This month we're delighted to shine a spotlight on Haley Viccaro (MO#1237), a civic champion whose love for Schenectady has grown alongside her commitment to the people and places that make this city special.

Originally from New Rochelle, Haley came to the Capital Region to attend the University at Albany, where she studied biology and journalism—and after choosing to make a home in the Capital Region, she fell in love with Schenectady. Haley purchased her first house in Schenectady and is now president of her neighborhood association, Boulevard Appreciation Neighborhood Association (BANA). (BANA is hosting its second annual Community Social event on Saturday, September 19 from noon to 3pm at The Plaza, between Glenwood and Parkwood boulevards - all are welcome!) 

By day, Haley works at the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) focused on climate communications for the agency and statewide. She also works part-time at Proctors theater, where you can find her selling tickets some evenings and weekends at the Box Office. Outside of work, Haley also serves on the city Planning Commission and is involved with several non-profits including on the boards of the Schenectady City School District Educational Foundation, Schenectady Shares, Junior League of Schenectady and Saratoga Counties, NY Urban Orchards, and previously served as president of the Schenectady Greenmarket. In her "free time" she enjoys reading, kayaking and archery, and spending time outdoors in the Adirondacks and Catskills.

What do you like about being part of the co-op community? 

The co-op isn't only about bringing a community-owned grocery store to our city and downtown, it's a coalition of community members who care and are passionate about our city and its residents as a whole. That is what is so inspiring about being a part of the co-op community that has really taken off in recent years and has faced the challenges head on with true meaning and purpose. I commend all of the people who have put so much time and effort into making the co-op community what it is today, and look forward to the bright future it will bring to our city and beyond.

What will having a downtown grocery mean to you?

The co-op model is one that embraces community and collective action, a great example of what we can do for our city when we work together and support each other. Food insecurity is a big issue and something I feel strongly about, having been president of Schenectady Greenmarket for years and during COVID, helping to expand its footprint, support local farmers and help ensure access to fresh and healthy foods. Being a part of Schenectady Shares, I've also seen firsthand the number of food providers dedicated to providing much-needed food assistance as the need sadly continues to rise. Having increased access to food with a grocery store downtown, in addition to one coming soon to Hamilton Hill as well, helps to fill the gap while there is still so much more work to do.

What do you love about Schenectady?

I'm proud to always strive to be a cheerleader for Schenectady. I love Schenectady's strong sense of community, the many great organizations and non-profits, and all that it has to offer year-round. I'm fascinated by Schenectady's rich history that we continue to embrace, and its regrowth with a thriving downtown, diverse neighborhoods, and numerous businesses, restaurants, theaters, and more. Proctors is an anchor and gem for downtown that I'm proud to be a part of, Central Park and the Rose Garden is truly a crown jewel that continues to grow, and major developments like Mohawk Harbor and investments in Hamilton Hill and other areas are continuing progress that I hope only builds more and further supports all of our residents who call Schenectady home.