Dear AHRC Community,

I hope this email finds you safe and well. Now more than ever, our ability to support each other matters. This value has always been central to AHRC, but over the past few weeks, I’ve been inspired again and again by how in these challenging times so many families and friends have reached out to ask how they can help.

Our programs continue to rigorously support the residential and health care needs of men and women with developmental disabilities. COVID-19 has touched our community. I can report a number of recoveries and that our team is actively working with families and staff members on how best to memorialize the people who succumbed to the virus.  As we work to honor these relationships and lives, we also remain committed to the health and emotional well-being of everyone who is grieving.

The exceptional care, that all receive is because of dedicated staff members — they are our foundation. At this critical time, your questions, kind words, creativity and donations have made an important impact throughout AHRC.  Since last Monday, donations have made it possible for 25 houses to take a night off from cooking and enjoy a meal knowing that their essential work was being thought of and recognized.  If you’re able, please join our COVID-19 Fund. This is a way we can show our thanks to our extraordinary residential staff for everything they are doing and sacrificing during this health crisis.

Sharing your support on AHRC’s Facebook and Instagram is another way to say thanks to our team. Please show your virtual applause with the hashtags #NewYorkTough #ApplaudDirectSupport and #WeAreEssential. Doing so also educates lawmakers on our community. Congress may not be back in session until May 4, but we must continue educating lawmakers on pressing COVID-19 disability issues so that disability funding is included in the next stimulus package. You can also assist our team by signing this advocacy letter.

Thank you for your support and trust in us as we move forward and through this health crisis.  I send you all my best wishes for good health. 

Sincerely,

Stanfort J. Perry
Executive Director