We are honored to recognize Paul Hurley and Urban Trio as this year’s recipients of the Martin Dunbar Community Champion Awards.
Named in memory of Martin “Marty” Dunbar, these awards celebrate individuals and organizations whose dedication to service, mentorship, leadership, and community impact helps strengthen and uplift the Capital Region.
Marty Dunbar was more than a leader within TRIP & RCHR — he was a pillar of the Troy community and a passionate advocate for public service throughout his life. Marty served on the TRIP/RCHR Board beginning in 2014 and held leadership roles including Board Chair, Vice Chair, and Chair of the TRIP Governance Committee. Known for his thoughtful guidance, warmth, and mentorship, Marty left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
Beyond TRIP & RCHR, Marty dedicated decades to serving his community and country. A Troy resident since 1973, he built a distinguished career in public administration and served more than 25 years in the Army Reserves and National Guard, achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel. He was deeply committed to helping others, advancing opportunities within his community, and supporting future generations through leadership and service.
The Martin Dunbar Community Champion Awards were created to honor that enduring legacy and recognize those who continue that work today.
This year’s honorees exemplify those values in extraordinary ways.
Paul Hurley
As a longtime resident of the Capital Region, Paul Hurley has served the community in the mortgage industry since 1992. Over the course of his career, he has worked not only as a loan originator, but also as a mentor, coach, and leader for both new and experienced mortgage professionals.
In his current role as a CRA Specialist for M&T Bank, Paul focuses on helping first-time homebuyers navigate the path to homeownership. His passion for expanding access to housing opportunities has made him a trusted resource throughout the region. Paul is also a multi-time SONYMA Hall of Fame honoree and Platinum Loan Officer award winner for the Capital Region.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Paul is deeply committed to community engagement. He regularly works alongside housing agencies, teaches homebuyer seminars, and supports future homeowners through education and advocacy.
Urban Trio
Urban Trio was founded by Dave DuPree and 12 lifelong friends who grew up together in Troy’s North Central neighborhood and graduated from Troy High School. While their friendships span more than 50 years, the organization officially came together four years ago with a shared mission: to give back to the community that shaped them.
What began as brotherhood evolved into a grassroots movement centered around mentorship, unity, and opportunity.
Urban Trio organizes and supports a wide range of community initiatives, including:
- Thanksgiving turkey distributions
- Holiday toy drives
- Easter egg hunts
- Bicycle giveaways
- Basketball tournaments
- Ice cream socials
- Trips to sporting events
- Assistance with burial expenses for families in need
Their work is rooted in the belief that positive role models and community support can help create brighter futures for local youth and families.
As founder Dave DuPree explains:
“Being from the community, we want to show the children a different path. There are a lot of single parents — especially moms — and we want to show them a better way. To encourage them to get an education and to reduce violence.”
Urban Trio’s mission is simple but powerful:
“Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”
We are proud to celebrate Paul Hurley and Urban Trio for the incredible difference they continue to make throughout our community. Their leadership, generosity, and dedication embody the true spirit of the Martin Dunbar Community Champion Awards and the lasting legacy Marty leaves behind.