August 08, 2023

2023 Raise the Region Honorees

James Gold, C. Jordan Vail Spirit of Philanthropy Honoree
Advisor, The James P. and Cheryl M. Gold Fund

Jim’s love language is the gift of time. This was demonstrated throughout his career with NYS Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation where he poured himself into protecting and sustaining our natural treasures so that they might be enjoyed in perpetuity. A theme which follows his philanthropy today.

The Golds settled in Saratoga Springs in 1981 and turned their love for their community into a life of volunteer commitment. Jim shared this passion for place with his late wife Cheryl. Each dedicated time to nonprofits whose missions matched their interests. Closely involved as donors, and often as volunteers for: Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, Saratoga Springs Library, Saratoga PLAN, Saratoga Community Health Center, Agricultural Stewardship Association and more recently for Jim, Pitney Meadows Community Farm; their impact has been meaningful and lasting.

There may be no more fitting example of C. Jordan Vail’s values than Jim and Cheryl Gold. Their extraordinary commitment will continue to guide and support the causes that have been most important to each of them.

Jahkeen Hoke, Beacon of Light Honoree
Chief Executive Officer, Business for Good
Co-Founder and Chief Development Officer, 4th Family

Jahkeen Hoke’s entrepreneurial spirit and vision defines his every move. He believes that a thriving eco-system of diverse, local businesses can lead to communities of greater equity and inclusion– more importantly his beliefs are demonstrated by his actions.

Today, Jahkeen works tirelessly to end social injustice, and build better and stronger businesses that become integral pieces of local communities. He inspires collaboration and has repeatedly been recognized for his achievements in business, community activism, and philanthropy.

The Foundation is honored to celebrate the many ways Jahkeen shines his light and commits his time and talent through service to many non-profit and municipal boards, including the Albany Black Chamber of Commerce, the City of Albany Human Rights Commission, the City of Albany Industrial Development Agency & Capital Resource Corporation (IDA/CRC), Albany County Convention Center Authority and Berkshire Bank Regional Advisory Committee.

 

Join us in celebration of Jim and Jahkeen at our upcoming Raise the Region celebration!