- AHRC Nassau’s Legacy Honored at AHRC Foundation Rose Ball - Parent Advocates Tom and Ellen Moore Receive Margaret L. Riva Lifetime Achievement Award - AHRC Nassau Passes Compass Renewal Process, Ongoing Maintenance of CQL’s Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation With
Stay in touch with all our community has to offer by following AHRC Nassau on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Dive deeper into the people we support and the staff who make our mission possible at ahrc.org/blog.
Mark your calendar!
The East Meadow Art Gallery will present its annual exhibit featuring this year's theme, "NYC, the City of Lights." The show will run through August 16.
Stop by Monday-Friday, 10:30 a.m.–2 p.m., at 198 East Meadow Ave., East Meadow, NY 11554
About AHRC’s East Meadow Art Gallery
The East Meadow Art Gallery serves as a studio and exhibit space for people supported through AHRC Day Services. Artists work in a collaborative fashion to determine upcoming exhibit themes and projects. The Art Gallery sells seasonal paintings and hand-made crafts.
From
Dear Families and Friends,
As you’ll see in this edition, AHRC Nassau continues to move from strength to strength. So much of our success is based on the many families and advocates who made AHRC’s 75 years of service possible.
AHRC Nassau’s diamond anniversary and meaningful history of service to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities were recognized at the 2024 Rose Ball. I invite you to see the videos highlighting the history of our community by scanning this QR Code.
Long-time AHRC Nassau volunteers Tom and Ellen Moore were honored with the AHRC Foundation’s highest award –the Margaret L. Riva Lifetime Achievement Award.
It's inspiring to consider how far we’ve come – and see all the activity and progress happening around the agency to create an even more inclusive future. Advancing our mission for another 75 years, we must continue to come together as a community and encourage our networks of support –family, friends and colleagues – to become AHRC members too. On page 11 is an ad highlighting how membership contributes to the important work of the agency.
With the continuing commitment of our board members, members and supporters, I am confident that our mission will continue to grow and flourish.
Best regards,
Stanfort
Stanfort J. Perry CEO, AHRC Nassau
Community Pages
Dancing the Night Away, Making Cherished Memories at the June Jubilee
Over 500 people supported by AHRC Nassau danced the night away with friends, family, and staff at the June Jubilee, June 11 and 12, at the Sterling, thanks to the dedication of Community Liaison Lynne Brewer and her team.
The June Jubilee included dinner, a DJ, photo booth, caricature artists, and oversized games. Guests were also gifted colorful hats, LED light tubes, necklaces, and glow-in-the-dark shutter shades.
According to Lynne, “Everyone asks me why I do what I do and it’s because there’s one person missing tonight and that’s why I started thinking about this over three years ago.” Lynne hosted this meaningful event in remembrance of her sister Diane who always loved a good party.
The June Jubilee was the result of three years of fundraising and planning. Lynne is currently fundraising for her next big bash to bring together the AHRC community.
tStephen Nocerito Earns NYSID
2023 Outstanding Performance Award
Congratulations to Stephen Nocerito, who was recently celebrated for receiving the 2023 Outstanding Performance Award from New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID).
Stephen is supported through AHRC Nassau’s Employment Services. He has been employed as a Porter with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) since February 2023. Although shy and reserved, he takes great pride in doing good work. His teammates and management view him as reliable, enthusiastic, and a great team player.
75 Years Celebrated at Rose Ball 2024
AHRC Foundation Annual
ROSE BAL L
o Benefit Children And Adults With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities
On June 13, AHRC Nassau was honored for its 75th anniversary at the AHRC Foundation's Annual Rose Ball, celebrating decades of advocacy and support for children and adults with developmental disabilities. A special tribute video showcased its rich history and achievements.
The event also marked the 50th anniversary of the partnership between AHRC Nassau and Camp Loyaltown Inc., led by Leadership Award recipient Linda Abramson Raff, President of Camp Loyaltown, Inc. Since 1974, Camp Loyaltown has helped children and adults with developmental disabilities gain independence and enjoy nature, while giving caregivers a valuable break.
Sydney Ambrose, who is currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Childhood Education/Students With Disabilities at Mercy University, was presented with the Blanche Fierstein Scholarship by Andrea Fierstein, Blanche’s daughter, and Saundra Gumerove, AHRC Nassau’s Board President. The Blanche Fierstein Scholarship was established in 2011 to honor the life and legacy of the late AHRC Nassau Board member and NYSARC President, Blanche Fierstein.
A highlight of the evening was the prestigious Margaret L. Riva Lifetime Achievement Award, presented to Tom and Ellen Moore. This award, the Foundation's highest honor, recognizes significant advocacy and service for people with developmental disabilities. First awarded to Margaret Riva in 2016, it was renamed in her honor to continue her legacy. The award was presented by her children, Lorraine and Frank Riva, both supported by AHRC Nassau.
Ellen and Tom Moore have devoted their lives to AHRC Nassau, inspired by their love for their son Douglas, who is supported by the organization. Ellen has held various leadership roles, including President of the North Woodmere Valley Stream Auxiliary and the Presidents’ Council, and served on several committees. Tom has been a key leader, including President of the AHRC Nassau Board of Directors and NYSARC, Inc. (2002-2006). He currently chairs multiple committees and serves on the board of AHRC Nassau, serving as its Finance, Buildings & Grounds and Membership Chair as well as serving on the boards of AHRC Foundation and Advantage Care Health Centers.
Stanfort Perry, Chief Executive Officer of AHRC Nassau, remarked, "Tom and Ellen Moore embody all that is good about our agency. It’s no exaggeration to say we wouldn’t be where we are today without people like Tom and Ellen, who have given so much to ensure the success of others."
Rose Ball 2024 was an unforgettable evening, celebrating dedication, love, and service in a community where relationships truly last a lifetime.
Scan QR code for Rose Ball Video
Celebrating the Arc New York’s 75th Anniversary With a Week of Service
In the first week of June, chapters of the Arc New York set out to commemorate 75 years of promoting and protecting human rights for members of the intellectual and developmental disabilities community by engaging in a statewide week of service.
Each chapter completed two community service projects that ranged from community cleanups to fence building for Habitat for Humanity.
AHRC Nassau participated in the Arc’s Week of Service by organizing a peanut butter and jelly sandwich contest and concert food drive, both to tackle food insecurity in the wider community.
Learn more about this exciting event at ahrc.org/blog!
Staff Spotlight
#NurseStrong: Achievements of AHRC Nassau Nurses Celebrated
with National Nurses Week Luncheon
AHRC Nassau nurses are talented professionals who always go above and beyond to ensure the people we support are healthy and happy.
As part of National Nurses Week, AHRC Nassau celebrated our incredible nursing team who provides treatment and preventative care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Our nursing team is exceptionally skilled serving people who may not always be able to describe how they’re feeling or who may have medical complexities through experience.
It was a great afternoon of nurse solidarity, as nurses who may not always cross paths had the opportunity to share their stories and insights. It was also a chance for the agency to say thanks for being “Nurse Strong.” A cap with this inspiring motto was given to each attendee.
“Truly, you are the backbone of the agency,” said Chief Operating Officer Chris O’Connor, R.N. “Without health and safety, we don’t have anything without that strong foundation.”
Volunteer Spotlight
AHRC Nassau Volunteer Dinner Honors
Exceptional Service
“How did your love story volunteering with AHRC begin?” asked Volunteer and Project Coordinator Jerri Walker at AHRC Nassau’s annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner, held on June 6. Jerri addressed the crowd of nearly 100 people and shared how she began working with the agency over 20 years ago after answering an ad in the local paper
Jerri invited guests to share that story on a card placed on their table. Many of the volunteers who attended the evening have spent years giving back to the AHRC community. The dinner served as a special occasion to honor all their efforts.
Sandia Lu, President of The Giving Tree Family, received the Commitment and Dedication Award for AHRC Nassau while Nyle Mohan was recognized with the Commitment and Dedication Award for his longstanding support for the campers at partner agency Citizens Options Unlimited. Vice President Shaun Weathers presented the agency’s first-ever Lenny Tucker Award to John Klimaszewski due to his outstanding dedication as a one-to-one volunteer.
Along with them, 53 volunteers were given certificates of appreciation for their outstanding dedication to the agency.
“If you have not already heard it today, know that you matter,” shared CEO Stanfort Perry. “Your willingness to give selflessly speaks to your character. The fruits of your labor make a tangible impact and make a difference in the lives of the people you support.”
AHRC Nassau Passes Compass Renewal Process,
Ongoing Maintenance of CQL’s Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation With Distinction
AHRC Nassau continues to maintain the highest standards of quality support and service provision in state and internationally. This spring, state auditors again validated AHRC as a Compass agency – one of four agencies in New York State with this designation – after three days of person-centered meetings, activities and events. AHRC also was notified by CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership that AHRC continues to meet the standards required for the four-year maintenance of the Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation with Distinction, its highest designation. There are only eight agencies who hold this distinction.
AHRC Nassau Receives Grants From NYSARC Trust Services
AHRC was awarded $211,460 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support AHRC Nassau’s guardianship and recreation programs.
NYSARC Trust Services administers supplemental needs trusts (SNT) and pooled trusts that can make dramatic improvements to the lives of people with disabilities by enabling individuals to maintain eligibility for Medicaid and other means-tested government benefit programs. For 2024, NYSARC Trust Services is proud to fulfill its commitment to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by awarding a total of $2,697,508 to The Arc New York Chapters statewide.
This year, AHRC Nassau is grateful to have received $193,100 from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to provide guardianship services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. Supported by Chapter staff and community volunteers, AHRC Nassau currently provides guardianship supports and services to 32 men and women and is ready to assist 17 more as a Standby or Alternate Standby guardian.
NYSARC Trust Services also awarded AHRC Nassau $18,360 to support new recreational opportunities to enrich the lives of men and women supported through AHRC Nassau’s services.
Shout out to Adam Levine who sang “The StarSpangled Banner” at Citi Field, this summer. Adam headlined a wonderful evening enjoyed by 150 friends from AHRC Nassau and made possible by the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services.
Community Pages
Prom 2024: Seacliff Seniors and PWW Have a Ball
Prom 2024 at the AHRC Sea Cliff Hubsite was an event to remember. Dressed to the nines, nearly 60 men and women from the Sea Cliff Seniors Site and Program Without Walls (PWW) made their way down the red carpet for a day of laughter, dancing and good times. For many, prom had always been a dream. Staff went above and beyond to make Prom 2024 a joyful reality. Direct Support Professional Nikita Harvey brought in a beautiful balloon arch, decorations, and sheet cake, while Patrick Sherrard, Assistant Director, served as DJ. Each detail was thoughtfully planned, from corsages and boutonnieres to the crowning of prom king and queen Adam Levine and Arlene Reinhart for Sea Cliff Seniors alongside Christopher Greenspan and Mikelle Tejada for PWW. “This was the best thing we’ve ever done,” said Mary Ann Martin, Sea Cliff Site Manager and AHRC employee of over 30 years. “Staff went out of their way to make sure everything was awesome.”
Farmingdale Library Celebrates Day Services Volunteers With Luncheon and Awards
Every Thursday, volunteers from AHRC Farmingdale Day Services assist at the local library with dusting, shelving, and tidying. On April 19, Head of Reference Stuart Schaeffer organized a surprise brunch for 11 volunteers, including Amanda Badke and Brandon Pastor. They received certificates and gift-filled tote bags, acknowledging their efforts since mid-2022. Direct Support Professional (DSP) Brian Slatky noted their excitement and sense of honor.
Community Pages
For Mother’s Day, Livingston St. Residents
Bring Flowers to Somerset Garden Seniors
Residents of AHRC’s Livingston St. House chose to celebrate Mother’s Day by decorating and filling flowerpots with colorful impatiens for Somerset Garden Senior Living. Led by Manager Stephanie Oriental-Excellent, Assistant Manager Barbara Cipriano, and direct support professionals, the team included Nijah White, Holly Hines, Lauren Bernstein, Carmen Luisa Diaz, Sandra Casado, and Yonah Piedagnel. The residents delivered the flowers, brightening the seniors' day. Luisa and Sandra were especially moved by the smiles they received. "I want to make them happy," said Luisa. Barbara bought over 200 flowers, with 42 given to nursing home residents, and one kept by Holly for her mom.
Jericho High School Students Partner with AHRC for Spring Animal Care at Wheatley Farms
Jericho High School Career & Employment Options students visited Wheatley Farms & Arts Center to participate in animal care, guided by Melissa Chan, Tristan Matuszak, Samantha Rubin, Caitlin Wilkenshoff, and Brianna Klass, of AHRC’s Program Without Walls (PWW) at Wheatley Farms. Tasks included washing buckets; feeding chickens, ducks, goats, and horses; and cleaning paddocks. The program, organized by district consultant Jenna Provenzano, supported Jericho students to return Tuesdays, throughout the spring, for mentorship and volunteering opportunities. To learn more about day service options, visit www.ahrc.org/wheatleyfarms.
Community Pages
Family Fun: Siblings Celebrate Summer Season at 2024 BBQ
On the first day of summer, the Sibling Group gathered for their annual barbeque at the AHRC Mansion, a joyful event celebrating camaraderie and connection among siblings.
Paul Giordano shared.“Having a brother with intellectual disabilities has influenced every aspect of my life. That's why sibling groups are so important—they offer support, understanding, and a resource you can call upon—someone who truly gets it, without judgment, through the unique challenges and rewards siblings face together. ”
Throughout the year, this group meets to share ideas and experiences, fostering a supportive community. The Sibling Barbeque is a special occasion where members unite to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds.
This anniversary year, we are honored to offer you a unique opportunity to deepen your involvement with AHRC Nassau. Your lifetime membership is not just a commitment to our cause it’s an investment in a future where our loved ones receive the respect, opportunities, and support they deserve. Now is the perfect opportunity to join us in celebrating 75 years of fulfilling the promise made to children, adults, and their families.
• Direct Impact: Your vote will guide the decisions we make and the direction we take.
• Exclusive Resources: Gain access to Nassau News and join The Arc New York and The Arc of the U.S. for a wider perspective on our collective advocacy.
• Active Participation: Engage in advocacy and volunteer opportunities that directly support our mission and your loved one. www.ahrc.org/membership
