845) 380-5021

Also, listen to how Athena Demetra Fliakos, acting director for the YWCA and first-generation American to immigrant parents, plans to continue to serve the Kingston and Ulster County community for 100 more years.

Tune in here: https://radiokingston.org/en/broadcast/la-voz-con-mariel-fiori/episodes/help-paying-for-the-funeral-and-100-years-of-the-ywca-of-ulster-county

RADIO PRESS

Voices That Move Us.

Radio allows for intimate, in-depth storytelling. Through interviews and public affairs programs, YWCA of Ulster County has joined important conversations around justice, community health, and aging with dignity. Our radio presence helps us connect with a diverse, intergenerational audience and amplify the work of those who often go unheard. Whether it’s discussing our latest initiatives or highlighting local changemakers, our radio features bring heart and humanity to our mission.

Planet Seniors:

Important Issues at the YWCA:

I chat with Internationally acclaimed author, musician, and actor Pip Drysdale about her childhood in different countries and how with all her talents, writing became her main focus. He new novel, just released is "The close Up." I read it and we talked about the twists and turns that culminated in a surprise ending. Then we welcome Athena Fliakos, Maureen Callimari, Isis Benitez and Tanisha LaPlant from the Kingston YWCA. We talked of important women's issues like Early Childhood Development and Child Care as being top front runners of boundaries holding women back.

Tune In here: https://radiokingston.org/en/broadcast/planet-seniors/episodes/important-issues-at-the-ywca

Reel to Real Episode 24:

Athena Fliakos/YWCA Ulster County:

Our CEO, Athena Fliakos, of YWCA Ulster County, is joining Laura Kandel, the co-founder of HUDSY, to discuss our mission to eliminate racism and empower women. Together, they explore topics like the 'sacred feminine,' the power of education and educators, the mission and programs of the YWCA, and much more.

Visit www.ywcaulstercounty.org to learn more and to donate in support of our mission.

Tune In here: https://radiokingston.org/en/broadcast/reel-to-real-the-hudsy-radio-hour/episodes/reel-to-real-episode-24-athena-fliakos-ywca-ulster-county

Spotlight on the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce:

Here's to 100 years of Advocacy and 100 more of Never Giving Up!

Check out our CEO Athena Fliakos on the Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce Radio Show with Ulster County Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO Ward Todd talking about our Century Strong Campaign and what our plans are for the next 100 years at the YWCA Ulster County!🫶🏾

Tune in here: https://irp.cdn-website.com/15dddf91/audio/06182023.mp3

Come our TOMORROW 6/30 at 6pm at 209 Clinton Ave. Kingston, NY 12401 to celebrate with us!🥳🎂

Let’s Talk, Kingston with YWCA Team Members Tara Sanders, and Athena Demetra Fliakos

Sunday, December 5th

On this episode of Let’s Talk, Kingston Erica had the opportunity to check in with Tara Sanders, Director of Community Outreach and Public Relations at the YWCA Ulster County, and Athena Demetra Fliakos, Executive Director of the YWCA Ulster County.

This episode of Let’s Talk reflects on the many amazing programs and events the YWCA offers, including pushing the Student Writing Contest and Fundraiser: Eracism!

The Common Council passed eviction legislation for a good cause on Monday. There are already four cities with similar legislation that supports tenant rights. Will Kingston be next?

Tune in here: radiokingston.org/en/broadcast/lets-talk-kingston/episodes/lets-talk-kingston-with-ywca-team-members

PRINT PRESS

Our Words in Action.

Print media has long played a crucial role in sharing our story and recording our history. In local newspapers, magazines, and newsletters, you’ll find powerful articles about the people and programs that make up the YWCA of Ulster County. These written pieces offer a thoughtful, lasting way to reflect on our community work — from event highlights and personal interviews to advocacy efforts and long-term impact.

Daily Freeman:

RUPCO Project to convert former Quality Inn in the Town of Ulster into supportive housing gets $15 million state grant

About 9,350 sq. ft within the former steakhouse will be commercial: a two-level daycare facility and a commissary kitchen. These community spaces will be open to residents and public audiences.

Laundry and trash rooms are planned for each floor. The trauma-informed campus design is includes extensive outdoor green spaces to support leisure activities for children and adults. The project will employ 24-7 staffing to monitor the site, operate, maintain and clean the facility, provide supportive services. The project has already been awarded a grant to purchase an 11-person and with part time drivers will be employed. RUPCO will over see pool operations with lifeguards in attendance. Kingston’s YWCA has been selected to provide daycare and a local entrepreneur is operating the commissary kitchen.

Daily Freeman:

Japanese American abstract artist Yoko Izu opens with exhibit ‘The Space Between’ at Maiden Lane Gallery

Japanese American abstract artist Yoko Izu opens with her exhibit ‘The Space Between’ at the Maiden Lane Gallery in Kingston, NY Thursday, April 4, 2024 from 6-8 pm. 209 Clinton Ave. at the YWCA.

Mid- Hudson News:

YWCA Ulster County Hosts “Mindfulness Matters”

The YWCA of Ulster County is pleased to announce an upcoming event that will enhance workplace well-being and mental resilience. On Friday, October 6, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the YWCA of Ulster County will host a “Mindfulness Matters Workshop” led by esteemed board member Dr. B.Nilaja Green.

Daily Freeman:

"YWCA Ulster County marks 100 years of empowering women."

In this enlightening interview, YWCA Ulster County commemorates its 100th anniversary while reaffirming its commitment to empowering all women, especially the most marginalized. CEO Athena Fliakos shares the organization's history and its ongoing efforts in workforce development and providing crucial services to women in our community, including healthcare and employment opportunities. Lead Outreach Director Isis Benitez sheds light on the specific challenges faced by women of color and emphasizes the importance of allyship. Looking ahead, the YWCA aims to tackle homeownership disparities and continue promoting equality and empowerment. This interview provides valuable insights into the organization's impactful work over the past century and its vision for the future.

League of Women Voters of the Mid- Hudson Valley Region:

Ulster County YWCA Collaboration Report

Dare Thompson, Cindy Lanzetta and Cindy Bell had the opportunity to meet and talk with Athena Demetra Fliakos (CEO) and Isis Benitez (Director of Community Outreach, Advocacy & Public Relations) at the Ulster County YWCA in Kingston. We toured the facility and discussed the many ways our missions intersect and how we can collaborate to enhance both our organizations.

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Featured Press

TV Press

Radio Press

Print Press

TV PRESS

Seen. Heard. Impactful.

RADIO PRESS

Voices That Move Us.

PRINT PRESS

Our Words in Action.

View Our Photos and Videos