The award was presented on Wednesday, April 20 at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel.
Feldman, a LaGrange resident, serves on numerous committees and boards, has founded a variety of sports teams for individuals with disabilities, and regularly donates his time, resources, and financial assistance to local charities and nonprofits. What's more, he encourages his partners and staff to do the same, resulting in FKCS&R's 2016 campaign of "30 Acts of Kindness," celebrating 30 years of business with 30 donations to the local community.
Daily Voice sat down with him to get his thoughts on what it means to be a good citizen.
Daily Voice: Why is volunteering so important? And how many organizations are you involved with?
Jeff Feldman: Volunteering is important for many reasons. I have been blessed with a healthy family, a great set of partners and a terrific staff. We are in a position to help others and make a difference in the lives of others. I am chairperson of Hospice Foundation, been president (now arbitrator) of LaGrange Soccer Club, past president of JCC of Dutchess County, am a member of the Town of LaGrange Parks and Recreation Committee, and the list goes on.
DV: Why is winning this award so meaningful for you?
JF: It is beyond special to be recognized by the largest organization comprised of most of the businesses in the Dutchess County region. These are the people/businesses that are doing many of the same things that we try to do ---be the best you can be. So, for them to recognize me, is very meaningful.
DV: Explain the 30 Acts of Kindness.
JF: Our firm is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. We decided to make 30 donations above and beyond all of the donations that we ordinarily make. There are so many worthwhile causes, so much need that we thought this was an appropriate manner to celebrate our good fortune.
DV: How do you manage to squeeze in time and still do your "day" job?
JF: Sleep is over-rated. When you need something done you ask a busy person.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Poughkeepsie and receive free news updates.