Candyce Cathey, Executive Director

Candyce the Executive Director of Project URGE, Inc., where she serves as the lead architect of the organization’s mission to break down systemic barriers in Rochester. With a focus on sustainable growth and collective impact, she oversees the integration of Project URGE’s diverse programming—from intensive youth mentorship to holistic mobile case management.

Known for a strategic approach to community restoration, Candye has been instrumental in developing the Rochester Restoration Pipeline. This collaborative K-12 initiative, powered by Project URGE (Grades 9-12), Inspiring Forces II (6-8), and Tru Impact (K-5), ensures that students have a continuous path to success. Beyond youth services, Candyce is dedicated to scaling the entirety of Project URGE’s reach, ensuring that every program—including Diversity Café and our adult outreach—is fully funded and operational to meet the community's evolving needs.

A Message from the Executive Director

At Project URGE, we believe that systemic change isn't a single event—it’s a continuous, coordinated effort. While many know us for our work in the Rochester Restoration Pipeline, my vision for this organization encompasses the full spectrum of community restoration.

Our mission is built on the reality that stability requires more than a single intervention. It requires a holistic, mobile approach that meets individuals where they are—whether that is a family navigating a crisis, a veteran seeking support, or a student preparing for their first career.

As we scale, my primary goal is to ensure that every program under the Project URGE umbrella is operationally robust and deeply integrated into the fabric of Rochester. We are moving away from siloed services and toward a comprehensive model of care that honors the resilience of those we serve. We are not just building programs; we are building a sustainable infrastructure for hope.

I invite you to join us as we expand our reach, strengthen our partnerships, and work toward a Rochester where every individual has the resources to lead, heal, and thrive.

"True restoration happens when we stop looking at programs in isolation and start looking at the person in their entirety."