ArcLife
AGENCY CELEBRATES 15TH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT
The Arc Ontario's 15th Annual Turkey Trot was a resounding success, drawing nearly 500 participants who all gathered to support individuals with disabilities or other challenges this holiday season. Held on Thanksgiving morning, the signature event raised over $21,000 for the Friends of Ontario ARC Foundation.
The Turkey Trot has become a beloved community tradition, bringing together people of all ages to promote health, wellness, and inclusivity in our community. Participants Please turn to page 3.
ArcLife
The Arc Ontario is a not-for-profit organization
dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities or other challenges and their families. We offer personalized services and supports that foster life-long fulfillment through active citizenship and enriched community living.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Robert Doeblin, President
Dr. Barbara Risser, Vice President
Kathryn Wegman, Secretary
Lynne Erdle, Treasurer
Michelle Raeman, Assistant Treasurer
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Bobby Greco, Jr.
Michelle Raeman
DIRECTORS
Patrick Boyle
Gretchen Daugherty
Scott Gerstner
Charles McCausland
Benjamin Northrup
Elizabeth Palmatier
Deborah Wilbur
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
John Astles
PUBLISHING TEAM
Design and layout
Windhill Design LLC
Photography
Various Creative Writing
Josh Dubin, The Arc Ontario
Share your e-mail address with us and receive agency news and information. Visit thearcontario.org to sign up today!
If you prefer not to receive agency news and information call 585.394.7500 or email jdubin@thearcontario.org.
Find us on Facebook! facebook.com/thearcontario
Follow us on Instagram at instagram.com/the_arc_ontario
The Arc Ontario
3071 County Complex Drive
Canandaigua, NY 14424
585.394.7500
www.thearcontario.org
MESSAGE FROM JOHN ASTLES
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As another year draws to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the unwavering support that our community has shown The Arc Ontario. Your generosity and compassion fuel our mission of fostering lifelong fulfillment through active citizenship and enriched community living for individuals with disabilities or other challenges.
This year, our 15th annual Turkey Trot was a resounding success, drawing nearly 500 participants and raising over $21,000. This festive event not only promotes health and inclusivity, but also directly benefits our agency's growing menu of programs and services. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, volunteers, and participants who made this event such a success.
There are many exciting new developments taking place at The Arc Ontario. Our Employment & Training Center is pioneering the use of virtual reality (VR) technology to equip the individuals we support with the tools to be successful in the workforce. This innovative approach provides a safe and supportive environment for them to gain valuable skills and confidence.
Please join us in offering congratulations to Tony Flynn, our Employment Specialist, who received the prestigious 2024 Jerry Archibald Award for his outstanding dedication to the disability community. We are incredibly grateful for all of this year’s nominees for displaying their dedication and commitment to their craft and those we support.
We are deeply grateful for the transformative gifts we received this year. Tom Golisano's generous $5 million donation will enable us to expand our programs and enhance our services. Our agency was also selected by our Foundation Board member, John Krueger, to receive a $500k donation from the George W. Sullivan Foundation. These funds will be used for renovations at our residential sites and will be instrumental in improving the quality of life for individuals in our residential program. Additionally, The Arc Ontario was also awarded grants from NYSARC Trust Services to support our Guardianship and Recreational programs, enriching the lives of those we serve. We are truly humbled by their generosity.
The agency also celebrated the achievements of our amazing Spot On Cleaning staff at our annual Halloween party. This fun-filled event provided a space for socialization and recognized the outstanding work ethic of Dan B., who received the NYSID (New York Industries for the Disabled) Outstanding Performance award.
We also extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Kim Tenreiro and Rob and Carole Lillis for donating the proceeds from their captivating “A Ghost Story of Christmas: A Christmas Carol” fundraiser to The Arc Ontario. This beloved tradition embodies the spirit of giving and community.
As the new Executive Director of The Arc Ontario, I am incredibly excited to lead the organization towards continued success. With your ongoing support and the dedicated efforts of our staff and volunteers, we are confident in our ability to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their full potential. We extend our warmest wishes for a joyous and peaceful holiday season.
Sincerely,
John Astles
On the Cover: Over 400 trotters joined The Arc Ontario for its 15th Annual Turkey Trot Fundraiser on Thanksgiving morning.
Executive Director, The Arc Ontario
John Astles
enjoyed a scenic route through F.A. Baker Memorial Park, a festive atmosphere, and the opportunity to give back. The funds raised will directly benefit the agency’s growing menu of innovative programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, supporting essential programs and services such as job training, residential care, and day programs.
The Arc Ontario extends its sincerest gratitude to all sponsors, volunteers, and participants who contributed to the success of this year’s Turkey Trot. We are thankful for your support and couldn’t have done it without you!
HOLIDAY GIFT WRAP BOOTHS AT EASTVIEW MALL
The Arc Ontario's annual Gift Wrap Booths at Eastview Mall were a huge success! Thanks to the dedication of dozens of volunteers who cheerfully wrapped hundreds of gifts throughout this holiday season, the festive fundraiser raised nearly $22,000 raised, with over 2,700 gifts wrapped this holiday season. for the Friends of The Arc Ontario Foundation. These generous contributions will directly support The Arc Ontario's vital programs and services, empowering individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible volunteer teams and to Eastview Mall for graciously providing the space for our booths. Your support makes a real difference!
AGENCY RECEIVES GUARDIANSHIP & RECREATION GRANTS FROM NYSARC TRUST SERVICES
The Arc Ontario, a not-for-profit organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or other challenges in Ontario County, has been awarded $29,845 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support The Arc Ontario’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 financial eligibility for Medicaid and other means-tested government benefit programs.
This year, The Arc Ontario received $18,272 to provide guardianship services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or other challenges who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. Supported by Chapter staff and community volunteers, The Arc Ontario’s Guardianship Program currently provides guardianship supports and services to 11 individuals and is ready to assist more as a Standby or Alternate Standby guardian.
NYSARC Trust Services also awarded The Arc Ontario $11,573 to support new recreational opportunities and enrich the lives of the 108 individuals living in The Arc Ontario’s residential homes.
The Arc Ontario plans to use the recreation grant funds for engaging activities including arts and crafts, a Spring dinner dance, holiday parties, and community outings such as sporting events and trips to the zoo.
INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY EMPOWERS INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES
The Arc Ontario's Employment & Training Center is leveraging innovative technology to empower individuals with disabilities. A new virtual reality (VR) curriculum is being implemented, allowing individuals to explore various career paths, develop essential skills, and gain valuable work experience in a simulated environment.
By utilizing VR technology, The Arc Ontario is providing individuals with disabilities with the tools and training they need to succeed in the workforce.
The VR curriculum offers a safe and supportive environment for individuals to practice real-world job skills, build confidence, and overcome challenges.
The Arc Ontario is committed to providing innovative training programs that empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential. For more information about our Employment & Training Center, or to schedule a visit today, contact Brian Webb, Transition Coordinator, at bwebb@thearcontario.org or (585) 394-7500.
GOVERNING AND FOUNDATION BOARDS ELECTIONS RESULTS
The Arc Ontario is excited to announce the election of its new Board of Directors and Foundation Board. The boards bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our organization, and they are committed to advancing The Arc Ontario's mission of fostering lifelong fulfillment through active citizenship and enriched community living for people with disabilities or other challenges.
Our Board of Directors works to support and guide our organization in providing services to children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities or other challenges. Elected officers include:
The Friends of The Arc Ontario Foundation Board oversees the agency’s signature fundraising events, the 1954 Society, annual fund campaign, major gifts, planned giving, honorariums, and memorial donations. Elected officers are as follows:
NEW LEADERSHIP FOR A BRIGHT FUTURE
John Astles has been appointed as the new Executive Director of The Arc Ontario. Astles brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the organization's mission.
As Executive Director, John will oversee the organization's day-to-day operations and lead strategic initiatives to ensure the continued success of The Arc Ontario. He is committed to building upon the organization's strong foundation and expanding its impact in the community.
John, a resident of Farmington, has been with The Arc Ontario for the past five years, serving as the agency’s Chief Financial Officer & Senior Associate Executive Director. In preparation for his new role, John recently graduated from The Arc New York’s Leadership Institute, which focuses on cultivating the next generation of leaders.
The Arc Ontario is excited to welcome John Astles as its new leader and looks forward to a bright future under his guidance.
A TRANSFORMATIVE GIFT
The Arc Ontario is thrilled to announce that the agency received a generous $5 million donation from Tom Golisano. This significant investment will enable our organization to expand our programs and services, enhance facilities, and invest in innovative technologies that will provide new opportunities for those we support.
The funds will be used to support a variety of initiatives, including expanding Pet Connections and animal-assisted therapy, addressing critical staffing needs, creating accessible housing, expanding autism services, and increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities or other challenges. The donation will also allow our agency to expand its reach and serve even more individuals in our community.
The Arc Ontario is incredibly grateful for Tom Golisano's generous gift and is committed to using the funds to make a lasting impact on the lives of the individuals we support.
President: Robert Doeblin Chief Executive Officer, Geneva Housing Authority
Vice President: Dr. Barbara Risser Retired, President, Finger Lakes Community College
Secretary: Kathryn Wegman Retired, Superintendent, Marion Central School District
Treasurer: Lynne Erdle Retired, Superintendent, Canandaigua City School District
Assistant Treasurer: Michelle Raeman Associate Chief Nurse, Ambulatory Care, VA Finger Lakes Canandaigua Facility
Vice President: Edward Wright National Education Consultant
Secretary: Edward Boudreau Owner/Principal, Finger Lakes Partners Insurance Services, Inc.
Treasurer: Stephen Rossi Senior Vice President, Senior Equity Strategist, Canandaigua National Bank & Trust
President: Kathryn Wegman, Retired, Superintendent, Marion Central School District
CELEBRATING SUCCESS & COMMUNITY
In October, Spot On Cleaning, a division of The Arc Ontario, hosted its annual Halloween bash for staff members. The fun-filled event also served as a surprise recognition for Dan B., a dedicated custodian supported by The Arc Ontario. Dan was honored with the NYSID (New York State Individuals with Disabilities) Outstanding Performance Program award for his work ethic and commitment to his craft. A few of Dan’s friends and family joined us for the occasion as he was presented with his award and a $500 check.
The Halloween party served as an opportunity for our Spot On employees, some of whom are individuals with disabilities, to socialize, have fun, and build community. The event featured festive decorations, delicious food, and engaging Halloween-themed activities.
We are grateful for our amazing Spot On staff members and those who attended
the Halloween party. It was a memorable occasion celebrating community, the holiday season, and the tremendous accomplishments of Dan. A special thanks to Justin Dessert, our Social Enterprises Operations Manager, for facilitating the festive event.
A CHRISTMAS CAROL FUNDRAISER BENEFITS THE ARC ONTARIO
The Arc Ontario extends its gratitude to Mr. Kim Tenreiro and Rob and Carole Lillis for their support after they donated the proceeds from their holiday event, ‘A Ghost Story of Christmas: A Christmas Carol’ to The Arc Ontario. The annual event helps raise funds for essential programs and services while helping get our community into the holiday spirit.
The fundraiser is a beloved holiday tradition that brings people together to celebrate the season of giving. The highly anticipated event featured a captivating one-man performance by the masterful Mr. Kim Tenreiro. The magical afternoon took place on Sunday, November 24 at the historic First Congregational Church in Canandaigua. It was a day filled with Dickensian charm, heartwarming spirit, and the joy of giving back.
Guests received a Dickensian boxed lunch while listening to the enchanting melodies of The Arc Ontario’s Creative Expressions music carolers, setting the perfect stage for an unforgettable afternoon with Mr. Tenreiro's remarkable one-man performance, where he breathed life into over 30 captivating characters from Charles Dickens' timeless tale of redemption and hope.
A special thanks to all who joined us for the unforgettable experience!
SIGNIFICANT DONATION BOOSTS RESIDENTIAL SERVICES
The Arc Ontario was selected by our Foundation Board member, John Krueger, to receive a $500,000 donation from The George W. Sullivan Foundation. The funds will be used to enhance residential facilities and improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in our residential program.
The donation will allow The Arc Ontario to make necessary upgrades to its residential facilities, ensuring that individuals with disabilities receive the highest quality care and support. These improvements will create a more comfortable, safe, and stimulating environment for our residents.
We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of John Krueger and The George W. Sullivan Foundation, and we are committed to using these funds to enhance the lives of the people we support.
2024 JERRY ARCHIBALD AWARD WINNER
The Arc Ontario’s Employment Specialist, Tony Flynn has been recognized with The Arc Ontario’s prestigious Jerry Archibald Award for his outstanding contributions to the disability community. The award honors individuals who exemplify the values of integrity, honesty, and commitment to serving people with disabilities – qualities that Jerry has long been known for.
Tony’s dedication and passion for his work have made a significant impact on the lives of many. He has been a tremendous advocate for inclusion and has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for people with disabilities to live fulfilling lives.
The Arc Ontario is proud to honor Tony for his exceptional contributions and to recognize his commitment to making a difference each and every day in the lives of those we support.
A donation to The Arc Ontario is a thoughtful way to remember a loved one who has passed away or to honor someone special in your life. Every donation brings us closer to our vision that all individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities or other challenges are one with their communities. To make a tax-deductible donation, please contact Michele Wistner at 585.919.2156 or mwistner@thearcontario.org or visit thearcontario.org/online-donation
