Central Hudson Gas & Electric, located in Poughkeepsie, New York, and serving the suburbs of metropolitan New York City north to the Capital District at Albany, commemorated more than a century of service in New York state during 2025. The company, which has about 315,000 electricity customers, and 90,00 natural gas customers, provided a program focused on performing 125 acts of service and pledging up to $1 million to local organizations that uplift and support Hudson Valley residents. It’s philanthropic actions and support of the people in the region it serves made it POWER’s choice for the Community Impact Award.
“Our commitment to the Hudson Valley goes well beyond delivering safe and reliable energy. As a company, we have a responsibility to help strengthen the communities we serve, and we take that responsibility seriously,” said Steph Raymond, president and CEO of Central Hudson Gas & Electric. “Through a more focused corporate philanthropy strategy, we have aligned our giving with the region’s most pressing needs, empowered our employees to make a greater difference, and built partnerships that deliver real, lasting impact. I am especially proud of our employees, whose generosity, compassion, and dedication continue to set the standard for service and community leadership. From addressing food insecurity to advancing STEM education and supporting community revitalization, our investments are intentional and rooted in the belief that strong communities are essential to a strong future. This recognition reflects the dedication of our employees and community partners, whose work every day helps move the Hudson Valley forward.”
A report last year from MRB Group said Central Hudson Gas & Electric had infused nearly $2.6 billion into the Hudson Valley economy. The report said the company’s operations support more than 5,300 jobs, and generate $100 million in tax revenue for local communities. Central Hudson in a news release said MRB Group compiled data provided by the utility, including employment, wages, and taxes paid by the company from 2020 to 2023, data from Esri Business Analyst Online, and the New York State Dept. of Taxation and Finance.
“Central Hudson’s commitment to our community is truly inspiring,” said Jeannie Montano, president and CEO for United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region. “Their generous financial contribution and countless volunteer hours have a profound impact on the lives of so many. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership.”
The utility in November 2025 said its shareholders had donated $55,000 to Community Action Partnership organizations in every county the utility serves. The contributions aim to help residents access food and pay their utility bills during a time of heightened need. Joe Hally, senior VP Corporate Affairs for Central Hudson Gas & Electric, said, “Corporate philanthropy is most impactful when it is intentional, measurable, and rooted in the priorities of the communities we serve. Over the past year, Central Hudson evolved its community investment strategy by strengthening nonprofit partnerships, expanding employee engagement, and aligning our resources with initiatives that deliver lasting results. Through our 125th Anniversary celebration and the 125 Acts of Service initiative, we combined financial investments with volunteerism to support hundreds of organizations across the Hudson Valley. We also more than doubled participation in our Matching Gift Program, helping employees amplify their personal charitable giving through company matches. This recognition reflects the passion and dedication of our Government and Community Affairs team, our employees, and the nonprofit organizations who work every day to make our communities stronger.”
Community members who have witnessed the company’s work were effusive in their praise of Central Hudson Gas & Electric. Danielle Mollica, president of Angels of Light—a group that assists children and families in the Hudson Valley who are coping with a life-threatening illness, or whose life has been altered due to an accident or loss of life—said, “Not only have they supported Angels of Light through their sponsorship and many years of service, but their staff is hands on with their volunteer work. Central Hudson staff have personally made hospital deliveries, stuffed pediatric bags, and helped during the holidays to put smiles on children’s faces outside of work.”
The utility also has helped local schools and libraries. Jessica Ortiz, interim administrator with Poughkeepsie City School District, said, “The Poughkeepsie City School Community Schools Department is incredibly proud of our collaboration with Central Hudson. Working together to support the community through the food pantry has been a rewarding experience, and it’s inspiring to see the positive impact we can make when we join forces.” Cathy Russo, manager of Daniel Pierce Library, said, “The Daniel Pierce Library is truly grateful to Central Hudson for their continued support and commitment to our library. Their investment helps us to expand our programs and services, which benefit our community. We are thankful for this partnership.”
—Darrell Proctor is a senior editor for POWER.
