KS&R Presents 2021 Community Service Awards
In keeping with KS&R’s long-standing commitment to community involvement, the Firm honors employees that have contributed significant time and skills to non-profits that are near and dear to their hearts. This year, we are proud to recognize Director of Finance & Administration, Kelly Merrill, for her work with Camp Talooli and Information Sciences Data Associate, Jamie Favata, for his dedication to Move Along. In addition to acknowledging Kelly and Jamie’s outstanding effort, the Firm is pleased to have contributed a donation to these two very special charities.
Kelly Merrill has been actively involved in Camp Talooli for several years, serving as a board member and most recently as secretary of the organization. “The life skills that the programs offer at Camp Talooli are phenomenal. They teach diversity & inclusion, coping mechanisms, compassion, team building and many other life skills to children that they will carry with them throughout their lives without them even knowing they are being taught. The kids go for the fun stuff – the swimming, the boating, archery, challenge course, the campfires – and leave with so much more,” says Kelly. Kelly became familiar with the camp when her son started attending during the summer over 13 years ago. The camp recently built a new lodge that allows for year-round programing with a facility to house about 80 individuals overnight. Kelly supported the efforts of the build not only financially but also by sharing her time to help in getting the facility ready for daily use.
Jamie Favata got involved with Move Along Inc. when first taking his son to a sled hockey practice nearly 4 years ago. He started helping by managing the team to ensure the continued success of the program and the opportunity for his son to play would be around for years to come. Jamie has since become a member of the Board of Directors, and now also runs the racquet sports program, helping when needed with hand bicycle and wheelchair basketball events. Jamie states that “Sports are meant to be played by everybody regardless of physical limitations. Move Along Inc.’s mission is to ensure the financial barriers to accessing adaptable equipment are overcome. I am proud to be a part of this mission.”
About Camp Tooli
Camp Talooli, was founded in 1945 and has served the youth, children, and families of CNY ever since. Accredited by the American Camp Association, Camp Talooli is committed to a safe and nurturing environment, caring and competent adult role models, healthy and developmentally appropriate experiences, service to the community and natural world, opportunities for leadership and personal growth, discovery and new learning opportunities, and continuous self-improvement. In addition to the summer camp program, Camp Talooli offers annual programs throughout the year including school break, family camp, and other school programs. For more please visit: https://camptalooli.org/
About Move Along, Inc.
Move Along, Inc. provides and promotes inclusive adaptive sport and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities and allies. The organization’s roots date back to the Syracuse Flyers wheelchair basketball team founded in 1979. They still host the Flyers basketball team, as well as home to a number of other activities, including sled hockey, paddling, cycling, and tennis. Move Along is a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization and serves the communities of greater Syracuse, Oswego, and Central New York. For more information, please visit: https://www.movealonginc.org/
About KS&R
KS&R is a nationally recognized strategic consultancy and marketing research firm that provides clients with timely, fact-based insights and actionable solutions through industry-centered expertise. Specializing in Business Services, Entercom & Recreation, Healthcare, Retail & E-Commerce, Technology, and Transportation & Logistics verticals, KS&R empowers companies globally to make smarter business decisions. For more information, please visit www.ksrinc.com.
