Memorial Fund Established to Support Workforce and Community Development Initiatives in the Mohawk Valley

A new fund at the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is supporting workforce and community development initiatives within the Mohawk Valley, honoring the memory of one of Oneida County’s strongest advocates for regional economic development, Steve DiMeo. 

The DiMeo Family Fund was established by the family of Steve DiMeo, who passed away in March 2024. Steve was employed for 30 years by Mohawk Valley Edge—serving as president at the time of his passing— where he implemented his ability to merge the fields of finance, development, politics, planning, education and social service to achieve his goals. His leadership skills allowed those goals to be recognized as ones that benefited the entire region and, in some cases, the state.

Steve, along with his wife Dianne, always felt deeply about giving back to the community—a value they passed onto their children. Together, the family is committed to using the money raised through the DiMeo Family Fund to continue Steve’s influence throughout the Mohawk Valley, supporting programs and projects that strengthen the local workforce and break down barriers to success for both students and employees.

“Establishing this memorial fund is our family’s way of keeping Steve’s spirit alive and ensuring that his legacy continues to make a difference in our region,” said Dianne DiMeo. “Steve’s impact on the Mohawk Valley was profound, leaving a mark that will certainly inspire and uplift generations to come.”

To make a charitable donation in Steve’s memory, visit www.foundationhoc.org/dimeo or send checks payable to the DiMeo Family Fund to the Community Foundation, 2608 Genesee Street, Utica, NY 13502.