NEWS Fall 2019 Vol. 68 Issue 1
www.ahrc.org
AHRC Nassau Holds Banner High at Disability Pride Parade in NYC With banners and heads held high, more than 40 people from AHRC Nassau’s Residential Self-Advocacy Council marched in this year’s Disability Pride Parade on Sunday, July 14, in New York City, hosted by Disability Pride NYC, Inc. Joining thousands of disability advocates from across the metro area, advocates followed the route from Madison Square Park to Union Square West, rallying for disability pride, alongside agencies, including New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc., AHRC New York City and the New York City Mayor’s Office for People With Disabilities. At a time when people with disabilities remain under-represented, disability pride is an important call to action. Self-advocates from AHRC Nassau chose to participate in the parade, and assist in the parade’s objective of creating greater inclusion, awareness and visibility – for people with disabilities as unique individuals and as part of a larger disability community. Self-advocate Carolyn Williams said she wanted to join the parade to be a part of a greater community who share her experience of having a disability. Her sentiment was echoed by self-advocate Catherine Fox, who proudly observed, “Everyone in the parade was like me!”
“Remember, the only disability in life is a bad attitude!” – Corinne Kennedy
Hampton Court House Manager
Read more about how Corinne stays inspired on page 11.
Standing side by side fellow disability advocates was important, but equally important was the joyful recognition from parade-goers. Self-advocate Alex Aynat “felt special going to the parade.” He said, “I didn’t know so many people cared about us.” Self-advocate Maryanne Adreance recalled, “I liked seeing all the people along the way cheering us on.” This empowering opportunity for self-advocates was the result of significant planning and facilitation by AHRC Nassau Residential Managers Peggy Cruz and Corinne Kennedy, who drew on a combined 30 years of experience to prepare transportation, support staff and other important logistics so that self-advocates could focus on the unique experience of being a part of disability pride. (cont. on page 3)
Mission: AHRC Nassau empowers people to live fulfilling lives. Together with Family – Friends – Community
Vision: Maximizing potential throughout a lifetime
Value Statements: We believe that… • All people must be treated with dignity and respect • Partnering with people and families creates the best opportunities • A competent and compassionate workforce is integral to providing quality supports • We are committed to diversity and cultural sensitivity • Innovative approaches are essential for advancement and growth • Financial sustainability is necessary for organizational success
BIG TREE FARMS ARRIVES ON THE GOLD COAST OF LONG ISLAND
AHRC NASSAU HISTORY
In the late 1940’s there was no place outside of a state institution for people with developmental disabilities. Following the end of WWII, parents began coming together to create opportunities for their children with developmental disabilities beyond the walls of the institution.
Table of Contents Advocacy/Leadership Disability Pride Parade in NYC
1918-Construction is completed, and Big Tree Farms arrives on the Gold Coast of Long Island. James N. Hill and his wife, Marguerite, were prominent horticulturists. On their 230-acre estate called Big Tree Farm, they bred Holstein and Ayrshire cattle, grew 769 species of trees and had three large duck ponds. The Hills interests included arboriculture, gardening, horses, tennis, shooting and golf. The Hills home was considered one of the East Coast’s showplaces and was the site of lavish events.
Marguerite Sawyer Hill’s large jewelry collection, which included diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires and heirloom pieces, was robbed. Her jewerly was valued at over$359,000 (equivalent to over $5.2 million in 2018).
The name of the estate, ‘Big Tree Farm,’ derives from a massive sycamore tree that sits on the estate.
1918
1920
The Hill’s were on the Social Register, a semi-annual publication in the United States that indexes the members of high society. Inclusion in the Social Register was once so important for members of Society
The AHRC Nassau chapter was founded by such parents – parents who believed that their children “could be helped” if given the opportunity and support. They established an active board of directors to guide the fledgling organization, a network of local volunteer auxiliaries, and a staff of caring professionals to meet the individual needs of each child and adult served in AHRC’s programs. The strength of the board, volunteers and staff has been the enduring hallmark of AHRC’s growth and development.
1942- Big Tree Farm is robbed!
1932
1935
1942
1948
1932James Norman Hill passes away
1949
1950- New Hyde Park School opens 1950- First summer program begins in New Castle
1950
1949- First organizational meeting for Long Island takes place at the Carle Place Fire House on October 25th 1949. The Long Island Chapter of was voted into existence. Subsequently, the Long Island Chapter split into the Nassau County Chapter and the Suffolk Chapter..
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Events Staff Appreciation Day
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AHRC Rose Ball
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1920-The 19th amendment to the US Constitution granted American women the right to vote, a right known as women’s suffrage, and was ratified on August 18, 1920.
1935- The Social Security Act of 1935 became US Law; it provided federally funded old-age benefits and funds to states for assistance to people who are blind and children with disabilities.
1948Marguerite Sawyer Hill Davis passes awayway
The Act also extended existing vocational rehabilitation programs.
Program Highlights PrideAbility Conference
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One Stop Gift Shop Anniversary
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Art Seminar at Local Art Guild
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Women’s Health Fair
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Sibling Barbeque
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Family Seminar Series on Dementia
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Levine Sings at Mets Game
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In 2019, we’re celebrating AHRC Nassau’s 70th anniversary. Learn more about our community’s history and continued
commitment to empowering people of all abilities: www.ahrc.org/ourhistory
Volunteer Spotlight Nassau BOCES – Barry Tech 10 Allergan 10
Staff Spotlight
See how women in our program learned more about available health and wellness opportunities on page 7.
Meet Our Team Profile 11
Check out how Allergan’s Day of Service was spent beautifying the AHRC Greenhouse on page 10.
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Events Continue Our Tradition of Excellence Staff Appreciation Day 2019: An Amazing Day, An Amazing Staff
At Staff Appreciation Day, over 1,100 staff from AHRC Nassau, Brookville Center for Children’s Services, Citizens Options Unlimited and Advantage Care Health Centers enjoyed a full day of music, health, games, food and fellowship. Across Long Island, team members from AHRC’s family of organizations support children and adults with developmental disabilities. From DSPs to nurses to psychologists to maintenance, our team focuses on putting the people they support first and finding new opportunities for visibility and inclusion in the community. Staff Appreciation Day shines a spotlight directly on a dedicated team of all abilities, backgrounds and gifts. Special thanks to the Diversity Committee for creating this unforgettable experience for one of the largest and hardest working teams on Long Island.
For more photos and video, please visit www.ahrc.org/staffappreciation
(cont. from page 1, front cover)
“The parade is always a lot of fun,” said Peggy. “It is a great way for people with disabilities and those that support them to cheer, march and be proud. As a supporter and strong advocate for people with disabilities, it was an honor to march alongside such amazing, strong people.” Corinne shares Peggy’s passion for the event and understanding of how the parade taps into the need for greater visibility. “I choose to be a part of this event because I love that it gives people a platform to redefine the public’s perception of people that are living with disabilities. By attending, I am given the chance to witness the people of AHRC Nassau in a judgment-free space surrounded by people all working towards the same goal; to spread awareness of the challenges people with disabilities face each day,” said Corinne. “The people I attend the parade with each year always say, ‘I love walking to help people with special needs,’ ‘I love talking to the news about who I am’ and ‘It was fun because I got to celebrate me; it was so awesome!’” said Corinne. “This event not only allows people to advocate for themselves, but also provides staff with an opportunity to facilitate in the growth of those we work with.” AHRC Nassau has participated in the parade since it first began five years ago. The Disability Pride Parade was started in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and has evolved into an annual parade celebrating and building awareness of the local disability community.
Following the excitement and energy of the 2019 parade, planning has already begun for next year.
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Events Continue Our Tradition of Excellence On June 14, Nassau County AHRC Foundation celebrated its commitment to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities at its 69th Annual Rose Ball. The Foundation proudly honored our Leadership Award Recipient Neal L. Sweeney, Marketing Executive at CIGNA Healthcare, and Humanitarian Award Recipient Judge Gail Prudenti, Dean and Executive Director, Center for Children, Families and the Law, Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University.
Together with our honorees, corporate sponsors and families, we raised over $400,000!
Neal L. Sweeney, Marketing Executive at CIGNA Healthcare (center), accepted the AHRC Foundation 2019 Leadership Award. Sweeney is joined by (from left) AHRC Nassau President Paul Giordano, AHRC Foundation President Thomas P. Rosicki, Esq., AHRC Nassau Executive Director Stanfort J. Perry and Rose Ball Chair Thomas F. Moore.
Judge Gail Prudenti, Dean and Executive Director, Center for Children, Families and the Law, Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University (center-left), was honored with the AHRC Foundation 2019 Humanitarian Award. Judge Prudenti is joined by (from left) AHRC Nassau Executive Director Stanfort J. Perry, Rose Ball Chair Thomas F. Moore, The Arc New York President Saundra M. Gumeove, Esq., AHRC Foundation Board President Thomas P. Rosicki, Esq. and AHRC Nassau President Paul Giordano.
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Congratulations to Danielle Burke For Receiving the 2019 Blanche Fierstein Award Danielle is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science in Special Education at Ball State University, class of 2020. As a teenager she volunteered at an AHRC hub site and has continued professionally as a Teacher’s Assistant and most recently as a Care Manager. She is described as “a fierce advocate” “willing to put in the extra work to ensure people have what they need” and “has a genuine love for working with people with developmental disabilities.” Danielle is inspired by her grandfather, the late Bernie Monson, former President of AHRC Nassau; her mother, Diane; and her late aunt Christine Monson who she describes as “the most affectionate person I’ve ever had the pleasure of loving.”
Danielle Burke (center), a master’s degree candidate in Special Education at Ball State University, received the AHRC Nassau Blanche Fierstein Scholarship Award from (left) AHRC Nassau President Paul Giordano and Andrea Fierstein.
Douglas Golub, president of Rose Ball Principal Underwriter, MediSked, spends cocktail hour with The Arc New York President Saundra M. Gumerove, Esq.
(From left) Benjamin Senders, Mark Senders and Josh Senders, principals at Rose Ball Champion Sponsor, Pilot|RB, enjoy the evening’s festivities.
AHRC Foundation Board Member Thomas Gulotta, Esq., and Angela Laterza catch up at the annual event.
Cara and Josh Lamberg, principals for Rose Ball Underwriter Sponsor, Lamb Insurance Services, join in commemorating the Foundation’s important work.
The students of Brookville Center for Children’s Services prepared songs and a drum circle for a spotlight performance.
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Coming Together to Celebrate Our Community First Regional PrideAbility Conference Held at AHRC Nassau
The PrideAbility Conference was a first-of-its-kind regional conference held on Long Island, offering people who stand at the intersection of LGBTQ+ and as part of the disabilities community a unique opportunity to learn and grow. Hosted by AHRC Nassau, the keynote address from Brooke Guinan, an FDNY firefighter and transgender rights advocate, spoke to the issue of living one's best life through self-advocacy and developing strong support networks.
One Stop Gift Shop Celebrates Anniversary
The One Stop Gift Shop at 113 Levittown Parkway in Hicksville, NY its first amazing year and many accomplishments on Friday, June 28. Offering retail experience to volunteers with developmental disabilities, the One Stop Gift Shop provides a wide range of gifts for every occasion — seasonal gifts, jewelry, accessories, home dÊcor and art work. All proceeds are donated to local organizations to strengthen the fabric of the local community and spread kindness. Over the past year, two of the volunteers/interns, Dinora Gomez and Frank Lopez, have successfully transitioned the skills they learned at the store, and are now working at paying jobs in the community. One Stop continues to focus on building a stronger community through giving. A donation was made to the Dutch Ave. Elementary School Library for books supporting their Character Education Program.
For store hours and more information, please visit www.ahrc.org/onestop
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Coming Together to Celebrate Our Community The Art Guild of Port Washington Hosts an Afternoon of Watercolor and Art Appreciation for AHRC Artists
Think summer on Long Island, and images of sun and sand immediately come to mind. These essential summer elements were incorporated into a unique workshop hosted by The Art Guild of Port Washington for nine artists from the AHRC East Meadow Art Gallery on June 27. Made possible by a grant from The Peter and Jeri Dejana Family Foundation, The Art Guild welcomed the artists with a gallery tour and discussion of a recent exhibit, before spending the afternoon creating individual and group watercolors with sand and the bright sun outside.
Women’s Health Fair Offers “Passport” to Greater Health
With blank passports in hand, attendees of the Women’s Health and Wellness Fair, “Passport to Your Best Life,” in May, visited engaging learning stations to connect on issues important to a woman’s personal empowerment and health journey, including gynecological care, LGBTQ support, dance and fitness, sexual health, nutrition, care of skin, hair, hands and nails, fashion, stress reduction, emotional support, breast health, anti-bullying, recreation, and self-advocacy.
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Coming Together to Celebrate Our Community Sibling Barbeque Brings Together Family and Friends
For adults with special needs, siblings are often their longest and most profound relationship. Like Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, our Sibling Barbeque on June 13 in Brookville was an intimate celebration of this special relationship as well as the community of peer support for brothers and sisters – some of whom were the very first people our organization supported at the Brookville mansion.
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Coming Together to Celebrate Our Community Seminar About Dementia and Disabilities Held at Bethpage Public Library
AHRC launched a new seminar, “Understanding Dementia - What Every Caregiver Should Know,” in response to the issues many families face supporting loved ones with disabilities and dementia. Held at the Bethpage Public Library, Erin Marciante, Senior Behavior Intervention Specialist, and Julie Cannet, Assistant Director of Psychology Services, guided participants through the changes that occur with dementia and raised awareness of this progressive disease. As a result of this seminar, several participants are now working closely with facilitators to start a family support group. Those interested in learning more about an upcoming group may contact Julie Cannet at 516.293.2016, ext. 5344 or jcannet@ahrc.org.
Adam Levine Sings National Anthem at Mets Game
AHRC’s own Adam Levine sang the national anthem at a recent Mets game. Thanks to a generous grant from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support AHRC Nassau’s recreation program, 92 people supported by AHRC and 58 staff were able to attend the Mets game and cheer on Adam.
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Volunteers Making a Difference in Our Community Nassau BOCES – Barry Tech Taps AHRC Nassau for Charity Champions
New growth in AHRC Nassau’s horticultural program will have the opportunity to flourish with expanded offerings for the local community as a result of cable television provider, Altice USA, and Altice Charity Champions participant Nassau BOCES – Barry Tech, who chose to support AHRC as part of its volunteer efforts. While Altice USA generously presented a $1,000 check for the program, Barry Tech students worked with AHRC Nassau Day Habilitation participants to add finish to planters and picnic tables as well as assemble a chicken coop.
Allergan Beautifies AHRC Greenhouse Grounds During Day of Service
Once again, the grounds of the AHRC Greenhouse will be ready for a new crop of bright flowers and greenery, after the hard work of nearly 40 volunteers from the pharmaceutical company, Allergan. Spending three hours in the bright, summer sun, volunteers worked alongside AHRC’s landscaping crew and Employment Services team to plant flowers, pull weeds and sweep. Their dedication to these tasks created new opportunities for many on our campus to again enjoy all our greenhouse has to offer.
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Team Leaders Exemplify Agency Excellence Peggy Cruz Peggy is the manager of the Orchard Drive residence and has been with the agency for 21 years. She is responsible for a medically hands-on home with the consistent struggles of staffing and meeting the needs of those who live there. She works longs hours and does all that she can to ensure the people we support have everything they need. She takes the time to find ways to en-
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sure community integration in addition to giving those who live there a voice. Peggy is always thinking ahead and shares good feedback when asked to make changes within the program that work for everyone.
Over the past 21 years, whether it has been at Camp Loyaltown, Brookville Day Treatment, the Hicksville ICF or Orchard Drive, all of the guys and gals that I have worked with over the years have taught me so much and knowing them has made me a better person.
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Disability pride has been defined as accepting and honoring each person’s uniqueness and seeing it as a natural and beautiful part of human diversity.
- Corinne Kennedy
- Peggy Cruz
Hampton Court House Manager
Orchard Drive House Manager
Corinne Kennedy Corinne is the manager of the Hampton Court residence and has been with the agency for seven years. Corinne has a passion for the work that she does as she always looks for ways to improve Hampton for the people who live there. She makes time to come in on her day off and works with her staff to ensure they understand the complex needs of the home so that not only are the staff successful but the people supported are provided the best care with as little disruption as possible. Also, Corinne has managed three emergency situations over the past few months. Through her assistance, everyone returned to their homes in a better situation than when they left. Corinne is always willing to lend a helping hand and does an excellent job.
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Non-Profit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 31 Glen Head, NY
189 Wheatley Road, Brookville (Glen Head), NY 11545 inspire@ahrc.org
Calling All AHRC Angels Your gift to the Angel campaign creates
more options and innovative supports for children and adults with developmental
disabilities and turns today’s aspirations into tomorrow’s reality.
To make a gift or see a listing of 2018 angels, please visit
www.ahrcfoundation.org/angel
Upcoming Events Sept. 12 | 11 a.m. –7 p.m. Margiotta Memorial Golf Outing at The Muttontown Club Sept. 22 | 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. North Woodmere/Valley Stream Fall Fashion Show at Pompei Ristorante Sept. 29 | 10 a.m. –1 p.m. AHRC Walk in Eisenhower Park
Oct. 3 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Membership Luncheon and Fashion Show at AHRC Mansion For more event information, visit
www.ahrc.org/calendar