AHRC Nassau News - Fall 2022

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Dear Families, Friends and Staff,

So much of our success and strength as a community comes from our shared mission. I’m so pleased to share with you that AHRC Nassau and affiliate agency, Citizens Options Unlimited, were reaccredited and again hold the Person-Centered Excellence

Accreditation, With Distinction from CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership. Such accreditation reflects our high standards of operation, but also our commitment to evolv ing toward the most inclusive, person-centered practices pos

sible. Of the 11 agencies that hold this international accreditation, two are from our family of organizations.

Such distinctions are possible because of your continued partnership in advancing inclusion and person-centered outcomes.Together, we are creating a world where people of all abilities are valued and fulfilling the promise of our founding families, seventy-three years ago. As you read our fall newsletter, I hope you will share our pride in the development of our fully inclusive community center Wheatley Farms & Arts Center, community news, and thought leadership.

We are realizing our agency’s vision—and more importantly doing so as a community.

Best regards

Stanfort J. Perry CEO, AHRC Nassau

AHRC Nassau Again Achieves Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation With Distinction

AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited, Inc. (Citizens) are honored to announce that both organizations have maintained the four-year Person -Centered Excellence Accreditation, With Distinction from CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership.

AHRC Nassau and Citizens offer a lifetime of supports to men and women across Long Island. Both organizations share a powerful vision—a world where people of all abilities are valued. This prestigious accomplishment demonstrates that AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited, Inc. are meeting the most stringent standards established in the human services field.

Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation, With Distinction includes strict eligibility criteria, rigorous expectations involving the impact of supports on outcomes, the application of CQL Certification in the Personal Outcome Measures®, and robust data collection and analysis requirements.

For AHRC Nassau and Citizens, the process of maintaining this accreditation has coincided with the strategic focus on ensuring self-directed outcomes and lived experiences are centered throughout all services and supports.

“Putting the person first is AHRC and Citizens’ first call to action. This accreditation is an honor reflecting the strategic vision of our boards of directors, excellence of staff, and shared values of families and partners,” said Stanfort J. Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau and Citizens. “When purpose and passion come together in a community, you see programs come to life and new possibilities emerge.”

“This accreditation places AHRC Nassau and Citizens among an elite group of organizations that exemplify the very best in human services,” says Mary Kay Rizzolo, President and CEO of CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership. “Only a small number of agencies have been able to attain the ‘With Distinction’ designation, so this is an extremely significant accomplishment.”

Continued on the next page.

Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation, With Distinction is a four-year accreditation term for human service organizations with deeply embedded personcentered practices using CQL’s internationally recognized tools. It includes the standards in CQL’s other accreditation options, such as the validation of a Basic Assurances® Self-Assessment, implementation of the Personal Outcome Measures®, alignment with Shared Values, along with various planning meetings, review visits, focus groups, and consultation with CQL staff members.

The “With Distinction” accreditation then goes beyond these standards, involving various eligibility conditions, evidence of the organization’s positive community impact, requirements involving CQL Certification in the Personal Outcome Measures ® , utilization of an integrated quality management system, and more. The designation of “With Distinction” is also not determined during the initial review, but instead decided by a CQL committee of diverse experts in human services.

“We commend our partners from AHRC Nassau and Citizens for achieving Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation, With Distinction,” adds Katherine Dunbar, Vice President of Accreditation of CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership. “They’re providing exceptional supports and services that are making an impact on people’s lives, and this accreditation truly sets them apart from other organizations.”

Tune in to AHRC Nassau on YouTube at www.youtube.com/ahrcnassau for first-hand accounts from self-advocates on how personcentered supports have assisted them in achieving their personal goals.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1 – SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3

HOLIDAY SHOPPING BENEFIT

Help support our organization

doing your holiday shopping at

select Wheatley Plaza stores on Thursday, December 1 to Saturday, December 3 during shopping center hours.

Americana

of your full-price

be donated to your selected charity(s).

our organization when registering for your CHAMPION NUMBER.

CHAMPION NUMBER is required to allocate the donation and MUST be presented at the time of each purchase in order for it to be eligible.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:

REGISTER

SHOP

DECEMBER 1-3

YOU’RE A CHAMPION!

full-price,

REGISTER NOW

The Thomas S. Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center Opens Its Doors, Welcoming People of All Abilities

MaryAnn Dellova knew what her daughter needed, so raised her hand high. During a life-planning meeting with AHRC Nassau staff, Mrs. Dellova advocated for disability supports that Jennifer, who is nonverbal, wanted and needed to thrive—a welcoming space where she could connect with plants and animals, explore her interests, meet new people, and build a community.

"We needed something like this in Nassau County," Dellova recalled. "I never thought that four years later Jennifer and I would be planning how we'll be spending time at the farm together."

Saundra Gumerove,President ofAHRC Nassau’s Board of Directors (center left),and Betsy Gulotta (center right) cut the ribbon opening theThomas S.Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center. Gumerove and Gulotta are joined by Stanfort Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau (left of Gumerove, second row); Steven Rhoads, Nassau County Legislator (District 19) (left of Gumerove,first row); John Brooks,State Senator (District 8) (right of Gulotta); Ed Ra, StateAssemblyman (District 19) (second row to right of Brooks); Daniel Serota,Mayor of theVillage of Brookville (first row to right of Brooks); Vicki Walsh,Oyster BayTown Councilwoman (to right of Serota); Thomas McKevitt,Legislator (District 13) (third person from right,front row); Margaret Stadnicky, Deputy Director,Region 5:Long Island, New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (second row, to left of McKevitt); as well as AHRC Nassau board members and supporters.

Wheatley Farms & Arts Center, located at 211 Wheatley Road in Brookville, NY 11545, will soon welcome people of all abilities to grow their interests in nature-inspired activities, including animal care, horticulture/gardening, art, music, and movement.

Located adjacent to AHRC Nassau's Brookville campus, the 3.5-acre community center will offer volunteer opportunities and activities open to all at its clubhouse, stables, and gardens.

AHRC Nassau, the organization that is leading this initiative, dedicated the Center on August 25 in honor of former Nassau County Executive Thomas "Tom" Gulotta. In attendance were our engaged community of self-advocates, families, staff, neighboring nonprofits, companies, volunteers and friends in government.

"The AHRC Board of Directors is pleased to dedicate this space to a public servant who supported the full inclusion of people with disabilities within the fabric of Nassau County," said Saundra M. Gumerove, President of AHRC Nassau's Board of Directors. "For 14 years, he was an active member of the AHRC Foundation Board and we expect that this Center will re-set the focus from what people can do to what brings people together."

Continued on the next page.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman (center) presents a citation to AHRC Nassau CEO Stanfort Perry. Also pictured, from left, are Steven Rhoads, Nassau County Legislator (District 19); Betsy Gulotta; Saundra Gumoerve,President,AHRC Nassau Board of Directors; Thomas McKevitt,Legislator (District 13); and Vicki Walsh, Oyster Bay Town Councilwoman.

“We thank those who have supported this effort thus far including the Gladys Brooks Foundation, AHRC Foundation, The Long Island Wine and Liquor Sales Club and a generous anonymous donor. We also recognize the generosity of the Ike, Molly & Steven Elias Foundation and State Senator John Brooks (SD-8) for generously pledging their support today,” added Gumerove.

During the ribbon-cutting, Brooks shared, “I had a cousin who had developmental disabilities and her mother was very involved in the early stages of the AHRC. So, for me, this was a deeply personal honor to be able to give the organization a $10,000 grant to help in the expansion of their programs.”

To advance the Center’s development and community focus, volunteering will be essential in the care and upkeep of the farm as well as its animal residents. During weekday hours, people with intellectual and develop mental disabilities (I/DD) will work side by side community volunteers to build new skills, relationships and self-esteem through nature-based projects and community service. People with I/DD and their families who are interested in including Wheatley Farms within their services/supports are welcome to connect with AHRC's Central Enrollment Department.

Gov. Kathy Hochul sends her thanks to AHRC’s community for advancing disability inclusion and best wishes for a successful event.

"We are ensuring that this Center serves to anchor our mission—empowering people to live fulfilling lives, together with family, friends and community," said Stanfort J. Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau. "Our first phase focused on the development of a fresh and engaging pilot program for day services at the AHRC Greenhouse, next door to the Center, as well as equine-assisted activities at HorseAbility. Now, we're working with an advisory committee to increase our compelling programming for all to enjoy for many years to come."

John Brooks, State Senator (District 8) presents a $10,000 check to AHRC Nassau Board President Saundra Gumerove.

Gulotta Family celebrate the opening of the Thomas S. Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center.

Bruce Blakeman, Nassau County Executive, enjoys the opening with Noah Probert, self-advocate.

Become an AHRC Angel

A gift to the end of year Angel Campaign creates a more accepting and inclusive future for every child and adult living with a developmental disability. With your support, we will continue to be there today, tomorrow and for generations to come.

To make a gift, please visit

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Chris Croney

Fellow staff and people supported highlighted Chris Croney’s exceptional support and ability to connect with others as a Direct Support Professional (DSP) at AHRC Nassau’s Stewart Avenue and School Street IRA residences.

“Chris is always willing to rise above the call of duty, no matter what the circumstances, and when he can’t personally help, he tries to find alternate solutions to the situation. During the most difficult of times, we can be certain he will be there to offer comfort and support. He is reliable and has proven how dependable and trustworthy he is. He is a kindhearted spirit, who always has a smile on his face. He knows how to conduct himself in a manner that exemplifies his understanding of his roles as support and friend for all the people he provides support for and works with. Overall, we are truly blessed and honored to have the privilege of working with Chris. Stewart Avenue and School Street is and will be forever grateful for his commitment to us.”

People who receive support from Chris in the houses shared the below feedback:

Developed by Margaret Occhiogrosso

“I really like Chris. He makes me laugh and I like to make him laugh. He helps me with my laundry every Tuesday.”

– Margaret Occhiogrosso, AHRC Residential Services

– Glenn Melling

“Chris is one of my best friends. I wish he was here every day. He takes me out all the time and goes for walks with me.”

– Russell Jewels

“He is a great DSP. He helps out all the residents that need and or ask for help.”

– Tristan Matuszak

“I really like Chris; he always makes me laugh.” – Tim Lettal

“ Chris always takes me and my housemates out on rec activities. He cooks for us and helps us around our home.” – Eric Forman

DSP Recognition Week

Direct Support Professional Week: Celebrating Mission-Focused Excellence

DSPs make everything possible. They are part of the fabric that makes each person supported able to dream their own dreams and achieve success in ways big and small. Throughout the week of Sept. 11, self-advocates, families and friends of AHRC Nassau shared sincere words of thanks and memories about the impact DSPs have had on their lives.

“There is no way to say thank you to the staff at 47 Hook Lane Levittown. They have become extended family to us. All of the men in this house are cared for as if by their own families. The caring, devotion and love shown daily to meet their needs is exemplary and never-ending. I sleep at night.”

– Harriet Traversa, Parent of a Person Supported & Board Member, AHRC Nassau

"Thank you, Adrianne, Lisa, Tabika and all the Morris Road Staff for the great care you provide my brother Tony and his housemates. My sisters and I are very lucky to have Tony in a house with such attentive staff. When we get together with Tony, he is always in good spirits and this is a reflection of the environment in his house. . . We're happy that Tony is back at work this year and getting out and seeing others. With his growing mobility issues, we know this would not be possible without his new back brace and the walker. Thank you for all you did to make this possible. We know he is feeling much better. Thank you all again for your great work and effort.”

– Louis Monnone, Sibling of a Person Supported, AHRC Nassau

"Thank you for your dedication to our families. Your work defines heroics!”

– Mary and Joe Bosnack, Parents of a Child Supported, Brookville Center for Children’s Services

“I'm so happy to go to the Carle Place hubsite. The staff is great. They support me and with them I can reach my goals. With the Carle Place DSPs...I have been changed for the better.”

Gloria Snyder, Self-Advocate, AHRC Nassau

to our DSPs for everything they do for us.”

Noah Probert, Self-Advocate, Citizens Options Unlimited

and

Action

STAFF APPRECIATION DAY Family Reunion

After two years of drive-thru events, staff was finally able to come together as a team in person at the Brookville campus for the fifth annual Staff Appreciation Day. This year's theme, "Family Reunion," reflected our excitement to reconnect and celebrate family style. In addition to sunshine and sweet treats, the day of celebration offered a variety of activities ranging from tug of war to massages to yoga.

Thank you to the staff and volunteers, who made Staff Appreciation Day such a happy experience

many.

more

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Volunteers Dedicate Time to the Thomas S. Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center

Volunteers play a pivotal role in accomplishing AHRC’s mission. Your time and dedication are appreciated. We would like to thank and highlight:

The Giving Tree Family

The volunteer group, The Giving Tree Family, recently stopped by Wheatley Farms and offered a helping hand on the developing property. During a day of service, the group made several important contributions, including identifying over 50 varieties of trees on the property and removing fencing barriers so people can always enjoy the view of the farm.

JPMorgan Chase

This year, instead of traveling upstate, NYC volunteers from JPMorgan Chase headed out east and added their sweat equity toward the opening of AHRC’s Wheatley Farms & Arts Center. This amazing group of volunteers worked side by side AHRC volunteers Tristan and James to paint, clean, create a picnic area and break down fencing—all to help us open our doors to this fully inclusive space, this fall.

Luke Peterson

Boy Scout Troop 195 Glen Head, NY

Luke Peterson (far right) completed an Eagle Scout Project to build a fence delineating the gardens from the parking lot. This helps to protect the gardens and the irrigation system from cars—an important project to ensure the garden’s sustainability.

Congratulations to Joslin Award Nominee Bryan Thomas

Congratulations to Bryan Thomas for being chosen as a NYSID William B. Joslin Outstanding Performance Award Nominee. Bryan shared, “It makes me happy to know that I am being recognized as a hard worker.” Bryan has been a porter at both the New York State Department of Labor and the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles since December 12, 2004. Through his employment, he has become more independent. He has learned to use public transportation, every day, to meet his crew in AHRC Nassau’s Freeport facility and advocate for himself effectively and professionally whenever he has any concerns or needs at work.

Adam Levine Sings the National Anthem at Citi Field

Shout out to Adam Levine, who sang “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Citi Field on August 30, before the New York Mets played the Los Angeles Dodgers. This year was especially meaningful as the Mets held a moment of silence to remember Adam’s father David Levine, who passed away in March of this year. Adam headlined a wonderful evening, enjoyed by family and friends from AHRC Nassau along with members of Congregation Tifereth Israel in Glen Cove, NY.

Good Times at the Fall Guardianship Party

Another amazing guardianship party at Leonard’s Palazzo in Great Neck! People supported, staff, committee members and board members danced the day away to a steel drum band, as well as enjoyed carnival games and re-connecting in person. AHRC Nassau’s Guardianship Program currently provides guardianship supports and services to people who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. AHRC Nassau is grateful to have received $199,500, this year, from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to continue the important work of offering the highest quality guardianship supports possible.

Workforce Council at Freeport Elected

Congratulations to the newly elected Workforce Council (left to right) James Sardiello, Sergeant at Arms; Robert Callari, President; Hanna Pollack, Vice President; Cathy Loquercio, National Repre sentative - Self Advocacy of New York (SANYS); and Audrey Headen, Treasurer. Also, while Erika Morales is not pictured, she was elected to serve as Secretary.

Congratulations

“Garden of Dreams” Exhibit Opens at AHRC’s East Meadow Art Gallery

For the first time since the pandemic, AHRC’s East Meadow Art Gallery, 196-198 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow, New York 11554, opened its doors to visitors with the exhibit, “Garden of Dreams.” Every artist at the gallery contributed to the exhibit of flowers, butterflies, and bright colors welcoming visitors. To visit the East Meadow Art Gallery, please call the gallery at (516) 794-3006 to reserve a date and time.

Thought Leadership Corner

By Stanfort Perry, Nicole Zerillo, & Dr. Hassan M. Abdulhaqq

Non-Profit

189 Wheatley Road, Brookville (Glen Head), NY 11545 inspire@ahrc.org

Inviting All Members

Annual Membership Meeting, Election of Directors & Officers, & Special Meeting of the Membership to Amend Bylaws

Monday, Nov. 21, 2022

AHRC Nassau Mansion

189 Wheatley Road, Brookville, NY 11545

Featuring

No. 31 Glen Head, NY

Doors Open at 5:00 p.m. Meeting Begins at 6:00 p.m. Sharp

The OSGS is excited to take their new inventory “on the road.” Great gifts for all, just in time for the holidays. Come out and support! Dinner & dessert will be served, with catering provided by Wheatley Farms. RSVP required at ahrc.org/members2022 by Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022

North Woodmere-Valley Stream Auxiliary Invites You to Its Fall Luncheon

Sunday, November 6, 2022, 12:30 p.m.-4 p.m. McQuades Neighborhood Grill, 275 Merrick Road, Lynbrook, NY 11563 (includes $10.00 donation to AHRC Nassau)

For more information, please visit www.ahrc.org/nwvsfallluncheon