From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

I hope the holiday season left you refreshed and ready for an exciting new year. From the visit of OPWDD Acting Commissioner Willow Baer to heartfelt holiday celebrations and acts of service across our community, we are beginning 2025 with meaningful initiatives and a clear focus on our mission.

We’re starting the year with a powerful event: the Commemorative Program in Honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, Jan. 20, in Glen Cove. Join us for the march and meaningful program featuring Quality Assurance Trainer and Self-Advocate Michelle Rudoff. We also encourage community members to bring canned goods to the event and support our yearlong initiative addressing local food insecurity. 

Coming together as a community of self-advocates, families, staff, and friends is how progress is achieved. This winter, we are advocating for a 7.8% increase in provider rates to ensure fair wages for DSPs and non-executive staff, while addressing the rising costs of essential services, from utilities and transportation to insurance. Send an email of support through our one-click campaign and join our call for funding in Governor Hochul’s upcoming Executive Budget. 

Here’s to a year filled with progress, inclusion, and meaningful action.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Join Us for the 41st Annual MLK Commission March and Commemorative Program

On January 20, join people supported, self-advocates, families, staff, and friends for the 41st Annual MLK Commission March and Commemorative Program, organized by the City of Glen Cove and Glen Cove City School District.

For the past eight years, AHRC Nassau has proudly partnered in this annual event, typically marching with 75-100 supporters behind the AHRC Nassau banner. Recognized as the longest-running continuous MLK celebration of its kind in the nation, this event honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by inspiring the community to engage in meaningful acts of service. Organized by the MLK Commission, this is your opportunity to transform MLK Day into a “day on” rather than a day off — embracing Dr. King’s vision of dignity, equality and fundamental rights for all.

Following the march, the commemorative program will begin at 9:15 a.m. at Finley Middle School and will feature Quality Assurance Trainer and Self-Advocate Michelle Rudoff.

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, please visit www.ahrc.org/dream/

AHRC Nassau Installs Board of Directors at Annual Dansant

On Sunday, Dec. 8, AHRC Nassau’s Board of Directors reaffirmed their commitment to the agency during the annual Dansant at the Brookville mansion.

We are grateful to AHRC Nassau’s board members for another year of service ensuring meaningful opportunities and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities. 

OPWDD Acting Commissioner Willow Baer Visits AHRC Nassau, Engages in Dynamic Conversations With Community Members

On the morning of December 11, AHRC Nassau, Citizens Options Unlimited, and Brookville Center for Children’s Services had the joint honor of welcoming Willow Baer, Acting Commissioner of New York State’s Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), and her colleagues to the Brookville campus.

The visit offered a valuable opportunity for self-advocates, parents, siblings, and team members to engage in meaningful discussions about the key priorities, current supports, and future services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Frost and Farm Fest Brings Warmth to Community 

A winter wonderland filled with inclusive activities awaited over 120 registered attendees on December 5 during the agency’s first Frost and Farm Fest held at the Wheatley Farms & Arts Center in Brookville.

Bringing the magic of winter and warmth of the holiday season to life, the event offered opportunities for festive and family-friendly fun. 

“We are so excited to see the event was a sweet success that brought together people of all abilities to mix and mingle, having some fun in the wintertime,” said Bridget Cariello, Assistant Director of Project Development.

Holiday Flashback: AHRC Community Spreads Holiday Cheer

The spirit of giving and community-building made the 2025 holiday season especially memorable. Together, people supported, agency staff and volunteers created moments of joy and connection during meaningful traditions, festive events, and activities that celebrated the warmth of the season.

“With the rising cost of living on Long Island, the kindness and generosity of volunteers made sure the holiday spirit shone brightly for families in need," said Jerri Walker, Volunteer and Project Coordinator. "I cannot say thank you enough to everyone in our community who gave this holiday season — and contributes to the extraordinary community spirit that shines year-round.”

Don't Miss These Scholarship Opportunities

Each year, The Arc New York presents scholarships to students pursuing degrees in special education, physical or occupational therapy, or a field related to intellectual or other developmental disabilities.

You can view available scholarship online at ahrc.org/scholarship.

Advocate this Year!

Visit our Advocacy Center to stay informed on the issues and ways to make your voice heard.

Valentine’s Day Specials at Wheatley Farms

Shop for Valentine’s favorites at Big Tree Greenhouse and Gifts. With the big day on the horizon, stock up on beautiful flowers, handmade soaps, candles and sentimental mugs for your special person. You can shop online here or come to the store located on AHRC Nassau’s campus at 189 Wheatley Rd. Brookville, NY.   

Hours are by appointment at (516) 423-5329.