From the Desk of the CEO

Dear Families and Friends,

AHRC’s legacy of advocacy and excellence began with our founding families. Now, it’s our turn.

This year’s Rose Ball was a sparkling tribute to 75 years of connection and inclusion, made even more special by such exceptional honorees: Leadership Award Recipient Joshua Lamberg and Cornerstone Award Recipient, the Long Island Wine & Liquor Club.

As we gather for events like Rose Ball, Buzz and Bloom Day at Wheatley Farms, or the AHRC Volunteer Dinner, we see the importance of our community—and how it’s strongest when we stay connected and focused on our mission.

Now, more than ever before, we must stand together to protect critical government funding that people we support depend on—Medicaid and SNAP. These resources must remain fully funded to ensure the continued health, independence, and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities. Join us in sharing your support at www.ahrc.org/advocate.

Thank you for all the ways you show up for the people we support and for each other. Together, we can advance a more inclusive future for all.

Best regards,

Stanfort J. Perry

AHRC Nassau Celebrates Outstanding Volunteers

The Annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner on June 5 at the Brookville Mansion welcomed more than 100 friends, family, staff, and supporters to celebrate the extraordinary impact of volunteers across our shared community.

Among the honorees was longtime volunteer Susan Carmen, who received The Lenny Tucker Service Award for contributing nearly 500 hours of volunteer service since 2017. Each week, Susan has shared her creativity with people supported at Oceanside Road—using the power of art to create empowerment through self-expression and connection.

Brian’s Voice: Advocacy in Action Through Voting and Leadership

During our Compass Validation visit, self-advocate Brian Johnson sat with Lisa Petrocci-Clay, Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) Standards Compliance Analyst, for an interview.

As Day Hab Council President, Brian spoke about his advocacy and leadership during our recent voting initiative which empowered hundreds of people to use their voice through the power of the ballot box.

Lisa’s role is to assess how agencies meet Compass’ criteria. She spoke with Brian to better understand how the agency supports him to achieve his goals. With support from Activity Specialist Sue Limiti, Brian shared what drives his advocacy work.

Spring in Full Bloom: Celebrating Buzz and Bloom Day at Wheatley Farms

Wheatley Farms & Arts Center welcomed guests for a joyful celebration of spring, learning, and connection at Buzz and Bloom Day on June 5.

The event featured pollinator education, mindfulness activities, and hands-on crafts inspired by the farm’s natural beauty. From creating bookmarks with farm-grown flowers to sipping lavender lemonade and visiting friendly farm animals, each activity offered a chance to explore new interests in a sunny, welcoming setting—and enjoy the season together as a community.

To stay in the loop about upcoming workshops and events, sign up for updates at www.ahrc.org/WheatleyFarms.

New Sensory Garden Blossoms Thanks to North Woodmere/Valley Stream Auxiliary of AHRC Nassau

Flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables await to delight the senses at the new sensory garden at the Wheatley Farms & Arts Center in Brookville.

Opened on May 21, Wheatley Farms’ Outdoor Learning Garden was made possible by a generous $15,000 donation from the North Woodmere/Valley Stream Auxiliary of AHRC Nassau.

This dedicated group, with deep roots in the AHRC community, has supported the organization for decades through consistent and meaningful fundraising efforts.

Special thanks to Auxiliary members Martha Carney and Joan Crane, Co-Presidents; Linda McDonald, Treasurer; and Harietta Traversa and Dawn Tortora-Morici, AHRC Nassau Board Members. These longstanding Auxiliary members bring personal commitment and active involvement to their advocacy, helping further AHRC’s mission every day.

“Defiant Joy” at the Huntington Pride Parade

Pride was in full stride as members of the AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited community proudly marched behind the PrideAbility banner at the 35th Annual Long Island Pride Parade in Huntington.

PrideAbility provides a welcoming space for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community to connect, express themselves, and advocate.

This year’s parade theme “Defiant Joy” reflects the resilience and spirit of a community that, 35 years ago, was denied a permit to march. As the LGBT Network, the parade’s organizer, shared on their website, “We defied. We celebrated. And we never stopped.”

Want to share your support for an event promoting positivity and inclusion? Tag AHRC Nassau on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Striking Up Smiles at Last Bowling Event of the Season

The Spring Bowling League wrapped up its final Saturday with a “crazy hats” theme—and it was a blast! Check out all the fun in our photo gallery.

75 Years Celebrated at Rose Ball 2025

On June 12, the AHRC Foundation celebrated its 75th Annual Rose Ball at Oheka Castle—a wonderful evening honoring decades of advocacy, generosity, and partnership within the Long Island intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) community. The event raised over $340,000 to support programs and services, including those led by AHRC Nassau.

“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, we celebrate partnership, possibility, and people.”

Tom Moore, Rose Ball Chairman and AHRC Nassau Board Member, also shared his thanks. “A successful evening like this reflects something much deeper—it reflects a community that shows up and stands together for the people we support. Thank you for making this mission your own.”

Wheatley Farms Catering

Wheatley Farms Catering offers delicious weekly specials! Local to Long Island? Give us a try!

Catering options also available. The Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers high-quality, personalized services for all your catering needs. Situated on a beautiful and pristine 20-acre estate in Brookville, NY, the Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers a timeless setting with modern dishes for any celebration, big or small!

At Wheatley Farms, we are dedicated to inclusivity. We take pride in providing employment opportunities for people of all abilities. We empower people to gain valuable skills in the culinary arts, fostering independence and self-confidence.

Coming Up

Sibling Barbecue

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

June 26, 2025 | 5:00pm - 7:00pm | Brookville Mansion

One Stop Gift Shop Celebrates Pride!

June is Pride Month — a time to stand together in support of love, equality, and inclusion. Join us in celebrating by shopping our Pride-themed merchandise — including tshirts, lanyards, and more from across the agency.

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