Last autumn, entrepreneur and philanthropist B. Thomas Golisano changed the nonprofit landscape of Upstate New York. Hillside was the grateful recipient of a $5 million donation from Mr. Golisano, part of his unprecedented $360 million combined gift to 82 upstate organizations—and continuing a lifetime of philanthropy that has exceeded $900 million to eminently worthy causes.
In an August 26 ceremony, we formally launched a project that will forever recognize Mr. Golisano’s support, while using some of those funds to bring critical improvements at a vital Hillside site.
Hillside’s array of services includes a robust mix of community-based, educational and residential treatment programs, with residential treatment provided at four campuses in Rochester, Chili, Bath and Auburn, NY. The Chili-based Crestwood Campus, which opened in 1960 and joined our agency in 1999, serves the region’s youngest children—beginning at age 5—who have been diagnosed with Severe Emotional Disturbance and a range of other challenging conditions.
Crestwood staff do life-changing work, but their campus needs help in order to meet the evolving needs of those we serve. A three-year project with a total estimated cost of more than $7 million will bring new and renovated cottages, enhanced green space for stronger therapeutic recreation opportunities, and a host of other improvements that are research-proven to increase the level of care we provide.
A kickoff ceremony on August 26 celebrated the kickoff of this exciting project, and offered an ideal moment to announce an important change: Hillside’s Crestwood Campus is now the Golisano Campus at Crestwood, a name that honors Mr. Golisano’s extraordinary generosity while preserving the Crestwood identity that has represented hope and healing for generations of children and their families.
In the weeks and months to come, I’ll share much more about this project, its impact, and how you can be a part of its success. If you’d like to join us today with a gift, please visit Hillside.com/donate or contact Chief Advancement Officer Calista Amering at 585-256-7515.
We’re forever grateful to Mr. Golisano, and to the entire community that shares our commitment to children, adults and families. Thank you for your interest and your support!
Maria Cristalli
President & Chief Executive Officer