CONNECTIONS ISSUE 18 - OCTOBER 2024 OUR MISSION. YOUR STORIES.
A Message from CEO Erik Geizer CELEBRATING 75 YEARS OF OPPORTUNITY
IN THIS ISSUE
A Message From The CEO - 1-8
2024 Employer Recognition Awards - 9,10
As we embrace the changing seasons here in New York, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work being done by our Chapters across the state. Each of you plays a vital role in advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and I couldn’t be prouder of the dedication and passion you
The Arc New York Awards - 11-14
The Arc New York 2024 Art Competition - 15-18
NYSARC Trust Services - 19,20
Introducing: Deborah Pflieger - 21
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at The Arc New York - 22
75+ Acts of Service Across New York State - 23
The Arc Erie County Goes Above & Beyond - 24
demonstrate every day. This year is particularly special, as we celebrate The Arc New York's 75th anniversary—75 years of creating opportunities and fostering inclusion for individuals with I/DD. This milestone is a testament to the resilience and progress we've made together, and it calls us to continue our important work with renewed energy and commitment.
Celebrating DSPs Across the State - 25, 26
AHRC Nassau in the News- 27
75th Anniversary Festivities - 29
Celebrating 70 Years at The Arc Rockland - 30
Spotlight On Innovation - 31
Recognitions Across NYS - 32
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
Lexington Tour
September brought us a special opportunity to celebrate our Direct Support Professionals during DSP Recognition Week. These unsung heroes are the backbone of our services, tirelessly supporting individuals and their families. Their commitment is truly inspiring and deserves our deepest gratitude. Now, as we move into October, we shift our focus to National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of people with I/DD in the workforce. This month reminds us of the importance of inclusion and the incredible potential that exists when we empower individuals to thrive in their careers. I’ve had the privilege of visiting several Chapters recently, witnessing firsthand the impactful work being done on the ground. These visits have reinforced my belief in our mission and the difference we are making together as we celebrate 75 years of opportunity. Together, we are stronger. Together, let’s continue to advocate for a brighter future for all individuals with I/DD and the people who support them. The Arc Chemung- Schuyler’s Annual Meeting
Over the summer, I joined The Justice Center's Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi- Murray and Executive Deputy Director Robert Miller along with The Arc New York’s Director of Quality, Compliance & Chapter Relations Joshua Christiana at The Arc Lexington (Fulton, Schoharie) to tour day programs, residences and meet with individuals and staff. We even got to hear some live music from FLAME The Band, and we were generously gifted a piece of artwork – a mixed-media piece, created by Martin Diaz.
In July, I had the honor of serving as a keynote speaker at The Arc Chemung-Schuyler’s Annual Meeting, held at the beautiful Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. During this inspiring event, we celebrated individuals who exemplify the spirit of independence in their daily lives. To see their remarkable stories and hear what independence means to them, you can watch the video here.
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
CollegeWorks Graduation
In July, I had the honor of joining Jack Mudge, Executive Director of Mountain Lake Services (Essex County), Robin Pierce, Executive Director of the Advocacy and Resource Center (Clinton County), and Stanfort Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau, at the Executive Mansion with Governor Kathy Hochul to celebrate Disability Pride Month and the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). I am grateful for the invitation to this significant event and deeply appreciate Governor Hochul's commitment to advocating for people with disabilities. Her leadership will be essential as we work to maintain momentum and address the ongoing challenges faced by this community. Celebrating the ADA and Disability Pride Month with Gov. Hochul
I had the pleasure of attending the graduation ceremony for The Arc Oneida- Lewis' CollegeWorks Class of 2024 earlier this week. CollegeWorks is a unique two-year, non- degree certificate program designed specifically for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Offered on a college campus, it provides students with an enriching college experience while helping them develop the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful transition to independent adulthood. This post-secondary program paves the way for greater independence and overall well-being, empowering students with the skills and confidence to lead fulfilling and productive lives.
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
WWAARC Annual Dinner
Caregivers Appreciation Luncheon
I was privileged to speak at the Warren, Washington & Albany Counties ARC’s (WWAARC) annual dinner in August! During this special evening, WWAARC recognized Senator Jake Ashby, Assemblymember
I was delighted to serve as the keynote speaker at Capital Regional Pharmacy Services’ 2nd Annual Caregivers Appreciation Luncheon in late August. This uplifting event celebrated the hardworking, compassionate, and dedicated Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in the Capital Region. Among the five DSPs recognized, two proudly represented The Arc New York: Catherine Hernandez from The Arc of Rensselaer County and Zoricka Green from Warren, Washington & Albany Counties ARC (WWAARC). Congratulations to all the DSPs for your incredible contributions!
Matt Simpson, and Assemblymember John McDonald for their contributions and support. The former CEO of The Arc New York, Marc Brandt, and The Arc New York’s Board President, Daniel Martindale, also took the stage as speakers, making it a truly inspiring event.
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
ARC’s Guns & Hoses Event
Her tenure saw the creation of numerous innovative programs, including integrated businesses, college and employment opportunities, and the recent opening of the new Employment and Training Center. Ann also made significant contributions at the statewide level with The Arc New York, serving on various committees, including the Joint Committee on Quality and Compliance and the CEO Search Committee. And she was instrumental in developing the "Guide to Excellence," our Board member training resource manual. Congratulations on your well-deserved retirement, Ann! Your legacy of leadership and vision will continue to inspire us all.
I had a great time attending the Advocacy and Resource Center’s (Clinton) Guns and Hoses event at the end of August The event honored first responders for everything they do, and simultaneously gave people the opportunity to meet and get comfortable with men and women in uniform in a safe environment. This is yet another example of why we are stronger together.
Retirement Celebration
The Arc New York Golf Tournament
In September, The Arc New York’s CFO, Cyndi Borozny, and I attended a special retirement event honoring The Arc Ontario's Executive Director, Ann Scheetz. I had the opportunity to share heartfelt words about Ann’s incredible impact over the past 40 years and the dedicated journey that led her to this moment. Ann began her career as a case manager with The Arc Ontario in 1984 and ascended to the role of Executive Director in 2012. Under her leadership, she transformed the Chapter with significant increases in assets and revenue, expanded the Chapter’s Foundation resources, and secured vital grants to support operations.
At the end of summer, we held our annual golf tournament at Arc Herkimer's MV Golf and Event Center. It was wonderful to see Chapters from across the state unite on the green for a day of camaraderie and friendly competition.
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
Center for Community, Arts, & Technology
Rensselaer’s Gala
In late September, I had the privilege of speaking at The Arc of Rensselaer County's annual gala! This year’s event honored Diane Dearborn with the prestigious Henrietta Messier Award. After more than 20 years of dedicated service on The Arc Rensselaer’s Board of Directors, Diane recently retired. She played a crucial role as chair of the Guardianship Committee and made significant contributions to Incident Review and Adult Supports, all while being a passionate parent advocate in the Troy School District. Additionally, Diane served on The Arc New York’s Board of Governors and co-chaired The Arc New York’s Guardianship Committee, helping to establish its By-laws. Congratulations, Diane!
I was thrilled to check out Mozaic’s (Cayuga, Seneca, Tompkins, Yates) newly unveiled Center for Community, Arts, and Technology in September. The Center expands access to integrated, inclusive services for people with developmental disabilities and the greater community—all under one roof. Mozaic estimates they will serve 2,000 people through the Center each year, offering access to services that improve the health and well-being of the community, from the arts, to job training, to health care.
Denim & Diamonds
I had a fantastic time at Liberty ARC's (Montgomery, Schenectady) Denim and Diamonds country music BBQ in late September. There’s nothing like country tunes and a bit of bling to lift your spirits!
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued)
Arc GLOW
Mountain Lake Golf Tournament
I recently had the pleasure of visitng Arc GLOW for a program tour ahead Banquet and Annual Meeting at Batavia Downs. It was inspiring to witness the amazing work being done and to of their second annual Awards
I had an incredible day at the Mountain Lake Services (Essex) Golf Classic at Ticonderoga Golf Course in late September. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with so many amazing individuals!
to honor the achievements of individuals in the community.
The Arc Teams Up With Lids
In August, The Arc of The United States teamed up with Lids to share the story and mission of the organization. People were encouraged to take a photo of themselves inside or in front of the store and post it to support the partnership and have a chance to win great prizes. I participated in the photo challenge!
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A Message from CEO Erik Geizer (Continued) Golisano Donation I was excited to see that eight of the 82 non- profits that received generous donations from Tom Golisano of the Golisano Foundation across Upstate New York are Chapters of The Arc New York! That’s an incredible $40 million going toward our field—what a kind contribution! This once again proves that we truly are STRONGER TOGETHER! Congratulations to: The Arc Wayne, The Arc Allegany-Steuben, Arc GLOW (Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, Wyoming), The Arc Chemung-Schuyler, The Arc of Monroe, The Arc Erie County, The Arc Ontario, and Mozaic (Cayuga, Seneca, Tompkins, Yates) Go for the Green! Thanks to the enthusiasm of our Membership Committee, and everyone’s collective efforts, we raised our membership totals with a year- to-year increase not seen in over a decade! Our total number of members for 2024 is 98,604! That is an increase of 11,269 or 12.9%. Well done! This accomplishment demonstrates how successful we can be when we work together to achieve common goals. I want to thank the Membership Committee, led by Anne Marie Lockhart, BOG from Warren Washington, Albany ARC, for its vision and leadership. I also want to acknowledge Amy Howard, CEO, ACHIEVE (Broome-Chenango-Tioga Counties), and Robin Pierce, CEO, Advocacy and Resource Center (Clinton County), for their efforts to stress the importance of the membership campaign towards achieving our organizational advocacy goals with their EDA Chapter colleagues. Finally, a big shout out to Christina Canino from the State Office for helping facilitate and coordinate the successful annual membership effort!
We were also very excited to roll out the “Go for the Green Membership Challenge” this year. We want to thank each and every person involved in their local Chapter membership campaign. Because of you, our voice and community presence continue to grow. We could not be prouder of the work you do every day to help ensure the people we support can live full, meaningful lives. The winners of the 2024 Go for the Green Membership Challenge were: Region with the highest percent increase in members – Western Region The Arc Allegany-Steuben Intandem (Cattaraugus-Niagara) The Resource Center (Chautauqua) The Arc Chemung-Schuyler The Arc Erie County The Arc GLOW (Genesee-Livingston- Orleans-Wyoming) The Arc Monroe The Arc Ontario Mozaic (Seneca-Cayuga-Yates- Tompkins) The Arc Wayne West Seneca D.C. Chapters with the highest number increase – one from each region Capital-Hudson Valley/Adirondack Region – The Arc Lexington (Fulton-Schoharie) Central Region – The Arc Jefferson-St. Lawrence Metro Region – AHRC New York City Western Region – Intandem (Cattaraugus-Niagara)
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THE ARC NEW YORK AWARDS
2024 EMPLOYER RECOGNITION AWARDS Employers across the state are acknowledging the value of employing people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in their place of business. Every year, The Arc New York Employer Recognition
CENTRAL REGION Recipient: Chat-a-Wyle Restaurant Nominated by: ACHIEVE (Broome- Chenango-Tioga Counties)
Awards provide Chapters with an opportunity to share the inclusivity and success of an individual, corporation or business in New York State that has demonstrated outstanding support in providing services and job opportunities for people who have intellectual or other developmental disabilities. We were proud to highlight and present awards to four employers, one from each region of the state, at the virtual presentation in mid-July. You can check out the video shared during the presentation in celebration of the year’s recipients. We would like to recognize The Arc New York 2024 Employer Recognition Award recipients and share a little about what makes them so great!
Longevity in commitment can be one descriptor of the owners of Chat-A-Wyle Restaurant, with one of their employees of
differing abilities, having worked for them for over twenty years now. They are always willing to promote the hiring of supported staff and are always willing to share information with the support staff on small issues with work performances, and work as a team with the support staff to come up with a mutual plan to retrain and provide support.
2024 RECIPIENTS
CAPITAL-HUDSON VALLEY/ADIRONDACK REGION Recipient: Price Chopper/Market 32 Nominated by: Mountain Lake Services (Essex County)
over a decade, Mountain Lake Services and Market 32 have been valued partners. Support given to employees in the supported employment program is said to be outstanding. Market 32 strives to provide positions and opportunities that utilize the employee’s best skills and attributes, whether that be carts
and cleaning, stocking or a bakery assistant. We thank Market 32 for their leadership in employing individuals with disabilities.
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2024 EMPLOYER RECOGNITION AWARDS (Continued)
METRO REGION Recipient: Producto Electric Corporation Nominated by: The Arc Rockland
WESTERN REGION Recipient: Sodexo Nominated by: The Arc Chemung-Schuyler
When Sodexo took over the food service contract providing meals to residents at Bethany, they were open and yearning to work with the Chapter’s
vocational program and welcomed the support the Chapter had to offer them and the employees who already worked there. All employees are encouraged to learn new skills and every employee is given opportunities to grow as employees and individuals.
Since their inception, Producto Electric has been an advocate and champion for people with disabilities. Being a family member themselves, the owner instilled in his family and business the importance of providing support and employment opportunities to people with disabilities in their communities. The camaraderie among team members is palpable, creating a positive and uplifting atmosphere in the workplace. They celebrate each other's achievements and support one another through challenges and can overcome any obstacle.
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THE ARC NEW YORK AWARDS
Each year, The Arc New York proudly presents a variety of awards to Chapter staff, volunteers, self-advocates and community change makers. Each brings undeniable value to their local Chapter, and to The Arc New York family. This year’s awards will be presented during the Annual Awards Luncheon, to be held October 25th at the Saratoga Hilton. We are excited to announce and share a little about each of this year’s award recipients, and look forward to the awards presentation and celebration to come. THE ARC NEW YORK MARC N. BRANDT EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP AWARD The Arc New York Marc N. Brandt Exceptional Leadership Award offers Chapters the opportunity to recognize a mid to upper management staff member or emerging leader who has demonstrated exceptional leadership ability and commitment, and has had a positive effect on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As the Organization’s State Executive Director and prior executive leader of the Sullivan County Chapter, Marc. N. Brandt provided more than four decades of unwavering guidance and leadership to the Organization. Under his leadership, Mr. Brandt oversaw significant transformation of programs and services that have had a profound impact on the lives of thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. His commitment was steadfast and uncompromised as he worked tirelessly to make communities across the state a better place for all its citizens. During his tenure, Mr. Brandt worked directly with families, volunteers, self-advocates, community organizations, service agencies and governmental leaders to effect much needed change. He is a known and respected leader in the field across the nation who guided the growth of the Organization to become the largest, and perhaps strongest, family-based Organization serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in New York State. One award in the amount of $1,000.00 is presented annually.
2024 Recipient
Avery Valins, Assistant Executive Director of Day Services, The Arc Westchester Avery exemplifies excellence through her ongoing
commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of the individuals supported by The Arc Westchester. Her approach is rooted
in a person-centered philosophy, ensuring that each person’s needs and preferences are at the forefront of the services provided. Her exceptional management has not only optimized program outcomes but has also earned respect and recognition across the state. Ms. Valins’ leadership shines through in her dedication to mentoring and developing newly appointed management staff. Her guidance in navigating the budget process, understanding agency systems, and implementing strategic plans reflects her deep commitment to building a strong, capable leadership team. Her role as a mentor underscores her belief in collaborative growth and the importance of empowering others to shine. DR. JOHN KOWALCZYK OUTSTANDING CITIZENSHIP AWARD Named for the Organization’s Immediate Past President, this award is designed to highlight and celebrate individuals supported by their local Chapter by recognizing their achievements and the contributions they’ve made to their Chapter, community and peers. Recipients are individuals who not only receive support from their local Chapter, but also help to provide support to others in a manner that benefits other people with intellectual or developmental disabilities and their community. One award in the amount of $500, along with a commemorative personalized glass award is presented annually.
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THE ARC NEW YORK AWARDS
2024 Recipient Doug Lathrop, The Arc Lexington (Fulton, Schoharie)
2024 Recipient
Michael Brook, The Arc Lexington (Fulton, Schoharie)
Doug is an inspiration for many at The Arc Lexington because he exemplifies what it means to be a person with a disability living their best life. He is a familiar face throughout the agency and throughout the
Mike believes that everyone has rights and has the opportunity to advocate for themselves and others. It comes from years of being involved in community activities and speaking up for himself and encouraging others to do the same. Mike never
community, showing that someone with a disability can be engaged in their community, successful at their job and enjoying life. Doug has spent his life bringing people together. As a leader in our community and at The Arc Lexington, Doug has worked to break down barriers for those with disabilities and to help the community accept and welcome anyone with a disability. Doug is an active member of The Arc Lexington Self-Advocacy Committee, known as “In Our Voice”. When the group was formed, Doug became the first president of the club, and helped to create the mission, goals and branding of the club. SELF-ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR This award is designed to highlight, recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions made by The Arc New York’s self-advocates. Nominees and recipients are individuals who not only use services of The Arc New York but also help to shape those services in a manner that benefits other people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. One (1) award in the amount of $500, along with a commemorative personalized glass award is presented annually.
misses an opportunity to advocate for someone else, especially for someone who might not be willing or able to share their concern or request. Mike makes his efforts known as a member and vice president of the self-advocacy committee at The Arc Lexington. He is also an advocate for others when he is in the community, whether at his job, out in the community or at an event. He is always looking out for others and helping people understand the challenges and obstacles someone with a disability may face navigating their world. As Vice President of the Self-Advocacy Committee “Our Voice”, he is an active member of the board and is always working with other members to learn how to advocate for themselves and others. As an officer of the committee, he prepares and presents to the agency board of directors at meetings throughout the year. At these meetings, he shares projects and programs that the committee is working on and any specific needs or goals of those he represents.
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THE ARC NEW YORK AWARDS THOMAS A. MAUL DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARD This award, in the amount of $2,500, is presented annually to four (4) direct support professionals employed by a Chapter of The Arc New York. Through this award, The Arc New York recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate excellence, creativity and commitment in providing supports to people who have intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Candidates will have displayed an exemplary level of performance over the course of their employment and will have shown commitment to improving the quality of life for people who have intellectual and other developmental disabilities. This award is presented in honor of Thomas A. Maul, who during his tenure as OPWDD (formerly OMRDD) Commissioner from 1993 to 2006, addressed many of the long- standing issues that face The Arc New York and the people we serve. The Arc New York shared with the Commissioner a major priority—the true recognition of its workforce. 2024 Recipients Tywren Strong, Daytime Direct Support Staff, The Arc Lexington (Fulton, Schoharie) Tywren is a cornerstone of support for 12 individuals with attention to detail, combined with his compassionate dedication, empowers people he supports to live their lives safely, with dignity and joy. Having a child with special needs, Tywren spends his time between work and family. He uses his time and work to learn as much as he can about supporting people. He has developed great relationships with the clinical staff and will seek heir advice and guidance on how to improve people’s lives. complex medical and physical challenges. His exceptional
Tywren hopes to be able to continue his education and participate in the DSP micro- credential program. Patrick Putnam, Direct Support Professional, Mountain Lake Services (Essex County) Patrick is committed to helping people be
active in their community by cultivating relationships through volunteer opportunities and events. His extensive
experience spans varied roles over 33 cumulative years, including his critical involvement in transitioning people from institutional settings to community living environments. Patrick’s dedication to Mountain Lake Services and the individuals he supports is truly inspiring. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the needs of the program and the individuals are met and exceeded. His perseverance and dedication were formally recognized when he received the Helen F. McDonald Award in 2022, highlighting his positive attitude and commitment to overcoming adversity. Heather Taft, Residential Manager, The Arc GLOW (Genesee-Livingston-Orleans- Wyoming Counties) As the Residential Manager, Heather is a
frontline supervisor responsible for the implementation of the support plans for each person living at the Reed Street IRA both through oversight of the team of Direct Support
Professionals under her leadership and through her own direct support duties. The role of a residential manager is often "everything and the kitchen sink."
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THE ARC NEW YORK AWARDS
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR This award provides the opportunity for The Arc New York to honor and recognize a volunteer member who has shown continued dedication, exemplary service, and advocacy on behalf of individuals who have intellectual or other developmental disabilities.
She manages not only the responsibilities described here but also sets the tone and culture of the home and shapes the development of the direct support professionals that she manages. As stated by one of the people she supports, "Heather has motivated me to be more outgoing than I used to be."
Patrick Olom, DSP Assistant Manager, The Arc Westchester
2024 Recipient
Steven Drobysh, The Arc New York Treasurer, Board of Governor, The Arc Greater Hudson Valley (Sullivan-Orange-Dutchess) Steve has served
Patrick exemplifies dedication and self- motivation through his proactive commitment to accessibility and support of those living in the home. Although not required to be on call, he voluntarily
on the Sullivan County Chapter Board for more than 17 years, and served as a Board
of Governor to the Chapter for more than 15 years. He is a dedicated and active Board Member, having served on numerous Committees, including the Finance Committee, the Unification and Oversight Committee during two Chapter mergers, and the Executive Committee. He always makes a point not to miss out on any of the Chapter’s fundraising or other agency events. He is steadfast in his support, no matter the event. Steve does not hesitate to share his knowledge and experience will fellow Board Members, and is not afraid to take a stand and fight for the benefit of the people we serve.
shares his personal cell phone number with staff, administration, and families, ensuring he is always available. Patrick emphasizes the importance of unity in daily tasks, understanding that a cohesive team is essential. His natural leadership abilities inspire trust as he leads by example, participating alongside his staff in the tasks he assigns, reinforcing their collective teamwork. Patrick consistently supports his colleagues, maintains respectful communication with families, and always prioritizes time for the individuals under their care. His patient demeanor and ability to remain composed during challenging situations further exemplify his leadership. Everyone who knows Patrick just loves him.
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The Arc New York 2024 Art Competition
The talented artists at Chapters across the state never fail to impress each year with their art competition submissions. An astonishing 212 artists submitted entered into the 2024 art competition and for the first time in an online setting, the public was asked to complete the voting. In all, 856 participants cast their votes, with an impressive 8,397 total votes cast. Entries were voted into three categories; Painting, Photography and Alternative Mediums; & Subjects. After review of the votes submitted, three pieces of art from each category were selected as placement winners. We are proud to be able to share this year’s art competition placement winners and a little bit about who they are. Also new this year, we have created a digital book of all art competition artists and entries available for you to view and download. Congratulations to this year’s winners! Alternative Mediums Category First place – Michele Michaels, Liberty ARC (Montgomery-Schenectady) “Charcuterie Board – Enjoy!”
Michele has won numerous awards for her artwork, many taking top honors in shows through New York state. Many of her large mix media pieces have been purchased by other art enthusiasts, including other ARC’s to hang at their Main headquarters and their personal homes. Second Place – Cornelius Kimmons, Intandem (Cattaraugus-Niagara) – “Glass Glass” It doesn’t matter what the
scheduled activity is; if there is an art class happening, Cornelius is the
first in line to participate.
Cornelius shares that his favorite way to express himself creatively is by painting. He likes the process of adding bold strokes of vibrant color to a clean canvas; and he often gets lost in the process of swirling his brush across the blank surface. His favorite color is red; he will find a way to add it to every piece he works on.
Cornelius is a big fan of music and dancing and he has some great moves! Whether he is home or at his day program, if the weather permits, you’ll find him outside. Spring and
summer are his favorite seasons because he loves to feel the warmth of the sun on his face. When the day winds down, you’ll find Cornelius settled on the couch, eyes glued to the TV screen. His guilty pleasure? Watching episodes of SpongeBob SquarePants. In life and in art, Cornelius adds his own flair, creating masterpieces that celebrate the simple joys of color, movement, and imagination.
Michele has been with the Liberty Through the Arts Program since the beginning. Over the last several years, she has made wonderful strides and has blossomed into a very talented artist. She has really taken to creating with air dry clay. So many food creations, that she has to tell people to not eat them, please.
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The Arc New York 2024 Art Competition
Third Place – Linda Yerdon, The Arc Jefferson-St. Lawrence – “My Tree”
He’s a devotee of watercolors, oils, acrylics, and more. With the support of friend and registered nurse, Jan Hunt, Jeff plans his artistic workings and meticulously brushes nature’s most beautiful colors until likenesses emerge, striking in their authenticity and simple beauty. Together, Jeff and Jan set aside time each week to transform the figures and forms in his mind into figures and forms on canvas.
At 66, Linda Yerdon from Gouverneur, NY has always enjoyed creating with a variety of artistic mediums. She started working with textiles in Home Economics at Canton High School.
Linda has continued learning craft and painting techniques with community classes. She is a current participant in The Arc Jefferson- St. Lawrence and attends the Gallery of Arts and Learning where she creates a variety of items that are sold in the store.
A native of Gouverneur, New York, Jeff joined the Mountain Lake Services family in 2014. He quickly gained notoriety for his positive work ethic and friendly, caring, manner. Those same attributes helped Jeff to become something of a local celebrity, with newspaper articles and television commercials featuring his work as a maintenance technician with Price Chopper and his volunteer efforts with the Crane Mountain Valley Horse Rescue, a nationally recognized, not-for-profit, organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and humane treatment of abused and neglected horses. Jeff has also volunteered at the Wells Memorial Library and hosted a very well- received public exhibition of his artwork there in September of 2023. Jeff is a lifelong fan of the now Las Vegas Raiders, collects sports cards and vinyl LPs, loves to play poker, rarely misses an episode of Wheel of Fortune, and has recently vacationed at Virginia Beach and coastal Maine, where he braved the high seas in hopes of photographing elusive bottlenose dolphins and minke whales. Jeff currently paints and resides in picturesque Upper Jay, New York, with friends ,and a cat named Spooky.
Ms. Yerdon is very proud of every piece she creates and talks about her masterpieces for hours when she gets home. Aside from drawing and painting she enjoys sewing and crocheting as well giving countless gifts to loved ones over the years. Painting Category
First Place – Jeffrey Lang, Mountain Lake Services (Essex) – “Jeff Painting” Some people are just innately creative. They can glance momentarily at blank paper or canvas and entire worlds emerge. Vividly colorful landscapes sprout, grow, and even die in the mind of a creator, only to be renewed time and time again as fertile imagination blooms new seed and conception is refreshed. Jeffrey Lang is one of those people
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The Arc New York 2024 Art Competition
Second Place – Collaborative Artists of Creative Endvenors (Donna DiBaco, Tiffany Moccia, Kathy Mulvaney, and Madeline Rituno), Saratoga Bridges – “Collaborative Gardenacrylics”
Artists at Creative Endeavors are working to push through the norm of simply painting a “pretty picture,” and realizing that the world around them is much more colorful without being ideal. They are learning to trust their instincts and share their unique interpretation of the world with others.
Many artists who work at Creative Endeavors Art Center are inspired by all aspects of life. “Flower Garden” showcases a collaborative piece from the program. The four artists that worked on this project are from
Third Place – Carly Pease, The Arc Ontario – “County Barn”
our Wilton Day Program. Donna DiBaco, Tiffany Moccia, Kathy Mulvaney, and Madeline Rituno began painting collaborative works virtually during the pandemic. When Day Programs began to open, they continued their classes in person. “We love art classes. We get very detailed with our art and enjoy doing it,” says Tiffany. Donna “look[s] forward to art class every week and the class makes [her] feel great!”
Carly is a talented artist who enjoys time in the art studio. She has an infectious personality that always leaves you feeling upbeat after an interaction with her. Her work never fails to surprise. She achieves wonderful atmosphere and character in her pieces with her use of color, texture, and techniques that create a sense of depth and movement. Because she is visually impaired, Carly prefers to paint large scale pieces, or pieces where her subject is heavily outlined. These dark lines in her paintings have become a signature of her creative style. Carly utilizes collaborative tools to add fine detail in her pieces. Carly is interested in growing as an artist and in each consecutive piece she learns something new from art theory or technique. In this particular piece Carly focused on her light source and perspective.
Creative Endeavors showcases the works of growing artists. Through color, shape, texture and imagery, these artists grapple with complex ideas and manipulate mediums into an expression of their personal interpretation of the world around them. The artwork is a progressing study to increase understanding of color, line and design sensibilities.
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The Arc New York 2024 Art Competition
First Place – Rachel Paz, The Arc Lexington (Fulton, Schoharie) – “Dandelion”
Third Place – Richard Clark, Advocacy & Resource Center (Clinton) – “Reflection on America”
Richard Clark is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor. He has an incredible story of faith, hope, and love. Richard is a writer, photographer, and public speaker. He advocates for the prevention of TBI. He gives talks and publishes his writings on spirituality, bravery, and recovery. His photos, speeches, and stories uniquely represent the way Rick thinks and sees the world. His publication, Sudden Impact, is provided free of charge by Rick to increase awareness of TBI. On a beautiful day on October 27, 1970, 15-year old Rick was struck by an impaired driver while riding his motorcycle. Although Rick was wearing a helmet, he was severely injured in the crash. Pronounced dead at the scene, two inhalation therapists just happened to take an alternative route on their way home after work and came upon the horrific accident. They kept Rick alive. While in a coma for six months, his mother, Alice Clark, never left his side. Since institutionalization seemed to be the only option for Rick in 1970, his mother took him home. They would work together to make Rick better. Alice devoted the rest of her life to Rick. Together they pioneered TBI awareness, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation. They documented Rick’s recovery by writing a book called “No Horns, No Trumpets.” Rick lives independently today and enjoys delivering his message of hope and awareness to audiences throughout the year.
Rachael attends Transitions, a post- secondary program that supports young adults with learning differences in their next steps after high school. She is a passionate student with a deep love for artistic expression and photography. With a keen eye for detail and a creative approach, she has honed her skills across various art forms. Driven by a desire to share knowledge and inspire others, Rachael aims to pursue a career as an art instructor, where she can nurture the next generation of artists and photographers. Second Place – Bianca Kosnick-Ordway, Coarc (Columbia) – “Sunset”
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We honor and remember Warren H. Heilbronner, Esq., whose extraordinary leadership and unwavering dedication have profoundly shaped our organization. As Chairperson of the Management Board of Trustees, Warren's vision and commitment were instrumental in guiding Trust Services to new heights, impacting countless lives across New York State. Honoring Warren H. Heilbronner, Esq. Former Chairperson, Management Board of Trustees Dates of Service: 1986 – 2024
with The Arc of Monroe and The Arc New York. His dedication to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities was evident in his active participation and leadership on The Arc New York Board of Governors and within his Chapter. Warren's contributions have touched the lives of thousands, making a profound difference in the field and advancing our mission. He was named The Arc New York Volunteer of the Year in 2020, among many other distinctions. In 2023, The Arc New York dedicated its large training room in Latham, NY, to Warren as an honor to thank him for his years of selfless work to the organization. Warren's exemplary service, steadfast advocacy, and visionary leadership have left an enduring mark on our community. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we strive to uphold the values and mission he championed so fervently. We extend our deepest gratitude for his lifetime of service. Warren Heilbronner's impact will be felt for generations to come.
Warren joined the Trust Services Management Board of Trustees in 1986 and served as Chairperson and Co- Chairperson for nearly four decades. Under his stewardship, Trust Services grew from a developing pioneer to become a nationally recognized leader in special needs trusts, serving tens of thousands of individuals with disabilities and older adults. His leadership contributed to incredible growth in assets under management, establishing Trust Services as a model for excellence and innovation. Beyond his work with Trust Services, Warren's legacy is deeply intertwined with his nearly 50 years of volunteerism
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Jim Moragne to Succeed Warren as Chairperson
Recreation Grants NYSARC Trust Services’ recreation grants allow Chapters to experience fun, unique activities in their communities.
While we are deeply saddened by this loss, we are pleased to announce that Jim Moragne will succeed Warren as Chairperson of the Management Board of Trustees. Jim has been a valued member of our board since 2008 and has served as
Co-Chairperson alongside Warren since 2018. Jim brings a wealth of experience and profound commitment to our mission. Jim retired in 2013 after more than 30 years with the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities, and subsequent years as a consultant. Jim has dedicated his career to improving the lives of people with disabilities and advancing the quality of care and support available to those in need. Jim’s experience guiding fiduciaries and families on future planning for people with disabilities and his technical knowledge of consumer benefits make him uniquely qualified to guide the Trust forward.
People at AHRC Nassau, had the opportunity to go to make their own pizza at Salvatores of Elmont.
The Arc Erie County hosted a picnic with their grant funds.
Coarc (Columbia) enjoyed a visit from the Two By Two Animal Haven, which provided the opportunity to see, hold and pet snakes, lizards, bunnies, turtles, goats, chickens and even a baby kangaroo!
Please join us in welcoming Jim as our new Chairperson, and expressing our gratitude for his willingness to step into this critical role. We are confident that Jim's leadership will advance trust services with the same passion and effectiveness that Warren exemplified.
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INTRODUCING: DEBORAH PFLIEGER Deborah Pflieger is a dynamic force in both the financial sector and the intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) community. With an impressive 37-year career in tax law and a deep personal connection to the field, she brings unparalleled passion and Deborah credits her mother as a significant influence in her volunteer work. “Her generation fought hard to ensure their
children weren’t confined to institutions,” she reflected. “They built sheltered environments so their children could stay in loving homes, go to school, work and live safely without bars.” It was common for Deborah to step in as a backup caller, assist in the front office, or help in the kitchen when she was a child. Looking ahead, Deborah is focused on engaging more siblings and younger generations in The Arc New York's mission.
expertise to her role as Assistant Treasurer of The Arc New York's Board of Governors. Her journey is a testament to the power of advocacy and commitment, showcasing the impactful work she continues to champion! Deborah's journey in the financial field began after graduating from law school in 1987, when she specialized in tax law. She spent 37 years at Ernst & Young, recently retiring as a partner. Most of that time was spent in National Tax in Washington, DC, where she worked closely with clients, the IRS, and even Congress to influence tax legislation. Her extensive experience in the financial sector is invaluable in her role as Assistant Treasurer of The Arc New York’s Board of Governors. “I’m well-versed in financial statements and accounting rules, but my leadership experience in a Big Four firm has also equipped me with skills in management, problem-solving, mentoring, and strategizing,” she explained. Deborah’s connection to the I/DD field is profoundly personal. Having grown up with a brother who had a severe intellectual disability and currently caring for her sister Beth, who has I/DD, she has been an advocate from an early age. In the 1970s, she participated in a teen sibling group at AHRC Suffolk and has consistently supported the organization financially throughout her career. After returning to New York in 2018, Deborah took on the role of President of the Board in Suffolk and also chairs the Guardianship Committee, a position that is particularly meaningful to her. Deborah’s mother served as President of an AHRC Suffolk Auxiliary and was on the Board of Directors, where fundraising was vital. She organized countless events, from Easter candy sales to semi-weekly Bingo games.
Deborah (right) with her sister, Beth (left)
“As the population we serve ages, I think it is critical that we get more siblings and even the next generation of nieces and nephews involved in our organization,” she said. She plans to encourage more grassroots fundraising initiatives. And she stressed the importance of financial stability. “Financial sustainability is critical for our Chapters and The Arc New York as a whole, and I’m committed to supporting these goals,” she stated. Deborah blend of professional expertise and personal passion makes her a vital asset to The Arc New York, and we look forward to her continued contributions to our mission!
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DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION AT THE ARC NEW YORK
Moving into the final months of 2024, The Arc New York is proud to continue its commitment to enhancing Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) across the organization, and working towards a shared vision for the future of The Arc New York as a leader in this space. One of the organization’s biggest achievements in this effort thus far has been hosting a professional development webinar series in partnership with the Georgetown National Center for Cultural Competence (GNCCC). Over the course of eight live and interactive webinars, hundreds of employees, self-advocates, family members and other stakeholders had the opportunity to learn together about the foundational topics necessary for this work. Among numerous topics, the series included an introduction to terminology used in this space, a session designed to engage leadership looking to implement organizational change at their Chapters, and a session designed specifically for direct support professionals with a focus on how these topics impact their work and the people they support. A highlight across all of the webinars in this series was the opportunities participants had to hear directly from staff, family members, and people supported by Chapters about their experiences and thoughts as they relate to diversity, equity and inclusion and cultural and linguistic competence. If you were unable to join the live webinar series – have no fear! The team at Georgetown has created an online hub for people to view recordings of these webinars and download the presentation materials. Anyone who has been unable to attend is highly encouraged to access the webinar archive.
Though The Arc New York’s formal partnership with the GNCC has come to its end, we will continue to benefit from their subject matter expertise through their partnership with the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. This is a three-year partnership with the goal of advancing policies and practices of cultural and linguistic competence, diversity, equity and inclusion in all components of the intellectual and developmental disability service delivery system across New York State. Through this partnership an extensive resource bank is available containing carefully selected and annotated resources designed to support this goal. For those interested in furthering their involvement and knowledge on these topics, we encourage you to learn more about the New York State Community of Practice (CoP) on Diversity Equity and Inclusion in Developmental Disabilities. AHRC Nassau, through a grant made possible by the NYS Counsel of Developmental Disabilities, is working on this initiative with WRI Solutions, the NY Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals. This is a collaborative effort designed to foster a culture of dignity, respect and equity for all people supported, their families and staff. Joining the CoP is a unique opportunity to be part of a dedicated network of leaders and stakeholders working together to ensure equitable treatment and to advance DEI across New York’s human services system.
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75+ ACTS OF SERVICE ACROSS NEW YORK STATE To celebrate our 75th anniversary, we teamed up with Chapters to give back to our communities. Our goal was to hold 75 acts of service across New York State - we held almost 90! Some Chapters enjoyed this initiative so much that they've made community service a regular part of their mission.
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The Arc Erie County Goes Above & Beyond GOING OVER THE EDGE ARCHIVING HISTORY
The community of Buffalo continues to impress with its passion and support for meaningful causes! At the end of July, The Arc Erie County New York undertook a remarkable challenge for the second consecutive year, sending 44 fearless
rappelers down the side of Buffalo's tallest building, Seneca One Tower. The second annual Over The Edge event attracted participants from all walks of life, including local news reporters, professional athletes, and a mother- son duo. The rappelers ranged in age from 14 to 80, and many of had returned for a second year. Sponsored by Tops Markets, the event raised over $135,000 to support The Arc Erie County's latest initiative: Black Water Acres—an accessible farm and habilitative space currently under development in Alden, NY. In addition to raising awareness for this important cause, June 28 also featured several local landmarks illuminated in The Arc's signature orange hue, including the Peace Bridge and Niagara Falls, shining brightly into the evening. For those who missed out this year, there’s no need to worry! This event will return in June 2025. Click here to be the first to know when registration opens!
Many people have boxes of old photos they aren’t quite sure how to display, which sparked a great idea at The Arc Erie County. What better way to showcase the organization's mission than by creating a history wall that outlines national, state, and local events affecting the disability community? The reception area of the Administrative Office, located at 30 Wilson Road in Williamsville, now features a 10-foot historical timeline and a 9- foot photo collage highlighting The Arc Erie’s activities, individuals, and staff over the past 73 years. The timeline showcases significant achievements, including the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Olmstead decision. Additionally, it highlights key moments for the agency, such as the launch of various programs and services, the opening of new facilities, and several rebranding efforts. Visitors are encouraged to check it out during their next visit!
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