“Their Finger’s on the Pulse.”

Trustee Adam Boudreau on why his money’s on Adirondack Community Foundation

When I was asked to be on the Adirondack Community Foundation board a few years ago, I was initially hesitant. I’m a blue collar guy and, to be honest, I didn’t really know what ACF did. 

Then the universe intervened. Over the course of a few days, I heard from three different people about the incredible work ACF was doing in the community. Even one good friend from Brant Lake whose usual conversation topics are hunting, fishing, and big construction projects — called to rave about how ACF’s focus on child care was freeing up talented locals to get back into the workforce.

Since joining the board I’ve seen firsthand how, while philanthropy can sometimes paint with broad strokes, this organization is absolutely entrenched in the details. The staff is in contact with almost every single superintendent, principal, and administrator for every school in our operating area. They know every librarian. They talk regularly with mayors, town supervisors, and local municipal board members of every single government entity. They seem to know every civic organization within our region, and it’s a very rare occasion when ACF is not aware of a regional news story before it publishes. 

When they see a serious need, they convene the relevant funding, people, and ideas to help catalyze change from within the communities, or they assign staff, board members, and committees to perform a deep dive to research and advise on how change might occur. Their finger’s on the pulse. 

If, like me, you have ever had your back against the wall, been down to your last dollar, stretched a strict budget for your weekly grocery shopping, or borrowed against your next paycheck, you know what it means to have someone step up and say, “We got you.” We are in the business of clean beds and full stomachs. Poor students with brand new school supplies on their first day in September. A single mother landing a job because she can afford reliable daycare. Libraries, schools, and community centers that aren’t simply operational but safe, clean, and rewarding environments. Our elderly having access to medical services and food security. Housing for all. Workforce development.

These enormous issues in our communities rightfully create real pressure for this organization. Everyone here understands the stakes, and behind the smiles and cooperative spirit of the staff, there’s a real edge, a serious backbone. I like that. This is serious work in a very serious fight. 

Regardless of the adversary, my money is on Adirondack Community Foundation.

Adapted from Adam Boudreau’s remarks at the 2026 ACF summer party.