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, March 20, 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.
Our March FOCUS Forum will be held in-person at Syracuse Community Health, with the option of virtual participation via Zoom.
Venue Address: Syracuse Community Health, 930 S Salina St, Syracuse, NY 13202
Topic: Join FOCUS for a hybrid public forum where local health providers and community partners will explore the realities facing individuals and families without health coverage. The discussion will explore how being uninsured affects overall wellbeing and stability, shaping access to physical and mental health care, employment security, family stability, and vulnerability to addiction. Panelists will provide an overview of the magnitude of the issue and challenges/policies increasing the numbers of uninsured. The discussion will emphasize holistic approaches to connecting the uninsured with community services. After opening remarks from our panel, the conversation moves to a moderated Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and discover ways to engage with local priorities and initiatives. This forum offers a welcoming, respectful space for community members to learn, engage, and explore how to be actively involved in shaping 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.
Panelists:
Kenneth M. Genewick, Vice President of Programs, Health Foundation for Western & Central New York
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Ken Genewick serves as vice president of programs for the Health Foundation for Western & Central New York. He joined the Health Foundation in 2018 in the newly created role of Program Officer for Caregiving through a partnership with the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation.
In his role as Vice President of Programs, Ken supervises the program team as they work to develop and implement community partnerships and programs that support the Health Foundation’s mission and vision. Ken also continues to develop and support programs that recognize and address the unique challenges and needs of caregivers for older adults. With diverse private and public sector experience, he brings to the foundation a unique perspective on aging and caregiving and its impact on both people and systems.
Prior to joining the Health Foundation, Ken was the director of the Niagara County Office for the Aging for seven years. In this role, he led the department’s efforts to promote independence and quality of life by providing community-based services to older adults and caregivers.
An active member of the western New York community, he is the past president and a current advisor to the board of the Western New York Integrated Care Collaborative. He previously served as a member of the board of directors of the Association on Aging in New York from 2014-2015; an alderman on the City of Lockport Common Council from 2010-2015; and a board member of the Greater Lockport Development Corporation.
Ken earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing and a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in health systems administration from the State University of New York at Buffalo.
He lives in Lockport, NY, with his wife Michelle and their three sons, Luke, Henry, and Jude.
Yolanda Cherbini, Divisional Director of Community-Based Services, Liberty Resources
Alexandria Pisarczyk, Director of Operations, Syracuse Community Health
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Alexandria Pisarczyk is the Director of Operations with Syracuse Community Health.
Coming from a background in Psychology and Health Education, Alexandria Pisarczyk entered Syracuse Community Health in August of 2022 to serve the Syracuse School Based Health Centers in the district.
In 2024, Mx. Pisarczyk was appointed Director of Operations to assist in the collaboration of 13 sites of service.
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!