More than $12,000 was raised during ONYA’s annual Bud to Bloom fundraiser, providing additional support for programs that help women and girls across Ontario and Yates counties.
The event, held May 30 at the 41 Lakefront Hotel in Geneva, attracted more than 100 participants and will help fund future grants for organizations focused on education, intervention services, legal assistance and other programs designed to promote independence and self-sufficiency among women and girls.
ONYA President Deb Gregory said local nonprofits need community support now more than ever as they continue delivering services throughout the region. The fundraiser featured a silent auction, luncheon and remarks from retired Judge Debra Martin, who spoke about volunteerism and ways to encourage others to get involved in their communities.
Attendees also received updates from the eight organizations receiving ONYA funding in 2026: Boys and Girls Club of Geneva, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Yates County, Family Counseling Services of the Finger Lakes, Family Hope Center, Geneva 2030, Pro-Action of Steuben and Yates Counties, Quail Summit of Canandaigua and the Wood Library.
Founded in 2000, ONYA provides grants to nonprofit organizations in Ontario and Yates counties that support and empower women and girls. The organization said its 2027 grant application process is expected to begin within the next month.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to news@fingerlakes1.com.