FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2025
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Sean Campbell, Marketing Coordinator
(607) 257-9699 x9929
sean.campbell@fingerlakesreuse.org
Finger Lakes ReUse Launches ReUse Technical Assistance Program to Support Growth of Community ReUse Centers
ITHACA, NY…Finger Lakes ReUse, a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental sustainability and community development, has announced the launch of the ReUse Technical Assistance Program (ReTAP). This new program aims to support individuals and organizations across New York State in establishing and expanding community-based reuse centers.
ReTAP provides practical guidance, tools, and mentorship, drawing on over 16 years of operational experience. The program is designed to help new and existing reuse efforts avoid common challenges and adopt proven practices that strengthen environmental impact and community engagement.
“Finger Lakes ReUse has learned so much over the last 17 years, facing daunting challenges, persisting with good humor and celebrating wins, and figuring out what really works to make a Community ReUse Center thrive. Thanks to a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, we get to share those lessons with communities who are ready to roll up their sleeves and create places that not only keep good materials out of landfills, but also provide jobs and bring communities together,” says Diane Cohen, CEO of Finger Lakes ReUse.
Program participants gain access to customizable toolkits, one-on-one coaching, and a robust network of peer practitioners. The program also includes training on key operational areas such as material intake, workforce development, inventory systems, and financial sustainability.
ReTAP reflects Finger Lakes ReUse’s broader mission to promote a circular economy, reduce waste, and build resilient communities through reuse. The program is open to applicants nationwide. ReTAP was developed with support from the Appalachian Regional Commission Area Development Grant with assistance from the Susan Christopherson Center for Community Planning.
For more information or to get involved, visit www.reusetap.org.
About Finger Lakes ReUse
Finger Lakes ReUse is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization operating two Community ReUse Centers open daily to the public (ReUse MegaCenter – 2255 N Triphammer Rd and Ithaca ReUse Center – 214 Elmira Rd) in an effort to expand the reuse of and increase access to materials, provide job training opportunities, create living-wage jobs, improve the local standard of living, and teach repair and reuse skills. In the course of achieving these goals, ReUse builds community, strengthens the local economy, and protects the environment by redirecting materials away from landfills and into productive reuse. For more information, visit www.ithacareuse.org.
###