From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

September brings a renewed sense of purpose as we continue advancing our shared mission.

Earlier this month, we celebrated Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week, a time to honor DSPs and their incredible contributions. These professionals are the heart of our agency, providing invaluable support and care to the people we serve every day. Check out our DSP Recognition book to see testimonials and stories from across our community. Throughout the year, I invite you to continue sharing stories of DSP excellence by tagging AHRC Nassau on social media or sending stories to inspire@ahrc.org.

Your advocacy makes a real difference. Visit our Advocacy Center and share the importance of investment in disability services with elected officials. This helps shape policies and strengthens funding that have a direct impact on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, staff, and agency programs.

Thank you for being part of our shared community and for creating a world where people of all abilities are valued.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week is one of our most treasured celebrations as we showcase the incredible work DSPs do every day to bring joy, safety, and increased independence to the people we support.

This year we celebrated with highlights of phenomenal DSPs, leadership visits to residences and day service locations, as well as shout outs from families and community members to the DSPs in their lives.

In this year’s DSP Recognition Week book, you will find wonderful testimonials and heartfelt messages from across our community.

Thank you to all the DSPs for your commitment and dedication to helping the people we support live lives full of promise and fulfillment. We value your hard work, your advocacy for people with developmental disabilities, and the meaningful opportunities you help create every day.

Trip of a Lifetime: Kyle Thompson Visits Australia, Meets Personal Outcomes Goal with Trip to Australia

“It was a real-life koala!” Kyle said recalling his time at the Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia.  Taking in every moment, Kyle was truly living his dream. The Taronga Zoo overlooks Sydney Harbour and is known for its diverse collection of Australian wildlife and commitment to animal conservation.  This trip became a reality because of a Personal Outcome Measures (POMs) interview in 2023. During the interview, Kyle shared his interest in animals and travel with Samantha Rodonis, CQL Certified POM Interviewer and Trainer, in great, enthusiastic detail.

“He loves animals. He talked about how his dream is to go to Australia and visit the zoo there,” said Samantha. “Together, we identified that as his personal goal, something he could plan for and look forward to.”

As part of the Personal Outcomes Measures (POMs) Department, Samantha supports people to identify what they want in their lives, their hopes, their dreams, and then helps them break those goals down into smaller steps. The smaller steps are designed to make the goal “as attainable as possible by having experiences that bring them closer to it.”

Since January, people supported by AHRC Nassau Day Services have participated in digital literacy training sessions as part of a $20,000 Digital Literacy Grant from The Arc of the United States, The Arc of San Francisco, and AT&T.

In total, 345 people completed digital literacy training, a figure well above the 250-count required by the grant. This achievement was the result of thoughtful and collaborative coordination across departments.

The curriculum covered topics including navigating websites, understanding the differences between Mac and PC products, iPhone and Android devices, and recognizing online misinformation. It also addressed online safety and fraud.

The aroma of jerk chicken and sizzling hot dogs filled the air at the Washington Street home as residents, staff, and families gathered for their annual summer barbecue – a vibrant celebration of community and connection.

This year’s event, a potluck feast featuring a delightful mix of Caribbean and American cuisine, brought together residents from seven homes: Hicks Place, Elizabeth Street, Pine Street, Wolf Avenue, Saddle Rock Road, Seaford Avenue, and Lakeview Avenue.

Music and laughter filled Leonard’s Palazzo as people supported by AHRC Nassau’s Guardianship Services joined the Guardianship Committee and team members for the guardianship party on Sept. 21.

This year’s Disney-themed celebration was a sea of colorful t-shirts featuring Minnie, Mickey, and Donald Duck, and of course signature mouse ears. The lively event began with a dedicated photoshoot followed by fun casino-style games, from a basketball toss to axe throwing activity, as well as Disney trivia and a buffet. A talented caricature artist drew in a long line of people patiently waiting their turn for a portrait.

Wheatley Farms Catering

Wheatley Farms Catering offers delicious weekly specials! Local to Long Island? Give us a try!

Catering options also available. The Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers high-quality, personalized services for all your catering needs. Situated on a beautiful and pristine 20-acre estate in Brookville, NY, the Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers a timeless setting with modern dishes for any celebration, big or small!

At Wheatley Farms, we are dedicated to inclusivity. We take pride in providing employment opportunities for people of all abilities. We empower people to gain valuable skills in the culinary arts, fostering independence and self-confidence.

Coming Up

Inform Me Series: Complaint / Grievance System and Policies

Participate in a powerful learning experience sharing the details on how to make a complaint or file a grievance advocating for a family member.

Thursday, October 9, 2025 | 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

AHRC Foundation Walk

Join us and an entire community of people committed to increasing opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Long Island.

Sunday, November 2, 2025 | Eisenhower Park, East Meadow, NY