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 is made up of a dedicated group of lifelong friends and community leaders, including TRIP’s own David Dupree & Lee Wallace, and Jerome Canty, Butch Everette, Mike Felix, Trace Hill, Steve Mack, Derrick Mauzon, Rodney Murray, Carl Patterson Herman Rivera, Alfred Rivers, Hakim Scott Sankey, Tim Sankey, Corey Turmon. Together, they have transformed decades of friendship into a collective mission of mentorship, service, and community empowerment throughout Troy.

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 co-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.

Important Winter Reminders

1 . Snow Removal: In an event of a snow storm, ALL VEHICLES must be
cleared from all parking lots between the hours of 7 am – 4 pm, for the plow
to clear the lots effectively. Vehicles left in the parking lot will be tagged and
towed at the owner’s expense. Please note: it is the policy of TRIP Realty
Management Corp that snow removal will begin after the end of a storm and
will be completed within 24 hours. We understand that this may be an
inconvenience to those who may need to leave the residence prior the our
staff completing this task and ask that you make sure you have a snow shovel
available to clear your walking path to prevent slips and falls.

2 . Snow Removal on Weekends and Holidays: At the end of a snow storm,
our maintenance staff will begin clearing the parking lots and sidewalks at 8
am the following day. For example, if it snows all day Saturday, maintenance
will begin clearing the snow on Sunday morning. Make sure your vehicles
are out of the lots before 7 am to avoid having your vehicle being towed.

3 . Frozen Pipes: In some buildings, the pipes are located in hard to insulate
areas and will freeze during cold conditions. If you have experienced this in
the past, please leave the faucets on a trickle of cold water. Tenants that turn
off or turn down their heat during these cold conditions and cause a pipe to
freeze or burst will be charged for the repairs and service call.

4. Space Heaters: The placement of a space heater can actually make your
apartment colder. We recommend that tenants do not use space heaters in
their apartments due to the fire and safety liability. If there is a need to have
space heaters running in your unit, do not put it close to your thermostat. The
heat from the space heater will raise the temperature on the thermostat and
shut off the heating system. Please keep them away from the thermostat and
remember to never leaving the running unattended.

5 . Heating Systems: Tenants with high efficiency heating systems will not be
able to reach temperatures above 70 degrees in extreme cold weather. If the
thermostat is set at the desired temperature and not changed, the system will
work more efficiently and the system will have a greater chance of reaching
a higher desired temperature.

• To maintain your apartment temperature, keep the thermostat at
  the desired temperature setting. Consistency is best for all of our
  boilers/furnaces.
• Please DO NOT put your thermostat above 78 degrees. The
  heating system will run continuously to reach high levels of
  temperatures and overheat, which will cause extensive damage
  to the system. This will leave you without heat until the unit is repaired. If it is determined that you have indeed turned your heat passed the agreed upon temperature you will receive a lease violation for damages and will be responsible for the cost to repair your heating unit.

6. After Hour Emergency Calls and No Heat Calls During Snow Removal:
After hours and during snow removal, there will be a charge of $35.00 during
normal working hours and $50.00 after hours if your apartment reads 68
degrees and/or the system is working.

7. Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors: Carbon Monoxide is an odorless
gas that is deadly when it is not detected. Please check your carbon
monoxide detector and change the batteries if they have not been changed
in the last 6 months. If you carbon monoxide detector alarm is beeping, leave
your building and immediately dial 911 prior to calling TRIP to report the issue.

8. Ice Melt: TRIP is using calcium to melt the ice. This product is
environmentally friendly and will cause less damage to the concrete steps
and patios. This is kept in the front common hallway of each building. If you
need to use the calcium, please only use the necessary amount to prevent
slips and falls. If you notice that you are running low please contact our office
so you may be restocked

9 . Fire Safety: This is a common time of the year for house fires. Below are
ways you can prevent this from happening:

• Never heat with your stove (major lease violation and could result in termination of tenancy)
• Do Not leave space heaters unattended or leave items within four feet of a space heater
• Clean the lint from your dryer vent
• Never leave your candles burning (live burning candles are a violation of your lease)
• Call TRIP if you do not have Two (2) fire stops under your hood range. They are free of charge and are very effective in stopping stove fires.
• Change the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors every 6 months.
• Renters Insurance. It is recommended that you purchase this insurance to protect your personal belongings

Please join us to celebrate community and honor a legacy!

November 10, 2025

5:30 pm-8:30 pm

Brown’s Revolution Hall | 425 River Street, Troy, NY

Get your tickets or donate now!

Affordable housing is a fundamental right that provides stability, security, and opportunity for individuals and families. In New York State, where housing costs are rising and more families are struggling to make ends meet, the importance of affordable housing has never been clearer.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) plays a key role in ensuring that millions of people—including children, veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities—have access to affordable housing. However, proposed cuts to HUD’s workforce and funding threaten to make it even harder to maintain the essential programs that support affordable housing in our state.

These cuts would lead to reduced government efficiency, increased housing instability, and more people facing homelessness—particularly among low-income families. The ripple effects would be felt across communities, with local businesses struggling and homeowners facing the risk of foreclosure.

Now more than ever, we must come together to advocate for the resources and support needed to keep affordable housing accessible for everyone. A home is more than just a roof over your head; it’s the foundation of a stable life, providing the security necessary to thrive.

On Monday, March 10, join TRIP and take action to protect affordable housing programs and the homes that make our communities stronger. Your voice can help ensure that everyone in New York State has access to the safe and affordable housing they deserve.

Learn how to get involved here.

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Martin “Marty” C. Dunbar, our beloved RCHR Board Chair, and Chair of the TRIP Governance Committee. Marty, who passed peacefully on January 16, 2025, at the age of 77, was a dedicated member of the TRIP/RCHR Board since January 2014. He served as TRIP’s Vice Chair and Chair during his time with us, providing unwavering leadership and guidance to the organization.

Beyond his leadership role, Marty was a wealth of knowledge, a historian, a mentor, and most importantly, a dear friend to all who had the privilege of working with him. His thoughtful guidance and invaluable insights, always delivered with a warmth and fatherly tone, will be deeply missed by the TRIP & RCHR community.

Marty’s legacy extends far beyond TRIP & RCHR. He was a pillar of the Troy community, where he had lived since 1973, and the City of Troy, where he made lasting contributions through his years of service in public administration. A graduate of Catholic Central High School and Siena College, Marty was deeply committed to his community and nation. He served over 25 years in the Army Reserves and National Guard, achieving the rank of Lt. Colonel. His professional career spanned roles in state and local government, including Urban Renewal in Troy and Albany, the N.Y.S. Division of Military and Naval Affairs, Comptroller for the City of Troy, and Commissioner of Administration for the N.Y.S. Department of Labor. Throughout his career, Marty was a confident yet humble leader, always taking pride in helping advance the careers of others.

Marty’s commitment to service was reflected not only in his professional life but in his dedication to his family and faith. A devoted parishioner of Sacred Heart Church, he was also an active board member of the ARC of Rensselaer County and TRIP & RCHR. His passion for public service extended into local politics, where he served as a committeeman and provided counsel to many local administrations.

Marty’s most cherished role was that of a family man. He met the love of his life, Sarah (Sally) Ryan, during his senior year of high school, and they married in 1969, sharing more than 55 years of love and partnership. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his loving children, Amy Dunbar (Jude) Kaiser, Martin (Lottie) Dunbar, and the late Rebecca (Becky) Dunbar. He was a cherished grandfather to Ryan Kaiser, Morgan Kaiser, Georgia Dunbar, May Dunbar, and Martin J.M. Dunbar. He is also survived by his dear siblings, Marianne (late James) Walter, Diane Dunbar, and Ann Marie Dunbar, as well as his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Kathy (Jack) Murphy, Chris (Bob) Baker, and Jane (Bob) Dawson, and several nieces and nephews

Marty’s legacy of love, service, and dedication to his family, friends, and community will live on in all those whose lives he touched. His passing leaves a void in our hearts, but his memory and the impact he made on our lives will remain with us always. We honor his remarkable life and will continue to carry forward his work in the spirit of his devotion to making a difference.

Marty will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue to guide us at TRIP & RCHR and in the many communities he served.

Update: Due to illness, there will NOT be a pet pantry on January 20 as had originally been posted. The first pet pantry event will be Wednesday, January 22. Thank you for your understanding and apologies for any inconvenience.

Don’t miss our pop-up pet food pantry! Cat and dog food, plus some pet accessories, will be available while supplies last.

378 10th Street

Troy, NY 12180

1:00PM – 3:00PM

• Wednesday, January 22
• Wednesday, March 19
• Wednesday, May 21
• Wednesday, July 16
• Wednesday, September 17
• Wednesday, November 19

Stop by to share your concerns and learn about services & pet care. All pet questions welcomed!

Pour Good into the Community at the 13th Annual Take a Sip for TRIP!

You’re invited to the most spirited event of the year!

Thursday, June 5, 2025
5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Ryan’s Wake
403 River Street, Troy, NY 12180

Join TRIP for an unforgettable evening of passion and purpose featuring a carefully curated selection of New York State’s finest wines, craft brews, spirits, and delicious bites.

For 56 years, TRIP has been dedicated to connecting individuals and families with the resources they need to live in safe, affordable, and sustainable homes, all while strengthening Troy’s neighborhoods and revitalizing our community. All proceeds from this event will directly support TRIP’s mission to continue empowering families and energizing communities across Troy

Come sip, savor, and pour good into the future of our community, while supporting the programs that truly make a difference.

Get your tickets now!

On June 29th New York State Homes and Community Renewal, Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program and local officials broke ground for an $18 million affordable and supportive housing development. Hillside Views Neighborhood Revitalization will consist of 51 apartments in several locations for individuals and families with 26 households to receive supportive services through Unity House.

From the Albany Times Union:

TROY – It was a hot day for it, but Darren Scott, a director with the state Division of Homes and Community Renewal, walked from his home in Troy to a press conference held Tuesday to announce the construction of affordable housing in the Hillside neighborhood.

He did it to make a point: “Yes, in my backyard.” 

HCR is among the partners in an $18 million initiative to construct eight new buildings in the neighborhood, led by the Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program and Unity House to provide apartments to people with low incomes and people with mental illness. The symbolic groundbreaking ceremony was held in front of 69 Rensselaer St., long the site of a dilapidated three-story building that rained bricks on the sidewalk. Christine Nealon, CEO of TRIP, said razing the building was one of the requests from residents when asked what they thought would improve their neighborhood. Now, it is gone and a new foundation is in place for a building that, when complete, will contain two apartments, each with two bedrooms. 

The partners have been working on the housing package for three years, Nealon said. The work started with conversations with neighborhood residents, like Beverly Hickman, who said she struggled to pay $1,100 per month in rent following back surgery before moving into an apartment managed by TRIP on Ninth Street in 2012. She now pays $600 a month, and her rent hasn’t increased since she moved in. 

“No matter what, we can come together. Affordable rent is so important,” Hickman said.

Some lots where the new buildings will be constructed were already vacant. Dilapidated buildings on other lots were razed. All of the new buildings have been designed to blend with the existing structures around them. Nealon said it doesn’t serve the community to build big, multiunit buildings that would look out of place in the neighborhood.

In all, there will be 51 units – 33 one-bedroom, 12 two-bedroom, four three-bedroom and two four-bedroom units. Of the 51, 26 were designed specifically for people with mobility, hearing or vision impairments. All the buildings were designed in accordance with efficiency and green standards, another request from the community. Move-in dates range from January to June, 2022. Eligibility ranges from 50 to 60 percent of the local average median income – $57,360 or less for a family of four. TRIP will start taking applications Nov. 6. 

Chris Burke, CEO of Unity House, said putting the project together was complicated. But, of the 5,000 families the human services agency sees each year, the most common message is, “we can’t afford rent, we’re having a hard time keeping a roof over our heads.” 

“We’re willing to do this again and again if it’s what the community wants,” Burke said. 

See more here!

Announcing the Lansingburgh Strong Reimagine and Revitalize Grant Program, a new neighborhood investment initiative–the success of which will be driven by individuals committed to working together as neighbors and partners!

From our CEO/President Christine Nealon: “The initiative, which we’re calling Lansingburgh Strong Reimagine and Revitalize Grant Program, has a financial incentive — up to $1,000 per home — but it’s about much more than that. Lansingburgh Strong empowers neighbors to lead, by word and deed, and set an example for positive, impactful action that other neighborhoods and communities will want to model.

We’re inviting neighbors who live or own property between 107th and 120th Streets between 7th and 9th Avenues to participate. As the Reimagine and Revitalize Grant Program succeeds, we will look for ways to involve other neighborhoods in our community.

Please join us for a kickoff celebration and information session from 7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Thursday, July 1st, at Rensselaer Park Elementary School located at 70 110th Street, Troy. Child friendly activities/leaders will be available on location at no cost, and there will be complimentary ice cream.

This is a truly unique opportunity, made possible by the generosity of the Troy Savings Bank Charitable Foundation and the dedication and hard work of individuals willing to come together to show what can happen when neighbors unite. We look forward to being a part of this journey, and hope you will, too.Thank you for considering this opportunity!”

Martha B. has lived in her Rensselaer County home for over 10 years and was thrilled to learn about our Mini-Repair Program. Since 1998, we have provided an average of 250 people a year with labor to address a variety of in-home repairs including minor electrical and plumbing work, minor plastering, and installing weather stripping and safety devices such as deadbolt locks and smoke detectors. Participants of the program need only provide the required materials.

We helped Martha with a leak in her roof, a toilet that wouldn’t stop running (which also ran up her water bill), and a broken front door. Without this program, she wasn’t sure how she was going to get the work done, and like many other homeowners she had been taken advantage of by an unscrupulous contractor in the past. Martha recommends the Mini-Repair Program and our Mini-Repair Coordinator, Tyrone, who shares a name with her son!

The work that we provide preserves the housing stock, helps people stay in their homes, and protects them from dishonest people who look to prey on our neighbors. Strong community starts here! Learn more about the Mini-Repair Program at triponline.org.