A Message fromCEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). This has been evidenced by more open lines of communication, transparency, and willingness to collaborate with stakeholders. We believe this transformation is due largely to newly appointed OPWDD Commissioner Kerri Neifeld’s leadership, compassion, and commitment to bettering the lives of people with I/DD. COMMI SS I ONE R NE I F E LD V I S I T S CHAP T E RS We’ve seen this commitment in person during Commissioner Neifeld's visits to multiple Chapters since her appointment. Some of these memorable visits include a trip to The Arc Oneida-Lewis, where she met with Chapter staff and board members, and toured innovative, community-based programs. She visited the Oneida-Lewis College Works program on the Mohawk Valley Community College campus and discussed their school-to-work continuum and challenges with timely eligibility approvals. The Commissioner indicated that resolving the issue of timely approvals was a priority for her office. During this visit, the Commissioner provided an overview of her goals and initiatives, including workforce, education, employment, housing, individualized program options, self- direction, and care management. She expanded on these issues on The Arc Waves, a half-hour podcast with Karen Korotzer, Executive Director of The Arc Oneida-Lewis. You can listen to the full podcast here.
Commissioner Neifeld also visited The Arc Lexington at the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts and the Transitions Program, where the agency had the opportunity to showcase some of its successful and innovative programming. Commissioner Neifeld had the chance to view the Paul Nigra Center for Creative Arts’ 2022 Regional Art Show, and talked to people taking classes at the integrated Art Center. She spoke to members of Lexington's self-advocacy group, Our Voice, during a photography class, others in painting and cooking classes, and many Transitions students in their classrooms and study spaces. Throughout her visit, the Commissioner talked and took pictures with people who receive supports and staff. She took time to connect with them and hear their thoughts. After the tour, Lexington presented its Mission, Values, and Beliefs, and information about their recent CQL Accreditation with Distinction, showcasing several videos that tell the story of people they support and their successes in employment, education, their community, programs, and personal lives.
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