Innovation in Bloom: The First EPIC Projects Come to Life
Launched in late February, the Eutopia Program for Innovation in our Community (EPIC Grants) was created to support bold and creative projects that benefit Hudson residents. In just a few short months, we've been blown away by the range and thoughtfulness of the applications we've received—from ecological restoration to community arts and education.
Circles Turns One – A Love Letter from The Spark
One year ago, Circles Bagels opened in the cafe of The Spark of Hudson building. What started as a weekend pop-up slinging sourdough bagels out of Lil Deb’s and other borrowed kitchens has, in just twelve months, become a true community anchor. And we at The Spark got to watch it happen from the front row.
Bridging The Digital Divide: AI and Crypto For All Ages
Technology is moving at lightning speed. Every other day there is a new tool, a new discovery, a new change to the way we live our lives and interact with the world around us. But as we dive headlong into this future, one critical question remains: Who gets left behind?
The Spark Continues: Welcoming Our New Apprentices- Will You Be Next?
Here at The Spark of Hudson, we’re dedicated to building up local workforce development. In July of 2024 we partnered with Peter Frank and Friends of Hudson Youth to launch an apprenticeship program with the goal of helping students gain skills such as adaptability, leadership, communication, project management, critical thinking, and more.
Hosting My Own Celebration at The Spark – and Why This Space Matters
In December, I hosted a Winter Solstice gathering on the Skydeck at The Spark. As the Executive Director, I spend a lot of time thinking about how The Spark Building can best serve our community – but on that night, it served as a place for something deeply personal: celebrating the longest night of the year with the people I love.
The Spark Building’s Community Access Program: Making Space for Hudson
The Spark Building is a space for learning, connection, and community—but most importantly it’s a space for you. We host our own programming and partner with organizations to bring mission-driven events to life.
Empowering Hudson’s Non-Profits: Non-Profit Grant for CoLab Memberships
At The Spark of Hudson, we are constantly inspired by the creativity and passion within our community. We believe that collaboration and innovation thrive when everyone has access to the resources they need, regardless of financial barriers. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a new initiative that originated from the heart of our community: the Non-Profit Grant to subsidize membership fees for our CoLab space!
Announcing Spark Conversations
At The Spark of Hudson, we believe that everyone has something valuable to share. That's why we're excited to introduce Spark Conversations, an initiative designed to bring our community together through teaching and learning. Whether you have a unique skill, a fascinating hobby, or an insightful experience, we invite you to share it with others by hosting a workshop or class in our Learning Lab space.
HudsonNEST: A Supportive Communal Housing Program for local Healthcare students
Are you a healthcare student in Hudson looking for an affordable and supportive living environment? We have fantastic news for you! Applications are now open for the HudsonNEST program, set to begin in September 2024.
CoLab at The Spark: Now Open for the Hudson Community!
We’re excited to announce the grand opening of CoLab at The Spark, Hudson's newest co-working space, starting July 8th! CoLab at The Spark is designed to inspire creativity, foster collaboration, and build a vibrant community.
Shape Our Shelves: Contribute to Our Library Collection!
We're thrilled to invite you to play an integral role in curating the collection of our intimate library, nestled within the new headquarters of The Spark of Hudson. Our library is a cozy sanctuary for thought and reflection, featuring a wood-burning fireplace that adds warmth and charm to your reading experience.
The Spark of Hudson Building: Igniting the Future from Our New Headquarters This Spring!
We are excited to announce that The Spark of Hudson’s new headquarters at 502 Union Street is set to open its doors in May! The building will serve as a vibrant and dynamic hub for the community, underpinning Spark’s dedication to empowering individuals through education, collaboration, and innovation.
Introducing The Bagel Counter by Circles: A Fresh Collaboration with The Spark of Hudson
The Spark of Hudson is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with Circles in our new cafe space at 502 Union Street. Circles, led by founder and chef Tepper, will be opening a bagel counter right in the new Spark of Hudson headquarters. This partnership was founded on our mutual goals of promoting learning, community engagement, and creativity through innovative avenues.
2025 spark of hudson programming themes
Since the opening of The Spark Building in summer 2024, we have been asked the following question almost daily:
What is Spark?
That’s a really good question—one I even had trouble putting into words at the beginning of my time here.
Elevating Our Community Through Universal Basic Income: A Reflection
On a memorable evening on February 28th, 2024, the community of Hudson came together at Hudson Hall to engage in a deep exploration of Universal Basic Income (UBI) through the enlightening documentary "It's Basic." This event sparked discussions on the potential of UBI to promote economic stability and reduce inequality by providing a financial foundation for all individuals.
Columbia County Sanctuary Movement's Comida Para la Gente Program: Building a Just Food System
The Spark of Hudson is proud to announce its support of the Columbia County Sanctuary Movement (CCSM)’s groundbreaking food justice program, Comida Para la Gente (Food for the People). As an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering immigrant communities, CCSM has made significant strides in addressing food insecurity and creating a more just food system in Columbia County.
The Power of Steward Ownership
At The Spark of Hudson, we are embarking on an exciting journey that transcends the traditional boundaries of business and community development. Our latest endeavor involves a series of steward ownership agreements that are set to redefine the way we approach various facets of life, from affordable housing to local businesses. In this blog post, we're thrilled to share the why and how behind our adoption of steward ownership, a transformative model that empowers residents and business owners while preserving our core values.
Serving Up Success: Tennis Program Empowers Hudson's Youth
At The Spark of Hudson, we are always seeking innovative ways to nurture and support our community's growth. Our latest initiative, a partnership between The Spark of Hudson and Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood, is an exciting example of how sports can serve as a powerful tool for education and empowerment. Every Wednesday, under the guidance of coach Eli Armstrong, a group of enthusiastic children from Hudson embarks on a tennis adventure at Old Chatham Tennis Club. This journey promises not only fun and games but also valuable life lessons.
Nourishing Minds and Spaces: The Spark's Renovation at Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood
At The Spark of Hudson, we believe in the power of transformation, both in individuals and the spaces they inhabit. That's why we're excited to share the story of a recent project that beautifully blends community, learning, and hands-on work - the renovation at the Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood (GHPN) located at the First Presbyterian Church.
