Championing Community Welfare: Celebrating Commissioner Brandy Hillard-Bouldin's Inspiring Leadership

In 2006, Brandy Hillard-Bouldin embarked on a career with the Schenectady County Department of Social Services, driven by a desire to serve the community she calls home. In January 2023, she was appointed to the position of Commissioner of the Schenectady County Department of Social Services. On Wednesday, June 14, we were proud to see Commissioner Hillard-Bouldin receive the Early Care and Learning Council’s (ECLC) Government Leadership Award at ECL'C’s Annual Meeting.

Empowering Lives, Building Dreams

At the heart of Commissioner Hillard-Bouldin's mission is her commitment to helping individuals lead fulfilling lives, both personally and economically. Under her leadership, Schenectady County has spearheaded an ambitious campaign known as Schenectady County Cares, which focuses on supporting young children, their families, and child care providers. Through their efforts, eligible families now have easier access to vital child care assistance, thanks to an innovative online portal that streamlines the application process, reducing wait times and enhancing convenience.

Expanding Horizons, Creating Opportunities

Recognizing the significance of education and vocational training, Commissioner Hillard-Bouldin has successfully expanded the scope of child care assistance. No longer limited solely to work-related activities, eligible families now have the opportunity to pursue educational programs, vocational training, and even earn an Associate's Degree while receiving child care support. This initiative extends its reach to income-eligible families engaged in treatment programs or those experiencing homelessness while actively seeking stable housing.

Supporting Caregivers, Strengthening the Community

Commissioner Hillard-Bouldin and her team have gone above and beyond to support child care providers, empowering them to deliver crucial services to eligible families and caregivers. One can't help but notice the vibrant Schenectady County Cares billboards, bus wraps, shelter clings, signs, and community posts that serve as a testament to the Commissioner's dedication. By facilitating certification and reimbursement processes, she has fostered a network of caregivers who play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of children across the county.

A Vision for Inclusion, A Path to Stability

In Commissioner Hillard-Bouldin's eyes, child care is not merely a service; it forms an integral part of the community's economic infrastructure and acts as a stepping stone toward stable employment. Her policy-making approach is grounded in fairness, where she takes into account the unique circumstances that each family brings to their partnership with the county. Through robust collaborations with community organizations, schools, government officials, and residents, she ensures that children in Schenectady have equitable access to meaningful and relevant services.

A Resounding Congratulations

With utmost enthusiasm, we extend our congratulations to Commissioner Brandy Hillard-Bouldin for her outstanding achievements. Her visionary leadership and tireless efforts to ensure that all children have access to essential services, profoundly enhancing their lives, are truly commendable.