From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

As always, our mission-focused community continues to promote the full inclusion of people with disabilities through meaningful supports and services. This edition is filled with wonderful stories of authentic connection, resilience, and advocacy.

The opportunity for people with disabilities to rally for voter rights, surf, or attend the 13th Annual Guardianship Luncheon is made possible because of the important work of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). DSP Recognition Week, Sept. 8–14, highlighted this tremendous workforce. Let’s continue to share our thanks and recognition throughout the year. I hope you'll join me in continuing to advocate for the federal recognition of the DSP role, as well as read our online book celebrating their essential work.

I strongly believe what we do to support others becomes an important part of who we are. This belief resonates throughout our community, from volunteer Marianne Barbera’s weekly dance classes that bring joy and connection to those in day program, to staff accountant Curtis Harris’ tribute to his mother in honor of Women’s Equality Day. 

These stories of dedication and giving back reflect the very essence of inclusion and serve as an important call to action. Thank you for being a part of our community and working with us to build a future we can all be proud of.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Recognizing Agency Heroes on 
Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week

DSPs are such an integral part of our framework. They help ensure the health, safety, and happiness of the people we support, and that is no small feat. With care, dedication, and integrity, DSPs provide supports and services that empower people to lead meaningful lives, embrace opportunities and pursue their interests.

From September 8-14 we highlighted some of our outstanding staff members on social media. They shared wonderful insights about their work, the people they support and why they love bringing their best selves to work every day.    

The work DSPs do to support people with developmental disabilities is invaluable and we are grateful for their tremendous effort. Although DSP week has come to a close, our sincere appreciation for these outstanding professionals continues year-round. Also, check out our DSP Appreciation Book filled with heartfelt testimonials from the members of our community.

Voter Demonstration and Registration Drive Empowers People 
Supported to Exercise Their Right to Vote

On August 20, over 100 self-advocates and staff participated in a voter demonstration and registration drive at the Brookville mansion to bring attention to the full and equal opportunity to vote.

The two-hour event was led by self-advocates representing the Executive Council comprising leaders from across AHRC’s programs; the Day Hab Council; Work Force Council & Employment Services; and Residential Councils and AHRC’s Compass team.

Supported by the Nassau County Board of Elections (BOE) and The League of Women Voters of East Nassau, the event offered a presentation on voting, registering to vote and a practical demonstration of how to use available ballot boxes. This event was developed to address the significant disadvantages people with disabilities face when it comes to exercising their right to vote. Among the many issues are accessibility, transportation and access to credible information.

“We have two machines, one for helping you read if you’re blind, and the other one to slip inside, when you filled out the ballot,” said Compass QA Advisor and Trainer Steven Barsh. 

Celebrating Connection and Community at 
13th Annual Guardianship Luncheon

Jerseys from all of New York’s sports teams were on display at Leonard’s Palazzo on Sunday, September 15, where nearly 100 guests enjoyed a sports-themed guardianship luncheon.

The annual event was first organized thirteen years ago, by Guardianship Manager Eileen Stewart-Rooney and Guardianship Coordinator Stephanie Hodelin to create an environment where people supported with guardianship services, families and support staff could enjoy a fun time together.

“It’s a good opportunity for guardianship committee members to see everyone in person and get to know them better,” said Eileen. “As guardians we ensure people’s health care needs are met and that they are living the best life possible.”

During the party, guests played arcade games including axe toss, basketball toss, and air hockey.

There was also a DJ to keep the crowd dancing, along with fun props like streamers, party hats and inflatable sports balls.

Three Cheers for 75 Years! 
Become a Member Today and Celebrate With Us

This anniversary year, we are honored to offer you a unique opportunity to deepen your involvement with AHRC Nassau. Your lifetime membership is not just a commitment to our cause it’s an investment in a future where our loved ones receive the respect, opportunities, and support they deserve.

Now is the perfect opportunity to join us in celebrating 75 years of fulfilling the promise made to children, adults, and their families.

Why Your Membership is Vital Now

- Direct Impact: Your vote will guide the decisions we make and the direction we take.

- Exclusive Resources: Gain access to Nassau News and join The Arc New York and The Arc of the U.S. for a wider perspective on our collective advocacy.

- Active Participation: Engage in advocacy and volunteer opportunities that directly support our mission and your loved one.

Scott Besso’s Summer Surf Lessons

Scott Besso of Dalex Court lives an active lifestyle. For the past ten years, he has been enjoying surfing lessons at Surf for All on Long Beach. He loves all kinds of sports from horseback riding to skiing.

With dad Victor Besso cheering him on and his surf instructor Jairo Zuniga, he has made great progress from surfing close to the shoreline to now being able to paddle out over twenty feet to enjoy waves. 

This experience was made possible through a generous grant from NYSARC Trust Services supporting recreational opportunities to enrich the lives of men and women supported by AHRC Nassau.

Volunteer Spotlight: Longtime Volunteer Marianne Barbera 
Honors Late Sibling, Susan, With Weekly Dance Class

Every Monday, volunteer Marianne Barbera brings her passion for movement and music to day services at Wheatley Farms and now Freeport.  

Whether guiding someone through playing an instrument or leading a lively movement session, Marianne finds ways for everyone to experience music. As a retired teacher, she brings her expertise to each session by developing interactive packets, sharing fun facts, and playing music ranging from Elvis Presley and ABBA to Taylor Swift and Rihanna.

“Not only does it provide people with enjoyment, but it gets them engaged,” said Marianne. “It gets the cognition involved recalling the lyrics, interacting with one another, connecting through physical movement, and the booklet lets them continue the conversation after they leave.”

Marianne once held dance classes with her sister, Susan Marie Auletta, who received services throughout her childhood and eventually went on to live in an agency residence. Later in life, Susan’s health issues made going out challenging. 

During visits, Marianne brainstormed activities Susan could enjoy at home. This led Marianne to host dance lessons for Susan and her housemates. She continued these lessons every week until her sister passed in 2021.

Staff Spotlight: Curtis Harris Shares Story of 
Triumph and Resiliency For Women’s Equality Day

During an agency-wide inquiry for Women’s Equality Day recognizing when women earned the right to vote, Staff Accountant Curtis Harris shared the story of his mother, Anne Harris. He wrote of her perseverance and the challenges she faced during a period when women of color were affected by heightened racial and gender discrimination. 

Anne was born in the 1930s, when America was reeling from the impacts of the Great Depression which significantly impacted Black Americans. Despite these issues, Curtis’ mother was able to graduate from college at 18 and join the army in the 1950s where she served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during the Korean War.

She later moved to New York where she was a secretary for advertising giant Y&R. She raised four children with her husband and inspired them with phrases such as “You can do whatever you can believe you can achieve” and “never stop learning.” For Women’s Equality Day, Curtis celebrated his mother by noting her accomplishments and that she is still a central guiding figure in his life.

“Her very existence inspired me. I always wanted to make her proud of me, which is why I completed not only my undergraduate degree in accounting, but also my master’s degree in public administration,” said Curtis.

Celebrating Summer With a Tropical-Themed Gathering

On August 10, Elizabeth Street residents hosted a tropical-themed backyard barbeque, complete with a DJ and dancing. Joining the barbeque were residents and staff from five AHRC residences including Wolf Avenue, Lee Street, Peninsula Boulevard, Belmore Avenue, and Washington Street.

Laurie Krubiner, a resident from Bellmore Avenue, wore a flowy navy-blue dress with flowers to match the tropical theme. Throughout the event she was smiling, laughing and enjoying the music. She danced along with the others from her seat and happily posed for pictures and videos.

“I like how they decorated everything,” said Laurie. “It’s very nice, and I’m enjoying myself in the fresh air.”

Since this group regularly gets together, conversation came easily for all, many happy to catch up on the latest news.

“There are about seven houses around here,” said House Manager, Dionne Bennett-Ruiz. “Every birthday, every holiday we throw a party. We love to celebrate.” 

Be a part of Nassau county's largest event supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. The annual AHRC Foundation Walk offers a three-mile course and engaging post-walk activities to raise funds to secure education, health, community inclusion and guardianship supports for people across Long Island.