Making Every Day Matter ...Together!
-AHRC Nassau Redesignated a Compass Agency -Wheatley Farms & Arts Center Continues to Bloom With Purpose -Staff Steps into the Spotlight at “Staffapalooza: The Rockstar Staff Appreciation Tour” -And More!
Stay in Touch
Dear Families and Friends,
As you’ll see in this edition, our AHRC community continues to be shaped by personal stories of success and many moments of joyful connection. Together, we are creating a world where men and women with developmental disabilities are supported to pursue their interests, friendships, and the very best of the world around them.
This is why our agency is here – and why we as a community continue to advocate for federal and state policy decisions impacting essential disability services. We’ll continue to share timely updates and ways for you to get involved. Opt-in to receiving text message advocacy alerts by scanning this code or visit www.ahrc.org/mailing-list.
Together, we are building on the legacy of the families who came before us to create a future where people are healthy and included, their stories woven into the fabric of our shared communities. We see this vision come to life every day and are pleased to share some of those stories with you in this magazine.
Our successes are the result of many, and it’s our interconnectedness that empowers AHRC Nassau to thrive. This shared strength is also reflected in our continued designation as a Compass agency by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Alongside our affiliate, Citizens Options Unlimited, we are proud to remain two of just four agencies in the state to hold this meaningful designation.
Best regards,
Stanfort J. Perry CEO, AHRC Nassau
AHRC Redesignated a Compass Agency by New York State
AHRC Nassau remains one of only four agencies in New York State to hold the prestigious Compass designation, alongside sister agency Citizens Options Unlimited. This spring, AHRC Nassau completed a successful Compass validation visit over the course of a week with auditors from the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).
Auditors engaged with people supported, self-advocates, family members, staff, and volunteers during interviews and program visits. The validation process provided an important opportunity to showcase how person-centered supports lead to real choice and more fulfilling lives, while also identifying areas for continued growth.
Empowerment Through Social Roles at POMs Rally
During Compass Validation Week, the Brookville mansion ballroom buzzed with excitemen t as over 70 people supported by Day Services gathered for a Personal Outcome Measures (POMs) Rally. Led by POMs Interviewers, the event focused on the importance of social roles—highlighting how identities as friends, volunteers, employees, and advocates shape a person’s well-being and sense of purpose.
Interactive discussions followed, including a moment when POMs Interviewer Susan Gill-Orange asked the crowd, “What does having a role mean?” Dean Davidson responded, “A role is the way you act in being independent and taking control of your life.”
Brian’s Voice: POMs Advocacy in Action Through Voting and Leadership
Self-advocate Brian Johnson sat with Lisa Petrocci-Clay, Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Standards Compliance Analyst, for an interview during Compass Validation Week.
As Day Hab Council President, Brian spoke about his advocacy and leadership during our recent voting initiative which empowered hundreds of people to use their voice through the power of the ballot box.
Lisa’s role is to assess how agencies meet Compass criteria. She spoke with Brian to better understand how the agency supports him to achieve his goals. With support from Activity Specialist Sue Limiti, Brian shared what drives his advocacy work.
“I want people to be active voters,” Brian said. “If you have a voice and don’t use it, what do you have a voice for? Because voting gives you a voice.”
Brian’s commitment to civic participation extends beyond the voting booth. He shared how he developed relationships with local assembly members and has continued to speak up for people with disabilities. He proudly recounted his experience voting in the 2016 election, and how he’s maintained his status as an active voter ever since.
Day of Community Engagement Brings New Connections
People supported by AHRC Day Services explored new interests and volunteer opportunities during the Day of Community Engagement on May 7. The fair at Wheatley Farms and Arts Center featured 17 organizations dedicated to giving back to Long Island. Groups like Tender Loving Cats and the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter—already connected to Day Services were eager to offer more ways to get involved.
AHRC FOUNDATION
ROSE BAL L
On June 12, the AHRC Foundation celebrated its 75th Annual Rose Ball—a wonderful evening honoring decades of advocacy, generosity, and partnership benefitting the Long Island intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) community. The event raised over $340,000 to support programs and services, including those led by AHRC Nassau.
“This evening, we don’t just raise a glass—we raise expectations, ” said Tom Rosicki, President of the AHRC Foundation Board of Directors and Master of Ceremonies. “Because there’s always more we can do to support children and adults with developmental disabilities. Tonight, we celebrate partnership, possibility, and people.”
Tom Moore, Rose Ball Chairman and AHRC Nassau Board Member, also shared his thanks. “A successful evening like this reflects something much deeper—it reflects a community that shows up and stands together for the people we support. Thank you for making this mission your own.”
The Rose Ball also welcomed artists and staff from the East Meadow Art Gallery, who displayed their beautiful works throughout the cocktail reception. Special thanks to artist Richard Infante, who opened the evening’s program with Grace.
Tricia Desiderio, AHRC Nassau Board Member, joined Andrea Fierstein to present the Blanche Fierstein Scholarship Award to Trishta Ramphul, who is pursuing a dual Master’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education at Bank Street College of Education. Trishta currently serves as a Teaching Assistant at Brookville Center for Children’s Services – Marcus Avenue Preschool. The award supports people pursuing an advanced degree in special education and is named in memory of long-time AHRC Nassau Board Member Blanche Fierstein.
This year’s honorees included Joshua Lamberg, CEO and Founder of Signers National | Lamb Insurance Services, who received the 2025 Leadership Award, and the Long Island Wine & Liquor Sales Club, the recipient of the inaugural Cornerstone Award for the Club’s nearly 80 years of sustained generosity and support.
AHRC Nassau Celebrates Staff at “Staffapalooza: The Rockstar Staff Appreciation Tour”
AHRC Nassau turned up the volume on gratitude at Staffapalooza: The Rockstar Staff Appreciation Tour—a day of celebration for the people who power its mission. With more than 1,150 staff registered, the event brought together colleagues for food, fun, and connection. Barbecue, pizza, funnel cakes, tacos, snow cones, and ice cream fueled the festivities, while massages, henna tattoos, games, a DJ, and a ten-piece live band kept the energy high.
Community partners—including Stony Brook University, Aflac, Cigna, Primerica, TD Bank, FourLeaf, New York Life, and many others—joined the celebration to show their support for exceptional co-workers for AHRC Nassau, Citizens Options Unlimited, and Brookville Center for Children’s Services.
Rain made a late-day appearance, but it couldn’t dampen a celebration of what makes AHRC Nassau strong. From direct support staff to clinicians, administrators, and everyone in between, each employee plays such a relied upon role in making it possible for people with developmental disabilities to live lives filled with choice, meaning, and connection.
While the next full-day staff appreciation event may be a year away, AHRC Nassau’s appreciation for its staff continues year-round. The agency recognizes the dedication, compassion, and values its employees bring to their work every day—and the impact they make in the lives of others.
Wheatley Farms & Arts Center: Where Community Blossoms
Summer is in full bloom at The Thomas S. Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center! Through pre-vocational skill building, meaningful volunteer activities, wellness programming, and creative arts, the farm offers a range of opportunities for people to engage, contribute, and connect with nature.
See what’s growing and happening daily on Instagram: @WheatleyFarmsArts
Spring Reception Marks Opening of Wheatley Farms Meditation Garden
The AHRC Nassau community celebrated the opening of the Meditation Garden at Wheatley Farms & Arts Center at our Spring Reception on March 4. Made possible through the generous support of Assemblymember Charles Lavine, this peaceful space reflects the beauty of nature and our shared community.
“We are all one community and that’s what makes our part of the world such a great part of the world to live in. Anytime I have a chance to help everyone in our community, I’m going to jump on that opportunity,” Assemblyman Lavine said.
Guests placed meditation rocks—hand-decorated by people supported—by the garden fountain to set a positive intention for the season. They also sowed seeds of gratitude during a hands-on farming activity before enjoying refreshments and a photo exhibit in the clubhouse.
Celebrating Buzz and Bloom Day at Wheatley Farms
Wheatley Farms & Arts Center welcomed guests for a joyful celebration of spring, learning, and connection at Buzz and Bloom Day on June 5. The event featured pollinator education, mindfulness activities, and hands-on crafts inspired by the farm’s natural beauty.
New Sensory Garden Blossoms Thanks to AHRC North Woodmere/Valley Stream Auxiliary
Flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables await to delight the senses at the new sensory garden in Wheatley Farms & Arts Center in Brookville. Opened on Wednesday, May 21, Wheatley Farms’ Outdoor Learning Garden was made possible because of a generous $15,000 donation from the AHRC North Woodmere/Valley Stream Auxiliary, a group that has deep roots in the AHRC community and made significant contributions throughout the decades with annual fundraising events.
Special thanks to Auxiliary members Martha Carney and Joan Crane, Co-Presidents; Linda McDonald, Treasurer; and Harietta Traversa and Dawn Tortora-Morici, AHRC Nassau Board Members.
Where Love Took Root: Opening Nanette’s Garden in Celebration of a Life That Helped Others Grow
The June 1 dedication ceremony for Nanette Muzante, our late horticulturist, was a heartfelt tribute filled with gratitude. We look forward to seeing Nanette's Garden flourish as a testament to her 25 years of service. Thank you to the Syosset Garden Club and AHRC Foundation for making this possible.
Brushing Up on Confidence With Belle and Mango
Spring sunshine and a little time with friends—there’s something special about spending the day with Belle and Mango at Wheatley Farms & Arts Center.
People supported through our day services have the chance to connect with our gentle ponies, learning about seasonal care and building comfort around animals. Even simple moments—like walking beside them, offering a brush, or just being nearby—build confidence and connection. Wheately Farms & Arts – it’s where life skills grow, and people blossom.
Community Pages
Rolling Good Time: Spring Bowling League Wraps for the Season
This spring, over a hundred bowlers came together to share in the fun, friendship, and festive spirit of the weekly Bowling League. Each Saturday brought its own theme and flair, with plenty of laughs and strikes along the way. The season ended on a high note in June with a “Crazy Hat” theme. Here’s to striking up even more smiles next season.
Who Says the Holidays Can’t Happen in July?
At The Sterling in Bethpage, Santa traded snow boots for flip-flops and made a surprise appearance— beach style at the Holly Jolly July celebration.
Decked out in his Santa hat and flanked by a sea of colorful beach balls, Santa greeted guests with big waves, high fives, and even a few dance moves. With nearly 200 people in attendance, this much-anticipated summer dance was full of energy, with glow-in-the-dark sunglasses, candy and beach balls. Laughter filled the room as guests enjoyed games, photo booth fun, and the joy of the celebration.
“It takes a lot of planning—but it’s worth it,” said Lynne Brewer, Community Outreach Liaison. “The happiness it brings is what it’s all about.”
Showing Support for Pride Month
Over Pride Weekend, men and women supported through AHRC Nassau joined PrideAbility LI/Queens to march in the 35th Annual Long Island Pride Parade. Wearing rainbow flags and big smiles, nearly two dozen people proudly represented the disability and LGBTQIA+ communities as they made their way down Gerard Avenue.
The celebration continued at the Long Island Pride Festival, where people supported and their families connected with others, shared in the spirit of inclusion, and embraced the joy of being seen, heard, and welcomed.
Community Pages
AHRC Day Services Visits
Nassau County Police Academy
It was a day of connection, learning, and some unforgettable moments as men and women supported by AHRC Nassau’s day services visited the Nassau County Police Academy this spring. They met with officers, asked questions, explored police gear, and even climbed aboard a police motorcycle. The visit offered a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement and sparked meaningful conversations with members of the local force.
East
Meadow Art Gallery Rolls Out the Red Carpet for
“EMAWOOD”
The East Meadow Art Gallery transformed into a star-studded showcase with its latest exhibit, “EMAWOOD”—a creative tribute to Hollywood’s most iconic stars and films. The exhibit reflects the gallery’s artist-led approach, where people choose themes, plan exhibits, and build practical skills along the way. The result: a vibrant, collaborative celebration of talent, teamwork, and imagination.
Growing Skills, Giving Back at Temple B’nai Torah
Every Tuesday this spring, men and women supported by pre-vocational services rolled up their sleeves at the Temple B’nai Torah community garden in Wantagh. From planting and weeding to painting benches and caring for flower beds, they put their skills—and teamwork—to work for a great cause.
Everything grown in the garden helps local food pantries, Island Harvest, Bethany House, and neighbors in need. It’s a win-win: fresh food for the community, and real-world experience for those getting job-ready outdoors.
Volunteering
Thank You to Our Engaged Network of Volunteers
Across AHRC Nassau, volunteers bring their time, talents, and heart to every corner of our community. From one-day service events to long-term commitments, volunteer efforts help create fuller, more joyful, and more connected moments in the lives of the people we support. What follows are recent stories that celebrate the extraordinary difference volunteers make—every project, every hour, every smile. Thank you!
Convergint Steps Up for a Day of Social Responsibility
Seventy-five employees from security system supplier Convergint chose AHRC Nassau’s Brookville campus for their Day of Social Responsibility—and they got to work in a big way. From teaching Jonathan Funk how to safely use a power sander to repairing a weather-worn gazebo near the greenhouse, their hands-on efforts brought new life to a favorite gathering spot in the garden. The caution tape is off, and the smiles are on!
Portledge School Partners With Day Services for a Hands-On Volunteering Day
On March 12, 80 Upper School students from Portledge School teamed up with 40 men and women supported through AHRC Nassau’s Day Services for a full day of inclusive volunteering across the Brookville campus. Working side by side in small groups, teams packed sandwiches for local food pantries, created snuffle mats for animal shelters, cleaned animal stables, and refreshed the garden near the greenhouse—completing 50 mats, hundreds of lunches, and essential spring prep. The event highlighted how collaboration across generations and abilities can strengthen our shared community.
Volunteering
Eagle Scout Candidate Christian Restifio
Christian Restifio of Scout Troop 20 recently completed his Eagle Scout project at Wheatley Farms & Arts Center. With the help of friends, Christian custom-built a goat playground to provide both physical and mental enrichment for the farm’s resident goats, Mork, Brownie, Pinky, and Fonzie. The thoughtfully designed space encourages natural behaviors like climbing, jumping, and exploring, enhancing the goats’ well-being while bringing joy to all who visit.
Celebrating Our Volunteers
On June 5, more than 100 friends, family members, staff, and supporters gathered at the AHRC Brookville Mansion for the Annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner—a night dedicated to honoring the extraordinary impact of volunteers across our community.
The evening spotlighted four remarkable individuals whose generosity and dedication inspire us all:
• Susan Carmen, a longtime volunteer, received The Lenny Tucker Service Award for contributing nearly 500 hours since 2017, sharing her creativity each week through art at Oceanside Road.
• Andrew Hogarty earned The Inspire Award for his steadfast support of residents at Old Britton Road—planning outings and building lasting friendships through consistent care.
• April Kloepfer was honored with The Community Service Award for her leadership in inclusive service projects that have helped deliver over 3,000 meals to neighbors in need.
• Dakota Finney, while pursuing her Master’s in Public Health, earned The Rising Star Intern Award for contributing over 200 hours during her internship.
These honorees—and all of our volunteers—help build a more inclusive, welcoming world. Their time, talents, and heart continue to move our mission forward.
Get Involved
AHRC Nassau hosts recreational events throughout the year, including Saturday bowling and Thursday night dances. Volunteers make these events possible and support dozens of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to catch up with friends, compete with one another, win prizes, and have a good time in the community.
There are opportunities to volunteer agencywide. Visit www.ahrc.org/volunteer to learn how to get involved.
