Senate Resolution No. 1670

BY: Senator GRIFFO

CONGRATULATING Amy Turner upon the occasion of her
retirement as Executive Director of the Mohawk
Valley Community Action Agency after many years of
distinguished service

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those distinguished individuals whose professional lives and
civic endeavors have contributed to the strength, vitality, and
well-being of their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate Amy Turner upon the occasion of her retirement as Executive
Director of the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency, to be celebrated
at the conclusion of March 2026, after 29 years of dedicated service to
the agency and the people of the Mohawk Valley; and

WHEREAS, The Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency, a leading
resource for individuals and families in Oneida and Herkimer Counties,
has for more than 55 years provided essential services in housing,
community development, early childhood education, workforce development,
and public health, connecting those most in need with the tools and
support necessary to build stability and improve their well-being; and

WHEREAS, Amy Turner began her career in Community Action as an
outreach worker at the Cayuga-Seneca location, where through diligence
and determination she rose to the position of Homeless Program Manager;
she further expanded her leadership experience in Onondaga County with
Peace Incorporated, serving as Director of Planning and Program
Development; and

WHEREAS, In 1997, Amy Turner accepted the position of Executive
Director of the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency, embarking upon a
tenure marked by visionary leadership, tireless advocacy, and an
unwavering commitment to fighting poverty and empowering individuals and
families throughout Oneida and Herkimer Counties; and

WHEREAS, Over the course of 26 years as Executive Director, and 29
years of total service to the agency, Amy Turner has been a driving
force behind the expansion of programs and services, the strengthening
of community partnerships, and the enhancement of organizational
capacity, thereby improving the lives of thousands of residents across
the Mohawk Valley; and

WHEREAS, Under her steadfast leadership, the Agency launched and
strengthened numerous initiatives addressing early childhood education,
housing stability, workforce development, and comprehensive family
support services, responding effectively to evolving community needs;
and

WHEREAS, Amy Turner guided the Agency through periods of economic
uncertainty and unprecedented challenge, including the COVID-19
pandemic, ensuring that the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency

remained a pillar of stability, compassion, and critical assistance for
vulnerable individuals and families; and

WHEREAS, Recognized by colleagues and community leaders alike as the
heart and soul of the organization, Amy Turner's vision, integrity, and
compassion have left an enduring and indelible mark upon the community
she has so faithfully served; and

WHEREAS, In her own words, Amy Turner has described her service as
"the honor of a lifetime," expressing pride in the collective
accomplishments achieved and confidence in the Agency's continued
success in the years ahead; and

WHEREAS, Throughout her distinguished career, Amy Turner has
demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to public service, embodying
the highest ideals of leadership, dedication, and community stewardship;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Amy Turner upon the occasion of her retirement as Executive
Director of the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency, to commend her
for her nearly three decades of exemplary service, and to extend to her
its heartfelt gratitude and best wishes for a future filled with
continued purpose, fulfillment, and happiness; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Amy Turner.