About UCD
The
Utica Center for Development, Inc. (UCD) and the
Central New York Veteran’s Outreach Center (CNYVOC) have been dedicated to serving veterans since their inception in
2008. What began as an initiative to provide essential services to local veterans quickly grew into a cornerstone of veteran support in Central New York. In
September 2008, UCD/CNYVOC acquired its headquarters at
726 Washington Street, Utica, NY, transforming the former YMCA into a comprehensive resource center. Over the years, the organization has expanded its services, including housing assistance, homelessness prevention programs, educational resources, and transportation support. Key milestones include the launch of the
Veterans Homelessness Prevention Demonstration (VHPD) program in
2011, the development of
veteran housing units, and the introduction of critical mental health and suicide prevention initiatives like the
SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Program in
2023. With continuous growth, grants, and community partnerships, UCD/CNYVOC remains steadfast in its mission to empower and uplift veterans across
Central, Northern, and Catskill New York.
An Inspiration of Service and Leadership
Vincent Scalise
Executive Director & Founder
Vincent P. Scalise was born and raised in Utica, NY, and graduated from Proctor High School, Mohawk Valley Community College, and Southern Vermont College with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies. After serving 24 years in the military, Vincent retired and founded The Utica Center for Development (UCD), where he currently serves as Executive Director.
Vincent and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for 19 years and have two children: Andrew (18) and Adrianna (12). The family resides in East Utica.
After returning from Iraq, Vincent noticed the lack of support for veterans in Central New York, leading him to establish UCD. The organization now operates Veterans Outreach Centers across 12 counties, including Central, Northern, and Catskill New York, serving approximately 3,500 veterans annually. UCD also provides housing for veterans in Utica and is expanding its efforts to help those in need.
Since its founding in 2008, UCD has grown significantly, now owning and operating properties in Utica, including housing units and facilities for veterans and other underserved communities.
Military Service
Vincent enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1991 and later transitioned to the NYARNG, serving in the 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment. He participated in multiple deployments, including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and U.S. Capitol security operations.
Military Education & Awards
Vincent has completed numerous military courses, including the Basic and Advanced Non-Commissioned Officers Courses. His awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (with two bronze oak leaf clusters), Afghanistan Campaign Medal (with bronze star), and Combat Infantry Badge, among others.
Our Team
Anna Scalise
Brigette Coon
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Cheyenne Coon
I’ve worn a few different hats throughout my career, and right now, I focus on internal controls for our SSVF program, and I am also an intake coordinator. While I do not always get to interact directly with the clients, I am aware of the challenges they face. I work to help find patterns, figure out solutions to problems, and make sure we have all the necessary documentation. Essentially, I’m a behind the scenes gal. I have made some friends while working here and I have some people who share their wisdom with me and that I can banter with, which is very nice. We are all working together to help those in need, whether it is a community member or someone who has bravely served.
Thomas O'Connor
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Cory O'Connor
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Dara Markowski
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David Nunez
Hello! My name is David, a biblical name given to me by my father. I am originally from southern California and was stationed on Fort Drum for 2 years. I take great honor in my work as a case manager and hope to provide the respect and support every Veteran looks for when they enter my office. I promise to advocate for any Veteran in need so long as they wish to participate in our programs.
Edward Bachmann
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Gary Flaherty
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Henry Jasek
Has been with the agency since Fall of 2022. Currently the Project Manager responsible for Solar Initiatives, historical preservation of iconic landmarks in downtown Utica, and construction projects as part of homeless prevention and affordable housing initiatives on behalf of the UCD. Also assists with Maintenance dept, Peer to Peer programs, and Recycling Programs.
Jeff Ostrander
As a veteran myself, I first came to the Utica Center for Development as a client in 2016. They helped me out with housing, clothing and food. After seeing how greatly they helped myself and other individuals, I was eager to continue to help their supportive services for veterans programs. I started to volunteer my time to help my fellow veterans in need then after two years I was promoted to head of maintenance in 2018. Since then I have been promoted to head of outreach for supportive services for veterans and our SSG Fox program. I am also in charge of the PFC Joseph P Dwyer Program for our Otsego county offices. I hold many different responsibilities at our center. I love my job everyday because it allows me to help out my fellow veterans in need which holds a dear place in my heart.
Jennah Nitti
Jennah Nitti, MSW is the Senior SSVF Case Manager at Utica Center for Development, where she has been making a difference since 2021. She recently graduated with a Master's in Clinical Social Work, and is currently awaiting licensure. She is passionate about supporting veterans in their journey toward stable housing and is dedicated to making a positive impact in their lives. With a strong commitment to her work, Jennah continues to empower and guide veterans towards lasting success
Julio Rodriguez
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Liliana Ruiz
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Lucas Stevens
Maintenance supervisor, I qualify because I am good with my hands and can lead my team. I enjoy working here because it gives me an opportunity to help people who need it.
Lucy Fuentes
I’m Lucilla Fuentes, and in my role as Intake Coordinator, I help connect veterans with the services they need while also building personal connections to ensure they feel supported. I wear many hats—assisting with outreach, coordinating parades, and ensuring that important documents are processed and inputted accurately. My diverse role allows me to contribute in different ways and support the team in keeping everything running smoothly.
I hold a paralegal degree and a notary license, which help me assist with a variety of tasks efficiently and effectively
Makenzie Citrin
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Marianne Brooks
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Marlene Reed-Hymes
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Marquesha Ware
Interned at UCD summer of 2023 to help with urban garden projects to target food insecurity in the city. Hired full time as a case manager for a year. Now assisting with the ADU program that helps low- and moderate-income homeowners build ADUs on their property
Matthew Felix
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Michael Peterson
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Rayann Juteau
Utica Center for Developments Outreach Coordinator for the SSG Fox Veteran Suicide Prevention Grant Program. She brings unmatched passion, drive, and a bold vision for a future where no veteran feels forgotten or alone. Rayann received a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology with a Minor in Anthropology from SUNY Polytechnic Institute. And is also a member of the Sociology Honor Society. Her studies laid the foundation for her deep understanding of societal structures and human behavior—tools she now uses daily to break down barriers and build meaningful, life-saving connections with veterans and their families. Rayann is a Daughter of a Vietnam Army Veteran, Granddaughter of a WWII Army Veteran, and Proud Aunt of a nephew currently serving in the United States Marine Corp. Rayann’s commitment to serving those who’ve served us runs deeper than a job title—it's a calling. She’s known for her fearless approach to outreach, her unwavering empathy, and her ability to bring people together in ways that truly matter. Whether she’s organizing awareness events, or connecting one-on-one with a veteran in need, Rayann shows up with heart, excitement, and an unstoppable belief in a better tomorrow.
Simon Davis
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Kaylee Petucci
I have been employed with the Utica Center for Development for the past four years. My position within the company started as our Intake Coordinator and shortly after that I became an SSVF Case Manager. My current position in the company is now the Human Resources Administrator. In this position, I wear many hats such as managing the agency payroll software, employee benefits, vouchering for our grant programs, assisting in the business, and managing our accreditation status. I currently hold an Associates degree in Paralegal Studies and Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. I look forward to seeing the Utica Center for Development continue to grow and to help provide assistance to our community.
Kerri Lincoln
Kerri is a community organizer and human rights activist and serves as the Vice President, scholarship director and events coordinator of Otsego Pride Alliance. She is pursuing a degree at SUNY Oneonta, studying Women's and Gender Studies, Queer and Trans Studies, and Sociology. She is a New York State certified rape crisis counselor and has worked as a domestic violence and crisis intervention shelter associate. She previously served as a trustee on the Village of Laurens Board of Trustees as a zoning and youth coordinator and on the board of directors for Opportunities for Otsego.
Kerri is a mother of four and a grandmother. She is proud of her many family members who have served in the US military, including her daughter who is enlisted in the NY State National Guard.
Tiffany Davis
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Robert
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Scott Zoeckler
Director of Housing for the Utica Center for Development Veterans Outreach Center. We currently operate 30 units of veteran housing at our 6 Steuben Park and 726 Washington Street facilities. I began my journey in February of 2019 at the Utica Center for Development and I am very proud to be part of a dedicated team of people that want to improve the lives of veterans in our community
Our History
Work begins to form an agency to provided services to the local veteran population.
February - The Utica Center for Development INC. (UCD)/Central New York Veteran's Outreach Center (CNYVOC) is incorporated as a Not for Profit.
September - The UCD/CNYVOC takes control of the former YMCA building at 726 Washington ST. Utica, NY 13502.
December - Veterans Services are offered at the new "Central New York Veterans Outreach Center."
April - The UCD/CNYVOC is granted 501.3.c status from the IRS.
August - First paid staff are employed to the agency through a grant from the Oneida and Herkimer Counties Community Foundation.
October - Property located at 726 Washington St. in Utica is donated to UCD/CNYVOC and title to the property is transferred to the agency.
November - Official grand opening of the UCD/CNYVOC is held in the newly constructed Bunker Cafe.
May - Official kick-off for the Veterans Homelessness Prevention Demonstration (VHPD) program. And since it began over 500 individuals have either had their homelessness ended or prevented.
August - Two Major donations from the Polish League of American Veterans (PLAV) are received to complete reconstruction of the gym and portion of the roof.
April - Executive Director Mr. Vincent Scalise is reappointed by the Board of Directors after returning from a Deployment to Afghanistan, and picks up where he left off. Agency starts to grow once again.
July - UCD/CNYVOC is awarded the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) grant to run from 10/01/2013 to 9/30/2014.
October - Watertown office begins services.
November - 11/11/2013 Grand Re-Opening of Bunker internet cafe and the new Educational Annex.
UCD/CNYVOC is awarded the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) grant to run for a 2nd year from 10/01/2014 to 9/30/2015.
Thanks to a grant from the United Way of the Greater Mohawk Valley the CNYVOC is able to begin the Veterans Assistance Program.
Awarded 3.2 million dollars from New York State to construct 18 units of housing at the Utica facility. Awarded our 4th consecutive SSVF grant.
April – UCD begins services in the Catskill region.
May – Officially Accredited by the Council on Accreditation. Officially rename the Watertown office as the Northern New York Veterans
Outreach Center, and the Catskill office as the Catskill Veterans Outreach Center. UCD/CNY VOC breaks ground for HHAP housing construction project. Awarded our 5th consecutive SSVF grant.
Take control of 11 units of Veteran Housing located at 6 Steuben Park in Utica, NY.
February 16th, we celebrated 10 years of service. opened 18 units of newly remolded apartments for homeless Veterans at 726 Washington St. in Utica NY.
Remolded the gymnasium located within our main location at 726 Washington St with new HVAC, Windows, and a new floor, for use by our tenants and local youth.
Awarded a NYS DRI grant to reconstruct a parking lot to serve as additional parking for UCD and downtown and reconstruct locker room inside 726 Washington St. Purchased the former YWCA property in Utica.
Began operation of the PFC Joesph Dwyer Peer to Peer Program, took over the Family Advocacy Center
Added the SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Program
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