Franziscka Racker Center 2009 annual report by Stone Soup Creative

t he melo s i s s e c c dy o Su f

2009

ANNUAL R E PORT

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Executive Director: Roger R. Sibley Medical Director: C. Philip Meyer, M.D. BOARD OF DIRECTORS President: Mark G. Masler Vice-President: Phyllis Joyce Treasurer: George Schneider Secretary: Rick Cowan DIRECTORS Eugene C. Erickson Yvonne M. Everhart Dr. Jeffrey Lewis

tough economy makes everything harder. There are more stresses on families, businesses spend more time thinking about survival than distributing profits, governments start having to make choices they had not previously considered. Individuals who thought they were financially secure learned how quickly that can change.

Stephen Lipinski Brian McAree Gail Murphy Kate O’Connell John Rudd Howard Schler

At the end of 2009, Franziska Racker Centers was helping more people, employing more talented staff members, and providing more services, than at the beginning of the year. How did that happen?

Christine Schweitzer Kevin Shreve Kara Taylor Robin Tuttle James Willard EMERITI DIRECTORS Dave Dunlop Sam Forcucci Margaret Gibson

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All of our programs served a record number of people, bringing in more revenue.

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We were able to open two new homes for people with developmental disabilities.

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We managed our resources carefully, allowing us to spend less than budgeted.

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Big government cuts in funding did not greatly affect our service mix this year. Which makes us lucky.

Tom Longin Dan McNeil Dave Palmer Chuck Tompkins

As a not-for-profit human service organization, our posture every year is to be cautious and seek opportunities. We are used to not having a lot of money, and have learned to adjust and change. Helping people through collaborations with preschools, schools, and others has long been a cost effective way to work.

Fred A. (Ben) Williams ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS W. David Banfield Bob Bantle

It is our responsibility to be a reliable support for individuals with disabilities, for their families, and for the community. Thanks to a talented and dedicated staff, a highly responsible board of directors, and many wonderful friends, Franziska Racker Centers is ready for 2010.

Carolyn Bartell Sam Brewer Karin Burgess Daphne Cornell John Crosby

Roger Sibley

Richie Moran Sarah Rich, Ph.D. Thomas J. Smith Paul Steiger

Executive Director

James Turner, Ph.D.

Getting Ready for Kindergarten! F

ranziska Racker Centers’ Preschool Special Education Services are conducted in partnerships with day care or preschool programs. Our inclusive classrooms are located in Ithaca, Cortland and Van Etten and serve typical and special needs children in an integrated setting. Since our preschools serve children from age 3 to 5, kindergarten is just around the corner and preparing all children for this next step is a consistent focus. “I like that the teachers geared the activities towards education,” stated Kathy Zoner regarding her triplets experience at Franziska Racker Centers Preschool, “everyone cared about the kids, both their well-being and skill building.” The triplets -Mason, Alexandra and Violet- began at the Centers day care at 18 months of age in the toddler class and moved into the Centers’ preschool program and wrap-around day care at age 3. Though none of the three have a disability, their parents had concerns about their transition into the school system since the siblings are so close. “We took into consideration the suggestion of the Centers’ staff to split the triplets up in Kindergarten,” Kathy comments. “The Centers really helped with that transition by rotating each child out of their primary class for an entire day so they got used to being on their own.” Additionally, Kathy and her partner, Kathleen Pasetty, have found their children’s skill at identifying shapes, colors, and counting to be excellent. “We are blessed with kids that enjoy the school experience,” says Kathy, “but their preparation for the next step (kindergarten) is because the staff at the Centers really cared!”

Traci and Mike Washburn with their daughter Hayden.

Kathy Zoner and Kathleen Pasetty with their triplets Mason, Alex, and Violet.

The triplets are now finishing their first year of kindergarten at Trumansburg Elementary school and doing great. Hayden, now 5 years old, began attending the Centers’ program at 18 months of age. Hayden’s mom, Traci, credits both the toddler program teacher Mary Hause, and Hayden’s Special Education Preschool teacher Patrick Schloupt, with her progress. Traci also praises the therapists that worked with Hayden on her speech, physical mobility, and occupational skills. “Hayden began walking when she was in the special education preschool and the staff was so focused on her goals.” Hayden also attended the wrap-around day care program at the Centers which is staffed by many of the preschool classroom aides. Traci recalls, “Hayden’s best days were when she had the consistency of her preschool staff being with her in day care.” Upon her entrance into kindergarten, Traci was pleased to find that Hayden’s math and reading skills were advanced in comparison to the rest of her class. Overall, “she’s doing very well in kindergarten,” says Traci. Hayden is now using a FM system that works with her hearing aids which helps her hear the teacher directly and she also continues to receive occupational, physical and speech therapy. Traci and her husband, Mike, recently participated in a speakers’ panel at the Centers held for parents of incoming students into the preschool program to help them know what to expect. Traci reflects, “It brought tears to my eyes to see the tiny walker in the hallway that Hayden used to need, it was a real reminder of how far we have come. I can’t imagine where Hayden would be if she wouldn’t have been at the Centers in those early years.”

Success Story

Mark “I

Mark with Service Coordinator Amy Stone

should have done this ten years ago!” an enthusiastic Mark told his Service Coordinator Amy Stone after transitioning to his first independent living situation at the Ellis Hollow Apartments in Ithaca. When asked what he likes best about his new home, the thirty-nine year old’s face lights up with a huge grin as he responds, “I love it! All of it!”

Despite his current excitement over finally living on his own, according to Amy and his mother Jan, originally Mark wasn’t thrilled about leaving his family home; in fact he was downright resistant! His family and Amy believe that he was afraid of the unknown and of living alone after years of living with others. Amy recalls telling him over and over, “You have to keep an open mind,” as they considered his different housing options, including getting a roommate. Amy recalls the day she and Mark went to look at the Ellis Hollow Apartments. As Mark walked in the door of the building, he met at least four people who knew him from his work at the P&C supermarket and everyone greeted him cheerfully. Mark decided then and there that he wanted the apartment. He and Amy got an application, filled it out in the car, and returned it to the office. However, things didn’t go quite as planned. Just as Mark was about to move into his new home, Amy found out that there may not be enough funding remaining in the current Individual Support Service funding stream to provide assistance to Mark. Through Amy’s advocacy efforts, additional funds were secured to meet Mark’s need for a rental subsidy. They were also able to provide Mark with additional start-up funds for his new apartment to purchase needed household items.

returns home on most weekends for his mother’s home-cooked meals and to have his laundry done! Jake adds that when Mark first left, “It seemed strange and the house seemed really quiet without him,” especially in the morning when the two would often get up early together. However, he firmly believes that, “Even though Mark had cold feet, it was the best thing for him.” Like most parents, the two are happy to see their son settled in and doing well on his own. The apartment’s location is ideal for Mark as it’s just around the corner from the P&C where Mark has worked for twenty-three years, bringing in carts, handling the bottles and can returns, and helping the store’s cashiers. “Everybody loves Mark there,” says Jan, adding, “To them I’m not Jan; I’m just ‘Mark’s mom’!” Mark’s job is a big part of his identity and his conversation is often sprinkled with references to things his customers have said or done. Amy explains that he receives Supported Employment Services through Challenge and that he usually works about twenty-seven to thirty-three hours and has his paycheck deposited in the Cornell Federal Credit Union down the road. Jan adds that since Mark still has difficulty with small motor skills, writing checks is hard for him so when he gets his bills (rent, telephone, or Time Warner) in the mail he walks over to the credit union, has them make out a cashier’s check for him, and pays the bill. Mark agrees that this system has worked well

Mark’s parents, Jake and Jan, are very supportive of the move, feeling that Mark was ready to move on. Jan says with a smile, “We were all ready. I told him ‘You’ve got to get out of here!’” Jan also feels that Mark’s new living situation has positively impacted their relationship with him. Now when he visits on the weekends they can really enjoy their time together. And though Mark really likes his new-found independence, he still

Amy, Mark and his mother Jan in Mark’s apartment

for him, adding that he always pays on time because his mother once told him, “Never let your bills go more than two days without paying them!”

once a week for dinner. Mark and Jim also enjoy playing Bingo, hiking, and playing golf together. Additionally, Mark’s family is close-knit and he can often be found doing things like attending motocross races with Joe, going out to breakfast with Jake, or going on vacation to the Dominican Republic with Jan and his aunt. The whole family frequently has dinner at Joe’s house or goes camping together in the summer. On the rare occasions when he doesn’t have evening plans, Mark enjoys watching television in his apartment.

Mark isn’t limited to walking; he’s also proficient at taking the bus. His new apartment is more accessible to the bus routes than his parents’ home in Brooktondale, so on his days off he’ll often hop on TCAT and visit his father, his brother Joe, or his cousin who work at Cornell.

Amy explains that with his new living situation, Mark’s Day Service goals will be adjusted so they include strengthening his independent living skills. She would like to see Mark learn more budgeting and money management skills as well as learning how to feel increased confidence in cooking more complex meals by himself or for others in his apartment.

Like most parents, the two are happy to see their son settled in an doing well on his own.

With Amy and Mark’s planning, a variety of resources were put into places that have given Mark the opportunity to live independently. Amy would like to find a way for Mark to share his positive experience of living on his own to help other people served by the Centers to take advantage of the opportunity to live independently. “This is truly a great accomplishment,” Amy comments, “Mark’s ability to rise to the challenge and transition to his own apartment with the help of his family and the Centers is truly remarkable!”

According to Jan, Mark has been receiving services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech from the Centers since he was seven months old. He’s currently involved with the Centers’ Day Services program where he’s working on social skills. At the urging of his Community Support Staff, Jim Culla, Mark recently joined a singles group which meets

Success Story

Allie

Allie and her mother, Jennifer

“A

llie is amazing, she surprised us all,” exclaims Denise Price, Allie’s physical therapist. Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, when she first entered Franziska Racker Centers’ integrated classroom at the Spencer-VanEtten (SVE) Elementary School, three-yearold Allie was content to crawl around the classroom. However, with her physical therapist’s help and encouragement, she slowly progressed to using a walker. Then, according to her teacher Sally Lawrence, one day she suddenly “just made up her mind to walk!” Though a little hesitant and shaky at times, Allie is able to walk on level surfaces with minimal assistance from others, and she and Denise are currently working on the next step of learning to navigate stairs and uneven surfaces with adult help.

has found Allie’s favorite aide Pam Koski to be an invaluable resource to their therapy. “There is a fine line of support and independence when you work with kids and Pam is able to balance on that,” she remarks. Johanna believes that Allie’s determination and “spunk,” rather than being detrimental, are attributes which have worked to her advantage in overcoming her disability and she is often impressed with Allie’s perseverance as she tries to do more for herself. Allie’s increasing independence has also led to fewer meltdowns and power struggles as she’s now able to do more age-appropriate tasks, such as dressing herself.

Sally first started with Franziska Racker Centers as the special education teacher in the integrated classroom in Candor that began in 1992. She eventually transitioned to support the VanEtten/Franziska Racker Centers’ Integrated Preschool Program, where she’s been for the past ten years. There are two classrooms in the SVE program, each with five Franziska Racker Centers students and sixteen other children in them. The rooms are each staffed with a teacher’s assistant, an aide and four staff members, as well as either Sally or her assistant who “flip-flop” between the classes. Sally notes that one of the best things about the SVE program is that everyone works with all of the children in an environment of total inclusion.

Allie’s mom, Jennifer, observes that her daughter has made incredible gains with her speech therapist, Jody Mailloux, who’s done “a wonderful job.” Jennifer also feels that being in an integrated classroom with “all types of children” has helped Allie’s speech progress and improved her social skills too. Allie will be entering kindergarten in Waverly in the fall and her SVE team feels that she’ll transition well into the new setting. “She’s now able to do a lot of what other kids her age are doing,” Denise reflects, “She can successfully access the areas that she needs and wants to be in.”

Sally’s goal for all of the special needs children in her classroom is to help them “be the best they can be,” because “Who really knows what kids’ true potentials are… I’ve often found that what you expect from kids is what will happen.”

Both Sally and Denise agree, “It’s very exciting to see her walking. We’ve all benefitted from the experience of having Allie here.”

Occupational therapist Johanna Sparks has been working with Allie for two years on improving her fine motor skills. Johanna

Success Story

that Dallas would be fine, seeing her young son’s tearful face looking out the classroom window made her question herself. “I wondered if I was really doing the right thing for Dallas,” she recalls. Now, she says laughingly, “He’s always excited to go to school and he hates weekends!” Bill adds with certainty, “I would tell anyone to send their child that was having any type of problem to this program.”

Dallas

Initially Dallas wouldn’t speak to the adults or children in the classroom, instead growling at them. He wouldn’t follow classroom routines, and seemed to dislike everything and everyone. The Centers’ team members and his family met frequently to strategize and to discuss how to best meet Dallas’ needs. Specifically, the group wanted to ensure there was consistency both at home and school with the terminology and routines that Dallas was experiencing. Through the hard work and dedication of his team, (pictured at left) and his Above: Dallas with Classroom Aide parents, Dallas has gradually Chris Hubbell evolved into a friendly, social Left: Dallas with Social Worker Linda Kline, child who is often chosen by Occupational Therapist Renee Qamar, staff to serve as a role model Speech Therapist Kate Lui, and Special Education Teacher Patrick Schloupt Jr. for other children. “Other kids tend to follow him everywhere,” says Patrick, adding “It’s because of the way he carries himself; he’s non-threatening and every encounter with him is friendly and pleasant.” Though Dallas retreats much less these days, to keep his gains intact the team has developed a strategy where he sits with a small group of friends who show him that he can do things, even when he thinks he can’t. This is good for all of the children, allowing them to be role models and to draw on the different strengths they each have. Dallas has evolved from being unsure of himself in new situations, saying “I can’t do it, I need help,” to having increased confidence in his own abilities. He has even formed some reciprocal friendships where he’s able to negotiate games, express his own opinion, and to feel more confident in his choices, which Regina observes has been very exciting for him.

ive-year-old Dallas has made tremendous progress in the Franziska Racker Centers’ Preschool program, according to his teacher Patrick Schloupt Jr. “His success is a perfect example of what the Centers stands for. Open communication and everyone’s hard work have helped Dallas make some truly amazing gains!”

At the end of the school year Dallas will participate in his graduation ceremony before he enters kindergarten in Enfield next year. Though he’ll most likely continue to receive speech and occupational therapy services, the transition to elementary school is both “scary and exciting” for Regina and Bill.

When Dallas first entered Patrick’s integrated classroom, he was a very different child than he is today. His parents, Regina and Bill, still remember the first week they brought Dallas, who struggled with speech and language delays as well as motor skill challenges, to Wilkins Road. As they tried to leave he would cry and scream, begging to go home with them. Though reassured by Patrick

When Dallas leaves the Preschool at Wilkins Road, he’ll be given a photo of all of the teachers and staff that have worked with him to take home. Bill likes the idea but assures Patrick that, “He won’t forget about anyone here and neither will we!”

Success Story

Wally “W

ally’s success is a perfect example of teamwork, between his family, therapists, educators, and Wally himself,” says Franziska Racker Centers’ social worker Pamela Talbott. “We were all working together, not at cross-purposes, for the student,” adds Wally’s mom Anna. Now twelve years old on the verge of leaving the Turning Point program conducted in partnership with TST BOCES, Wally’s progress over the past two years has been phenomenal. The program is specifically for children with emotional disabilities, school difficulties, and learning challenges and each student receives the necessary support and individual attention (there is a high student-to-staff ratio) to help them become a contributing member of the Turning Point Community.

Noting that it was really hard for her to watch school staff and Wally trying to figure out how to connect with each other, Anna adds, “I think at times we all felt like giving up. Then suddenly it was like we turned a corner and ended up in a space where BOCES staff saw who Wally really was and we could begin to build on his strengths from there.” Anna says that to finally see Wally able to make eye contact, to show affection, and to joke with others, as well as to have found a safe place where he belongs and where he can learn to be himself, has been invaluable to her as a parent.

Diagnosed with Anxiety and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Wally’s behaviors included fear of older people, selective mutism, and frequently hiding from staff in small spaces like

I was able to see past his behaviors and to discover an appealing little boy, with a sense of humor, who was learning to handle disappointments, transitions, and successes.

In Wally’s case the “perseverance pays off” theme is predominant. Pam recalls that she began to connect with Wally when she was able to find the individual, a young person who was scared, unhappy, and angry. Through their regular sessions with board games or cards Pam notes, “I was able to see past his behaviors and to discover an appealing little boy, with a wonderful sense of humor, who was learning to handle disappointments, transitions, and successes.” Pam praises Anna for her consistency with Wally and his school team, saying, “She’s been amazing. She’s always here and always in communication with us.”

closets. Any change, transition, or perceived threat would result in episodes of extreme defiance, anger, and aggression including throwing things at staff, kicking, hitting, and biting. Anna explains that Wally always had behavioral issues, but that his behavior wasn’t as extreme at home which allowed some of his strengths to shine through. She says, “I knew the real Wally was in there; I just couldn’t find a way to let other people at school know too.”

Turning Point is a Circle of Courage school where the skills of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity toward others

Wally plays cards with Classroom Aide Becky Armstrong

Wally and his mother, Anna

Though he’s made incredible progress at school, Wally’s team agrees that he still has a few things to work on. Pam would like to see him learn to balance his individuality with staying within social parameters or, as she puts it, “There are times when you have to go along with the status quo. I’d like to see him be able to do that.” are emphasized and are believed to be essential for a student’s success in school and in the outside world.

Anna hopes that Wally can continue to become more involved in outside school activities with other kids like karate, swimming, or a Primitive Pursuits class.

When Wally first arrived, the Circle of Courage model was difficult for him to follow and his classroom teacher Laura Havill admits that their start was a rocky one. However, she didn’t let herself give up on Wally and now, in their second year together, she says Wally is a joy to have in her class. “He’s blossomed,” says Laura. “Every day there is some new growth!” Wally’s also doing much better with the other students. “He’s an idol to the other kids, the calm in the chaos,” Laura declares proudly.

Though Wally claims, “I want to stay here (his current program) forever!” the team and Anna feel that he realizes how much he’s grown and that it’s time for him to transition back into the community. With lots of encouragement, Wally has applied for admission to Lehman Alternative Community School for the coming fall. Saying goodbye will be bittersweet for everyone on Wally’s team. “We’ll have a harder time with him leaving than he will,” Pam acknowledges. “And, we’re not only losing him, we’re losing his mom too.” Anna agrees, “I’m going to go through withdrawal. Having someone like Pam to check in with whenever I need to has given me the support that I need to be there for the rest of my family (Wally has three other siblings) along with Wally.”

Becky Armstrong, Wally’s favorite classroom aide for the past four years, has worked with him the longest and has seen the most improvement in “the changes he’s made in himself and how he now has the ability to be part of a group.” Becky also praises Wally’s creativity and his great sense of humor, which are evident when you talk to him in his classroom. Wally, hard at work on Sudoku math boxes, seems to take his progress for granted, leaning back in the rolling chair he prefers, answering in monosyllables, and making faces like any other middle school boy when asked questions whose answers seem obvious to him. When he’s not in school he spends his time reading his favorite Harry Potter books and The Lightening Thief by Percy Jackson, seeing movies like Avatar, and taking photos for the South Hill Hoops which is the elementary school basketball team his dad coaches.

He’ll leave something of himself at Turning Point though. Pam won’t be able to look around her office without recalling the hours that she and Wally spent playing UNO, Skipbo, Apples to Apples, and other board games together. Laura still remembers the Christmas card that Wally made for her where he claimed, “You’re the best teacher ever!” and Becky cherishes her “Apple of Thank You” that students make for special staff. On it Wally wrote “I wish I could take you with me!”

The

The Racker Society are Special Friends who, by their thoughtful actions and planned giving, have helped to build and sustain Franziska Racker Centers for future generations.

Anonymous

Margaret I. Gibson

Henry C. Sibley, Jr.*

Robert B. Allan*

Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Haley

Roger and Carole Sibley

Mrs. Rose Beckwith*

Jeanette Hanford*

Agnes Smith*

Daniel and Eve Brown

Ms. Lillian T. Hoffman

George and Jean Smith*

Dr. and Mrs. William Chernish Judith K. Leavitt Don and Sue Dickinson Mrs. Jean Dunlavey*

Tom Longin and Nancy Tillinghast Mrs. Leonard Miscall*

Kevin P. Stearns Mr. John Stephens Mr. and Mrs. Cushing Strout Sidney L. Tamarin*

Dave and Peggy Dunlop

William and Helen Musto Trust

Mrs. John H. Ferger

Mr. Kust Polho*

Robert E. Fish Estate*

Franziska W. Racker*

Mr. William F. Fuerst, Jr.*

Sarah M. Rich

Ms. Olive L. Wilkinson*

Doris I. German*

Tom and Betsy Salm

Fred A. (Ben) Williams

Mr. Charles A Gibson*

Jody and Kent Scriber

Agnes Williams Estate

Pauline B. Treman* Sue Schattschneider and Jeff True

*Deceased

hen you contribute to Franziska Racker Centers you becomes a Friend of the Centers. If your contribution is $1000 or more, you become a Racker Fellows or Business Partner. Your generosity helps us to fill funding gaps, allows for program enhancement, and supports new and innovative services for people with disabilities in our community. We are thankful for the ongoing support of all our Friends, and fondly remember those that have left us, some in the past year.

Giving to the Centers

Some of our friends gave Gifts in Kind. These donations are items or services that directly enhance ongoing programs. Monetary gifts may have been given to Unrestricted Annual Support, allowing us to address areas of greatest need within the agency, or they may have been designated to one or more of the seven funds described below

Bohn Family Fund created by Donna and Tom Bohn, provides resources and supports for families with children having special needs. Frances G. Berko Lectureship Fund created in memory of Dr. Berko, the Centers’ executive director from 1964 to 1974, supports community education and professional development for those working in the disability field. Frances V. Wilson Memorial Fund created by Margaret Gibson in memory of her dear friend, provides financial support for needed items not covered by traditional funding sources. Franziska W. Racker Memorial Fund created in memory of our former medical director and the agency’s namesake, supports early childhood services, an area that was dear to Dr. Racker’s heart. Richard M. Leavitt, M.D. Memorial Fund created by Judy Leavitt and her sons, provides support for special experiences for children and young adults with disabilities. Scriber/Cash Family Fund created by Jody and Kent Scriber and David and Lori Cash, supports community-based experiences for preschool and elementary age children with special needs. Tompkins Trust Company Bridge Fund supports otherwise unfunded clinical services for children throughout the year.

Racker Fellows $1000 and above

Anonymous W. David and Mary Lee Banfield Bob and Melinda Bantle Donna and Tom Bohn Jeb Brooks and Cheri Wendelken Dan and Eve Brown Karin A. Burgess Cecilia Campbell and Deborah Gagnon Timothy Colbert and Mary Ann Knight Daphne and Ezra Cornell John and Ann Racker Costello Rick and Jill Cowan Don and Sue Dickinson Chuck and Cris Donovan Dave and Peggy Dunlop

Gene and Ann Erickson Margaret I. Gibson Mr. and Mrs. Robert J. Haley Mrs. Betty J. Helsper Gregg Hoffmire and Leslie Raymond Robert and Mary Hutchens Catharine Joyce Phyllis and Lanny Joyce Mr. and Mrs. Eric Keilbach W. Keith Kennedy, Sr. Judith K. Leavitt Jeffrey and Kristin Lewis Stuart and Ruth Lewis Steve and Kathy Lipinski Perri and Mickey LoPinto

Mark Masler and Bernice Potter-Masler Brian McAree and Kris Corda Mr. and Mrs. Dan McNeil Philip and Peggy Meyer Victor and Pat Montanez Richie and Pat Moran Gail Murphy Mrs. Carol Neigh Dave and Shirley Palmer Sarah M. Rich Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin Richards John Rudd and Beverly Chin Tom and Betsy Salm Howard and Lauren Schler Mr. Fred B. Schneider

Business Partners $1000 and above

Anonymous AXA Foundation Cargill, Inc. CU Teddy Bear Toss Elks USA Emerson Power Transmission J. M. McDonald Foundation, Inc. Jeffrey J. and Mary E. Burdge Charitable Trust Kendal @ Ithaca Residents Legacy Foundation of Tompkins County

Park Foundation, Inc. Philanthropy Incubator The George V. and Jean A. Smith Charitable Trust Tioga United Way Tompkins Trust Company Triad Foundation, Inc. United Way of Cortland County United Way of Tompkins County Vector Magnetics

George and Bobbie Schneider Christine Schweitzer Jody and Kent Scriber Kevin and Lynn Shreve Roger and Carole Sibley Tom and Elfriede Smith Deborah Streeter and Tom Owens Mr. and Mrs. Eric Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Michael Todd Ms. Robin Tuttle Erik and Deborah Whitney Fred A. (Ben) Williams David Williams and Katherine Geers Mr. and Mrs. Gene Yarussi

Friends of the Centers A to Z A

Mr. Meyer Abrams Mr. and Mrs. Barry Adams Mr. Paul Adams Advanced Dental Technology of Ithaca Affiliated Psychological Consult Ms. Tammi Aiken Connie Ged and Pete Akins Ms. Anne Albertsman Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Alexander Allstate Giving Campaign Alphaba Communication & Design Mr. Robert Aronson Mr. David Arthur Mr. and Mrs. Charles Asay Mr. and Mrs. Neil Ashcroft Mr. and Mrs. Edward Austen Ms Ella Awa

Ms. Evelyn Baxevane

Mr. and Mrs. Ted Berrien

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Backer Ms. Debbie Badman Ms. Beverly Baker The Baker Foundation Baker-Miller Lumber, Inc. Mrs. Caren Baldini Mrs. William J. Baldini Ms. D.G. Bancroft-Gowin Mr. and Mrs. Paul Banfield Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Bangs Mr. and Mrs. George Bantuvanis Mr. and Mrs. J. Robert Barlow Mr. and Mrs. Chris Barrett Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Bartell Dr. Roger W. Batchelder Mr. and Mrs. Roger Battistella Ms. Merry J. Bauer

Hunt and Mary Bradley Mrs. Mary Brady Ms. Margaret Brandau Ms. Dawn Bricen Mr. and Mrs. Joel Brock Mr. Chuck Brodhead Mrs. Urie Bronfenbrenner Daniel and Eve Brown Mr. Paul Brown Bethany Brown and Bradley Smith Ms. Sarah Brown Hannah Brown Ms. Percy Browning Mr. and Mrs. David Brumberg Sue Budney Mr. and Mrs. Francis Budney Mr. Charles Burda Mr. and Mrs. Glen Burke Mr. and Mrs. Albert Burkhardt Mr. and Mrs. Richard Burkhauser Mr. and Mrs. A. Randy Button Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Bylebyl Mr. and Mrs. James Byrnes

Dr. and Mrs. Walter Baurle BE&K Building Group, LLC Carol and Rosanne Beach Beachtree Care Center Ms. Joan Bechhofer Mr. Roger Beck Mr. and Mrs. Frank Becker Mr. and Mrs. Steven Beer Ms. Vida Behn Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Beins William and Nancy Bellamy Mr. and Mrs. Bill Bement Mr. Fran Benedict Ms. Nicole Benenati Mr. Richard Bennett Ms. Caroline Bennett Mr. Arthur L. Berkey Ms. Barbara Berthelsen Ms. Kimberly Bertz Ms. Nellie Gary Bertz Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Betzler

Anne Neirynck and Kenneth Birman

Mr. Harry Calale Ms. Joanne Camera Anthony and Terry Camilli Diane Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Gary P. Carlson Ms. Loretta Carter Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Caruso Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Casey Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Cassaniti Cayuga Landscape Cayugaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Helping Hand CFCU Community Credit Union

Mr. and Mrs. James Bisogni, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Dick Biviano Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Borden Mr. and Mrs. Jack Bordoni Mr. and Mrs. Camillo Bordoni, Jr. BorgWarner Morse TEC Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bortz Mr. Michael Bovi Mr. and Mrs. David Boyes Ms. Judith Boyes Michelle Hunt and Douglas Boyes Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Boyes

Professor and Mrs. Stephen Chase Dr. and Mrs. William Chernish Mr. and Mrs. Tony Chiesa Sharon Dean and Richard Chrappa Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church Mr. and Mrs. Tony Ciccone City Club of Ithaca Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Cleland Dr. and Mrs. Roy Coats Helen Cogan Linda Frank and Leonard Cohen Collegeview N Tennants, Assoc. Mrs. Ann Colt Ms. Margaret S. Congdon Mr. and Mrs. George Conneman Mr. John Connolly Jennifer Austin and Evan Cooch Mr. and Mrs. Peter Cooke Mr. and Mrs. Edward B. Cope Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Corbit Mr. Thomas Corey Cornell Athletic Department Cornell University Mr. and Mrs. David Corson Mr. and Mrs. G. Walton Cottrell Mr. and Mrs. Gerry Cox CP Rochester CRESP Center for Transformative Action Mr. and Mrs. Kass Crooker John and Gae Crosby Mr. and Mrs. Paul Crumb Mr. and Mrs. Russell Crumb Ms. Eileen Cundy

Ms. Marion C. DaGrossa Mr. Joseph Daino

Ms. Marie Anne DeRoos Ms. Patricia DeGaray Ms. Caitlin Delaney Mr. David F. Delchamps Dr. Dorothy M. Delisle and Shawn Pompe Mr. and Mrs. Frank DeLorenzo Ms. Rita Demarest Ms. Susan Detzer Dr. and Mrs. Roy Dexheimer Ms. Sharon Dittman Matthew Dobush Dennis Holovach and Helen Doerr David Kerness and Mary Pat Dolan Mr. and Mrs. Charles Dollaway Mrs. June P. Dolph Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Doney Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Donovan Ms. Robin Dorsty Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Downing Mr. and Mrs. Dan Drewry Mrs. Mildred B. Drosdoff Mr. and Mrs. Edward Dubovi Mr. and Mrs. Jay Dunham Mr. Curt Dunnam Mr. and Mrs. Horton Durfee Mr. and Mrs. Timothy E. Durnford Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Dwyer

Ms. William Earl Mr. and Mrs. David Eastman Ms. Constance Eckel Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Ehrenberg Ms. Ruth S. Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Harry Ellsworth Anne Marie and Mary Jean Ellsworth Mr. and Mrs. Karl Elsner Ms. Arvilla Enck Dr. Lawrence Endo and Caron Bove Mr. and Mrs. Roger Eslinger

Ms. Virginia L. Estabrook Ms. Michele A. Evans Mr. and Mrs. Charles Everhart

Ms. Doris Giles Mr. Graham Gillespie Mrs. Mary D. Gilligan Mr. and Mrs. Carl Ginet Rabbi Scott and Sharon Glass Ms. Irene Gleason Glenwood Pines Restaurant Mr. and Mrs. Marvin Glock Mr. Jeffrey Golden Mr. Bill Gottschalk-Fielding Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Grainger Mr. and Mrs. Robert Granados Mr. Thomas Grassi Ms. Pamela Graves Ms. Helen Grippo Mr. and Mrs. David Guion Mr. John Gustafson

Mrs. Kelly Faircloth Fall Creek Elementary School Joyce Marsh and Jerry Feist Mrs. John H. Ferger Mr. John Finnegan First National Bank of Dryden Mr. and Mrs. Miles Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Frank Flannery Mr. Richard Flaville Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Fleming Mr. and Mrs. David Flinn Dr. and Mrs. E. James Fogel Mr. Stephen Fontana Ms. Irene Foote Mr. Samuel Forcucci Mr. and Mrs. Olan D. Forker Mr. and Mrs. William Foster, Sr. Mr. Paul J. Fowler Mr. Alan Fox The Frame Shop Mr. and Mrs. William Frank June Franklin Mr. Ed Freeman Sylvia, Larry and Linda Freese Mr. and Mrs. Scott Frey Ms. Kimberly Friedman Dr. David Feldshuh and Martha Frommelt Mr. John H. L. Fuchs Ms. Susan Fuller

Ms. Margaret C. Hampson Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Hankinson Mrs. Mary T. Harcourt Mrs. Jessie F. Harper Ms. Beverly Harris Harris Beach Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Hartley Mr. Richard Hartman Mr. and Mrs. Juris Hartmanis Mr. Howard Hartnett Ms. Helen C. Hartnett Mr. and Mrs. Greg Hartz Mr. and Mrs. Jerome Hass Ms. Yvonne Hathaway Dr. and Mrs. Carl Haynes Mr. and Mrs. David Hegelein Ms. Sue Ann Hemsath Mr. and Mrs. Robert Herrick Mr. and Mrs. David Herskovits Mr. and Mrs. Roger Hinderliter Ms. Sherry Holcolm

Mr. and Mrs. James Gaffney Dr. and Mrs. Charles L. Garbo Ms. Kathleen Garner Dr. Lowell Garner and Ms. Susan Lustick Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Gatch

Ms. Naomi Hollister HOLT Architects, P.C. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Hooks Mr. and Mrs. Robert T. Horn, Jr. Houghton Miffin Harcourt Mr. and Mrs. David Hovencamp Mr. Neal Howard Mr. Thomas Howarth Mr. and Mrs. Richard Hubbell Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Huckle Ms. Elizabeth Hudson Mr. and Mrs. James Hulbert Mr. and Mrs. Chris Hummel Drs. Catherine Husa and Sami Husseini

IBM Corporation Matching Grant Program Mr. and Mrs. David E. Iles Ms. Harriet Ink International Food Network Ithaca Bakery Ithaca Foreign Car Service Ithaca Plumbing Supply

Ms. Kathleen Jacklin Mr. and Mrs. David Jacoby Mr. and Mrs. Andre Jagendorf Jim Ray Mobile Homes, Inc. Ms. Geri Judd

Mr. and Mrs. Herb Kahl Ms. Susan Kaplan Ms. Charlotte Karpf-Fritts Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Kauffman Ms. Peggy Kehoe Mr. and Mrs. Duane Keister Ms. Eileen Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kemple, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kern

Dr. and Mrs. Judson Kilgore Mr. and Mrs. Donald Kimpland Mr. and Mrs. Nicolai Klimaszawski Knights of Columbus Cncl. #277 Ms. Sara Komaromi Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Kunsman

Ms. Jean Lambert Dr. John Lambert and Robin Rogers Ms. R. Carolyn Lange Mr. and Mrs. Robert Langhans Ms. Caroline Larrance Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Larsen Chris and Katie Yavorka Lattimore Dr. David M. Leavitt Helen Kim, PhD. and Noah Samuel Leavitt, JD Karen Legnini Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Lenhard Dr. G. Peter Lepage and Deborah O’Connor Ms. Antoinette Levatich Ms. Deborah S. Levin Mr. and Mrs. Simon Levin Ms. Diane H. Levine Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Levine Ruth E. Lewis Mr. Matthew Liberty Ms. Laverne Light Tom and Cindy Lilly Lockheed Martin Raymond Gozzi and Barbara Logan Ms. Linda Long Mr. and Mrs. Michael Long Ms. Roslyn LoPinto Mr. and Mrs. William Lovelace Mr. and Mrs. Jack Lowe Mr. and Mrs. John C. Lowery Ms. Yolanda Lucatelli Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lucia Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft

Ms. Barbara Lust Mr. and Mrs. Martin Luster

Ms. Lisa Moore Robert Smith and Alice Moore Moore’s Christmas Tree Farm Moravec Construction Service Ms. Jennifer Morey Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Moss Mr. and Mrs. Stephen W. Mount Dr. and Mrs. James E. Moyer Adam and Maureen Mozeleski Mr. and Mrs. David Bandler Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mudrak Ms. Susan Murphy Mr. and Mrs. William Myers

Mr. and Mrs. Richard MacDonald Ms. Connie Mack Mrs. Dorothy B. Makris Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Marchell Ms. Barbara Marmora Marvin and Annette Lee Foundation Ms. Frannie Mason Mr. and Mrs. James Mason Mr. and Mrs. Michael Masters Ms. Debbie Matesich Ms. Mary Beth Mathey Mr. and Mrs. Richard Matthews Ms. Annemarie Mattison Ms. Lisa Maurer Mr. and Mrs. Joseph McAfee Mr. Roger McCarthy Mr. and Mrs. Peter McClelland Mr. and Mrs. James McConkey Ms. Therese McDonald Phyllis Mazurski and Patrick McKee Ms. Grace McMenamin Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McMurray Ms. Frances S. McNeal Mr. and Mrs. Daniel McPheeters Ms. Marianne Mellinger Ms. Alisa Mengel Professor and Mrs. Joe Metz Mrs. James Michael Mr. and Mrs. Charles Miller Ms. Nina Miller Mr. David Miller Ms. Marian Miller Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Miner Mr. and Mrs. Nari Mistry Ms. Kathleen Monk Mr. and Mrs. Robert Monroe

N/O

Mrs. Roderic Neno Dr. Betsy and J. Andrew Noel Ms. Susan Norris Mrs. Esther Northrup Mr. and Mrs. Pete Noyes Mr. Brendan O’Brien Kate O’Connell and Robert D’Addario Mr. and Mrs. George Oechsle Ms. Elissa Olevano Mr. and Mrs. Larry O’Neil Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Organ Organic Valley New England Ms. Gracia B. Ostrander Mrs. Ruth Ostrander Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Oyer

Dr. and Mrs. John Pacanowski Pall Corporation Ms. Marijo Paterniti Patterson’s Service Station Mr. and Mrs. John Pavia Ms. Marianne M. Pelletier PEO Sisterhood Mr. and Mrs. Scott Perez Ms. Paula J. Peter

Mr. and Mrs. Hans Petersen Renie and Marty Petrovic Mr. Timothy Podkul Mr. and Mrs. Ted Podkul, Jr. Karen Powers Project Sunshine Mr. and Mrs. Frank Proto Mr. and Mrs. James Prout Mr. and Mrs. Richard Prybyl PUSH America

Q/R

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Quirk Red Hat Chapter Mrs. Virginia Redder Mr. and Mrs. Keith Rehbein Mr. and Mrs. Walter Reimers Mr. and Mrs. Charles Reniff Mr. and Mrs. Michael Reynolds Richardson Bros. Electrical Inc. Ms. Virginia K. Rinker Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Ripoll Mr. and Mrs. William Roberts Mr. and Mrs. David Robertshaw Mr. and Mrs. Steve Robertson Mr. and Mrs. Thad Robey Ms. Elma B. Robinson Dr. and Mrs. Eric Robinson Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rogers, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. James Roloson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Romanowski Mr. Ward L. Romer Mr. and Mrs. Charles Rosenthal Dr. and Mrs. George Ross Mrs. Kristen Rost Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Rosten Mr. and Mrs. Stellario Ruggiero Hon. and Mrs. Phillip Rumsey Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ryan Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Ryan, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Salino Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Saltzman Mrs. Joseph Sanford Mr. and Mrs. Guillermo Santisteban Jason and Tom Santobianco Mr. and Mrs. Frank Satterly Ms. Catherine Savage Ms. Marian Schaible Lauren K. Schler Jim and Sandy Schoenfeldt Virginia J. Schottel Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Schreher Mrs. Josie Schug Mr. and Mrs. Selwyn Schwartz Ms. Beatrice Schwoerer Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Sciarabba Sciencenter Scissorhands Mr. and Mrs. William Scoones Ms. Donna Scott Mr. Tom Scott Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Seaman Security Mutual Insurance Co. Mr. and Mrs. Miles Seely Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Serignese Mr. Anthony Severtson Dr. and Mrs. Gary Sforzo Mr. Richard Sheffield Ms. Bonita R. Shelford Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sherman, Jr. Mr. Jerry Sherrer Mr. and Mrs. Michael Shuler Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Shull Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Siany Mr. and Mrs. Henry C. Sibley Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sick Ms. Rachel Seigel Mr. Kirk Sigel

Mr. and Mrs. John Sikora Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sinnigen Ms. Elizabeth M. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Scott Smith Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Snedeker Mr. Lawrence Snyder Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Sokol Mrs. Daphne J. Sola Mr. and Mrs. George Souhrada Ms. Madeleine Speidel Mr. and Mrs. Mark Speiser Mr. and Mrs. James Spero St. Catherine of Sienna Rectory Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stanley Ms. Lara K. Stanton Ms. Alice Steckiewicz Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Steenberg Stellar Stereo, Inc. Mrs. Diane Stevens Ms. Evelyn Stevens Mr. Donald Steward Mr. Alexander Stewart Mr. and Mrs. Robert Storandt Ms. Nita Stormann Mr. and Mrs. James Strait Mr. and Mrs. Cushing Strout Mr. Thomas Suarez Ms. Susan Sullivan Ms. Crystal Swanson Dr. Robert Sweet Ms. Caroline Susan Szabo Ms. Mary Szabol

Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Thayer Dr. John M. Thomas Thrivent Financial Mrs. Angela Thurlow Torrent Hose Co. #5

Wagner Funeral Home Ms. Claudia Wagner-Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mara Ms. Maureen Waller Mr. Russell Wanish Mr. and Mrs. Richard Warkentin Ms. Elizabeth E. Watkins Dr. and Mrs. J. Dix Wayman

Ms. Anne Treichler Trinity Lutheran Church Mr. Eric Trotter Sue Schattschneider and Jeff True Mr. and Mrs. Howard Tubbs John and Pia Tucker Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Tull Dr. and Mrs. James Turner Mr. and Mrs. David Tyler

Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Ufford Mr. and Mrs. Dave Ulrich United Way of the Southern Tier Drs. Marguerite and Norman Uphoff Marilyn Utz and Barbara Coman

Mr. and Mrs. James Vaber Mrs. Orrin J. Van Dyk Mrs. Raymond Van Houtte Mr. Ari Van Tienhoven Mr. and Mrs. Peter Van Wieren Mr. David Vattimo Ms. Jennifer Vieou Mr. and Mrs. John Vineyard Mr. and Mrs. Thumper Volkmer

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Tallman Mr. and Mrs. David H. Taube Mr. Hollands Tavelli Mr. and Mrs. Robert Taylor Telecompioneers Excelsior Chapter #98 Mrs. Louise Terry

WB&A Market Research Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Weber Wegmans Food Markets, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wehe Ms. Patricia Weidman Mr. and Mrs. Mark Weidman Mr. and Mrs. Len Weinstein Mr. and Mrs. Paul Welch Mr. and Mrs. Eric Westmiller Mr. and Mrs. Mark Wheeler Mr. and Mrs. James White James and Karen Willard Mr. and Mrs. Jay Williamson Mr. and Mrs. Glen Withiam Mr. and Mrs. Lou Withiam Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Wittman Mr. and Mrs. David Wohlhueter Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wood, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Woodman Ms. Shirley Wright Ms. Nicole Wynn

Brenda Kuhn and Andrew Yale Pamela Jackson and Marion Yaxley Mr. and Mrs. David Yeh

Mr. and Mrs. Milton Zaitlin Mr. Joseph P. Zanfordino Mr. and Mrs. Robert Zavaski George Zavaski and John Zavaski Mrs. Elaine Zirbel Mr. and Mrs. Joel Zumoff Ms. Helen Zurick

ranziska Racker Centers had a great year programmatically serving more than 2800 people in 2009 with an annual budget of approximately $26 million. Operating revenues combined with public support exceeded operating expenses. We rely upon your strong support, which enables us to provide opportunities for our participants that might not otherwise be possible.

2009

Financial Report

Operating Revenues & Public Support Residential Living Services 43.8% Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Clinical Services 29.6%

Community Support Services 14.1% Counseling for School Success 8.9% Other Revenue 3.6%

Operating Expenses Residential Living Services 39.5%

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Clinical Services 28.5%

Community Support Services 12.0% Support Services 12.0% Counseling for School Success 8.0%

Remembrance Remembering Mrs. Mary Roberta Porter

Mrs. Mary Roberta Porter at a United Cerebral Palsy Telethon in the 1950’s.

In Memory In Memory of: William Baldini Mrs. Caren Baldini Mrs. William J. Baldini Mr. Neal Howard Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kemple, Jr In Memory of: Marilynn Bovi Mr. Michael Bovi In Memory of: Clinton O. Boyes Mr. and Mrs. Charles Asay BE&K Building Group, LLC Mr. and Mrs. Robert A. Betzler Mr. and Mrs. David Boyes Ms. Judith Boyes Douglas Boyes and Michelle Hunt Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Boyes Sylvia, Larry and Linda Freese Mr. and Mrs. William Lovelace Ms. Debbie Matesich Ms. Susan Norris Mr. and Mrs. Michael Reynolds In Memory of: Warren and Barbara Cash Jody and Kent Scriber In Memory of: Lorraine Chase Professor and Mrs. Stephen Chase In Memory of: Casey Clines Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rogers, Jr. In Memory of: Howard Cogan Helen Cogan In Memory of: Phyllis Davenport Mrs. Jessie F. Harper In Memory of: Joline DiGiacomo Mrs. Caren Baldini Mr. Joseph Daino Ms. Marie Anne De Roos Margaret I. Gibson Jim Ray Mobile Homes, Inc.

Considered by the Centers to be a ‘founding momma’ of the agency, Mary’s daughter Katy was in need of many supports due to a Cerebral Hemorrhage suffered at six months of age. Mary became active with the Cerebral Palsy Association of New York State of the Ithaca Area (CP of NYS of Ithaca) in 1948. Mrs. Porter’s advocacy and work with the agency, enabled Katy to get itinerant therapy and eventually attend the clinic in Ithaca in where occupational, physical and speech therapy sessions were held. Mrs. Porter stayed active with CP of NYS of Ithaca until the mid 1950’s when Katy entered the day treatment program at the Cayuga High School. Mrs. Porter’s dedication to procuring local services and supports for those with special needs was a key piece in creating the current Franziska Racker Centers. She will be greatly missed, but her contributions will always be remembered.

In Memory of: Raymond Grippo Mrs. Helen Grippo

In Memory of: Melvin Helsper Ms. Nellie Gary Bertz Ms. Margaret Brandau Ms. Loretta Carter Mr. and Mrs. Curtis Casey Ms. Ruth S. Ellis Mr. Paul J. Fowler Mrs. Betty J. Helsper Ms. Caroline Larrance Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Levine Ms. Marian Schaible Mr. and Mrs. Selwyn Schwartz Ms. Crystal Swanson Ms. Helen Zurick

In Memory of: Steven Halevy Ms. Robin Dorsty Perri and Mickey LoPinto

In Memory of: Adelaide Keller Heppel Ms. Arvilla Enck Ms. Anne Treichler

In Memory of: Jody Hallam Williams Ms. Anne Albertsman Ms. Ella Awa W. David and Mary Lee Banfield Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Bangs Carol and Rosanne Beach Mr. and Mrs. Gary P. Carlson Collegeview N Tennants, Assoc. Fall Creek Elementary School Karen Legnini Ms. Linda Long Mr. and Mrs. John C. Lowery Ms. Yolanda Lucatelli Mr. and Mrs. Nari Mistry Mrs. Josie Schug Jody and Kent Scriber Mr. and Mrs. Charles Tallman Wagner Funeral Home Mr. and Mrs. Lou Withiam Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Wittman Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wood, Jr.

In Memory of: Elsie Howarth Mr. Thomas Howarth

Adam and Maureen Mozeleski Mr. and Mrs. William Myers Renie and Marty Petrovic Mr. and Mrs. Walter Reimers Mrs. Kristen Rost Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Ryan, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. George Souhrada Mrs. Diane Stevens Thrivent Financial Trinity Lutheran Church

Ms. Sara Komaromi Red Hat Chapter Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rogers, Jr. In Memory of: Angela E. Driscoll Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Jack Bordoni Mr. Joseph Daino Mr. and Mrs. Miles Fisher Ms. Naomi Hollister Ms. Elissa Olevano Kara and Eric Taylor

In Memory of: Mary Gaherty Mr. David Vattimo

In Memory of: William Earl, Sr. Mr. Paul Adams Mr. and Mrs. Camillo Bordoni, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Harry Bortz Mr. and Mrs. Glen Burke Me. Eileen Cundy Mr. and Mrs. David Eastman Emerson Power Transmission Mr. and Mrs. William Foster, Sr. Mr. Alan Fox Mr. and Mrs. Donald Kimpland Mrs. Roderic Neno Mr. and Mrs. Edward Salino Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Siany Telecompioneers Excelsior Chapter #98 Ms. Patricia Wedman Mr. and Mrs. Paul Welch Fred A. (Ben) Williams In Memory of: Jennifer M. Foote Mr. and Mrs. A. Randy Button Cecilia Campbell and Deborah Gagnon Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church Mr. and Mrs. Harry Ellsworth Mr. and Mrs. Olan D. Forker Charlie and Linda Garbo Mr. and Mrs. Chris Hummel Raymond Gozzi and Barbara Logan Perri and Mickey LoPinto Ms. Lisa Maurer

In Memory of: Susan Hartman Mr. Richard Hartman

In Memory of: Lawrence Hull Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rogers, Jr. In Memory of: Laurie Hyde-Tull Ms. Virginia K. Rinker Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Tull In Memory of: Mrs. Edward Kammler Ms. Virginia L. Estabrook In Memory of: Kevin Kauffman, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Kauffman, Sr. In Memory of: Beverly King Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McMurray In Memory of: Kaye Kleisath Mr. and Mrs. Karl Elsner Mr. John Gustafson Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Lenhard Ms. Therese McDonald Mr. and Mrs. James Vaber Mr. and Mrs. Thumper Volkmer Mr. and Mrs. Mark Wheeler

In Memory of: Ray Kujawski Dennis Holovach and Helen Doerr Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Dwyer

In Memory of: Ethan Lillard Mr. and Mrs. David Guion Mr. and Mrs. James White

In Memory of: Dr. Richard M. Leavitt Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Borden Ms. Margaret S. Congdon Mrs. Mary D. Gilligan Judith K. Leavitt

In Memory of: Elsa and Hildagarde Lubeck Mr. and Mrs. Michael Long In Memory of: Angela Lucia Mr. and Mrs. Jay Dunham

In Memory of: Donald Northrup Mrs. Esther Northrup

In Memory of: Benjamin Light Ms. Laverne Light

In Memory of: Louisa Massicci Mr. and Mrs. Peter Rogers, Jr.

In Memory of: Katheryn A. Porter Ms. Irene Foote

In Memory of: Charlotte Stahl Margaret I. Gibson Ms. Charlotte Karpf-Fritts Ruth E. Lewis Mrs. Ruth Ostrander

In Memory of: David Light Ms. Laverne Light

In Memory of: Noreen Moore BorgWarner Morse TEC Mr. and Mrs. Duane Keister

In Memory of: Mary R. Porter Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Hartley

In Memory of: JoAnn VanOrman Mrs. Jessie F. Harper

In Memory of: Dr. Franziska Racker Mrs. Mary D. Gilligan

In Memory of: Frances V. Wilson Mrs. Mary Brady

In Honor of: Meg Gillard Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft Mr. and Mrs. Sidney Saltzman

In Honor of: Steve and Kathy Lipinski Mr. and Mrs. David Herskovits

In Honor of: Jody Scriber Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Steenberg

In Honor of: Perri LoPinto Mr. and Mrs. Daniel McPheeters

In Honor of: Roger Sibley Mrs. Caren Baldini CP Rochester Mr. and Mrs. Kass Crooker David Kerness and Mary Pat Dolan Mr. and Mrs. Edward Dubovi Jerry Feist and Joyce Marsh Ms. Kathleen Garner IBM Corporation Matching Grant Program Ms. Lisa Moore Mr. and Mrs. Steve Robertson Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ryan

In Honor In Honor of: Mary T. Beer

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Beer In Honor of: Donna and Tom Bohn

Robert Smith and Alice Moore In Honor of: Dan Brown Hannah Brown In Honor of: Dan & Eve Brown

Mr. Eric Trotter

In Memory of: Jack Murphy Gail Murphy

In Honor of: Mark Jacoby Mr. and Mrs. David Jacoby

In Honor of: Debbie Makris Margaret I. Gibson

In Honor of: Annie Joyce Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Serignese

In Honor of: Joseph Marzo Ms. Michele A. Evans

In Honor of: Robert and Peggy Lama Mrs. Kelly Faircloth

Mr. and Mrs. Bill Bement

In Honor of: Larry Deutchman and Toby Lamarche Judith K. Leavitt

In Honor of: Peter Burgess

In Honor of: Brent W. Larsen

In Honor of: Kate Brown

Ms. Frannie Mason Mr. and Mrs. Daniel McPheeters Mr. and Mrs. Hans Petersen Scissorhands

In Honor of: Diana Mason Judith K. Leavitt In Honor of: Dick Matthews

Mrs. Angela Thurlow

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Larsen

Ms. Merry J. Bauer Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mudrak Ms. Elizabeth M. Smith

In Honor of: Cecilia Campbell

In Honor of: Aryeh Kim Leavitt

In Honor of: Dick and Sharon Matthews

Ms. Grace McMenamin

Judith K. Leavitt

In Honor of: Helen Cogan

In Honor of: Helen Kim PhD. and Noah

Donna and Tom Bohn Ms. Diane H. Levine Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Rosten In Honor of: Community Relations &

Development Colleagues Lauren K. Schler

In Honor of: Dr. Ann Racker Costello

Dr. and Mrs. Roy Dexheimer Mr. Ari Van Tienhoven

Ms. Doris Giles Ms. Elizabeth M. Smith

Samuel Leavitt, JD. Judith K. Leavitt

In Honor of: Philip and Peggy Meyer Mr. and Mrs. Scott Frey

In Honor of: Judith K. Leavitt Dr. David M. Leavitt Helen Kim PhD. and Noah Samuel Leavitt, JD. Mr. and Mrs. Ted Podkul, Jr.

In Honor of: Philip Meyer

Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. Snedeker In Honor of: Richie Moran Mr. and Mrs. Pete Noyes

In Honor of: Marnie Burkman and David Leavitt Judith K. Leavitt Mr. and Mrs. Ted Podkul, Jr. Mr. Timothy Podkul

In Honor of: Esther Northrup Jim and Sandy Schoenfeldt

Ms. William Earl

In Honor of: Noah Samuel Leavitt Judith K. Leavitt Mr. and Mrs. Ted Podkul, Jr.

In Honor of: FRC Physical Therapy Dept.

In Honor of: Nancy Emerson

In Honor of: Helen Kim & Noah Leavitt

In Honor of: Allison Cowan

Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Kunsman In Honor of: Cristine Donovan

Mr. and Mrs. Richard MacDonald In Honor of: William Earl, Jr.

Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft In Honor of: Margaret Gibson

Mr. and Mrs. Gerry Cox Jim and Connie Moyer Mr. and Mrs. William Roberts

In Honor of: Dustin Pataki

Mr. and Mrs. Miles Seely Ms. Nicole Benenati In Honor of: Jennifer Podkul and Craig

Kullman Judith K. Leavitt

and Family Dr. David M. Leavitt Judith K. Leavitt

In Honor of: Tim Podkul and Deb Wojcik Judith K. Leavitt

In Honor of: Danny Liberty Mr. Matthew Liberty

In Honor of: Ted and Joan Podkul Judith K. Leavitt

Mr. and Mrs. Stellario Ruggiero Mr. and Mrs. Richard Sherman, Jr. Ms. Anne Treichler In Memory of: Mark Redder Mrs. Virginia Redder

In Honor of: Robert Sikora Mr. and Mrs. John Sikora In Honor of: Charlotte Stahl Margaret I. Gibson Mrs. James Michael Mrs. Elaine Zirbel In Honor of: Naom Stormann Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Doney Ms. Nita Stormann In Honor of: Kara Taylor Ms. Kathleen Garner In Honor of: Members of Tompkins County Dental Society Jeff and Kristin Lewis In Honor of: Logan Wescott Ms. Frances S. McNeal Mr. and Mrs. Peter Van Wieren In Honor of: Kenneth J. Woodman Ms. Alice Steckiewicz Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Woodman

Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 780 Ithaca, NY 14850

Administration 3226 Wilkins Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850 Tel: 607.272.5891 Fax: 607.272.0188

Mission

We are dedicated to helping people with special needs and their families have good lives, with opportunities to learn, to be responsible, to feel cared for, to share, to be connected to others. We are committed to creating a culture of inclusion in our community, celebrating the richness that diversity and interdependence bring. Vision

We are inspired by the vision of our founding families, that all people with disabilities will be valued members of a welcoming and supportive community. Editor Dawn Bricen, Director of Public Relations Design Julia Reich Design | juliareichdesign.com Writing Success Stories (pg 4-9)— Susan Henninger, Finger Lakes Writer Program Spotlight — Dawn Bricen, Franziska Racker Centers Photography Success Stories (pg 4-9)—Robert Kaussner Photography Remaining photos—friends of the Centers