From left to right: Todd Mesick, Race Director of the Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club; Jenn Hyde, Executive Director of Catholic Charities Tri-County Services; Nick Kraft, Chief Customer and Market Engagement Officer, CDPHP; Peter Gannon, President & CEO of United Way of the Greater Capital Region; Kelly Young, Executive Director of Crossroads Center for Children
Albany, N.Y. – June 15, 2026 – CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge race organizers today presented nearly $50,000 in proceeds from the 2026 CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge to local not-for-profits Crossroads Center for Children and Catholic Charities Tri-Country Services.
New this year, CDPHP and the United Way of the Greater Capital Region partnered to connect two of the region’s signature May events — 518 Day, the Capital Region’s largest volunteer day, and the CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge. With both events occurring in the same week, the collaboration helped strengthen community engagement and broaden participation. As a result, taking part in the CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge carried added meaning this year and reinforced the region's commitment to service.
“The CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge is a deeply meaningful event for our community in more ways than one. It promotes connection, wellness, and support for local nonprofits. I’m especially proud that, in partnership with the United Way of the Greater Capital Region and 518 Day, this year’s charities of choice will each receive nearly $25,000. That is the kind of funding that can transform programs and change lives. Thank you to the race participants, our partners at the Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club (HMRRC), and all our sponsors for your continued support,” said Nick Kraft, chief customer and market engagement officer, CDPHP.
"The generosity of the 518 was on full display this year, not only through the funds raised for Catholic Charities and Crossroads Center for Children, but through the more than 1,000 volunteers who dedicated their time to projects across the Capital Region that strengthen our community. We are proud to partner with CDPHP in this effort and to celebrate a spirit of service that extends far beyond 518 Day and continues year-round,” said Peter Gannon, president & CEO of United Way of the Greater Capital Region.
Crossroads Center for Children is a nonprofit organization serving children from 30 area school districts across 10 Capital Region counties. Race funds will support the development of a secure nature trail and the installation of perimeter fencing at the center’s Schenectady facility, expanding safe, therapeutic outdoor learning opportunities for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
“Events like the CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge demonstrate the wonderful generosity and community spirit that make our region so special,” said Kelly Young, executive director, Crossroads Center for Children. “Every step walked or run strengthens the nonprofits and the people served. For Crossroads, that means helping children with autism build the skills they need to thrive. We are deeply grateful to be part of an event that celebrates teamwork, wellness, and giving back.”
Catholic Charities Tri-County Services, an agency of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, supports individuals and families across Albany, Rensselaer, and Schenectady counties. Race funding will help address the growing need for food and nutrition services among some of the region’s most economically vulnerable children and older adults. Planned initiatives include a mobile food pantry, expanded home-delivered meals, and enhanced nutrition counseling services.
“We are honored to be selected as one of the two Charities of Choice for the 2026 CDPHP Workforce Challenge. CDPHP has been a longstanding and valued supporter of Catholic Charities Tri-County Services, and this partnership is yet another example of their commitment to strengthening our community and supporting those most in need," said Jenn Hyde, executive director, Catholic Charities Tri-County Services. “The CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge not only promotes health and wellness but also creates meaningful opportunities for organizations like ours to continue serving individuals and families across our region. We are deeply grateful to CDPHP and all the participants who choose to support our mission through this incredible event.”
The CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge is organized by and serves as an important fundraiser for HMRRC. In addition to raising funds for local charities, the race also helps to fund HMRRC’s college scholarships, grants, and free running programs.
“HMRRC is incredibly proud to have partnered with CDPHP to deliver another successful CDPHP Workforce Team Challenge to the Capital District and is grateful to all the businesses, sponsors, and participants whose contributions provide meaningful support to local charities,” said Todd Mesick, race director, HMRRC.
###
About CDPHP®
Established in 1984, CDPHP is a physician-founded, member-focused and community-based not-for-profit health plan that offers high-quality affordable health insurance plans to members in 29 counties throughout New York. CDPHP is also on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
About the Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club (HMRRC)
The Hudson-Mohawk Road Runners Club is the Albany area’s largest running organization. The club was formed in 1971 and today has more than 2,500 members who come in all shapes and sizes and from all walks of life, as well as different running styles and speeds. Members are united in their love of running and desire to promote and participate in quality races and running-related activities. The club organizes more than 30 running events a year at many different locations throughout the Capital District. These events offer something for everyone, novice and veteran alike.
About About United Way of the Greater Capital Region
United Way of the Greater Capital Region mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit a century ago, whenever there is a need in our community, United Way is there. Through strategic investments and community partnerships, United Way helps families meet their basic needs, access education, and achieve financial stability.