Honoring Leadership and Community: The New First Source Multi-Purpose Room

ICAN, UCM, First Source Federal Credit Union, and members of our community recently gathered for a special surprise unveiling of the NEW “First Source Multi-Purpose Room – In Honor of Mike Parsons” at the Utica Children’s Museum.

This beautiful new space recognizes Mike Parsons for his extraordinary service and dedication to our community.

Mike joined the ICAN Board of Directors in March 2016 and became Board President in January 2020, helping guide the organization through tremendous growth and transformation from Kid’s Oneida to ICAN. He also served as the co-chair, alongside his wife Kelly Parsons and Rob Esche, for the Together We Can! Capital Campaign, which raised funds for the ICAN Family Resource Center and Utica Children's Museum.

Words of Gratitude

ICAN CEO/Executive Director Steven Bulger shared heartfelt remarks about Mike’s impact:
“Mike Parsons' leadership and dedication have left a profound mark on our community. It is fitting that his legacy will continue to inspire families and children through the First Source Federal Credit Union Multi-Purpose Room at the Utica Children’s Museum. We are grateful not only for his service as a previous Board Member, Board President, and Capital Campaign co-chair, but for his vision and generosity in helping build brighter futures for generations to come.”

A Legacy of Giving Back

John Calabrese, President/CEO of First Source, reflected on Mike’s influence during his nearly 20 years leading the credit union. Under Mike’s leadership, First Source grew by more than 100%, a success that has enabled the organization to give back generously to the community—a tradition that continues today.

For years, First Source has been a cornerstone supporter of ICAN’s community initiatives, including “Thanksgiving for All”, which provides over 1,000 meals to over 250 families each holiday season, and the “Adopt a Family” program, that provided gifts for 340 families last year, where their staff have helped spread joy to local families every Christmas for more than 15 years.

A Vision Brought to Life

As co-chair of the Together We Can! Capital Campaign, Mike played a key role in making the new Utica Children’s Museum a reality. His passion for community, leadership, and family-focused growth will live on through the First Source Multi-Purpose Room—a place designed to bring people together, spark creativity, and celebrate collaboration.

Our Executive Director, Meghan Fraser McGrogan shared her thoughts about the dedication:
"It was such an honor to dedicate our Multi-Purpose Room to Mike. He was so instrumental in ensuring the all new Utica Children's Museum became a reality for our community!"

We are deeply grateful to First Source Federal Credit Union for their generous donation to our Capital Campaign, and proud to honor Mike Parsons, whose lifelong commitment to service continues to inspire us all.