AHRC Nassau

Dear Families and Friends,

June is always a busy season filled with cherished traditions—from the AHRC Foundation Rose Ball and Juneteenth—to much-anticipated new beginnings like the Week of Belonging and opening of Camp Loyaltown’s summer session.

With so much happening, I’m reminded of the many advocates, families, staff, volunteers and friends in the community who make all of this possible. Through our shared commitment, we continue to advance the vision of a world where all people are valued.

Our engaged network is especially important now as Medicaid funding and SNAP face proposed cuts impacting the people supported by Citizens Options Unlimited and their families. Let’s use our collective voice to ensure our programs remain fully funded. Visit our Advocacy Center to learn more and join our one-click campaign. Thank you for being a part of our community and joining us to protect an inclusive future for all.

Best Regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

Let the Summer Begin! Session 1 Starts at Camp Loyaltown

Camp Loyaltown 2025 Pre-Camp Emails Camp Begins 3

On June 15, Session 1 campers arrived at our beautiful camp in Hunter, New York, starting what promises to be the best summer at Camp Loyaltown.

Among those arriving was Anthony Rossi, who first attended camp in 2019. This year marks his long-awaited return—an experience he’s been eagerly anticipating.

“I like to go swimming in that big pool,” Anthony shared when asked about his favorite camp experiences. “Those beautiful animals are my favorite.”

In addition to the activities and outdoor fun, Anthony enjoys connecting with fellow campers and counselors. This year, he hopes to make first-time campers feel welcome and at ease—Anthony remembers how nervous he was his first time at camp.

Read More at our Blog

Celebrating Partnership and Possibility:
The 75th Annual AHRC Foundation Rose Ball

The AHRC Foundation’s 75th Annual Rose Ball was more than a celebration—it was a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when community, commitment, and compassion come together. Held June 12 at Oheka Castle, the event brought together families, board members, and corporate partners to raise needed funds in support of children and adults with developmental disabilities across Long Island.

“This evening, we don’t just raise a glass—we raise expectations,” said Tom Rosicki, President of the AHRC Foundation Board of Directors and Master of Ceremonies. “Because there’s always more we can do to support children and adults with developmental disabilities. Tonight, as we gather for the 75th annual AHRC Rose Ball, we celebrate partnership, possibility—and people.”

Honorees included Joshua Lamberg, CEO and Founder of Signers National | Lamb Insurance Services, who received the 2025 Leadership Award, and The Long Island Wine & Liquor Sales Club, honored with the Foundation’s first-ever Cornerstone Award for nearly eight decades of dedicated fundraising and advocacy.

The evening raised over $340,000 to support education, employment, healthcare, and community-based opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities. These funds benefit Citizens Options Unlimited programs—including residential supports, recreation, and other services that enrich the lives of those we support.

We are especially grateful to the families and Citizens Board members who joined us and helped make this evening—and its impact—possible.

CLICK HERE for more images

View Rose Ball Page

From Shoreham to Hunter: Citizens’ Week of Belonging

The Citizens Options Unlimited community came together to celebrate the many cultures and traditions that make our community so vibrant, inclusive, and strong at the Week of Belonging, June 11–20, across our campuses.

Building on last year’s Day of Belonging at the Shoreham Intermediate Care Facility (ICF), the Citizens Options Unlimited Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee expanded the celebration into a full week to ensure that everyone had the opportunity to share and connect.

Throughout the week, people supported by Residential and Family Support Services, along with staff, enjoyed activities, cultural displays and performances, and delicious food.

“Everyone is having fun, especially the people we support,” said Marta Garavito, the Director of the Helen Kaplan Center Intermediate Care Facility. The Helen Kaplan campus was transformed into a buzzing party celebrating India, Colombia, and the United States. To add to the celebration, everyone got on the dance floor as DJ Jumpin’ Johnny G played popular party tunes.

Nurses Recognized for Excellence at Annual Luncheon

The Nursing Team at Citizens Options Unlimited rises to the challenge every day leading with talent and expertise.

Recognizing their important work, Citizens Options Unlimited held its annual Nurse Recognition Luncheon at the Brookville Mansion on May 22 celebrating the many ways nurses ensure the health, safety, and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities across our family of organizations.