Empowered Pathways welcomed approximately 250 guests to Hart’s Hill Inn on April 17 for its annual Come to the Table fundraiser, bringing together community members, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters for an evening celebrating creativity, collaboration, and community impact. The event was completely sold out and raised approximately $55,000 in support of Empowered Pathways programming and services.
The annual event supports the organization’s Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC) and Women’s Employment & Resource Center (WERC), helping provide mediation services, restorative practices programming, workforce development support, and empowerment initiatives throughout the Mohawk Valley.
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed themed table displays created by community designers, live and silent auctions, raffles, dinner stations, and community networking opportunities. The event featured more than a dozen uniquely designed tablescapes, each donated and creatively assembled by local designers and supporters.
During opening remarks, Executive Director Timothy Lyon thanked attendees and reflected on the mission behind the event.
“Whether that’s supporting someone in finding employment, helping resolve conflict before it escalates, or helping people work through challenging situations—we’re there to help people find a path forward,” Lyon shared during the evening program.
The event was coordinated through the efforts of the Empowered Pathways planning committee, co-chaired by Susan Warwick and Marlene D’Accurzio, alongside staff, board members, volunteers, and community supporters.
Guests also participated in live and silent auctions featuring locally donated experiences, artwork, themed baskets, travel packages, entertainment items, and custom-designed tablescapes. Auctioneer Susan Nackley Mojave and Susan Gustafson helped lead the evening’s live auction festivities.
Empowered Pathways also recognized the generosity of the many sponsors whose support helped make the event possible, including Diamond Sponsors Bank of Utica and The Hartford, along with numerous community businesses, organizations, and individual supporters throughout the region.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and support shown by our community,” said Lyon. “The success of this event directly supports programs that empower individuals, strengthen families, and help create healthier communities throughout our region.”
Empowered Pathways extends its sincere appreciation to the event committee, sponsors, donors, table designers, volunteers, staff, and attendees who helped make Come to the Table 2026 a tremendous success.
