During a recent installment of “Walsh Wednesday”, host Conor Walsh and guest Jeffrey M. Feldman, founding partner of Feldman, Kleidman, Collins & Sappe LLP (FKC&S), discussed a range of topics from law to legacy. A significant portion of their conversation centered around the nonprofit organizations Feldman and his firm support across the Hudson Valley, and why community service has been such a vital part of his life.
Feldman traced his first steps into community involvement back to the early 1980s, when he and his wife enrolled their young son in programs at the Jewish Community Center. What began as attending a few meetings soon led to board service, and ultimately, chairing the organization. From there, his roles expanded to include the LaGrange Soccer Club, the Town of LaGrange Parks and Recreation Committee, Family Services and Hudson Valley Hospice.
Feldman shared that he naturally became involved with causes like the Jewish Community Center and the LaGrange Soccer Club after seeing a need for volunteers as an involved parent. He observed how other volunteer leaders listened and problem-solved despite differences in opinion.
Feldman now chairs the board of Hudson Valley Hospice, where he played a key role in supporting the creation of the Hospice House – a 14-bed facility that opened a year and a half ago. He described it as both beautiful and profoundly meaningful, offering families a compassionate alternative to hospitals or nursing homes at the end of life.
“It’s hard to explain to someone that we have this place where people go to die,” Feldman said. “But when you walk into that building, there’s an instant catharsis, a calming effect. It makes all the difference for patients and their families.”
Feldman also highlighted how the Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation provides support, sometimes covering expenses not handled by insurance. He shared moving examples – from arranging a special dinner outing for a couple, to honoring veterans with a flag-draped farewell, to ensuring a young woman’s final wish to see the Hudson River was fulfilled.
“These are the kinds of things that show the true measure of the people at Hudson Valley Hospice and why they do what they do,” Feldman said. “They’re special.”
The conversation touched on themes of loss, grief and what it means to give back, which struck a personal chord for Walsh, who shared how hospice care shaped his own family’s experiences. Together, the discussion underscored the role of community, connection and compassion in times of transition.
To learn more about Feldman and Walsh’s interview, check out the full video here and check back for future posts breaking down their conversation.
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