A central hub for learning, creativity, and community-powered change in the heart of Hudson, NY.
Upcoming Programs
Who We Are
At The Spark of Hudson, we believe in the power of curiosity, community, and positive change. Nestled in the heart of Hudson, New York, we are a dynamic force for learning, innovation, and community development. Through our community-centric initiatives, our grants program, and our educational hub, we are providing opportunities for every member of the Hudson community to flourish.
We are dedicated to fostering learning, community development, and positive change. Through innovative programs, collaborative partnerships, and a commitment to developing replicable models, we strive to create sustainable solutions that address local needs while inspiring change on a broader scale.
Our Mission
Our Values
INNOVATION
We embrace new ideas and test replicable models for lasting change.
LEARNING TOGETHER
We value shared knowledge and foster curiosity, exploration, and collective learning.
EMPOWERMENT
We empower individuals to reach their potential and contribute to the community.
ACCOUNTABILITY
We uphold transparency, integrity, and ethical decision-making in all we do.
COLLABORATION
We foster partnerships, value diverse perspectives, and work across sectors.
INCLUSIVITY
We create spaces where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and respected.
Meet the Team
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Caitie Hilverman
Executive Director
Caitie Hilverman’s Hudson roots combined with her academic pursuits and experiences led her to her role at The Spark. After graduating from Hudson High, Caitie earned degrees in Brain and Cognitive Science and American Sign Language from the University of Rochester, then a PhD in Psychology from the University of Iowa. She went on to research mechanisms of learning at Vanderbilt before returning to Hudson with her family in 2018. Back home, Caitie joined and chaired the Hudson Area Library Board. At The Spark, Caitie leverages her deep-rooted connection to the city and her experiences to spearhead initiatives that foster innovation, education, and community engagement.
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Fathema Rahman
Workforce Development Coordinator
Meet Fathema, our dynamic Workforce Development Coordinator at The Spark of Hudson. With a rich background ranging from barista to bank teller, Fathema has always cherished the opportunity to connect with people and hear their unique stories. Originally from New York City, she spent a brief period in Buffalo before finding her home in Hudson. Here, she has built strong relationships with the local youth, making her an invaluable asset to our apprenticeship programs. Fathema's journey to The Spark was inspired by a high school teacher who recognized her potential to make significant contributions to our community. She believes that the real joy in her work comes from the human connections she fosters, and the positive impact these interactions have within the community.
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Peter Wenger
Community Coordinator
Peter Wenger is a recent graduate of Cornell University where he pursued an independent major through the Robert S. Harrison College Scholar Program. Ever since interning in the Senate in the spring of 2023, Peter has had a passion for public service. Having volunteered at a harm reduction center in NYC and one of the oldest American maximum security prisons in Auburn NY, he is constantly trying to find new ways to connect with members of his community that are often ignored. As the son of The Spark's founders, Peter has been around this project since the very beginning; officially joining the team in August of 2024, Peter is enthralled to be a part of the exciting work happening at 502 Union St, and beyond!
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Jessica Laddin
Community Coordinator
Jessica Laddin has spent nearly the past three years working in community arts programming and youth/ intergenerational workshop curation. From 2021-2024, Jess was the Community Workshop Coordinator at Hudson Hall at the historic Hudson Opera House, where she programmed free community workshops including, but not limited to, Shakespeare Improv, Chess Club, Hip-Hop Dance, and Art Club. Jess is one of the cofounders of Hudson Community Choir (est. 2023), which is a is a free and non-audition whose mission is to foster an empowering community of singers of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to help them find connection, belonging, and joy through musical performance. Jess is a graduate of Ithaca College (2021) and holds a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance.