FOCUS Forums are a series of engaging public discussions featuring expert panelists who discuss a range of topics that impact Central New York residents, including education, environment, local government, business, health, public service, and more. Each forum consists of insightful presentations followed by a moderated Q&A session that encourages community participation. We aim to create an inclusive space for residents to learn and contribute to the issues that matter most in our community.
Date: Friday, September 18, 2026 | Time: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Doors Open at 11:45 a.m.)
Registration & Location: In-Person & Zoom. Registration: Free and Open to Everyone.
This FOCUS Forum will be held in-person at the Food Bank of Central New York, with the option of virtual participation via Zoom.
Topic: Join FOCUS for a hybrid public forum examining the intersection of food insecurity, health care, and community advocacy, and how these systems work together to shape community health and well-being in Central New York. Panelists will share perspectives from the Food Bank of Central New York and the health care sector, offering insight into the role of food access in overall health, the work of the Food Bank to support individuals and families across the region, and the ways policy, systems, and advocacy influence both food security and health outcomes. The discussion will highlight how civic engagement pathways, such as advocacy, community involvement, and public participation, support solutions that strengthen access to food and health-related resources. After opening remarks from our panel, the conversation moves into a moderated Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions, reflect on the connections between food access and health care, and explore how residents can engage at the civic level through advocacy, volunteering, and support of community initiatives. This forum offers a welcoming, respectful space for community members to learn, engage, and explore meaningful pathways to strengthen the civic life of Central New York.
Language Access: FOCUS Forums are presented in English. Zoom provides optional, automated live captions and translation features that participants may choose to enable. These tools are generated by Zoom and are not professionally interpreted.
How We Built This Conversation: This topic came directly from a community member who responded to our survey. Your suggestions shape FOCUS Forums. Have a topic you’d like to see at a future FOCUS Forum? Suggest a topic or panelist here.
Panelists:
Karen Belcher, CPA, CGMA, President & CEO, Food Bank of Central New York
Becky Lare, Vice President of Government Relations, Food Bank of Central New York
Caitlin Toomey, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Director of Quality, Division of General Internal Medicine, Medical Director of Population Health, Upstate University Hospital
Elevate Our Community By Sponsoring a 2026 FOCUS Forum!
Join us in making a difference by becoming a sponsor and helping sustain this impactful program! Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, organizations, and businesses who are eager to make a positive impact!