Community Insider EDITION: JUNE 27, 2025
Staff Spotlight
Congratulations to our April, May, and June Staff Spotlight honorees. Read all about them on page 4! STAFF SPOTLIGHT
IMPACT AWARD
Select Connects held a Starry Night Prom and other activities. Read more on page 16. SHS HAPPENINGS
Congratulations to our Residential Coordinator Team, recipients of the quarterly IMPACT Award! Read about this fantastic team on page 3.
Notes From Debbie's Desk
Dearest readers, Next month is Disability
New Hope Community was founded in 1975 on the belief that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) deserved respect, a voice, choices, opportunities, and support that fueled the fullest and most meaningful lives possible. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, it is with humble pride that I acknowledge New Hope Community’s amazing role in charting out paths of progress for people with I/DD. I trust all of you take a few minutes throughout each week to read our social media posts and view our many pictures and videos. Our new monthly New Hope Note, along with our quarterly Community Insider, our annual FOCUS report, and the many communications shared by our Director of Development, Janae Myers, share stories of growth, adventure, accomplishments, relationships, and so much more. They also highlight our trips to the NYS Capitol as well as the U.S. Capitol, as staff and those we support join forces and voices to forward the empowerment of all people in every aspect of life, always. We invite everyone to join us both in this celebration and this fight. Much has been accomplished since the days of Willowbrook, but our work is not done. And as potential changes are considered that could affect critical Medicaid funding streams, it is more important than ever to be proactive and “noisy” on needed fronts. Please respond to our Action Alerts and contact your legislators, join us at rallies, call us with questions or talk to others. We will always look back to recognize the lessons of our past. But we must never go back. Not only next month, but every day, may we all extend our best efforts to contribute to society’s evolution in response to the value and beauty of our human diversity. Let’s wear our disability pride and lift up our people and communities - always! Sincerest and best regards, Debbie
Pride Month, and I thought it would be
most fitting to share a message that speaks to the importance of this upcoming celebration. On March 12, 1990, over 1,000 people marched from the White House to the U.S. Capitol to demand that Congress
pass the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Upon arrival,
about 60 activists, including eight-year-old Jennifer Keelan- Chaffins, physically demonstrated the inaccessibility of public spaces by getting out of their wheelchairs or setting aside their mobility aids and crawling up the Capitol steps in an act of civil disobedience that later became known as the Capitol Crawl. Police then arrested 104 activists for unlawful demonstrations, many of whom were in their wheelchairs. On July 26, 1990, President George H. W. Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act into law. Since then, each July is celebrated as Disability Pride Month, commemorating this historic moment. Disability Pride Month celebrates people with disabilities, their identities, culture, and societal contributions. It seeks to change the way people think about and define disability, to end the stigma of disability, and to promote the understanding that disability is a natural part of human diversity. It stands on the fact that the lives of people with disabilities are just as whole, valuable, and worthy of respect as those without disabilities. Disability Pride Month also provides an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges people with disabilities still face every day as they strive for social justice and equality in their daily lives.
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Supportive Employee (SEMP) Star
The Supported Employment Program at New Hope Community provides people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities the opportunity to grow, succeed and overcome obstacles in their lives.
wooden pallets. In 2014, Daniel returned to the janitorial field. He has worked at businesses such as Associated Mutual, Rolling V, Bum & Kel’s, Woodbourne Fire House, Emerald Green, Liberty Methodist
SEMP Star is DANIEL!
Daniel joined the Supported Employment Program in June 2012, beginning his career as a mobile janitorial crew member, where he was responsible for providing janitorial services to multiple facilities. In 2013, Daniel began working for Walmart as a Maintenance Associate, where he worked organizing freight onto
Church, and Fallsburg Dentist, among others. This past year, Daniel has provided janitorial services at New Hope Community, working at the greenhouse, nurses' station, and DayHab. He remains an integral member of the SEMP program.
Impact Award 2025 Congratulations to the Residential Coordinator Team, New Hope
Community’s Quarterly IMPACT Award honorees! The Residential Coordinators (RCs) at New Hope Community are an extraordinary group of professionals whose
commitment sets an example for our entire organization. Charged with overseeing all aspects of our residential services, the RCs play a vital role ensuring that every person receives the highest level of supports and services. Their dedication goes far beyond daily responsibilities. Most recently, the RCs were instrumental in the success of our annual Masquerade Gala. From conceptualizing the decor to planning event logistics, they ensured that both the people we support, and our staff could fully participate in and enjoy the event. Their attention to detail and passion for creating inclusive experiences transformed the MPR into a truly memorable occasion, creating a community. Additionally, at 204 Michael’s Court, they have played a crucial role in staff training, onboarding, and ongoing support. By working closely with residential staff, they helped to cultivate a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone
feels empowered to do their best work. The RCs are always ready to step in when needed—whether it’s filling staffing gaps, providing guidance during challenging situations, or sharing their expertise to ensure smooth program operations. Their teamwork and mutual support are the backbone of our residential services. The RCs consistently go above and beyond, working long hours and managing complex schedules to ensure that every program runs efficiently and safely. Their efforts not only keep our programs operating smoothly but also create a nurturing and positive atmosphere for the people we serve. In every situation, the Residential Coordinators demonstrate professionalism, compassion, and a deep sense of
responsibility. Their contributions are invaluable, and their impact is felt throughout New Hope Community every day.
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Staff Spotlight April Spotlight Congratulations to Abegail Small , House Manager 1 at the Berkowitz Residence
Nevaeh frequently communicated with the Nurse on Duty, asking questions and sharing updates to ensure the best possible care. Her eagerness to learn and gentle, respectful approach made a difference, offering the support and dignity everyone deserves at the end of life. Nevaeh’s commitment to those she supports—treating each person with grace, empathy, and focused attention—truly embodies the values of My Human Security, My Choices, and My Goals Personal Outcome Measures. Thank you, Nevaeh, and Congratulations! June Spotlight
at 204 Michael’s Court, our April Staff Spotlight honoree! Abegail recently organized a birthday celebration for one of the residents. Knowing how important the individual’s
Congratulations to June Staff Spotlight honoree, Luis Gonzalez , Day Program Direct Support Professional 2!
relationship with their family is, Abegail orchestrated the celebration so the family could participate in the festivities. She consistently brings positivity to every shift, whether working back-to-back or multiple consecutive days, and always prioritizes the support needs of those she serves and the staff. Abegail’s dedication and eagerness to learn are driven by her commitment to the success of the 204 Michael’s Court residence, which embodies the values reflected in the My Relationships
Luis has worked at New Hope Community for over
14 years, offering a valuable level of care and attentiveness in his role, and creating meaningful relationships with the people he supports. His involvement in the New Hope Community theme song shows how he bridges personal passions with his work, engaging in activities that foster connection and inclusion. Luis creates a sense of belonging and security. His attention to detail and ability to anticipate the needs of the people he supports reflect his understanding of person-centered care. Being present and engaged in work is expected, but to truly understand a person for who they are, being proactive in addressing their needs shows an exceptional level of commitment to the people we support and their job. He is often seen sporting a contagious smile and exuding high energy. During the warmer months, you can find Luis and his entire group tending to their garden plot at the Greenhouse. His recognition of the importance of personal connections, safety, and meaningful community participation supports the My Relationships Personal Outcome Measure. Congratulations, Luis!
Personal Outcome Measure. Congratulations, Abegail! May Spotlight
The May Staff Spotlight shines on Neveah Valree , Direct Support Professional from the Bleetstein Residence at 306 Stupell Circle. In mid-April, the 306 Stupell Circle Team learned that one of the individuals they support, who had been
hospitalized, would be returning home under Hospice care due to declining health. During this challenging time, Nevaeh stepped up in remarkable ways. Nevaeh made it her mission to provide the highest level of care and comfort. She tended to him hourly, monitored vital signs, and ensured he had music and items he loved from happier, healthier days. Her presence brought comfort, conversation, and unwavering compassion during his final days.
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Strategic Plan Two-Year Update Event
O n April 15th, we hosted a Strategic Plan Two- Year Update event. Organized in two sessions to accommodate schedules, staff and the people we support came together to hear from team leaders about the progress made on the three themes of our strategic plan: 1) Choices and Independence (the people we support), 2) We support you (our staff), and 3) Ready and Resilient (IT/QI/Compliance).
It was inspiring to learn about the key priorities and how everyday efforts are driving meaningful impact throughout the organization and in the lives of the people we support.
Ann Awny Recognized in Young Professionals Edition
A nn Awny, Employment Specialist, was recognized in the Sullivan County Democrat's March edition of Young Professionals. This issue highlights emerging leaders who are making an impact within their organization and
the surrounding Sullivan County. As an Employment Specialist, Ann assists people with support in obtaining employment within the community. She meets with each person, finds out their interests, and develops a job to fulfill those interests. Ann assists with all aspects of the employment process – resume building, interview skills, job training, and on-the-job support. She also meets with potential employers and advocates for the people she supports. Congratulations, Ann!
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Nurses Week
W e celebrated Nurses Week by showing our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible nursing team. Throughout this week, we honored their hard work, compassion, and dedication with a fun lineup of well-deserved festivities! Our nurses had a chance to unwind, get creative with a paint and sip, and enjoy a luncheon featuring games (with prizes!), custom gifts, and good vibes. To our nurses, thank you for all you do. Your unwavering commitment to the health and wellness of the people we support is beyond measure. We appreciate you!
Congratulations, Leslie Irwin and Nicole Daw!
W e are happy to share that our Nursing Director, Leslie Irwin, and our Assistant Nursing Director, Nicole Daw, passed the Certified Education Conference in May! Their hard work, commitment, and dedication to the specialty of intellectual and developmental disabilities nursing are truly commendable. This CDDN credential is a meaningful step forward in their professional journey, attesting to their specialized knowledge and distinguishing them in our field. As New Hope Community increasingly supports medically complex people, their advanced competency and proficiency will dynamically support our nursing team’s informed, holistic care approaches. Developmental Disabilities Nursing (CDDN) exam at DDNA’s 33rd Annual
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We have made ongoing efforts to assist in improvements for New Hope Community, to better serve the people we support, as well as protect the assets used daily. We have developed a comprehensive plan that, given the scope, will understandably take several years to complete. However, our approach is carefully prioritized and adaptable to the many changing factors we encounter. Our primary goal is to provide the best support for our Team, ensuring New Hope is the best it can be. The following are projects that have been initiated or completed since my last update: ICF Homes – We contracted with CR Wolfe, a local HVAC company, to complete a full replacement of the heating and air conditioning components in all our ICF homes. These newly installed systems feature the latest technologies in efficiency and operational functionality, significantly improving our ability to maintain comfortable temperatures and better meet the needs within the programs. Facilities Update
5884/Lawrence – Building on the progress we have been making on the bathroom upgrades in our ICF homes, we have begun these improvements in our IRA homes working with various vendors. We have remodeled the downstairs bathroom at 5884 and renovated one of the bathrooms in our Lawrence IRA. ICF Bathrooms – The bathroom renovation project in the ICF homes continues to move forward. We recently completed work on the bathroom at 308 Stupell Circle, leaving six bathrooms remaining for the total project completion. We find that these new bathrooms are enhancing the overall appearance of the homes, and alleviating numerous issues the old bathrooms were causing. Most importantly, they greatly improve the accessibility, health, and safety for the people we support.
Brian McPhillips Facilities Manager
Host Chamber Breakfast O n Friday, June 6th, we hosted the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce First Friday Breakfast. Attended by 60 of our community
neighbors, Janae Myers, Director of Development, highlighted our philanthropic initiatives which support our vital work of empowering people to live lives of independence, choice, and meaning. Hope Farm generously provided the centerpieces and guest gifts.
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Wishing a very happy 42nd birthday to Liam , who smiles all the time!
Happy 70th birthday to Helene ! She spent her special day at Umi Buffet with friends (and a fabulous manicure, as usual).
Happy birthday, Alan ! He celebrated his special day with a sunny trip down to Jupiter, Florida to visit his brother Arthur. They went to a lion safari, fed giraffes, and enjoyed some yummy soft pretzels.
Kevin recently celebrated a very happy birthday at home with his housemates and some delicious cake. We can't get enough of his birthday smile!
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Rachel and Nicole recently celebrated their birthdays together with a festive get together! Their housemates were there to join in on the fun and wish them both a very happy birthday!
Robert celebrated his 65th birthday at home with friends and two of his favorite desserts, cheesecake and cupcakes!
Theo enjoyed celebrating his birthday with a visit from his parents!
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Foundation Corner
Janae Myers Director of Development
15th Annual Wallace Berkowitz Cup Golf Outing
On May 12, we hosted the 15th Annual Wallace Berkowitz Cup at West Hills Country Club, and it was our most successful tournament yet! With a sold-out course of golfers, unmatched community engagement, and the most perfect weather, the day was full of meaningful moments: laughter, generosity, new friendships, and a shared commitment to empowering lives. Highlights from the Day • Energized start with espresso from It’s Arios, hot breakfast, and personalized beverage packs from Aspire Brewing • A heartfelt speech from Shari Silver, whose son joined our Day Program last year. Her words left guests with full hearts and more than a few happy tears • A standout act of kindness: one contest winner donated her prize—hundreds in restaurant gift cards—to the people supported at New Hope
• Welcoming, for the first time, our New Hope Knights Golfers, who were greeted with cheers
Why It Matters Our golfers and guests raised critical funds that power New Hope’s most meaningful programs, such as Hope Farm, the Stables at McCoy Meadow, Select Connects, and new initiatives like our Sensory Room. Special Thanks To our golfers, guests, volunteers, and sponsors: you made it all happen. We are endlessly grateful for your support.
Relive the Day: Golf 2025 Photo Album
Watch the Highlights Video Watch Shari Silver's Message
1st Place Team: Stanley Gilmore’s Team Stanley Gilmore, Butch Gilmore, Keith Kurthy, Myran Cox
And the Winners Are... Most Honest Team: Sandy Goldstein’s Team – Sandy Goldstein – Les Danish – Laura Leach – Richard Lawrence
Longest Drive • Men: Parth Patel • Ladies: Maureen Cantamessa Closest to the Pin • Men: Brandon Rubik 3’3 • Ladies: Laurie Camastro 25’2
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Welcome, Maggie! Foundation Corner
W e’re so excited to welcome Maggie Russell to the Development team as our new Development Associate! Maggie jumped right in, helping to pull together the final details for our annual golf outing, then turning around and diving straight into gala planning. She’s already become an essential part of the team and hasn’t missed a beat. But New Hope isn’t new to Maggie. She grew up visiting our community, joining in on holiday dinners, and still remembers lining up to meet Santa at our community events. This place has always meant something to her…and now she’s back, ready to give back. With a passion for people and a heart for this mission, Maggie’s excited to build relationships, celebrate stories, and help create moments that matter. We’re so glad she’s here! A s we celebrate 50 years of New Hope Community, we are reflecting on the incredible journey that has shaped who we are today. This milestone is not just about the past; it’s about the stories, the memories, and the people who have made New Hope a place of belonging, growth, and lifelong connection. And we want to hear from you! We invite you to share your New Hope story and photos—moments that capture the friendships, the achievements, and the joy that New Hope has brought into your life. Your memories will be featured throughout our 50th year and at our 50th Anniversary Gala on November 14, 2025, celebrating the heart of our community: the people. How to Share Your Memories: Email with your favorite New Hope memories: a special moment, a meaningful milestone, or a simple story that makes you smile. JMyers@NewHopeCommunity.org Your story is part of New Hope’s story, and we cannot wait to celebrate it with you. Your love, support, and memories are what make this community so special.
We Want to Hear from You
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Foundation Corner
Introducing: Our Giving Community Impact Stories Where stories meet impact We’re excited to launch Our Giving Community Impact Stories, a new way to celebrate the people who help New Hope Community thrive. Our Giving Community members will receive something special: Impact Stories, created exclusively for our donors. These updates are glimpses into
Whether it’s a new opportunity, a moment of connection, or a breakthrough in someone’s journey, you are part of it. Only Our Giving Community will receive these impact statements. Think of them as small windows into the big difference you're helping to make. Keep an eye on your inbox; there’s more to come, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
the lives you've touched through your generosity. Each story is a reflection of the possibility, growth, and joy you help create every day.
See You at Our 50th Anniversary Gala!
Friday, November 14, 2025 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. The Barn at Villa Venezia 2278 Goshen Turnpike, Middletown, NY NewHopeCommunity.org/Gala Tickets Available Now!
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Tariq Iqbal Recognized in Men @ Work Edition
T ariq Iqbal, CFAO, was featured in the April Men @ Work edition of the Sullivan County Democrat, which highlights men from the region who make significant contributions to their organizations and communities. The article celebrates Tariq’s longstanding dedication to New Hope Community and our mission. Since joining New Hope Community in 2006 as a Financial Analyst, Tariq has advanced to Comptroller in 2008 and then to Chief Financial and Administrative Officer in 2010. In his current role, Tariq oversees all financial and administrative operations, including developing financial strategies, managing budgets, supervising financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Congratulations, Tariq!
Celebrating New Positions!
Jose Borges Gabrielle Colon Loriann Havre Trevor Johnson Kedanie Ledoux Crystal Long
Barbetta Perez Alicia Phillips Anthony Tyler Keyana Vanidestine Kushana Watkins
Share your Thoughts We want to hear your thoughts, ideas, and feedback on any topic you want to share. A Suggestion Box is located in the front of the Administration Building near the time clock. Paper and pens are provided, and anonymous submissions are encouraged. The Suggestion Box will be checked on a weekly basis by Karen Russell. The submissions will be reviewed with Debbie McGinness for discussion and follow-up.
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Masquerade Magic at New Hope Community: A Night to Remember! W e recently hosted our 2nd Annual Gala in the Multi- we honored a few standout stars. Congratulations to our Prom King and Queen, as well as the winners for Best Hair, Best
Dressed, the coveted Best House award, and more! With events like this, we are reminded of the power of inclusivity, joy, and community. Thank you to the entire Residential team for their hard work in making this event a reality, and to every attendee who made it a truly magical and unforgettable night!
Purpose Room, and the energy was electric! The people we support and staff came together for an unforgettable evening filled with celebration,
connection, and community spirit.
This year’s masquerade theme transformed the room into a dazzling
display of mystery and elegance. The people we support came dressed to impress, arriving in their finest attire and creative masks, which added a touch of magic to the night. From the moment the music started, the dance floor stayed full as guests enjoyed an array of their favorite songs. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a variety of refreshments, mingled with friends, and posed for photos that captured the glamour of the evening. One of the highlights of the night was the much-anticipated awards ceremony, where
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Staff Recognition Barbeque O n June 14th, we gathered
Congratulations were extended to our award honorees: Amy Cavaliere, Director of Behavioral Services, recipient of the Hope Heart Award for always doing her best to find a solution, and
at Loch Sheldrake Fireman’s Park for our annual Staff Recognition BBQ, an event honoring the commitment and milestones of our staff. Attended
her belief in everything being “figure-out-able”; Darrius Shaw, Direct Support Professional 2, awarded the Fred Birnbaum Award for embracing challenges head on with love and acceptance; and Rosalyn Segarra, Direct Support Professional, honored with the Maxine Belson Award for going above and beyond to ensure the people she supports feel included and engaged in the fun. The day was a heartfelt celebration of our staff’s exceptional accomplishments. Special thanks to Carlos, Vicente, and Elliott from Maintenance; Beth and Stefanie from Finance; and our dedicated Volunteer “Dream Team” members
by over 200 staff and their families, we celebrated those who have reached significant employment milestones of 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 20+ years. We also recognized our relief staff who worked 500+ hours in the past year.
Robyn, Jenn, Amy, Michael, Campbell, Maggie, and Janae. For more highlights, view the full album at this link: Facebook
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SHS Happenings Starry Night Prom This year, the New Hope Community SHS Division hosted its first prom with a “Starry Night” event at Knollwood Country Club in Elmsford. Sixty-three guests attended the party, dancing the night away to music from our in-house DJ, DJ Nico Tunes, and had a blast in our interactive photo booth. Everyone looked their best and had a wonderful time enjoying food, taking photos, dancing, and most importantly, sharing the night with great friends!
Select Connects: We are thrilled to launch our new partnership with Breakthrough Fit Co., whose mission is to provide adaptive and inclusive fitness programs that empower people of all abilities to enhance their quality of life. Our groups participate in a variety of exercise circuits, pushing their limits and cheering each other on along the way. This new community partnership is an amazing experience filled with high energy that everyone looks forward to.
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Poker Run Every year, Foley's Club Lounge, along with many small business partners throughout Pleasantville, raises money to support local autism awareness programs that empower people and families in our community. This year, the funds were donated to Select Connects! Here’s how the Poker Run is played: • All that’s needed is a good pair of walking shoes, a costume (there’s a prize!), and a hunger and thirst for some of our local restaurants. • Teams of four will visit five participating restaurants, purchasing one item from each (soda/snack/have lunch/ maybe a drink), and in return, they receive a sealed white envelope containing a playing card. • At the final destination – Foley’s – teams turn in their envelopes. The cards are revealed, and the team with the best poker hand wins! SHS Happenings
New Hope Note
I n June, we introduced the New Hope Note, a digital newsletter that is a little offshoot of our quarterly Community Insider newsletter. Here, we'll share the day-to-day happenings, small wins, and fun behind-the-scenes moments that may not appear in our main newsletter. Think of this as a quick check-in between our regular issues! If you aren’t already and would like to subscribe to our newsletter, visit us at: NewHopeCommunity.org/signup/
Any staff can anonymously, or with their name provided, report compliance issues or concerns via the Corporate Compliance Box located above the shred bins near the QA offices. This box is secured and can only be accessed by the Corporate Compliance Officer. Corporate Compliance Officer: Kristen Pignatelli-Bozenski Compliance Hotline: 845-468-5224
Corporate Compliance
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New Hope Knights Compete in the Buffalo Bowl
O n June 7th, the New second year in a row – this time bringing two teams! Hosted at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, New York, the Special Olympics New York's Buffalo Bowl is a 6-on-6 flag football tournament benefiting Special Olympics New York. The event features various leagues, including Pro, Intermediate, Hope Knights returned to the Buffalo Bowl for the Amateur, First Responders, Co-Ed, Middle School, and High School.
Special Olympics athletes). Black won the coin toss and elected to go on offense first. On second down, Rob threw a pass to Vinny, who went all the WAY! Touchdown! The Yellow team took that momentum as motivation, and Neil passed to Joe on second and third down, resulting in a TOUCHDOWN! Afterwards, the teams settled into a rhythm, making defensive stops on both sides, with Neil locking down the sideline for Yellow, and Wanda G on Black, tearing flags left and right. The nail-biter continued when Jeffery snagged a pass from Victor and stumbled to the three-yard line, putting Yellow in the red zone! A short pass to Jeremy gave them another touchdown and the LEAD! The battle continued with big throws from Scott to Chris, and
The tournament serves as a fundraising event, with teams raising money to participate. This year, each team was required to raise $1,750 to participate in the event. The two New Hope Knights teams raised an impressive $3,500! The Recreation Department worked diligently to facilitate multiple fundraising opportunities, including but not limited to a football pool, a Knights t-shirt sale, a bake sale, and a shamrock sale. The Knights also utilized social media, posted updates online, and distributed flyers featuring QR codes for easy, direct donations. The Buffalo Bowl event raised over $275,000 this year! That amount is enough to sponsor 550 Special Olympic athletes for an entire year! While eagerly waiting their turn to run onto the field through the tunnel on June 7th, the New Hope Knights had the exciting opportunity to tour the locker rooms at Bills Stadium. This unforgettable experience allowed the athletes to see the professional lockers of professional players such as Josh Allen and James Cook. They also had access to use the media room where the Buffalo Bills conduct their interviews! After the opening ceremonies, the Knights took to the field! Playing in three games overall – the final matchup was an exciting face-off game against EACH OTHER! In the final game, the Knights in black shirts - Rob, Noah, Vinny, Buck, Tina, and Wanda took the field against the Knights in yellow shirts - Neil, Jeffery, Jeremy, Jason, Joe, and Nicole. (All
Victor to Nick. Jeremy perfected the hook route and continued to move the ball downfield. Paige was hit on a beautiful crossing route and traveled just over 30 yards for a touchdown! It was almost impossible to keep up with the action. With just one second left on the clock, the Yellow team was leading 18-12. Then, Vinny made a catch and ran to the endzone, tying the game 18-18. The Black team goes for the extra point, and again it's VINNY! In the back corner of the endzone! As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read 19-18 in favor of the Black team. However, the football journey began long before June 7th. For several months, the athletes gathered weekly for practices, team meetings, and one-on-one training sessions. Every Wednesday from 5pm to 7pm, the mixed teams of Special Olympics Athletes, Coaches, Partner Athletes, DSPs, and
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Support Staff pushed themselves to improve. They practiced in the heat and the rain, learning everything from basic flag football rules to routes, positional specifics, mobility training, and more.
while others excelled on defense. Grabbing a small flag off a runner spinning at full speed requires tremendous hand-eye coordination and reflexes. Football fever was taking over New Hope! Whether in the halls, at the day program, or during supportive work, football chatter was everywhere. The WOW day hab saw a significant increase in interest, leading to the creation of a fantasy football league scheduled to start in July 2025. Many showed their excitement for helping their peers reach their goal of playing flag football in an NFL stadium. They made signs, attended a pep rally, waved pom-poms, and sent best wishes to the Knights on their journey. Three dedicated people we support even traveled with the Knights to Buffalo and cheered them on from the stands. The Buffalo Bowl is not just about flag football and fundraising. It is about community, it is about inclusion, and it is about seeing a dream come to life. Thank you to the NHC Foundation and all the individual donors whose generosity made this dream a reality.
Meeting each athlete where they were and supporting their development was crucial. Although many of the athletes had never played flag football before, that did not dampen their enthusiasm and drive. By the end of the flag football season, every player could catch and carry the ball. Some athletes displayed skills in throwing, taking reps at quarterback,
Braydon Huebsch Athletics Coordinator
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H appy Cinco de Mayo from the Without Walls Program!!!
W hen we recently received an incorrect batch of branded lunchboxes, our WOW program participants were eager to help donate them to local nonprofits, A Single Bite and Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless. We are so proud of our guys for contributing to two vital organizations in our community that assist individuals and families in need. R ecently, the Knights placed third in their first basketball tournament of the season, hosted
by Marist University! Noah delivered the athlete's oath at the event and joined his teammates in victory. It was a pretty great way to begin the season!
A scenic start to summer! Jon, Rickey, Nathan, and Morgan got some fresh air on a hike through the Walnut Park trails
S hout-out to our a successful bake sale in support of the New Hope Knights! It was a pretty sweet day with a table full of delicious treats and lots of happy customers! amazing Recreation team for hosting
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H appy
M o recently competed in her first-ever basketball skills tournament at Marist University — and took home second place! Mo’s been training hard in her rookie season with the New Hope Knights and has been getting a ton of encouragement from her coaches, staff, and teammates. Even better? She shared the podium with teammate Tina, who brought home the gold! Let’s hear it for Mo, Tina, and the unstoppable Knights!
Administrative Professional’s Day!!
To our administrative staff, we thank you for all your hard work and celebrate you today and every day.
F rom coop to counter: Barbara, Wanda, Stacy, Laurie, and Louisa from our WOW program set a record this week! They delivered 28 dozen eggs agency-wide, all courtesy of our 35 New Hope chickens. Nice work, ladies!
T he results are in from the 50th Annual Hudson Valley Regional Spring Games hosted by West Point Military Academy. Sixteen New Hope Knights participated in various events and brought their A game to the competition. Overall, they earned 38 awards: six gold medals, six silver medals, 13 bronze medals, 12 4th place ribbons, and one 5th place ribbon! We are so proud of our athletes and their hard work in expanding their skills and horizons. Here’s to a great start to the track & field season!
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W endy, David, Stefanie, Xin “Jack”, and Lenny got a sweet surprise from the Easter Bunny! They had a blast opening their Easter baskets and exploring the goodies inside!
S hout out to Vanessa from Vista for earning the Perfect Attendance Award! She attended the WOW Program all 22 days in April, and her presence (and beautiful smile!) brightens daily. Way to go, Vanessa!
S tart your engines! Robert, Vinny, Nicole, and Tina enjoyed exploring the New York International Car Show. From classic models to more modern designs, there was something memorable for everyone!
T here's nothing quite like the sights and smells of the Kelder's Farm tulip festival!
T hat's their kind of night! Laurie, Vincent, Nicole, and Tina had an amazing time at Bethel Woods Luke Bryan concert!
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Health & Wellbeing
The Best Bathwater Mix-Ins
Some bubble baths contain heavily fragranced products that can irritate skin. Instead, turn your bath into a luxury soak with these ingredients that have proven benefits. Epsom Salts Many doctors swear by this natural compound to relieve muscle pain and stress. It’s rich in magnesium, which can help regulate muscle and nerve function and blood pressure. Pour 2 cups into running water. Chamomile Tea Bags These sachets of dried flowers can ease stress and improve sleep. Soak 3 to 4 in a hot bath. Essential Oils Lavender and rose oils are known to ease stress and promote sleep, and eucalyptus oil helps open airways if you’re congested. Dilute 5 to 10 drops of an essential oil with one Tbsp of carrier oil (such as coconut or olive oil) or 2 cups of Epsom salts, then add the mixture to running water. Try a patch test first to ensure you don’t have sensitivity to the oil. Oatmeal This anti-inflammatory breakfast staple can soothe dry, irritated, or eczema-prone skin. You can purchase colloidal oatmeal at a drugstore or make your own: Finely grind uncooked whole oats using a blender, food processor, or coffee grinder. Add one cup of water to the running water.
Source: Prevention.com, April 2025
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Have you included New Hope in your will?
In making a planned gift to New Hope you are making an extremely meaningful gift– the gift of a better life for the people supported by New Hope Community. I encourage you to review your financial plans for the future and include New Hope in them. We’re here to help you create a legacy and change lives by confidentially answering your questions and referring you to expert advice. Remember, you need neither great wealth nor grey hair to become a member of the New Hope Legacy Circle . If you've included New Hope in your long-term plans or intend to do so, please let us know. We would be proud to welcome you to the New Hope Legacy Circle.
For more information contact: Janae Myers Director of Development 845-241-2845 jmyers@newhopecommunity.org
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Want to contribute to an upcoming edition of the Community Insider? Share your news! Submit your articles, images and stories to: CommunityInsider@newhopecommunity.org
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