From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Family and Friends,

As we continue to navigate the intricacies of advocacy for disability services, it's important to keep you informed about the outcomes of the New York State budget for Fiscal Year 2025, especially concerning provisions that directly impact our community.

The final budget includes a 2.84 percent Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for human services providers like AHRC Nassau. Notably, this adjustment comes with a stipulation that mandates 1.7 percent of the COLA must be used specifically for wage enhancements for direct care staff, clinical staff, non-executive administrative, and support staff. However, it’s important to note that the Direct Support Wage Enhancement (DSWE), a critical component we advocated for, was not included in the final budget.

This outcome underscores the need for continued advocacy. The absence of the DSWE means that our work is far from over as we strive for more comprehensive financial support for those who dedicate their lives to supporting people with developmental disabilities.

Thank you for your steadfast support. As we reflect on our past 75 years, we are reminded of the critical importance of our collective voice in championing the necessary changes that bring us closer to a future that inclusively supports all members of our community.

Best Regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Beyond Words: 
Empowering Regina Clark to Communicate and Connect

In May 2023, Regina Clark moved into the Helen Kaplan Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), a residential home for people who require a high level of supports. At times, supports, such as day habilitation services, are provided in the home.

Gloria Reyes, an AHRC Nassau Day Services Supervisor, welcomed Regina into the group and began developing a plan that would support her to reach her life goals. Gloria has been with AHRC for 18 years and is trained in everything from CPR to diabetes management.

Initially, Gloria noticed Regina had a hard time communicating her wants and needs, and often resorted to signing or gesturing to express herself.

Gloria gave her the option to write things down. She provided Regina with a pen and clipboard and encouraged her to share what she could – starting with half a word.

With time and encouragement, Regina is now communicating with full words and short sentences.

“I like her to practice writing. With her communication board, she can talk to me and her other staff. That way she won’t lose her writing skills,” said Gloria.

This small change allowed Regina to become more expressive and empowered her to communicate with the people who support her. The next goal is for Regina to become comfortable sharing (through writing) in group settings, so she can express herself more and strengthen bonds with her peers.

Stephen Nocerito Earns NYSID 2023 
Outstanding Performance Award 

Congratulations to Stephen Nocerito, who was recently celebrated for receiving the 2023 Outstanding Performance Award from New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID).

NYSID is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities and veterans. Yearly, they celebrate these endeavors by acknowledging community members for their outstanding job performance. Stephen is supported through AHRC Nassau’s Employment Services. 

He has been employed as a Porter with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) since February 2023. Although shy and reserved, he takes great pride in doing good work. 

His teammates and management view him as reliable, enthusiastic, and a great team player. After a year on the job, Steve has established a routine and systems that help him work efficiently, even in a space as large and maze-like as the DMV.

Purolator Joins AHRC Volunteers for 
Last Recreational Dance of the Season

The season's final dance at St. Martin of Tours Church in Bethpage was a spectacular gathering organized by a dedicated team of volunteers under the leadership of community liaison, Lynne Brewer. 

Over 200 guests supported by AHRC danced the night away, celebrating another wonderful season of connection and friendship.

These community experiences provide opportunities for people to connect and catch up on old times, as it was for Diane W. and Mary Jo Lowerre.

The pair have been friends for over 25 years. Their bond formed during their days in the Freeport Vocational Training Center and time shared taking the bus from their respective apartments.

“I’m still in my apartment but I’m retired now so I like to meet up at the dances. I can’t believe we’ve known each other for over twenty-five years,” said Diane.

Lunch at Glen Cove Diner: More than Burgers and Fries 

On a rainy Thursday afternoon, the Glen Cove Diner welcomed AHRC Nassau residents Richard (Ricky) De Leon and Mildred (Milly) Edwards, along with Guardianship Coordinator, Eileen Stewart-Rooney and Guardianship Assistant, Stephanie Hodelin, to share a meal filled with laughter and memory. Ricky and Milly, who have both been part of the AHRC Nassau community for over 30 years, enjoyed their time reminiscing over sodas, burgers, and sandwiches.

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

For a Limited Time, Enjoy a $75 Lifetime Membership

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.

Agency Excellence:
AHRC Nassau Honors Heroes for Their Lifesaving Efforts

The Hero Appreciation Celebration held on March 21 in the Brookville Mansion is an annual event honoring staff members across AHRC, Citizens and BCCS who performed actions that put the lives of the people in their care out of harm's way.  

Staff are trained in several emergency techniques and taught to identify instances where someone might be hurt. Being responsive when a life-threatening situation presents itself can be challenging, which is why the agency finds it important to honor those who were able to take bold action when faced with an unexpected situation.

During the event, fifteen AHRC staff members were recognized and thanked by the leadership team. Honorees were celebrated with a gift from Wheatley Farms and a stipend added to their check.  

We are grateful for your ability to take bold actions to ensure the safety and well-being of the people we support.  

Thank you to our agency heroes.  

Kameile Harrison-Johnson 
Emmauel Lysse 
Joseph ineSmiley 
Michelle Talton 
Estela Manners 
Sharon Missan 
Kategia Ali 
Alex Frankel 
Marie Tito-Rodriguez 
Ashante Jones-Perkins 
Alexander Siaw 
Dabica Persaud 
Adrianne Brown 
Lisa Rivera 
Sophia Edouard 

Explore the Opportunities with the 
Blanche Fierstein Memorial Scholarship

The Latest From Our Reading Center

Acknowledging the importance of DSPs. Read Here

The Science behind siblings with autism. Twins With Autism

The push for wage equity for people with I/DD. Workers With Disabilities

Addressing shortages in the DSP workforce. Watch Here

Disability agency responds to final NYS budget. Opinion

Coming Up

Make Mother’s Day Even More Memorable with a Gift From Wheatley Farms!  

From lush hanging planter baskets to custom made soaps, there’s bound to be an amazing gift for you to share this Mother’s Day. Don’t hesitate to show your love to the mothers in your life by placing an order online today: Shop Gifts Online

AHRC Foundation Rose Ball
June 13, 2024 | 7: 00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. | Tickets Available Now

Join us for an evening of celebration as the Nassau County AHRC Foundation renews and celebrates its commitment to children and adults with developmental disabilities at its Rose Ball. 

Linda Abramson Raff, President, Camp Loyaltown Inc., Leadership Award Recipient  
Thomas & Ellen Moore, Margaret Riva, Lifetime Achievement Award Recipients