Welcome to the Foundation for Community Betterment
Alexandria Bay, NY Chapter
PO Box 681 • Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
✉ [email protected] | 📞 (315) 486-9296
The "Heart" of the Thousand Islands
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As one of The Foundation for Community Betterment’s founding chapters, we’re incredibly proud of the legacy we’ve built together. To honor this journey, we have launched a dedicated 25th Anniversary Campaign that celebrates our impact while fueling our vision for the future.
To celebrate 25 years of Betterment in Alexandria Bay, we’re inviting 25 generous change-makers to each contribute $1,000—fueling a wave of impact that continues to ripple through Alexandria Bay and beyond.
Your gift becomes a ripple. From providing local individual support when hard times hit to lifting our local community resources, every dollar helps foster connection and compassion in the community by directly helping those in need when they need it most.
In Alex Bay, these ripples have already changed lives—and your support ensures the next chapter is just as powerful.
Be One of the 25: Join Our Ripple Effect Here
To celebrate 25 years of Betterment in Alexandria Bay, we’re inviting 25 generous change-makers to each contribute $1,000—fueling a wave of impact that continues to ripple through Alexandria Bay and beyond.
Your gift becomes a ripple. From providing local individual support when hard times hit to lifting our local community resources, every dollar helps foster connection and compassion in the community by directly helping those in need when they need it most.
In Alex Bay, these ripples have already changed lives—and your support ensures the next chapter is just as powerful.
Be One of the 25: Join Our Ripple Effect Here
You're Invited to Support Betterment — Here are 5 Easy Ways:
- Participate in Paddle, Golf, or Tennis (Scroll down for event info) – Register Now »
- Enter to Win one (or more) Amazing Raffles – Buy tickets here »
- Sponsor a Weekend Event – Families & businesses welcome »
- Make a Direct Donation (One-Time gift or Annual Commitment) – Keep the Ripple Effect going year round »
- Start a Fundraiser – Rally your crew & turn ripples into waves »
Your involvement & generosity creates lasting ripples! Proceeds from all events help local individuals and organizations in need—including supporting the “Ron McLennan Immediate Need Fund” which continues to help those with immediate needs throughout the year.
Celebrating 25 Years of Community Betterment!
Rooted in a love for community, friendship, and life on the St. Lawrence River, the Alexandria Bay Chapter of The Foundation for Community Betterment has been creating ripples of kindness since 2001. Inspired by a shared passion for giving back, we launched our first “Paddle for Betterment” that summer—an event that has since become a cherished “River Rat” tradition in the heart of the 1000 Islands. As one of the founding events of the national organization, our chapter’s activities continue to represent everything Betterment stands for: bringing people together, celebrating generosity, and creating lasting local impact. Through volunteerism, fundraising, and heartfelt connection, we continue to inspire the Ripple Effect of Kindness—one act, one event, one life at a time.
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Each July, families, friends and individuals from near and far come together to Paddle for Betterment—now a beloved St. Lawrence River tradition! Whether in kayaks, canoes, skiffs, or on stand-up paddle boards, participants of all ages “raise their paddles” for a morning of fun in the sun and to help create the powerful Ripple Effect we call Betterment. Our iconic local fireboat kicks off the event with a celebratory spray of water, signaling the start of the paddle promptly at 9 AM. From there, paddlers cruise the scenic shores of Alexandria Bay, enjoying breathtaking views of the Thousand Islands—including Boldt Castle and passing freighters—while collecting cards for their poker hand. Incredible GRAND PRIZES are awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in both Adult and Youth Divisions—and all paddlers are eligible for a door prize, too! We’re very proud to carry on this meaningful event in memory of Carolyn Curley—our event founder, a driving force behind our chapter, an avid paddler and a passionate believer in the mission of Betterment. Her legacy continues to shape and inspire our community of volunteers.
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 9:00AM—Noon
Check-In: 8:00 AM
Location: Alexandria Bay Village Beach
Pre-Registration Cost: $45 for Adults / $20 for Youth (Ends June 19th)
Pre-Registration Ends: June 19th for FREE $15 Fitted T-shirt & $5 OFF Registration
Day-Of Registration: $50 For Adults / $25 for Youth
Divisions: Adult Division (18+) & Youth Division (17 + under)
Capacity: 150 paddlers!
Registration Includes: Paddle Entry, T-Shirt (Must Pre-Register), Breakfast, Door Prize Entry, Free Gift & access to "Welcome Party" on Friday Evening.
Awards Ceremony: Poker Card Turn-In, Awards Ceremony and Recipient Gathering immediate follows
at Scenic View Park Pavilion starting at 11 AM.
Kayak Rentals: Call in Advance Mac's Boat Rentals (pick up), Swan Bay Resort (pick up), Otter Creek Outfitter (Pick up), Riverbay Adventure Inn (Delivery to Beach), or Wellesley Island Boat Rentals
Rules of Participation: Click Here
Route ( 3 1/2 +/- miles): Click Here
Optional Shortcut: After listening to reviews, our paddle route got easier & better in 2025—with a NEW "Scenic Shortcut Route" now available! Whether you’re paddling with little ones, keeping it casual, or just want to skip the most intense stretch, this option is for YOU! Skip Stop #3 (Curley Residence)—the longest, most challenging leg through bringing you into the main channel—and still collect a full poker hand! By opting for this route, your card will instead be reserved for you at check-in (on event day). No matter which route you choose--the full course or the scenic shortcut—you’ll be paddling for a purpose and powering local impact with every stroke! Route preference confirmed at online checkout.
Rain or Shine Info: All outdoor weekend events are rain or shine—with no rain date(s) scheduled. Rarely over the past 20+ years have we had weather concerns. In the event of heavy rain, paddlers will proceed to the pavilion to draw poker cards and enjoy the “Awards and Recipients Ceremony.” In the event of necessary cancellation due to thunder/lightening, your registration will be considered a direct donation to Community Betterment. Thanks for your understanding.
Register Online: CLICK HERE
Register by Mail: Download Form & Adult Waiver or Minor Waiver
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Sponsorship Options: Download Form or CLICK HERE
In-Kind Donation Form: Download Here
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 9:00AM—Noon
Check-In: 8:00 AM
Location: Alexandria Bay Village Beach
Pre-Registration Cost: $45 for Adults / $20 for Youth (Ends June 19th)
Pre-Registration Ends: June 19th for FREE $15 Fitted T-shirt & $5 OFF Registration
Day-Of Registration: $50 For Adults / $25 for Youth
Divisions: Adult Division (18+) & Youth Division (17 + under)
Capacity: 150 paddlers!
Registration Includes: Paddle Entry, T-Shirt (Must Pre-Register), Breakfast, Door Prize Entry, Free Gift & access to "Welcome Party" on Friday Evening.
Awards Ceremony: Poker Card Turn-In, Awards Ceremony and Recipient Gathering immediate follows
at Scenic View Park Pavilion starting at 11 AM.
Kayak Rentals: Call in Advance Mac's Boat Rentals (pick up), Swan Bay Resort (pick up), Otter Creek Outfitter (Pick up), Riverbay Adventure Inn (Delivery to Beach), or Wellesley Island Boat Rentals
Rules of Participation: Click Here
Route ( 3 1/2 +/- miles): Click Here
Optional Shortcut: After listening to reviews, our paddle route got easier & better in 2025—with a NEW "Scenic Shortcut Route" now available! Whether you’re paddling with little ones, keeping it casual, or just want to skip the most intense stretch, this option is for YOU! Skip Stop #3 (Curley Residence)—the longest, most challenging leg through bringing you into the main channel—and still collect a full poker hand! By opting for this route, your card will instead be reserved for you at check-in (on event day). No matter which route you choose--the full course or the scenic shortcut—you’ll be paddling for a purpose and powering local impact with every stroke! Route preference confirmed at online checkout.
Rain or Shine Info: All outdoor weekend events are rain or shine—with no rain date(s) scheduled. Rarely over the past 20+ years have we had weather concerns. In the event of heavy rain, paddlers will proceed to the pavilion to draw poker cards and enjoy the “Awards and Recipients Ceremony.” In the event of necessary cancellation due to thunder/lightening, your registration will be considered a direct donation to Community Betterment. Thanks for your understanding.
Register Online: CLICK HERE
Register by Mail: Download Form & Adult Waiver or Minor Waiver
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Sponsorship Options: Download Form or CLICK HERE
In-Kind Donation Form: Download Here
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No matter your skill level—whether you're new to the game or a seasoned golfer—come join the fun at our annual golf tournament! Enjoy morning or afternoon tee times, plus exciting contests like longest drive, closest to the pin, putting, and skins!
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM + 2:00 PM Tee Times
Check-In: 1-hour prior to T-Time
Location: Village Municipal Golf Courts
Divisions: Men's, Women's and Co-ed: 2 Person Scramble
Capacity: 22 Teams in Morning + 22 Teams in Afternoon (88 people total)
Cost: $50 per person
Registration Includes: Tournament Entry, Golf Cart, Lunch, Prizes & access to "Welcome Party" on Friday Evening.
Awards Ceremony: 5:30-7:30PM at Bonnie Castle Resort
Rain or Shine Info: All outdoor weekend events are rain or shine—with no rain date(s) scheduled. Rarely have we had weather concerns. In the event inclement weather or necessary cancellation due to thunder/lightening, your registration will be considered a direct donation to Community Betterment. You’re still invited to our Welcome Party where we will distribute door prizes/gifts. Thanks for your understanding.
Register Online: GO HERE
Register by Mail: Download Form
Wavier Form: None
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Sponsorship Options: Download Form or CLICK HERE
In-Kind Donation Form: Download Here
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 10:30 AM + 2:00 PM Tee Times
Check-In: 1-hour prior to T-Time
Location: Village Municipal Golf Courts
Divisions: Men's, Women's and Co-ed: 2 Person Scramble
Capacity: 22 Teams in Morning + 22 Teams in Afternoon (88 people total)
Cost: $50 per person
Registration Includes: Tournament Entry, Golf Cart, Lunch, Prizes & access to "Welcome Party" on Friday Evening.
Awards Ceremony: 5:30-7:30PM at Bonnie Castle Resort
Rain or Shine Info: All outdoor weekend events are rain or shine—with no rain date(s) scheduled. Rarely have we had weather concerns. In the event inclement weather or necessary cancellation due to thunder/lightening, your registration will be considered a direct donation to Community Betterment. You’re still invited to our Welcome Party where we will distribute door prizes/gifts. Thanks for your understanding.
Register Online: GO HERE
Register by Mail: Download Form
Wavier Form: None
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Sponsorship Options: Download Form or CLICK HERE
In-Kind Donation Form: Download Here
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The John N. Russell Memorial Doubles Tennis Tournament honors the beautiful memory of Mr. John Russell. “Big John,” a self-described River Rat, was a noted river community businessman, avid tennis player and solid supporter of The Foundation for Community Betterment’s programs and events. Members of Mr. Russell’s family attend and support this special event annually. We hope you will join, along with other members of our tennis community as we swing our rackets in support of the “Ripple Effect” called Community Betterment! We encourage participants to wear predominantly white tennis attire in John’s honor.
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 9:00AM
Check-In/Warm Ups: 8:15 AM
Location: Alexandria Bay Village Municipal Tennis Courts
Cost: $50 per person
Capacity: 12 Men's teams + 12 Women's teams (48 players total)
Registration Includes: Tournament Entry, A Special Gift, Prizes, & Access to “Welcome Party” on Friday Evening!
Awards Ceremony: Immediately Follows Tournament (Court-side)
Who can Participate: Men’s and Women’s Doubles Teams;
Combined age of players must be greater than or equal to 75
Rain or Shine Info: All outdoor weekend events are rain or shine—with no rain date(s) scheduled. Rarely have we had weather concerns. In the event inclement weather tennis players should plan for the whole day to get match play in. In the event of necessary cancellation due to thunder/lightening, your registration will be considered a direct donation to Community Betterment. You’re still invited to our Welcome Party where we will distribute door prizes/gifts. Thanks for your understanding.
Register Online: CLICK HERE
Register by Mail: Download Form
Waiver Form: Included in online registration. Available to fill out on site for mail in registrations.
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 9:00AM
Check-In/Warm Ups: 8:15 AM
Location: Alexandria Bay Village Municipal Tennis Courts
Cost: $50 per person
Capacity: 12 Men's teams + 12 Women's teams (48 players total)
Registration Includes: Tournament Entry, A Special Gift, Prizes, & Access to “Welcome Party” on Friday Evening!
Awards Ceremony: Immediately Follows Tournament (Court-side)
Who can Participate: Men’s and Women’s Doubles Teams;
Combined age of players must be greater than or equal to 75
Rain or Shine Info: All outdoor weekend events are rain or shine—with no rain date(s) scheduled. Rarely have we had weather concerns. In the event inclement weather tennis players should plan for the whole day to get match play in. In the event of necessary cancellation due to thunder/lightening, your registration will be considered a direct donation to Community Betterment. You’re still invited to our Welcome Party where we will distribute door prizes/gifts. Thanks for your understanding.
Register Online: CLICK HERE
Register by Mail: Download Form
Waiver Form: Included in online registration. Available to fill out on site for mail in registrations.
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Celebrate the spirit of Betterment at our fun Welcome Reception, set against the backdrop of Boldt Castle and the majestic St. Lawrence River. Join us at Bonnie Castle Resort for an unforgettable evening filled with live music, hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, raffles, and the debut of our Select Silent Auction this year—featuring five exclusive, experience-based packages and river themed items you won’t want to miss! Whether you're a longtime supporter or a first-time guest, this laid-back celebration is the perfect way to connect with friends, meet new faces, and toast to another amazing Betterment Weekend. All donors, sponsors, board members, volunteers, and registered participants (golf, tennis, or paddle) are invited to attend for free as part of your registration. We can’t wait to welcome you!
Please RSVP through your registration, sponsorship form, or event chair by July 1st—or directly email: [email protected]
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 5:30PM - 7:30PM
Location: Bonnie Castle Resort’s Amazing Front Deck
In the event of bad weather: Riverside Sports Bar (Inside)
Please RSVP through your registration, sponsorship form, or event chair by July 1st—or directly email: [email protected]
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 5:30PM - 7:30PM
Location: Bonnie Castle Resort’s Amazing Front Deck
In the event of bad weather: Riverside Sports Bar (Inside)
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RECIPIENTS CEREMONY — Meet our annual recipients!
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The HEART of the Weekend, the reason we're all here—our recipients! Join us for the most meaningful and unforgettable moment of Community Betterment Weekend as we honor those at the center of it all. During this powerful and heartfelt ceremony, you'll witness the direct impact of your generosity and support. Feel the emotion, hear the stories, and see the difference we make together as recipients are acknowledged and gifted with love and purpose. It’s a beautiful reminder of the true power of community—and the reason Betterment exists.
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Scenic View Park Pavilion
Cost: FREE (without Breakfast)
Who can Participate? EVERYONE!
Past Programs:
View our 2025 Recipient Ceremony Program
View our 2024 Recipient Ceremony Program
View our 2023 Recipient Ceremony Program
View our 2022 Recipient Ceremony Program.
View our 2021 Recipient Ceremony Program.
Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Scenic View Park Pavilion
Cost: FREE (without Breakfast)
Who can Participate? EVERYONE!
Past Programs:
View our 2025 Recipient Ceremony Program
View our 2024 Recipient Ceremony Program
View our 2023 Recipient Ceremony Program
View our 2022 Recipient Ceremony Program.
View our 2021 Recipient Ceremony Program.
Shown in Photo: The late Joe Russell accepting a Community Betterment check on behalf of River Hospital, pictured with Chairperson Trevor Garlock
Recipient Gifts – Making an Immediate, Positive Impact!
Since 2001, the Alexandria Bay Chapter has proudly given over $385,000 back to our community—thanks to the unwavering generosity of our supporters—directly assisting individuals, local organizations and community projects in times of need.
Recipients of funds must: (1) Be thoughtfully nominated by someone within our local network, (2) Demonstrate a spirit of giving and (3) Must make an immediate and specific difference to that individual's life or that of the organization. All nominations are carefully vetted within our local Recipient Committee and agreed upon first, locally. They are then reviewed and approved by our National Board of Directors to ensure they meet all three essential criteria before funds are properly dispersed.
View our recipient nomination form (for board member use only).
Ongoing Recipient List- starting with the most recent:
Recipients of funds must: (1) Be thoughtfully nominated by someone within our local network, (2) Demonstrate a spirit of giving and (3) Must make an immediate and specific difference to that individual's life or that of the organization. All nominations are carefully vetted within our local Recipient Committee and agreed upon first, locally. They are then reviewed and approved by our National Board of Directors to ensure they meet all three essential criteria before funds are properly dispersed.
View our recipient nomination form (for board member use only).
Ongoing Recipient List- starting with the most recent:
FUNDS AND PARTNERSHIPS:
Ron McLennan Immediate Need Fund
The Ron McLennan Immediate Need Fund was established in memory of Ronald J. McLennan, a member of Betterment's host committee since its inception, who passed away in 2011. The purpose of our "Immediate Need Fund" is to provide Betterment with the ability to give funding for local Alexandria Bay Recipients not just at our summer events, but throughout the year. Mr. McLennan was Superintendent of Alexandria Central School for 27 years. He gave in so many ways (big and small) to the Alexandria Bay community, creating a ripple effect that personifies the mission of Betterment. We are forever grateful for his friendship, leadership and support - and are honored to be able to positively carry out his name.
Donate here to the Alexandria Bay Ronald McLennan Immediate Need Fund.
Donate here to the Alexandria Bay Ronald McLennan Immediate Need Fund.
High School Scholarship Awards
Our Chapter proudly offers two annual scholarships to graduating seniors at Alexandria Central School: A Community Service Award recognizing outstanding volunteerism and impact, and a Technical Scholarship supporting students pursuing education in a trade or vocational program. Both awards honor local youth making a difference and investing in their future.
- Community Service Award ($1,000) - Established 2021
View our application process for the Community Service Award here.
Past “Community Service” Scholarship Recipients:
2025— Evan Sanford, Madyson Booth, Kaydence Rogers and Sincerity Diange
*Four Recipients Chosen - this one year only*
2024—Ciara Dawley
2023—Cassandra VanBrocklin & Kayla Felder
*Two Recipients Chosen - this one year only*
2022—Emilee White
- Technical Scholarship Award ($500) - Established 2024
View our application process the Technical Scholarship Award here.
Past “Technical” Scholarship Recipients:
2025- No Award Winner
2024—Owen Ingalls
Bottle and Can Redemption Fund
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As of June 2023, we're thrilled to announce the establishment of a NEW opportunity and relationship with Phinn's A-Bay Redemption center. Now, you can make a difference any day of the week by donating your empty bottles and cans to support Community Betterment.
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How does the bottle/can donation process work?
1. You can donate your bottles/cans YEAR-ROUND, any time you wish.
2. To participate: simply drop off your bottle/can donations at their A-Bay redemption center at 45447 Rt. 12, Alexandria Bay. At time of drop off, please 100% CONFIRM with their staff that you want your returnable money to be donated to The Foundation for Community Betterment - Alexandria Bay Chapter. You can ask for a receipt if you'd like.
3. Phinn’s provides a check quarterly – which we deposit in our chapter's Immediate Need Fund to help with recipients throughout the year.
1. You can donate your bottles/cans YEAR-ROUND, any time you wish.
2. To participate: simply drop off your bottle/can donations at their A-Bay redemption center at 45447 Rt. 12, Alexandria Bay. At time of drop off, please 100% CONFIRM with their staff that you want your returnable money to be donated to The Foundation for Community Betterment - Alexandria Bay Chapter. You can ask for a receipt if you'd like.
3. Phinn’s provides a check quarterly – which we deposit in our chapter's Immediate Need Fund to help with recipients throughout the year.
Northern New York Community Foundation Partnership - Est. 2018
“The Foundation for Community Betterment Alexandria Bay Endowment Fund”
“The Foundation for Community Betterment Alexandria Bay Endowment Fund”
Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation (NNYCF) has worked alongside nonprofits, businesses, and individuals to build lasting legacies of giving. In June 2018, our Chapter proudly partnered with NNYCF to establish a permanent endowment fund dedicated to supporting our mission long into the future. We are deeply grateful for the initial $20,000 matching grant that helped launch the fund—and for an additional $10,000 matching grant secured in 2025 to further grow its impact. This partnership is a significant step in advancing our long-term local vision—ensuring a lasting presence in the community for generations to come, while also opening doors to new grant opportunities through NNYCF’s extensive network.
Invest in Betterment’s Future:
We invite you to consider a gift to our Endowment Fund - Your contribution will help ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of our chapter, allowing us to continue creating meaningful impact and supporting local recipients for generations to come. Whether you choose to give today or include the fund in your legacy planning, your generosity becomes part of the lasting ripple effect of kindness in Alexandria Bay.
Invest in Betterment’s Future:
We invite you to consider a gift to our Endowment Fund - Your contribution will help ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of our chapter, allowing us to continue creating meaningful impact and supporting local recipients for generations to come. Whether you choose to give today or include the fund in your legacy planning, your generosity becomes part of the lasting ripple effect of kindness in Alexandria Bay.
HOW TO DONATE TO OUR ENDOWMENT FUND:
There are several easy, meaningful and tax-efficient ways to give:
Contact Trevor Garlock: (315) 486-4900 | [email protected]
Visit: www.nnycf.org
- Secure Online Giving: Donate Now
- By Check: Make checks payable to Northern New York Community Foundation. Mail to: 131 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601. Be sure to include “Foundation for Community Betterment – Alexandria Bay Endowment Fund” in the memo line or via written donor instructions.
- Appreciated Stock: Contribute long-term appreciated securities for potential tax benefits.
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): If you're 70½ or older, donate directly from your IRA to fulfill part or all your RMD tax-free.
- Bequests & Estate Gifts: Include our endowment in your will, trust, or designate it as a beneficiary of a retirement account or life insurance policy.
- Donor-Advised Funds: Recommend a grant from your donor-advised fund.
- Charitable Gift Annuities: A contract that provides donors with a fixed income stream for life in exchange for a sizeable donation to a charity
Contact Trevor Garlock: (315) 486-4900 | [email protected]
Visit: www.nnycf.org
The Carolyn Fund: Continuing a Legacy of Kindness
The Carolyn Fund was established (and is offered) by our National Organization to honor Carolyn Curley—beloved community member and founder of our local Chapter. Known for her warmth, generosity, and friendly energy, Carolyn inspired a lifetime of kindness and service. In her spirit, the fund supports youth philanthropy initiatives that reflect her values and help spark the ripple effect of giving. If you, your kids, grandkids, school, or a local youth program are raising money for a cause you believe in, Betterment’s Carolyn Fund may be able to help! The fund offers small grants or matching donations to support children and young adults in their efforts to uplift a person or organization in need.
Click Here to Learn More & Apply!
Click Here to Learn More & Apply!
Through the years, Betterment's volunteers and supporters have worked together tirelessly to help our community. We are honored to have received the following awards and recognition for our positive contributions to Alexandria Bay - and we are grateful for all those who share the same vision of making our community a better place through actions large and small.
- Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce's "Spirit of Giving Award!" - June 2018
- Northwestern Mutual Community Service Award ($15,000 Grant ) - January 2017
VOLUNTEER For Betterment!
Looking to give back, make a difference, or get more involved in your community? Whether you want to share your talents, learn new skills, meet great people, or simply lend a helping hand, we’d love to have you join us! No matter your reason or availability, your time and energy can make a BIG impact in Alexandria Bay! There are many ways to get involved—find a role that inspires you and fills a need.
Fill out the form below to get started
Fill out the form below to get started
Meet Our Local Chapter Board for 2026:
The individuals listed below proudly serve on our chapter’s board of directors. We’re deeply grateful for their service, leadership, dedication, and passion. We also extend heartfelt thanks to the many additional volunteers who help plan, organize, and bring our events to life at Community Betterment Weekend—your support makes everything we do possible.
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Carol Babcock
Michele Carr Sandy Chaltain Jamie Drinkwater Stockton Katherine Folino Bud Garlock Trevor & Erica Garlock Jennifer Garlock |
Logan & Andrew Garlock
Estee Kahrs Trina & Dave Keefe Heather McKinnon-Heath Morgan Ramm Courtney & Louise Rutherford Millie Savarese |
Patty Seltzer Wagoner
Jeanne Snow Alan Taylor Lisa Tillman Lori Turgeon Allison Williams |
Growing Our Chapter & Impact
Our chapter continues to evolve—growing in ideas, size, and community impact—as we spread the “Ripple Effect” of kindness in Alexandria Bay. Each year brings more volunteers, greater event participation, and exciting new initiatives! Here are the most recent highlights:
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In 2024, we proudly launched our NEWLY improved and branded Lemonade Stand for Betterment! Local kids are invited to “Spread the Ripple Effect, one glass at a time!” by selling lemonade at the Big M Supermarket, Garlock’s ACE Hardware, across town at various summer events AND at Community Betterment Weekend itself. It’s a fun, hands-on way for young community members to have fun & give back!
To volunteer your family/kids for a time slot this year, please contact Michele Carr: (315) 994-7429 |
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Looking ahead to 2025, we’re thrilled to debut The Ripple Report, a new column in partnership with our local Thousand Islands Sun newspaper. This feature will spotlight Betterment news, recipient stories, and exciting chapter updates—published weekly in the summer (May-August) and monthly throughout the rest of the year. You can subscribe to have the TI Sun mailed to you every week, no matter where you live. We’ll also post our column here and on our Facebook page, once it’s been published in print. Thank you to Tine Keefe for leading this PR initiative on behalf of Betterment!
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For newsworthy items, contact Trina: (607-857-5084
We extend heartfelt thanks to Jeanne Snow, former TI Sun owner and long-time board member, for her support and invaluable publicity help since our chapter’s founding.
We extend heartfelt thanks to Jeanne Snow, former TI Sun owner and long-time board member, for her support and invaluable publicity help since our chapter’s founding.
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Summer 2025--We're proud to share that our Chapter is now an official member of the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce! As part of this special partnership, we’re excited to support and grow local tourism and outdoor recreation in the beautiful 1000 Islands region.
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With Gratitude for Your Support
Thank you to all who continue to make our mission not only successful, but truly meaningful for Alexandria Bay. Whether you lead our efforts, volunteer your time, sponsor our events, donate prizes, enter raffles, or take part in our outdoor events, your generosity fuels our mission. Every gesture, big or small, creates a lasting ripple effect of kindness. We are deeply grateful for the joy, energy, and community spirit you bring to Betterment each year, and we look forward to gathering this summer with the incredible people who make it all possible!
Community Betterment in Action:
