From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Community Members,

With the April 1 deadline for the New York State Budget FY 2025 fast approaching, our advocacy efforts are more important than ever. This year, we are advocating for essential funding that directly impacts our community and the services we provide. Specifically, we are advocating for:

- A 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for disability service providers, offering the necessary flexibility in fund allocation.

- The inclusion of a Direct Support Wage Enhancement (DSWE), essential for sustaining the quality and continuity of care our Direct Support Professionals provide.

The current proposals in the budget discussions, including the governor's Executive Budget and the one-house budgets from the Senate and Assembly, have begun to recognize the indispensable role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). However, funding is needed at these minimum levels to support the broad spectrum of services required for the independence, health, and safety of people we support.

Your voice has incredible power to effect these changes. By visiting our website’s Advocacy Center and taking action today and every day, you play a critical role in shaping a budget that reflects the needs and values of our community.

Your action today secures our strength tomorrow. Thank you in advance for your continued support and advocacy. 

Best Regards,

Stanfort J. Perry
Chief Executive Officer

Manhasset ICF Celebrates Success in Annual OPWDD Recertification Survey

The Manhasset Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) has once again demonstrated its commitment to excellence and compassionate care in the annual recertification survey conducted by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). The survey, which took place over the last two days, highlighted the outstanding quality of the home and the dedication of its staff.

The surveyors commended the overall friendliness and communication within the team. The progress of people living in the home was a focal point of discussion, reflecting the significant impact of the staff’s dedication to the residents’ well-being.

Ontario Residents Dive Into the Magical World of Dr. Seuss

The people supported at the Ontario residence experienced the magic of "Seussical" at the Argyle Theatre in Babylon. The musical brings to life Dr. Seuss's characters, such as the Cat in the Hat and Horton the Elephant, in a story about friendship, courage, and imagination.
 
The outing to the Argyle Theatre was more than just a trip to the theater; it was a wonderful event that brought the community together through a shared arts experience. Adding to the magic, theatergoers had the unique opportunity to meet some of the cast members after the show. This experience provided the opportunity for residents to connect with the performers, learn about the behind-the-scenes magic, and take photos, creating lasting memories of the show.

As Dr. Seuss might say, "Oh, the places you'll go!" On this evening, our community ventured into a world of imagination and wonder, thanks to the home’s dedicated staff and the Argyle Theatre's "Seussical."

Celebrating Joyous Times Together

Earlier this month, Citizens hosted a St. Patrick's Day Dance where everyone dressed head to toe in green to celebrate the Irish holiday.

Residents also recently visited Red Lobster to celebrate their friend Patrick's birthday. They indulged in delicious drinks, seafood and mouthwatering desserts.

Both were jovial occasions filled with laughter, good food, and great company.

Here's to more wonderful celebrations and shared moments in the future!

April is Autism Acceptance Month

Next month, April, is Autism Acceptance Month, and we want to hear from you! Visit our website to share your story or give a shout out and we might feature you in our next newsletter!

Celebrating 50 Years of Camp Loyaltown

Camp Loyaltown is celebrating 50 years of providing a safe, supportive, and fun environment for children and adults with developmental disabilities!

We're excited to be planning a 50th Anniversary celebration later this year and welcome members of the community to our committee. If you would like to be added to our event mailing list, please fill out the below form.

Last Call to Join Us for Summer 2024!

We have a limited amount of spots available for Session 5A (August 11th – August 18th for campers aged 4 -17) and Session 6 (August 25th – September 1st for campers 18 and over).

Interested in signing up for one of these sessions, or want to learn more about joining us for Summer 2025? Please click here to send us an email and we'll get back to you with more information.