Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form

---

Organization Name: The Cohoes Connect Project Inc.
Legal Name (if Different): Ben Williams
Also Known As: Executive Director
Mailing Address: PO Box 35 49 Johnson Ave
City: Cohoes
State: New York
Postal Code: 12047
Main Phone: 518-488-2809
Main Fax: N/A
Organization Website: connectcenterforyouth.org
Employer ID Number: 45-4737831
Organization Tax Status: 501(c)(3) public charity tax status

Proposal Information

---

Today’s Date: September 22, 2025
Requested Amount: 1,000-10,000

Project Title: The Cohoes Connect Project Inc.
Project Description:

The Connect Centers mission is to break the cycle of poverty by connecting youth to their full potential by providing community resources, community events, S.T.E.A.M based youth programs and a safe space for youth. The project started in 2012 and has been under development for the past 9 years with no donors or debt. Project build out is at 90% completion with a cost to date of $700 K and current total project estimated fair market valuation is $4.2 million. The after school program is designed to prepare students in grades 6-12 for academic success and future career paths. Connect Pantry is a full service food pantry open to the residents of Cohoes and the Capital Region. The Backpack Program hosted regionally through the Regional Foodbank and run locally by the Connect Center is designed to provide local, food insecure students with healthy weekend meals. The Connect Center believes that every individual has the potential to create positive change in their lives and the world around them.

Total Project Budget: $4.2 million

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Grants and public charity

Project Duration: ongoing
Geographical Area Served: Cohoes, New York
Age Group To Be Served: middle school/high school (6th grade and up)

Contact Information

---

Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mr,
Contact First Name: Ben
Contact Last Name: William
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 518-488-2809
Contact Email: Director@connectcenterforyouth.org