From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

As we celebrate Black History Month here in New York and across the nation, we reflect on the movements that have shaped our progress toward equality. The civil rights movement and the disability rights movement have fought parallel battles—both demanding dignity, inclusion, and the removal of systemic barriers that prevent full participation in society.

Yet, history tells us that these struggles often unfolded separately. Black Americans with disabilities have long faced a dual fight—against racism and ableism—making their path to equality even more challenging. Here in New York, a state at the heart of so many social justice movements, we recognize that true equity cannot exist without acknowledging and addressing these intersections.

Black history, disability rights, and all movements for justice are part of the larger American story. They remind us that our strength lies in diversity, and our future depends on ensuring that every person—regardless of race or ability—has the opportunity to live, work, and thrive.

This month, as we honor Black history, we also celebrate the people in our own community who continue to break barriers, redefine what’s possible, and inspire change. In the stories below, you’ll read about people with developmental disabilities who are achieving personal milestones, advocating for themselves and others, and helping to shape a more inclusive world. Their journeys remind us that progress isn’t just about history—it’s about the work we continue to do today.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Self-Advocates Share Life Plans During Person-Centered Planning Presentation Groups

Quality Assurance (QA) Trainer and self-advocate Michelle Rudoff teamed up with QA Administrator Colleen Tapia to organize ongoing life planning support for people receiving services. Colleen and Michelle launched Person-Centered Planning presentation meetings in 2024 with two successful sessions and held their third on January 9, 2025.

“We want to help the people who we support reach their goals and dreams,” Michelle said.

We just finished our third group that we started at the Compass validation visit last year. We would like to do two a year.”

Activities Specialist Celebrates 
Lunar New Year with Creative Luncheon

Day Habilitation Services at AHRC Nassau offer people opportunities to connect with their community, engage in new experiences, and build meaningful relationships.

On January 29, this came to life as people supported in Jericho North Broadway, Hicksville, and Farmingdale day sites traveled to Plainview for a Lunar New Year luncheon organized by Activities Specialist Amy Yeung.

“I wanted to talk about my culture more,” said Amy. “My goal was to bridge gaps and share knowledge that can enhance our collective experiences.” 

Empowering People Through Digital Literacy

Disability service agencies have the unique opportunity to benefit people through supports and services while tackling additional challenges they face in daily life. This was the case on January 31, when Personal Outcome Measures (POM) Department Coordinator Susan Gil Orange along with CQL (Council on Quality and Leadership) Certified POM Interviewers, Kate Zimmerman and Samantha Rodonis facilitated the first in a series of digital literacy workshops for people supported. 

That Friday, 35 people receiving Day Habilitation Services, along with their support staff, traveled from Freeport sites six, seven, and one; Mott Street; Seaford; and Jericho North Broadway to Brookville to attend the training. 

Together We Can Make A Difference

Proposed cuts to Medicaid funding are currently being discussed which threaten the home- and community-based services people with disabilities depend on every day.

Make your voice heard and urge representatives to protect these critical services.

Send a letter to your representatives now with one click. 

Stay informed and get involved with AHRC Nassau and fellow advocates to further promote disability rights. Visit our Advocacy Center to stay connected and updated on critical issues and help defend disability rights.

CEO Stanfort J. Perry Awarded at Nassau County 
Dome Lighting Ceremony

During a wonderful evening of commemoration and community empowerment, CEO Stanfort J. Perry was honored alongside three impactful Black leaders for contributions made throughout their lives and careers. 

The Black History Month Dome Lighting Ceremony kick-off event took place on February 5, at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building, celebrating this year’s theme, “Telling the Story of How We Overcome.”

Stanfort was highlighted for demonstrating excellence throughout his 35 years of leadership and in his current role leading AHRC Nassau and affiliate agencies.

The Blanche Fierstein Memorial Scholarship seeks to award an exceptional candidate pursuing an advanced degree in the field of special education.

Applications for this $5,000 grant are due by April 1, 2025. Learn More

This presentation on end-of-life healthcare decisions for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) will focus on New York State’s Family Health Care Decisions Act (FHCDA).

Learn More