Schenectady Shares named grand marshal of 2025 Schenectady County Holiday Parade

A statement from the Schenectady County Legislature announced that Schenectady Shares, an all-volunteer network supporting more than 20 food pantries, will serve as grand marshal of the 2025 Schenectady County Holiday Parade on Saturday, Nov. 22, in downtown Schenectady.

Schenectady Shares, introduced in the statement as an all-volunteer network, collects nonperishable food and personal care items and helps source pantry-specific needs. "Schenectady Shares is an all volunteer network that supports more than 20 food pantries," an unidentified speaker said in the announcement.

The statement said the group provides both supplies and funding to help local pantries meet the needs of families they serve. It also noted volunteers work to recognize cultural food preferences and help address transportation barriers that can limit access to pantry services. The announcement framed volunteers as a key link between donors and organizations serving residents.

The parade is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, in downtown Schenectady. The Legislature's statement named Schenectady Shares as the holiday parade's grand marshal but did not provide additional details about parade activities, a formal ceremony, or subsequent events.

Organizers and pantry partners were not identified by name in the statement. For now, the announced recognition highlights the county's public acknowledgment of local volunteer efforts to address food security heading into the holiday season.