Working on Our Futures

Held monthly at The People’s Place Wellness and Empowerment Center, the workshop brings together young people ages 18–26 for conversation, hands-on activities, and real-world guidance. Each session includes a free dinner, peer interaction, and guest speakers from local businesses who share their career stories and advice, helping participants imagine their futures and see what's possible in their own backyard.

The workshops are hosted by Jim Rich “Mr. Rich” a native to Ulster County and health teacher and public health professional at Kingston High School and Barbara Magnoni “Barbara”, a business owner, financial inclusion expert and professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs.

Working on Our Futures will help with:

• Building confidence through structured reflection and group dialogue
• Introducing career options through guest speakers and practical discussions
• Creating community by connecting young people with peers, mentors, and resources
• Offering consistency in a trusted space, with monthly sessions that participants can return to over time