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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