Franklin Community Center’s Project Lift program is excited to introduce Isabella Ronda and Erica Riekert, who have joined our team as Family Outreach Coordinators. Both will play vital roles in our prevention-based afterschool program within the Saratoga Springs City School District.

Project Lift has long been a cornerstone of support in the Saratoga Springs City School District, committed to making a positive impact on the lives of our community’s youth. This free, prevention-focused after-school program serves students in grades 1 through 5 across all six elementary schools in the district. Our dedicated staff is passionate about empowering children through open discussions on prevention topics, including drugs, tobacco, alcohol, gambling, violence, and bullying. We believe that when students engage in positive actions, they develop a stronger sense of self-worth, learn to build self-esteem, and understand the importance of establishing and respecting healthy boundaries.

Erica brings a wealth of experience from her work in education and the nonprofit sector. She has a proven track record in developing curricula and programs aimed at improving educational outcomes. Her expertise in collaborating with teachers and school staff, managing volunteers, and working with children of diverse needs makes her an excellent fit for our team. Erica’s previous roles include Education/Curriculum Coordinator at Saratoga Independent School and Education Director at the Children’s Museum at Saratoga. She holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology from the University at Albany and a Bachelor’s in History - Secondary Education from the College of Mount Saint Vincent.

Isabella, or Bella as she prefers, is deeply passionate about working with children. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University at Albany, where she focused on courses related to children and families overcoming challenges. Her background also includes an Associate’s degree in Human Services from Hudson Valley Community College. Bella’s experience as a substitute teacher at Van Schaick Grade School in Troy allowed her to build strong bonds with students, supporting their educational, social, and emotional well-being. Her dedication to creating a supportive and empathetic learning environment makes her a valuable addition to Project Lift.

Isabella will be overseeing the program at Division Street and Dorothy Nolan Elementary Schools, while Erica will manage the programs at Caroline Street and Lake Avenue Elementary Schools. They join Rachel McCann, who continues to administer the programs at Greenfield and Geyser Road Elementary Schools. We are thrilled to have Erica and Isabella on board and look forward to the positive impact they will have on the students and families we serve.

About Franklin Community Center

Established in 1983, Franklin Community Center, the Saratoga Springs-based organization has provided vital programs and services to individuals and families in the Saratoga County area. The mission of the not-for-profit is to work collaboratively with individuals and other agencies to provide services that will improve the quality of life and foster a sense of neighborhood, community and family for all people.