Cheers to New Beginnings: Franklin Community Center Announces the Retirement of Colleen O’Connor-Potter

Saratoga Springs, NY – Franklin Community Center is proud to announce the retirement of Colleen O’Connor-Potter after nine years of dedicated service as Franklin Community Center’s Project Lift Program Director.

Colleen has been an integral part of Franklin Community Center since 2015. Over the past nine years, she has contributed significantly to the growth and success of Project Lift, giving her all to the community and leaving an indelible mark on the families she has helped.

Colleen’s accomplishments are countless—she has expanded Project Lift into Maple Ave Middle School; she has supported children through the Project Lift program in grades 1 through 5, and then seen them return as volunteers for Project Lift when they reach high school, marking the impact the program had on their lives; and above all she has fostered a culture of collaboration, kindness, and continuous improvement that will influence Project Lift for years to come. Her leadership and expertise have been invaluable, and she will be greatly missed by colleagues and clients alike.

When reflecting on her work, Colleen shared, “I am proud of all we have achieved during my time at Franklin Community Center and so grateful to have been a part of it. The relationships I have developed with my colleagues, school district personnel, donors and families have had a tremendous impact on me. I can’t wait to hear about the program’s continued successes, as I will always be Project Lift’s biggest fan.”

“It has been a privilege to work with Colleen. She has been a mentor, an inspiration, and a cheerleader to so many people in our Franklin family and beyond,” said Executive Director Kari Cushing. “Though we will miss her sparkle at the office every day, we wish her all the best in her well-deserved retirement.”

We are pleased to announce that Abbie Aldrich will be stepping into the role of Project Lift Program Director. Abbie has been with Franklin for 2 years, most recently serving as Student Services Coordinator alongside Colleen. As a native of Saratoga Springs, Abbie is uniquely suited for the position. She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to Project Lift and the families she works with, making her the ideal candidate for this promotion.

Please join us in congratulating Colleen O’Connor Potter on her retirement and Abbie Aldrich on their promotions at Franklin Community Center.

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.