From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

It’s been a busy spring season, full of growth, progress, and much to celebrate. It’s a testament to the importance of our mission and you — our engaged community of advocates.

I’m proud to share that AHRC Nassau remains one of four agencies in New York State to hold Compass designation. Alongside sister agency Citizens Options Unlimited, we recently completed a successful three-day Compass validation visit with New York State’s Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

During this busy week of interviews and program visits, auditors connected with people supported, self-advocates, family members, staff and volunteers at a number of events. This visit was a valuable chance to show how person-centered supports can lead to real choice and more fulfilled lives, while also identifying areas for improvement. My sincere thanks to the auditors and everyone from our community who participated in this important process.

Another success to share is New York State’s investment in disability services. Because of your advocacy, the enacted FY2025-26 state budget includes a 2.6% targeted inflationary increase. When combined with Governor Hochul’s 2024 rate rebasing, this results in a nearly 15% rate increase for our largest programs and services. As we use our one-click campaign to spotlight our needs, I also encourage you to take a moment to thank the governor and our state officials for their commitment to a strong future for people with developmental disabilities and their families. 

As we celebrate progress in New York State, we must keep advocating for Medicaid – a lifeline for people with developmental disabilities and their families. The Budget Reconciliation Bill passed the house and is now in the senate. Sharing your support matters. It’s one of the most important ways to educate lawmakers on who we are and how important Medicaid funding is to us.

As always, thank you for your continued engagement and support. By working together, we can continue to ensure the very best for the people we support, now and in the future.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Mental Health Awareness Month: How Nijah White Builds Resilience and Strength in a Supportive Environment

Nijah White recently moved to a new home, a place that gives her the added privacy that comes with having her own room. It’s something she has been working toward for a while with the help of her aunt, care manager, and the staff of her former residence. Nijah is 32 years old, receives Day Services on weekdays, and lives with autism while also managing anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder.

To manage her mental health, she attends therapy regularly and takes medication. She has ups and downs and is still learning about herself. She also has goals of becoming more independent by moving into a supported apartment, securing a job, and improving her financial literacy.

Portledge School Students Join People Supported by Day Services in Community Service Projects

Preparing for Mother’s Day, the men and women supported by Pre-Vocational Services (Pre-Voc) got to work in April and May creating heartfelt crafts and keepsakes for pop-up sales across AHRC’s offices in Brookville, Plainview, and Freeport. These pop-ups give everyone at the agency a chance to find the perfect gift, while offering people supported by Pre-Voc the opportunity to build employment skills.

Empowerment on Display: Personal Outcome Measures (POMs) Rally Highlights Social Roles

During Compass Validation Week, the Brookville mansion ballroom was filled with excitement and purpose as over 70 people supported by Day Services gathered for a Personal Outcome Measures (POMs) Rally. This spirited event centered on themes of independence, empowerment, values, and community impact—core elements that define a meaningful quality of life.

Advocate To Make A Difference

The House has voted. The Senate is next!

Medicaid cuts are imminent and threaten the services people with disabilities depend on every day.

Remind lawmakers that Medicaid is a lifeline program.

Voice your concerns NOW. 

Stay informed and get involved with AHRC Nassau and fellow advocates to further promote disability rights. Visit our Advocacy Center to share thanks to NYS lawmakers for making landmark investments in disability services. 

Wheatley Farms and Arts Center Meditation Garden Unveiled at 
Spring Reception

On May 7, 2025, people supported by AHRC Day Services explored volunteer opportunities and new interests at the Day of Community Engagement, a volunteer and activities fair at Wheatley Farms and Arts Center spotlighting 17 organizations dedicated to giving back to Long Island. Many of the participating groups already enjoy strong connections with AHRC’s community and were eager to share more opportunities to get involved.

Among the organizations were Tender Loving Cats, which collaborates with Day Services on recycling projects, and the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter, whose representatives periodically visit Day Services locations with friendly dogs.

Coming Up

Inform Me Learning Series

Attendees will gain valuable insight into a variety of person-centered programs that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Nassau and Suffolk County.

June 3, 2025 | 6:00pm - 7:00pm | Zoom

Virtual Siblings Group Meeting

We will follow a light agenda and invite each person to share on how their family member is doing, the challenges and successes!

June 5, 2025 | 6:00pm - 7:30pm | Zoom

AHRC Foundation Rose Ball

Join us at our Annual Rose Ball! A festive evening dedicated to raising funds for children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Thursday, June 12, 2025 | 7pm-11pm | Oheka Castle Huntington, NY

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