AHRC Nassau News - Winter 2022

Celebrating

Dear AHRC Families and Friends,

As always, I hope this letter finds you safe and well. With the new year comes fresh opportunity to further our mission, together. It is a source of strength to know our agency and our collective successes are the result of a diverse and engaged community. Our relationships, when combined with a shared vision of a more equitable future, create a pillar on which we can always rely.

Our agency was built on the vision and determination of families who knew a better future was possible. Our organization’s volunteer leadership continues to advance this inspiring legacy. For the past six years, Paul Giordano has served as President of AHRC Nassau’s Board of Directors. As a sibling advocate, Paul treated every meeting and policy discussion as a promise to the people supported, following in the footsteps of his mother.

During his tenure, great strides were made in fully integrating the Freeport Work Center, day habilitation opened the One Stop Gift Shop in Hicksville, and we broke ground on the Thomas S. Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center. Under Paul’s leadership, we also faced the single greatest threat to the health and safety of the people we support with the advent of the pandemic. I, and the entire AHRC Nassau community remain grateful to Paul for his leadership during these years. We are pleased that his service will continue as he assumes the role of First Vice President of the Board of Directors.

Saundra “Sandy” M. Gumerove, Esq., a parent and longtime Nassauchapter board member, will now serve as AHRC Nassau’s Board President. Sandy previously served as President of the Arc New York and is the former longtime chair of The Arc New York Government Affairs Committee. She additionally serves on The Arc of the United States Policy Committee. Sandy brings her 35 years of advocacy and a profound understanding of the issues at stake for families and how to communicate them in an accessible way. She is truly an advocate for transparency, accountability and good governance—the very highest principles of ethical leadership.

Such commitment, I am proud to share, is evidenced throughout our organization. I am often humbled by the letters and telephone calls I receive from families praising the dedication of staff who go above and beyond regularly—and the leadership team has worked to find new ways to support the needs of our team members. Over the past two years, AHRC Nassau has redoubled its commitment to facilitating training and conversations on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Disability is often an overlooked component of DEI conversations. I invite you to join us as we explore new ideas on the intersection of disability and race at the upcoming Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Virtual Conference, co-presented by AHRC Nassau and The Arc of the United States, on May 18, 2022 at ahrc.org/deiconference.

Together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive future for all to share.

Stanfort J. Perry Executive Director | AHRC Nassau

AHRC Nassau Honors Dr. King Through Community Activism and Service

AHRC Nassau joined millions of Americans honoring the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by participating in an MLK Day commemorative program, day of service and ongoing volunteer project.

The meaning of Dr. King’s life and dream for men and women supported by AHRC Day Services was shared at the City of Glen Cove's 38th Annual MLK Program. During this virtual event, people supported communicated their perspective, alongside community leaders and organizations in a video segment. Featuring their smiles, ideas, art and community projects, AHRC Day Services’ inspiring video can be viewed at ahrc.org/mlkday22.

Such engaging contributions were part of an ongoing activity plan for Day Services throughout the month of January.

For AHRC Nassau’s volunteer program, MLK Day is also the start of a series of inclusive volunteer projects throughout the year to address local food insecurity, while also advancing civic engagement for people of all backgrounds and abilities.

“This project is about all ages and abilities coming together to commemorate Dr. King, who memorably shared that no one should go hungry. To paraphrase, we have all the resources we need, we just have to come together as a community,” said Jerri Walker, who manages Volunteer Services.

Funded in part by a grant from The Arc of the United States, 20 volunteers joined together, in person, to organize and box 100 meal kits for 400 food insecure neighbors through the local foodbank, Island Harvest.

Noah Probert, a self-advocate accompanied by his mother, Sandra, helped by organizing cards with words of wisdom from Dr. King to be included in the meal kits.

AHRC Nassau Installs Board of Directors, Welcomes New Board Members

At the annual Dansant and AHRC Nassau Board of Directors installation, directors re-affirmed their commitment and service to the organization’s mission, vision and values.

Newly installed Board President Saundra M. Gumerove, Esq. was welcomed.

“As a mother of a woman with developmental disabilities, 35 years of advocacy, and a distinguished legal career dedicated to people with special needs and their families, Sandy brings a profound wealth of knowledge and understanding of the issues at stake as we move forward,” shared Stanfort Perry, Executive Director of AHRC Nassau.

The board extended its deepest thanks to Paul Giordano for his six years of service as President of AHRC Nassau’s Board of Directors and his transition to First Vice President.

The board also welcomed two new board members, William E. Mills and Carrie L. McDermott Goldman, Ed.D.

ADVOCACY

Updates & Action

2022 is poised to be a year of successful advocacy campaigns increasing inclusion and investment on several key issues that go to the core of disability rights.

In New York State

Encouraging steps continue to be taken by Governor Kathy Hochul, who recently presented the 2022-23 New York State Executive Budget.

With an April 1 deadline, discussion by legislators will last through March with potential changes on the horizon.

Throughout this process, AHRC Nassau will keep you informed of crucial dates of when to share perspectives and personal stories. Follow @AHRCNassau on Facebook or sign up at ahrc.org/advocate for updates.

Highlights of the 2022-23 New York State Budget Advancing the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities:

• Includes a 5.4% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for OPWDD, OMH, and OASAS voluntary providers. The total value of this investment is $379.7M in state dollars, and $643.6M including matching federal funds.

• Commits $1.2 billion for a frontline healthcare worker bonus program to workers earning up to $100,000 annually to incentivize the recruitment and retention of qualified frontline healthcare and direct support professionals. Specifically, $200M in bonus funds for OPWDD, OMH, and OASAS staff, including a 20% longevity bonus, 20% retention bonus, and heroes pay and vaccination bonuses, with up to $3,000 bonuses going to full-time workers who remain in their positions for one year, and pro-rated bonuses for those working fewer hours.

• Commits an additional $15 million to develop housing. As stated in past years, these funds are distinct from, and in addition to, resources available from the five-year, $20 billion affordable and supportive housing plan.

• Provides $13M in enhanced subsidies for Individual Supports and Services (ISS) and Self-Direction programs to increase payment standards and align reimbursement for administration of these subsidies with changing policies.

• Restores $9.5M to Supervised and Supportive Residential Habilitation providers whose room and board costs exceed projected revenues. OPWDD will align room and board supplemental payments with actual costs and reimburse providers for the full amount of OPWDD-approved costs incurred. This would restore the budget neutrality factor from 0.88 to 1.0.

• Includes $4.5M for rate enhancements for intensive behavioral services and mobile crisis.

• Includes a $10 million investment to increase the number of Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) assessments and reassessments conducted by Care Managers with the goal to better align the needs of individuals and the services provided.

• Leverages an additional $40.7 million in state funds to support minimum wage increases for staff at not-for-profits licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized by OPWDD, OMH, and OASAS.

• Includes authorization for a COLA of 11% for special education provider tuition rates in SY 2023

• Provides $2.4 billion for healthcare capital infrastructure and improved lab capacity

• Reflects an 11.9% increase in local government state spending on OPWDD.

Cathy LoQuercio to Serve as New Nassau County Representative for SANYS

Congratulations to Cathy LoQuercio for her new role as Nassau County Representative for the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State (SANYS). The election took place over the autumn of 2021. Cathy previously served as president of SANYS’ state-wide board as well as several self-advocate leadership positions within AHRC. Also, Cathy works as a receptionist at AHRC’s Freeport offices.

Sharing the Holiday Spirit Meaningful Gifts and Memories

Every holiday season, AHRC Nassau seeks to respond to the needs of people and families in its network. This year, despite the continuing pandemic, issues with the global supply chain and staffing challenges, there remained a deep commitment to making wished-for and much-needed gifts ready for the holiday season.

Under holiday trees in the Brookville and Plainview offices, AHRC staff selected a paper ornament with a wished-for item and replaced it with a beautifully wrapped gift. St. Luke Preschool and Early Childhood Center in Dix Hills shopped for and wrapped over 100 gifts for BCCS families.

The Greco and Munz families have been longtime, annual leaders in making the holidays feel special for children and adults of AHRC Nassau. In addition to the tree wishes, they embraced a dozen men and women supported in AHRC Nassau’s residential program who struggle during the holidays.

“These men and women remember the holidays shared with their family and unfortunately, their family is now gone,” shared Deanna Allen, Director of AHRC Residential Services. With carefully selected , personalized and wrapped gifts, they gave the gift of memory and joy this holiday season. “It is so incredible to feel the love that comes through when these gifts and cards are opened,” continued Deanna, “we can’t thank them enough.”

In support of the Manhasset Auxiliary, a $1,100 was donated by Justin Kuczmarski, who hosted a “Sexy Santa Holiday Party” at the rooftop lounge, Mr. Purple, in New York City. Justin was inspired to make this contribution from his mother, a longtime member of the AHRC Manhasset Auxiliary, Adele Kuczmarski. “Be creative!” shared Kuczmarski, “Eveyone can do something to make the holiday better for others.”

Deanna Allen

The Knights of Columbus James Norton Council retooled their annual holiday party and instead delivered notes and gifts to 10 AHRC homes in the Glen Cove area. “This season is about giving, ” said Knight Richie Alois, “and AHRC has been a part of our Christmas celebrations since 1988. Where there is a will, there is a way.”

Volunteers from AHRC Day Services are part of the team, picking ups gifts, sorting them and making sure they were under the right tree for the holiday.

Individual staff also organized events focused on bringing cheer to the community. Jim Stock, Assistant Director of Talent Acquisition at AHRC Nassau, was part of the volunteer corps from St. Anthony’s Roman Catholic Church in Oceanside offering a socially-distanced “Elf Tag.” Each year, the youth group at St. Anthony’s hosts its Elf Tag event, bringing gifts and cheer to neighbors with the help of Santa and a car parade of over 100 elves. This year, the Elf Tag crew stopped by the BCCS Children’s Residential Program (CRP) in Lido Beach and brought 24 children with autism presents, time with Santa, and a booth with hot chocolate and holiday fun.

Across our community, the men and women supported, staff members, families and our community supporters made sure the world shined a little brighter.

“It is so incredible to feel the love that comes through when these gifts and cards are opened, we can’t thank them enough.”

Director of

Thanksgiving Memories

Joyful Generosity From the AHRC Community

The opportunity to come together and celebrate Thanksgiving has never been more important. As a result of the annual staff food-raising effort, 42 food baskets were packaged, wrapped up and delivered to families in our AHRC community facing food insecurity. In addition to these beautiful baskets, supermarket gift cards were included to ensure that struggling families have all they need to enjoy a traditional holiday feast

Food items that were not able to be packaged up for the holiday baskets, were delivered to St. Paul the Apostle Church thanks to the helping hands of men and women supported at AHRC Freeport’s Day Services program.

Also, AHRC Day Services supported the Stand Down for Homeless Veterans event, handing out 250 coats, boots, gloves, blankets, and Thanksgiving dinners. For a festive Wheatley Farms “Friendsgiving” video, the Pre-Voc Kitchen Crew in Freeport put together three recipes with the support of Chef Percival Aquino and Patrick Sherrard.

We gratefully recognize the generosity of our staff members and community members who particpate in our Thanksgiving programs each and every year.

ADVOCACY

Updates & Action

At the Federal Level and New York State

Your Voice Is Needed NOW to Impact Employment for People With Disabilities

Legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives and New York State Legislature proposes to eliminate the special minimum wage for people with severe disabilities. These provisions allows employers to obtain a special certificate, enabling them to pay wages below New York’s minimum wage for some people with disabilities, which provides access and opportunities for workforce participation.

Work is a valued activity for people with disabilities as it promotes independence, builds self-confidence, allows for development of lasting friendships, and enables people to participate in the work environment, thus earning a paycheck. Providing people with choice on how they want to spend their day is a central tenant of supports and services. If these provisions become law, people would be forced into programs and activities that they may not find fulfilling or it is not what they desire.

People would be denied the tangible and intangible benefits of work: independence, participation, dignity, self-esteem, and sense of accomplishment, and lasting friendships in addition to a loss of personal choice.

*Highlights from the NYS Budget and Explanation of Employment Legislation provided by The Arc New York.

Recognizing Impact of Disability Services on New York State Economy

From $14.3 billion in economic impacts to social enterprise endeavors, disability service providers occupy a significant role in New York State. Learn more about the outcomes of these providers, including AHRC Nassau, in a recent report from the Rockefeller Institute of Government, “The Role of Disability Service Providers in the New York State Economy,” commissioned by NYSID, Purchasing That Powers Employment and the NY Alliance. Check it out at https://bit.ly/3EYWfST

Make your voice heard! Send a note through https://p2a.co/OiLK4wh and alert your senator, member of congress, state senator and assemblyperson.

With Thanks to Our Annual Donors

Your generosity ensures that supports and programs that empower people to lead fulfilling lives continue now and in the future.

2021 AHRC Nassau Gifts

(Non-Event Related)

From Corporations, Foundations, Service Organizations and Individuals (Gifts over $500)

Mr. & Mrs. John G. Bares Glen Head Charity Fund, Inc.

Mr. Jeffrey Goldberger – In Honor of David Tarica Mr. & Mrs. Eric Greco

Mr. & Mrs. Stuart Herskovitz

Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Horacek –

In Loving Memory of Everett Hermann

Mr. & Mrs. Harold C. Jacobs, Jr.

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Lamont

Mr. Daniel Mazzarni

Mr. & Mrs. Andrew McDermottIn Loving Memory Jimmy McDermott

Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Minkoff

Nassau County AHRC Foundation, Inc Pilot RB

Red Bull New York, Inc.

The Arc New York - NYSARC Trustees

The Arc of the United States

The Nussbaum Family Foundation Inc. –In Honor of David Tarica

Thomas & Jeanne Elmezzi Foundation United Way Long Island

Ms. Shan Wong – In Honor of David Tarica

2021 AHRC Planned Gifts/Bequests

Estate of Margaret & Edward Quist

2021 AHRC Foundation Gifts (Non-Event Related)

From Corporations, Foundations, Service Organizations and Individuals (Gifts over $500)

Mr. James FerriginaIn Loving Memory of Laurie DeSernia Mrs. Betsy Gulotta

Mr. Robert JoyceIn Loving Memory of Jackie Joyce-Troy

Mr. & Mrs. William J. JoyceIn Loving Memory of Jackie Joyce-Troy Jeffrey & Ellen Pearl Kraut Kathleen Maggi

Louis & Martha Silver Foundation

Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Todisco

2021 AHRC Foundation Planned Gifts/Bequests

Estate of Margaret Riva

Estate of Mary DiScala

Estate of Melissa Bauer

2021 Brookville Center for Children’s Services Gifts (Non-Event Related)

From Corporations, Foundations, Service Organizations and Individuals (Gifts over $500)

Association for the Help of Autistic Persons Camp Malibu

Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Capra

Lifetouch National School Studios

John A. & Frances Q. Hickey Charitable Fund Nassau County AHRC Foundation, Inc

Dr. Jeffrey Seaman

Mr. & Mrs. Ren Zhong Zhu

2021 Citizens & Camp Loyaltown Gifts (Non-Event Related)

From Corporations, Foundations, Service Organizations and Individuals (Gifts over $500)

American Camp Association of NY & NJ Ameriprise Financial -

In Loving Memory of Helen Donnelly

Mr. & Mrs. George A. Bauer, IIIIn Loving Memory of Melissa Bauer

Ms. Tara Benish - In loving Memory of Wendy Karas Camp Loyaltown Inc.

Mr. Chris Costa

Mr. & Mrs. William Harrison Italian-Americans in Government Inc.

Anonymous -

In Loving Memory of Myra Gamell

Nassau County AHRC Foundation, Inc

Pilot RB

The Robert & Nancy Brooks Foundation, Inc.

Thank You to Our Angels

By donating to the AHRC Foundation, you’ve created more options and innovative supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Tomorrow’s Angels

Susan Barzegar

Lina & Gregory W. Carman Jr. The Craigmyle Foundation Dakin Family

Joe & Liz DeSernia

Glen Oaks Philanthropic Fund of the Jewish Communal Fund Royce & Mark Gussack - In Honor of Joseph Telson James & Carolyn Hughes

Felicia's Family

In Memory of Mary McQuade from Tony, Brian, Jerry, Sheila & Teresa Daphne & Stanfort Perry

Dr. Lynn Pombonyo & Judge Edward W. McCarty III

The Senders Family Doug & Judy Tantillo

Guardian Angels

Mr. & Mrs. James Blass Daniel F. DeVita Karen & Don FagelmanIn Appreciation of the Direct Support Professionals at Elm Drive

Mark & Royce Gussack

In Memory of Cyrus Joy Barbara & George Medlin

Diamond Angels

Anwar Family

In Memory & Honor of My Beloved Sister, Susan Marie Auletta - With Love, Marianne Barbera Pauline, Gary & Laura Bencivenga Sandra & Rich Bolbrock & Jennifer Jackson Denise A. Cirone

The Clasen Family

Michael, Linda & Emily Famiglietti

Dave & Pat Hines

Kathleen Maggi Meszaros Engineering

In Memory of Barbara Popkin Family of Allen Tenga

The Harvey & Ellen Weisenberg Special Needs Resource Group Fred Yutkowitz

Gold Angels

George & Rita AbiZeid

Aster Amanuel, Tamrat & Aman Samuel

In Memory of Robert, Patricia & William Baker

Lynne & Michael Barsky

BK Fire Suppression & Security Systems

The Blefeld/Levine Family

Mr. & Mrs. Richard C. Bliven

The Borut Family

Daniel & Lucille Bradley Kathleen Card

Platinum Angels

The Bares Family

Nicholas H. Batuyios BDO USA, LLP

The Bein Family Broadway Enterprises, Inc. Susan & Patrick Broderick Mrs. Betty Budd Claudia & Bob Casson -

In Honor of Megan Ebel of the Wolf Avenue, Malverne IRA Kevin & Diane Collins

The Darcy Family

Matthew & Suzanne Donohoe for Sharon Breen Phyllis, Gordon & Edmund Downe Jeanine Fiore & Family Henner Family

Carol & Robert Hernandez

For the Angels at Helen Kaplan Irwin Contracting Inc. Lou, Kathy, Michelle & Steven Magagna Ronald & Rachel Minkoff Semilof Family

Grandparents of Matthew Soares Janet Ullrich

George & Elizabeth Wilson Theodore & Catherine Zarembo

Mr. & Mrs. Jeffrey S. Zinke Kathy Zorn, John Caputo -

For our lovely Karen Zorn - each day is a gift.

Martha & Walter Carney

Richard & Regina Cella & Family Ruth & Nancy Chisholm

Family of Sarah Cirillo

Congregation Tifereth Israel, Glen Cove

Merry Christmas - Ed, Jo & Michael Connelly Richard & Gloria Corrao Michael A. Correra

Mr. & Mrs. George A. Corroon

Joan & Jeffrey Crane

Laurie & William Daly Dolores Dellova

Bette & Will Derr Victoria Dinielli

Elizabeth Donovan & Family

My Father & Mother - Thomas & Elizabeth Donovan & Brother Tommy Donovan Michael Donovan & Family

Tommy Donovan Jr.

Fiorentino Family

Ray & Signe Fitzpatrick

Barry, Bella & Danny Freedberg Brenda, Peter & Nick Furniss

Lawrence & Deborah Garceau

Christopher Gentile, O.D.,

Valerie Giangrande, O.D.

Mrs. Edith E. Gerber

Priscilla Goldfarb

The Gubing's & Donlon's

Mr. & Mrs. Jason Henderson

Kate & Steve Howe - In Memory of Linda Bradley

Candy Cucharo & Howard Jurist

John & Linda Kolb

Dennis & Robin Linkens

Mr. & Mrs. Franz Mann

Lisa Gasstrom & Michael Mascari

Frank & Nancy McCay

Lorraine & Joe Meszaros

David & Valerie Michaels

Patricia E. Neill

Mr. & Mrs. Arie Nimrod

Peter Nowak Family

Elizabeth O'Neill

James & Rosemarie Pantzis

Robert M. Pascucci

Michael Poetsch & Family

Rieger Family

Mr. & Mrs. T. Rosenthal Keith Ruckel

Jill T. Sandhaas & Edward S. Lurie

Cherie & Dan Serota

Howard, Barbara & Nancy Shafferman

In Memory of Phyllis & Vincent Sheskier Virginia Sica-Peters

In Memory of Phillip & Mildred H. Siegel

Lynn Silverberg

Anne Stanley Todisco Family

Kathy & Tom Wingenfeld

Daniel Winters & Family

The Worrall Family

The Worrall Family

To my princess Karen - I always love you, Mommy

Ann & Jim Carroll - In Memory of Brian Marie, Richard, Stacy & Marc Cavello

In Memory of Susan L. Cleary Marion & Bob Closter Connor Family Deborah Foster Coquet Thomas W. Cusanelli

Custom Crafters Installation Corp.

In Honor of Michael Connelly-S. DaVanzo Lisa & Greg DeCastros

John & Barbara DeGrace

In Memory of Ellen Del Broccolo Paula DeVita

Yvonne & Stewart Dier Robert DiGangi & Family Matthew DiLascio

Rosemary Dirks

The Donaldsons - Lou, Jean, & Kimberly Barry Donowitz Elsayad's Family Susan Finkelstein

Thomas Foote & Family Family of Demond Ford Annette & Bernard Forseter

Patricia A. Fox - In Memory of Patricia Drop Marjorie Franzman Charles & Joseph Frenzel

Ayelet & Norman Galanti -

In Memory of Penny Besso Frank U. Richardson Frank Richardson & his Old Westbury House Family

In Memory of Charles & Mary Gavigan Vinny & Liz Giovinco Bonnie Goess

Silver Angels

Nanci Abbondola's Family

In Memory of Pearl & Jacob Ain William & Barbara Archer Laurie & Bill Ashcraft

In Memory of Susan M. Auletta

In Memory of Lillian Basile Mrs. Jean M. Baylis

Judith Bilello

Jessica Boller & Family

Helen Bonanno - In Memory of Michael Williams

Thank you for ACLD Teen Group - Leona Brown

Mr. & Mrs. Thomas F. Bunce

Colleen Cahill

The Carbone Family

Mr. & Mrs. Oreste Carnevali

The Family of Joseph Carpenter

Mr. & Mrs. Victor L. LaPoma

Cathleen & Sanford Leff

Fonda & Sam Leibowitz -

In Honor of Our Wonderful Grandson Shai Leibowitz Catherine & George Littman

Nicholas R. Longo

The Madison Family

John Malloy

Ms. Maria McCarthy

In Memory of Kevin, James & Florence McCue Shannon & Heather

Jane McGreevy & Family

Joan, Michael and Keating McKeon

Bill & Marianne McLaughlin Mary & Terry McNamara

Agnes, Bob, Rita, Mary, Peggy, John & Michael Mendes Lucille & Karl Messina Linda Rose & Phyllis Minkoff Frank & Gloria Moles for Donna Moles

Diane & Tony Montaruli -

In Memory of Elizabeth Woerlein Ken Morgan

Mr. & Mrs. Sal Moschella

Doris & Frank Newman Jr. Marie Noto -

In Memory of Joann Noto & Joseph Noto Cliff Nouza's Aunt Bea Joseph & Eileen O'Brien Leslie & Hank Olsen Rose Mercaldo Pabst

Mr. & Mrs. Michael A. Pascucci Doris & John Peck

Christine & Marcelo Penas

The Perfit Family

Judy & Dr. Larry Good

The Goodwin Family Richard Evan Greenberg Rhoda & Billy Greenwald

The Hankee Family

In Memory of Margaret Henderson & David Henderson Hermann Family Debbie Horn & Seth Beverly & Marc Horowitz Steve & Carol Horowitz Frances B. Gibson

John J. Sullivan & Eileen M. Goggins

JVC Auto Collision, Mr. John Cotona Rochelle & Ronald Karp Joan T. Kelly

The Family of Samantha Koulias Kuczyk Family

In Memory of Joan KleinklausShe was OUR ANGEL on earth and now she is

OUR ANGEL in HEAVEN -The Pignataro Family

Ruth Pleines - In Memory of Janine Pleines

Josephine Puccio, my three sons & family Brian Quinn - In Loving Memory of Carolyn Wright Terri & Mike Recupero

Frank U. Richardson

Frank Richardson & his Old Westbury House Family Marsha Rochlin - In Honor of Cara, Corey & Jack Jeshiva Toni & Jerome Roestenberg Glenn & Merryl Rogers

Peter Rooney & Family

Dorothy, Dan & Danny Roper Neal & Janine Salvey Patricia Sanders

Scally Family

Maryann B. Schaefer, Ph.D.

Scheideler Electric, Inc.

Reinhold, Kathi & Heidi Schierle

Bert & Diane Schneider

Robert E. Seidler

Brian Shaw & Family

Daniel & Karen Sheehy

William Greifeld & Pam Shortal

Bob - Sultana - Robert Sicker

Gabriel F. Silva

Silvermark International LLC, Lisa & Glenn Silverstein

The Sinett Family

The Smisek Family

Daphne & Stephen Solomon

In Honor of Michael Staudter

Linda & Ron - in support of my brother Jeffrey Frederick Sterbenz

Michele & David Tarica & Family

The Telson Family

The Tortora-Morici Family

Arleen & Donald Wachs

Cheryl Walder - In Honor of Amy Boorstein Paula DeSimone Watson Diane & Laurie Woolnough

The Xippolitos Family

Bronze Angels

The Achatz Family

Craig Anderson & Mary Donohue Antonelli Family

Tony & Diane Antonucci

Craig Aronberg - In Honor of Joey Telson Avondet Family Karen Babyak

In Memory of Philip Bach Candace Bahr

Balles Family Rhoda Barnard

Mr. Lawrence Baroletti

George & Marcy Bauer - In Memory of Melissa Bauer

Mrs. Olga L. Behrendt

Gloria & Richard Berlin

Ann Berris

Beverlee & John Bertinetti

Dorothy, Dick, Richie & Bill Bischoff

Judy & Ron Bland

Matthew & Martha C. Bogovich

Joseph Bonamo

Paul Bowen, Margaret Baxter, Robert Baxter & William Baxter

Ron Bredow

In Memory of Patty Brennan

The Brickous Family

Lillian Broad

Edward M. Brodsky Madeline Brower

Ms. Patricia A. Bruss

In Memory of Christine Monson - Love the Burkes

For Judy - Beverly, George, Alex & Zach Buscemi Laura, Paul & Stephen Caglione Rosemarie Calamari - In Memory of John Calamari

In Loving Memory of Louis G. Capogrosso Stephen Carlino Paul Carpentieri

John & Carolyn Casey

In Memory of Regina & George Cavallo Kathy Chand

Arlene & Joe Chirco Susan Chorost

Jimmy Cinturati & Family Lilly Cohen

Tom & Christine Colao - In Memory of Sue Colao Margaret Colquhoun - In Memory of Jackie Colquhoun Dan Conway

In Memory of Delores & Herbert Cook Vincent Costa Valerie & Bob Croon Cutler Family Maria Czarniecki

Ms. Nancy E. Daileader Family of Jon Peter D'Angelo

The DeAngelis Family

Frances M. DeFilippis Sergej & Antonia Delak Stephen Delaney & Family Mr. & Mrs. John DelGaudio Paul DePietro

Joe Di Gregorio

Mr. & Mrs. Charles L. Dietz

Judy DiGabriele -

In Memory of My Brother Vincent DiGabriele William Dinkelacker DonDero & Essen Families

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Donohue Jennifer Dowd & Family Mr. & Mrs. Robert Drescher

The Duclair's

From Jeffrey E. Emily C. Eller Eileen & Jane Erb

The Everitt Family John & Susan Farag, Christopher, Holly Barbara Fay Mr. & Mrs. John Fealey

Mrs. Theresa Ferraro

Rosemarie & Ralph Fiero

Barbara A. Figiel

The Fisher Family

The Family of Kathleen Flanagan

Timothy & Sylvia Foley

Michele Fontana

Family of Eric David Forman

Joanne & David Frerks Martin Friedman

Moe & Gail Friedman

Jay & Sherry Gaines

Patricia Galvin Eileen Game

Jack & Eydie Garofalo, Jack Garofalo, Jr. Ms. Aileen Garthaffner

Jim & Susan Garts

Christine Gilleran

In Loving Memory of the Gimbel's James & Eileen Goldbach Jamie Goldberg Donna & Terry Goldman Family Michele & Anne Greenblatt

Mr. & Mrs. David Gross Robert & Rose Gross Nancy Grossman

Eugene Grupp & Stephanie Rosselli

The Cheryl Guadagno Family Jacqueline Haberer

Peter & Suzanne Hadfield George & Debbie Hanna Mary Jane Hegi Bruce Heise

Stuart Henig Joanne Hess Lillian Hills Paul & Judy Hollander

Milton & Barbara Hostetter Mary A. Hyland

Arlene & Peter Hyman

The Iallonardi Family

The Inglese Family

The Jacobs Family

Janet Joyce -

In Memory of My Sister Jackie Joyce Troy

The Keating Family

Michael & Joseph Keating & Family

Patricia C. Keegan

Keenan Family

Talia Keenan & Family

Mrs. Irene Kerner

Steven & Patricia Kirk

Donna, Steve, Ian & Brian Kirsch

Alan Kline Jr. & Mom

John & Lu Koch

Rosemarie & Judy Kohler

Mr. Benjamin Kowalchuk

Marcia Krinick

M. Kuehnel

Chrissy & Joan Kurz

Debby & Sheldon Lapidus

The La Rosa Family

Colleen Leahy's Family Tyler Leung Family

Peggy & Richard Levitan Marie, Julie & Haley Lindell

Mr. & Mrs. Richard T. Lindner Karen Linkens

Rosanne & Karen Linkens

Mr. & Mrs. Robert Lucey

Mary Louise Maiuri & Frank Maiuri Marvin Mandell

Tony & Rosalie Marcano Jessica & Edward Marcin

Josephine Marino

Maureen & Phil Marino Mary Ann & Tom Matteini

Mary Jo, Les & Melissa Mazure Thomas & Mary Ann McCorry Pearl, John, Susan & Ross McGuire Jeanne, Anne & Kate McHale

In Loving Memory of Raymond V. McHugh David & Beverly McHugh Christine & Pauline McHugh Kevin & Renee McMahon

Vivian McPhilliamy

The McShane Family Joseph Meloro Steve Mendyk & Family Patricia Merrick – In Honor of Emily Furlong

Mr. & Mrs. Frank Miritello Family of Eddie Mitchell Donna Moles Catherine T. Mooney Tom & Ellen Moore

Louise Morici

Dan Mulvaney & Family

Mr. & Mrs. Maurice Murch & Robert Ms. Nancy B. Murphy

Philip Napolitano & Family

Lorraine, Edward Jr. & John Nikl William Nouza

Barbara Nugent

Mr. & Mrs. Michael Oakes Cathleen O'Connor

Nan O'Hara & Family

The O'Learys

Tom & Mary O'Neil

The O'Shea Family

In Memory of Frank, Rose & Frankie Ostafinski Bernadette & Alfred Pagano Dean Painter &

the students of Sunrise Drive Elementary School

The Family of JeriLynn Passarella Michael Patton

Pertose Family

In Memory of Paul Peter Giovanna & Settimio Petruccelli Margaret Pfeffer in Loving Memory of Ellie Pfeffer Helen C. Philbin

The Physical Rehabilitation Center

Pinckney Family

Frank Porfidio Carolyn Preziosi Sandra, Noah & Josh Probert Marty & Marcia Pulewitz

Gigi Raphael Laura & Pastor George Rauchfuss Reed Family Rosemary & Kevin Reichart John & Lucille Reilly

Mr. & Mrs. Eugene J. Reynolds Barbara Rhein

In Memory of Vicki Riccio

In Memory of Jean Rich Rose, Edward Rick & Our Angels in Heaven, Elizabeth & Eddie Angel Ann Bruder Love Risso Family Sam & Lee Rizzo & Michele Marilynn Roll & Family

Jean M. Roniger Olin Michael & Beth Ross Peter & Marguerite Rubenacker Kathleen & James Saville Joel Schectman

Elizabeth Scherer

Ed, Fran & Eddy Schlesinger

In Loving Memory....family of Rocco Schiaffo Richard & Catherine Schuber Thomas Schuck

Mr. & Mrs. William Schutt Senzatimore Family Roberta & Ira Siegel Henry Simms Lori Sindone Robert A. Smith Ute & Perry Smith Gilbert B. Solitare Sharon Soper - In Memory of Stephen

Eric Squire

Monica Stuart

Mrs. MaryAnn Strada

Margaret Sullivan

Irwin Summer

Michael Taino Family

In Memory of Sally Ann Talko

In Memory of Chris Tauss

In Loving Memory of Sean Tuohy Family of Michael William Ustler

Claudia Verga & Family

Vogel Family

Mr. & Mrs. Louis Vynerib

Brian Wahl & Dana Simons-Wahl Cheryl Walder

Maryann & David Walsh

Marilyn Weiss

The Welch Family

In Loving Memory of Richard Werbin

In Loving Memory of Gail Wernersbach, by the Wernersbach Family Gloria Westhoff

Mr. William White

Ms. Antonia Yany

Theresa Yard Zablocki Family Maria Zarycky

Angela & George Zubrovic

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

AHRC Nassau Honors Dr. King Through Community Activism and Service

“It’s about giving back to the community, and it’s nice to be together. It’s not just about me and my mom. It’s about everyone coming together,” said Noah.

The MLK Day event also reflected the joy and fellowship that Dr. King advocated, with upbeat music playing in the background and socially distanced groups cheerfully re-connecting.

For Kevin Nelsom, a direct support professional, who accompanied self-advocate Matt Hoefele, the event was a success because “not only are you doing something good, you feel good.”

Self-advocate April Kloepfer also described the event as “fun” and “rewarding,” as she carefully organized food products with her family.

The volunteer corps included men and women supported by AHRC, families, and friends, members of Girl Scout Troop 3537 and a Farmingdale State College student.

Additional opportunities will be available throughout the year. If you would like to contribute your time or food products toward addressing food insecurity in our shared community, visit ahrc.org/volunteer.

DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Beyond the Comfort Zone:

Understanding and Eradicating Injustice, Racism and Inequality in the Field of Developmental Disabilities

AHRC Nassau Partners With The Arc of the United States on Upcoming DEI Event

The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Virtual Conference, “Beyond the Comfort Zone: Understanding and Eradicating Injustice, Racism and Inequality in the Field of Developmental Disabilities,” will be held May 18, 2022 at ahrc.org/de iconference. Exploring the intersection of disability and race, the DEI Virtual Conference seeks to increase fluency and understanding of the history, challenges and opportunities impacting people with I/DD and the staff who work with them. This event is free and open to the public. Sign up for more information at ahrc.org/deiconference

Within the field of DEI, disability is often an overlooked topic. Nicole Zerillo, J.D., Assistant Director of Community Resources at AHRC Nassau, noticed this during her course of study at Columbia University’s M.S. Nonprofit Management program and during her projects as Research Associate to M.S. Nonprofit Management Academic Director Cindy M. Lott, Esq. In response, Zerillo recently published “Person First, Disability Second: The Road to Full Inclusion” in the winter edition of the Nonprofit Quarterly, a magazine dedicated to creating knowledge for civil society, connect ing leaders in social movements, nonprofits, and philanthropy to move from what's wrong to what's next. NPQ's key areas currently are racial justice, economic justice, climate justice, and health justice. The premise of Zerillo’s article is that disability is a core justice issue, with the highest barriers to full inclusion and equity being a general lack of visibility, understanding and fluency about disability.

“Disability as a Core Justice Issue” Examined in Nonprofit Quarterly Magazine by AHRC Staffer

COMMUNITY PAGES

An Action Shot from Pre-Vocational Services

Chef Percival Aquino of Wheatley Farms assists Hanna Pollack and Waasay Masood of AHRC’s Pre-Voc Program make fresh pasta. Wheatley Farms, a social enterprise of AHRC Nassau, is now accepting orders for dinner, flowers and holiday specials For more information, please visit https://www.wheatleyfarmsli.com.

AHRC Adds to the Magic of Local Nonprofit, The Book Fairies

Men supported by AHRC’s Pre-Vocational Program recently shared 10 boxes of gently loved books and a love of reading with The Book Fairies, a local nonprofit dedicated to eradicating illiteracy.

Hicksville Dress for Success Luncheon

AHRC’s Hicksville Hubsite hosted a Dress for Success Luncheon. Everyone wore their most professional clothes, practiced interviewing for different volunteering roles at the hubsite, and then enjoyed lunch together.

World Kindness Day Celebrated at AHRC Nassau

In celebration of World Kindness Day on Nov. 13, many AHRC staff wore "Be Kind" shirts from AHRC’s One Stop Gift Shop. In this photo from AHRC Day Services, staff showed up in "Be Kind" t-shirts to share their support for a more kind and compassionate world. For inspirational gifts, visit ahrc.org/giftshop.

STAFF SPOTLIGHT

Princess Thomas

“Best Friend” Necklaces Created With Skill and Heart

Celebrating friendships is an important way to "enrich your life and improve your health," according to the Mayo Clinic. Here, Jenny and Lindsay from AHRC's JNB hubsite recognize their friendship with handmade "best friend" necklaces.

For 20 years, Princess Thomas has offered exceptional care to men and women supported by AHRC Nassau. As AHRC House Manager of the W. Seaman Ave. Residence, Princess is known for her keen management skills and warmth. Now, Princess is starting to become known for another talent—her culinary creativity.

“Princess brings the power of her positive energy into every situation,” said Chris O’Connor, Associate Executive Director of Programs and Services at AHRC Nassau. “She cares about the people supported and her staff. I have enjoyed working with Princess for the past 15 years, and hope to have another 15! Her food is delicious and her theme parties even better.”

Part of a recent Talent Acquisition team meeting was transformed into an amazing “Friendsgiving” feast. For the foodies out there, check out Princess’ food page on Instagram

“Princess brings the power of her positive energy into every situation,”

Chris O’Connor

Associate Executive Director of Programs and Services at AHRC Nassau

A Social Enterprise of AHRC Nassau

At Wheatley Farms, we’re about more than the fresh flowers, produce and plants that come out of our greenhouse.

We’re about more than the high-quality meals that come out of our kitchen. We’re about making lives better.

From the people who buy our products to the people who prepare them, everyone at Wheatley Farms is part of something truly special. We can’t wait for you to be part of it too.