Syracuse, New York – Christopher Community, Inc. (CCI), a Syracuse-based housing development and property management company, recently made a $2,100 donation to Whole Me, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides education and services for the deaf and hard of hearing community.

Christopher Community employees raised money through a variety of fundraisers at their annual employee picnic including a highlight feature of a dunk tank in which Justin Rudgick, President & CEO graciously volunteered to be dunked. CCI matched their contribution 100%. The donation will be used for the After-School and Family Enrichment programs offered through Whole Me.

Whole Me Enrichment Programs provide activities that focus on enhancing everyday interaction, literacy, and daily living skills. The programs provide a platform for deaf/hard of hearing children, along with their siblings, parents, and children of deaf adults to enhance their communication skills, exchange news, share ideas, create friendships, and socialize.

“We are very pleased to provide this donation to Whole Me,” said Justin Rudgick, President and CEO at Christopher Community, Inc. “Our employees were very enthusiastic about the fundraising opportunities at our recent annual recognition picnic and were thrilled to know their charitable efforts would be matched by our company, and that Whole Me, Inc. would benefit.”

“On behalf of Whole Me, Inc, we want to extend our deepest gratitude for Christopher Community’s generous donation towards our Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth Enrichment Program. It not only demonstrates their commitment to empowering and uplifting the lives of these remarkable young individuals, but it also serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for our entire Deaf community in Central New York,” said Joelene Orlando, Executive Director at Whole Me, Inc. “With their contribution, we are now better equipped to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where these extraordinary young minds can learn, grow, and thrive. The donation will directly provide access to educational resources, skill-building activities and unique experiences that will shape their futures in profound ways. This generosity is a testament to the power of collective action and the positive change it can bring about. We are very fortunate to have a strong partnership with Christopher Community, Inc. and thank them for their invaluable support!”

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Christopher Community, Inc. President and CEO Justin Rudgick is shown pictured recently with Whole Me, Inc. Executive Director Joelene Orlando, during a check presentation for a $2,100 donation made by Christopher Community and their employees. The donation will be used for the After- School and Family Enrichment programs offered through Whole Me.