ACCESS to ACHIEVEMENT ARC OF WESTCHESTER ANNUAL REPORT 2014
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CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF EQUAL RIGHTS
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uly 26, 2015 marks the 25th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) made history by giving civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities by: • providing for equal access to businesses, employment, transportation, state and local government programs and services, and telecommunications. • prohibiting discrimination in all employment practices. • encouraging an employer to select the most qualified applicant, regardless of disability. • requiring an employer to provide reasonable accommodations to a job or work environment. • disallowing a medical exam requirement before an employer can make a job offer. • banning employers from inquiring about a disability before making an offer. The ADA has created greater accessibility, resulting in increased job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Through our Choices jobs program, Arc of Westchester has achieved a 90 percent employment rate, compared to 33 percent nationwide. We’ve also seen a 25 percent increase in the average number of weekly hours worked, and a 20 percent increase in hourly pay for newly employed individuals with developmental disabilities. Within the past year alone, we have partnered with 34 different employers of individuals with disabilities, 17 of which are new to Arc of Westchester’s job program.
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65 YEARS: A JOURNEY OF ADVOCACY AND SUPPORT Arc of Westchester and NYSARC, Inc. proudly celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2014. In recognition of this important milestone, Arc of Westchester joined all NYSARC, Inc. chapters on a march to the steps of the New York State Capitol. The inspirational ceremonial flag exchange was attended by nearly 1,200 people. 3
DEVELOPING A BRIGHT FUTURE THROUGH
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ear Arc Family, Friends, and Supporters,
The year 2014 was a milestone for us – we celebrated our 65th anniversary with parades and events honoring Arc of Westchester’s tremendous achievements throughout the years. From sheltered workshops and institutions to independent employment and group homes, Arc of Westchester is always on the cutting edge of providing innovative and effective programs and services to more than 2,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
As we continue to grow our programs and services, we strive for a symbiotic relationship with partners that we have known for many years and those we have just recently met.
Arc of Westchester helps individuals achieve success in life, regardless of the obstacles that may stand in their way. We attempt to create an environment that is accessible to each individual. What you will read about in this annual report is how Arc of Westchester makes the world accessible to individuals with special needs. Accessibility is not just about physical accommodations, such as handicap access ramps, it’s about developing modifications for all individuals with disabilities. Accessibility is about our ability to engage with, use, participate in, and belong to the world around us. If an individual is blind and cannot read, a library is not a useful resource unless books are available in braille. If an individual cannot speak, language is not useful until he has a tool to help him communicate. And if individuals have poor motor skills, a computer is not a valuable resource unless it’s designed in a way that will help them operate it. This is not something that many consider on a day-to-day basis. However, for individuals with disabilities, access to education, language, and employment can be difficult and limited. The stories in this report will show you how we at Arc of Westchester are breaking down these barriers. You will learn how we make everyday life easier and more accessible for those with disabilities. Accessibility leads to inclusion in the community, and one of the most important elements of inclusion is respect. It is essential that every individual receive respect. Whoever they are, wherever they are, and whatever their capabilities are, every person should be respected as a citizen of our community. As citizens, all individuals should be given the opportunity to have a job, friendships, and relationships. These simple rights are important to everyone and help us define who we are as a person and in life. We’ve come a long way over the past 66 years, but there is still more to do. Your membership is a key component of our success and an integral part of what allows us to provide a life of accessibility, respect, and the opportunity to achieve one’s dreams. Thank you for your continued support.
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Warmly,
Richard P. Swierat Executive Director Longtime friends Richard P. Swierat and Ed Ryan chat about their summer plans.
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ACCESSIBILITY AND TECHNOLOGY
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ear Arc of Westchester Friend, In my professional life as an attorney representing individuals with disabilities and their families, and as a parent of a child with special needs, I have long believed that all individuals are entitled to lives of dignity and social engagement in accordance with their wishes and capabilities. I continue working to help families build fulfilling, economically secure lives for their loved ones. Now, as President of the Board of Arc of Westchester, I’m privileged to help launch an exciting new venture to open more doors to opportunity.
Bernard A. Krooks
The truth is that while computers, iPads, iPhones, and other technology have become essential conveniences in most of our lives — things we take for granted and don’t think twice about — for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), this technology can be a challenge. Some individuals don’t understand how to utilize the various platforms, while others may not have the coordination to click and type. Last fall, Arc of Westchester received a grant that will expand opportunities for people with I/DD to use state-ofthe-art technology. The grant from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities’ (OPWDD) Balanced Incentive Program (BIP) provides funding for new Touch Screen Technology (as featured on our cover and in the photo below) that makes the process of scanning documents highly user-friendly. For individuals with limited reading and fine motor skills, Touch Screen Technology removes those barriers. This new technology is being implemented at eDocNY, Arc of Westchester’s document management business created in 2005. Training on the new technology began recently and it’s already changing lives. eDocNY employees light up when they learn how to use this new software. Our new Touch Screen Technology, in partnership with eDocNY, is an example of how creative innovation combined with commitment can increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, and prove the benefits of an inclusionary workplace. Arc of Westchester is paving the path forward, supplying individuals with I/DD ever more opportunities to become contributing members of their community and lead fulfilling lives. I welcome your continued interest and support, and thank you for your help as we embark on an exciting new time together.
Employees at eDocNY are learning how to utilize the new Touch Screen Technology.
Warmly,
Bernard A. Krooks , ESQ. President
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We serve nearly 150 children throughout Westchester in 22 classrooms at 14 different sites.
STARTING OUT RIGHT Early intervention is often the key that enables a child to learn and develop to his or her potential. The earlier babies and children receive training in communication, mobility, and self-care skills, the better their long-range performance and development. Arc’s assessment process forges a partnership between service
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providers and family, and defines the family’s role as a full participant. Even our earliest learners embrace technology. Our preschool children utilize tablets and smart boards for an integrated learning experience.
More than 80 percent of our preschool children move on to attend community kindergartens, compared to 16 percent of children with developmental disabilities nationwide.
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PROJECT SEARCH COLLABORATES FOR AUTISM GRADUATES ITS THIRD CLASS
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Graduating class of 2014
uring the summer of 2014, six young men graduated from the Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism (PSCA) program that gives young men and women with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) a leg up on their competition by providing on-the-job training during their last year of high school. The students gain confidence, become independent, learn valuable job-related skills, and leave the internship program with an understanding of workplace culture and the ability to develop a resume, interview, and secure a permanent job. The participants complete 600 hours of three different internships and an additional 300 hours of training in competitive, transferable, and marketable job skills. They also spend time working with an Arc of Westchester job coach to help obtain employment. Arc of Westchester has already placed several graduates in jobs at prestigious law firms, government agencies, and private businesses.
PSCA was created by New York Collaborates for Autism in partnership with New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Arc of Westchester, Southern Westchester BOCES and ACCES-VR. Clinical support is provided by the NYP/Center for Autism and the Developing Brain. PSCA is based on the national Project SEARCH program created at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and was made possible through a grant from New York Collaborates for Autism from the proceeds of Comedy Central’s 2012 Night of Too Many Stars.
EDOCNY WINS PRAISE
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estchester County Clerk Tim Idoni has praised eDocNY’s exceptional services to the Business Council of Westchester Governmental Affairs Committee. Idoni, who had previously contracted with two other companies, said that working with eDocNY has saved the County Clerk’s office $700,000 since 2009.
About 50 percent of eDocNY staff are individuals with disabilities.
Idoni learned about eDocNY while attending an Arc of Westchester Employer Breakfast in 2008. After the breakfast, Idoni researched the company and hired it to scan legal documents dating back to 2001. “We are tremendously satisfied with eDocNY,” says Idoni. “They do superior work and are just nice people. I tell everyone it’s like a grand slam: I got a cheaper price, it is located in Westchester so Westchester residents are being hired, and it’s completely efficient. The folks they hire are quality people that need jobs and I look to support those kind of companies in Westchester.”
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eDocNY is a highly recognized social business enterprise that promotes accessibility through employment opportunities and inclusive hiring practices. Founded by Arc of Westchester in 2005, eDocNY has become a multi-million dollar company that employs over 100 people.
RECOGNIZING HEROES OF EMPLOYMENT
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t Arc of Westchester we believe that the highest measurement of accessibility is employment. Having a job is key to self-worth, and our renowned employment program would not be possible if it weren’t for our valuable business partners. On April 17, 2015, Arc held its 27th Annual Employer Recognition Breakfast to honor its 250 diverse public and private business partners in the community. Awards are presented to individuals and companies that champion Arc of Westchester’s successful career and employment program. This year, we recognized the following superstars: • Share of Voice Award: Dr. Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of The Business Council of Westchester • Civic Partnership Award: Town of Greenburgh • Distinguished Partner Award: Yonkers Pathmark • New Partnership Awards: Dannon; Westchester County District Attorney’s Office, Yonkers City Court Bureau • Bridge to Employment Awards: Croton-on-Hudson Goodwill; Stew Leonard’s • Advocate Award: Rasheed Innis, receiving manager at Bed, Bath and Beyond, Yonkers • eDocNY Employment Award: New York City Department of Records • Anthony Cannata Memorial Awards: Emily Yan; Robert Ciarcia
Emily Yan
Robert Ciarcia
Emily Yan navigates both Metro North and the New York City subways to get to and from her job each day with eDocNY. She works with the New York City Department of Records, helping digitize all historical and irreplaceable birth, marriage and death certificates of residents in New York City from 1866 through 1948. Robert Ciarcia holds two jobs and works seven days a week, splitting his time as a food escort with the Office for the Aging and as a maintenance worker with the Cross County Multiplex. 9
Better Treatment Planning Through Digitization At the beginning of 2014, Arc of Westchester undertook a substantial project to create a comprehensive digital file of each individual that we serve. Through a partnership with five Arcs in the metropolitan NYC area, we have developed a system that will create notifications, identify problems, and allow for faster analysis of data. But the biggest benefit of this new system is that it will retain and store all of an individual’s information in one easily accessible place, allowing case managers and care professionals to easily make adjustments to treatment plans and tailor plans to the needs and wishes of each person. The new electronic system reduces errors, eliminates the potential loss of records, and increases billing speed. To date, approximately 600 staff members access this system on a regular basis.
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PIONEERING STUDY SEEKS ACCESSIBILITY THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
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rc of Westchester recently partnered with Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry for an innovative technology study intended to find new ways to build independence for people with developmental disabilities and autism. Few published studies exist demonstrating technology’s long-term effectiveness in this area. The Arc of Westchester-Mercy College collaboration intends to lead the way. Graduate students in occupational therapy (OT) will use technology customized to each participant’s needs to accomplish functional tasks and achieve specific goals such as household tasks, money management, and shopping. Students will then determine if these skills, once learned, can be maintained without ongoing intervention. The project is divided into several phases. In Phase 1, which ran from October 2014 – May 2015, several OT, PT, speech, nursing, and education students worked once a week with a group of individuals from Arc to implement the program. Phase 2 will allow for expansion of the program, with additional students working full time from June to August 2015 to assess and service a larger group of people. The collaboration will then continue with the goal of enriching lives and providing an increased independence to all who participate.
Dare to Dream
ACCESSING THE LIFE YOU WANT
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lanning your future is an empowering task, requiring time, effort, and foresight. Everyone deserves the opportunity to direct their own life, so in 2014 Arc of Westchester began implemention of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities’ (OPWDD) Self Direction program. This program enables individuals with disabilities to choose their own mix of supports and services, how and when their services are provided, and which staff and/or organizations will provide the services. This new program allows all individuals who are capable of making informed choices, or who have a legal guardian or personal representative acting on their behalf, to take control of their future. Funded through OPWDD, the individual will work with a Support Broker to create, implement, and maintain a Self Direction budget. The individual and broker work together to identify the person’s life goals and create a comprehensive plan to achieve them, including how many hours of support will be needed. For example, if an individual’s goal is to focus on his health, his plan may include joining a gym and visiting the facility a few times each week. His budget will include a gym membership and someone to assist him with his transportation and activities at the gym. Or, if a person wants to improve her reading or math skills, her plan may include getting a tutor, and her budget would include the tutor and course materials. No matter the goal, Support Brokers work to tailor each plan to the individual’s needs so that he/she can access the life they want for themselves.
Michael* lives in an Arc supportive residence, and, like anyone, he has goals and dreams for his life. For years, he wished to visit friends in New Orleans, but he didn’t know how to make this happen — until Arc of Westchester gave Michael a chance to make his dream a reality. Arc’s Personal Outcome Measures (POMs) initiatives are designed to determine and assist in the planning of an individual’s personal goals. A trained staff member sat with Michael and interviewed him to determine what Michael wanted in his life. They discussed his likes, dislikes, and dreams, focusing on 21 specific measures that created a comprehensive picture of what mattered most to Michael. Once his interview was complete, his goals were incorporated into his treatment plan, providing his care team with specific tasks and objectives. Arc of Westchester helped Michael find employment and save money. His residence manager also held a fundraiser to help finance Michael’s trip. Eventually, Michael was able to travel to New Orleans and spend a week with his friends. Realizing his goal not only resulted in an enjoyable trip, but boosted Michael’s general mood and demeanor once he returned home. Michael is looking forward to his next trip to New Orleans, and with the help of Arc of Westchester, he has already begun to save. *Name has been changed. 11
ACCESSING CREATIVITY: SELF-EXPRESSION THROUGH ART
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rt is a powerful tool for personal expression and a key element of Arc of Westchester’s deep commitment to inclusion and self-discovery. Our gallery265 serves as both a studio and gallery space, displaying our artists’ stunning work in both conventional and unexpected mediums. Community artists are invited to showcase their creations along with that of our own artists. “Our studio was designed to be a professional gallery space,” says Roberta Nickelsen, day habilitation art instructor. “We have professional mechanisms, such as easels, pedestals, and lighting, for displaying the art. It’s an important part of our message – just because some people have challenges, it doesn’t mean that they do not have abilities and talent.” Nickelsen takes a relaxed approach to creativity, reminding each individual that there is no such thing as failure. Sometimes, the artist can begin working on a piece that, once completed, is entirely different from the original concept and even more beautiful. With any project, whether assigned or self-initiated, artists are encouraged to translate the traditional medium and adapt it to their abilities, to stunning effect.
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CARING FOR LOVED ONES WHEN FAMILY CANNOT
Poetry’s Unlikely Star
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espectful, compassionate care should be a universal right. Parents worry about what will happen to their child with a developmental disability when they’re no longer able to provide loving family support. Thankfully, Arc of Westchester can help through our Guardianship and Advocacy programs. Arc’s Guardianship program cares for a person when no remaining family member or loved one is available, including making decisions on education and housing, supervising medical care, and even celebrating birthdays and holidays with presents, just as family would do. Our Advocacy program supports families who are unable to directly care for a loved one due to distance, health, or other challenges – but don’t want to relinquish their caregiver responsibilities. An appointed Arc advocate represents the caregiver at meetings and reviews, advises on available resources, and provides an independent assessment of the individual’s health and well-being. The advocate will even make social visits to the loved one on the family’s behalf.
Happy Birthday, Thomas Kettner! On March 19, 2015, Thomas, a Pound Ridge resident and a participant in the agency’s Guardianship program, celebrated his 90th birthday with friends, caregivers, and local officials.
A POET FINDS HIS VOICE Unable to speak, walk or care for himself, Bob Smith, who has cerebral palsy, has overcome his isolation as a child to become a published author. He was raised in an institution where he was often neglected because he couldn’t make his most basic needs known. Life changed for Bob when, at the age of 22, he moved into an Arc of Westchester group home and discovered a caring staff that nurtured his creative spirit and supported his thirst for self-expression. An Arc speech therapist discovered that Bob had taught himself to read and write, so a communications board was designed to help Bob interact with others. This board was all Bob needed to share his deepest feelings and compose both poetry and prose. Arc staff collected his work into an anthology, Reflections of My Life, that eventually inspired Bob to launch a business, publish his work and speak at local schools about his disability. Bob now utilizes a Dynavox synthesizer to advocate on behalf of people with cerebral palsy and carry the message of inclusion and creative expression to the community at large.
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4 THE YEAR IN PICTURES
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>> 1 FAMILY RESOURCE DAY
Over 100 people attended Family Resource Day on March 14, 2015. Twenty-four vendors shared their services (pictured here), and participants learned about The ABLE Act, OPWDD’s Front Door Process, Enhanced Service Coordination, and much more. This year, we also hosted a special forum with The Westchester Delegation to the NYS Senate and Assembly to address the insufficient funding in the Governor’s proposed 2015-16 budget for individuals with I/DD.
>> 2 GATEWAY GALA/SPRING BALL Our Annual Spring Ball is always the social event of the year. Approximately 600 people attended the formal (far right), and some even rented a limousine for the evening (far left). For 17 to 28 year-olds, our annual Gateway Gala at The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center was the place to dance the night away (middle and inset). Great food, fun music and good friends made the evening memorable for all.
>> 3 ANNUAL MEETING
On June 10, 2014, our annual meeting welcomed over 100 individuals, including chapter members, invited guests, self-advocates, staff, and board members. Meeting highlights included recognition of our 65th Anniversary, and a special gallery265 installation titled Hats off to Arc (left). Retiring NYSARC, Inc. Executive Director Marc Brandt was presented with a special piece of art to honor his 32 years of service (center). Anthony Assalone, Immediate Past President, Ruth Dewey, and Nancy Succoso at the Annual Meeting (right).
>> 4 CELEBRATING 65 YEARS
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Throughout 2014, we celebrated Arc of Westchester’s and NYSARC, Inc’s 65th Anniversary. During the months of June and July, we paid tribute to our shared heritage by joining together with other state chapters to pass the NYSARC, Inc. flag at key locations throughout New York City and the Hudson Valley. Ric Swierat and Larry Faulkner took part in the Together To Albany, Journey Along The Erie Canal Bike Tour II (left). Arc of Westchester met with colleagues from New York City AHRC at the Bronx Zoo for the ceremonial flag transfer (right). The flag ultimately made its way to the New York State Capitol (inset).
>> 5 EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY
From Smart Boards to apps, there is an abundance of technology available for individuals with special needs. To share, explore, embrace, and understand this technology, Arc of Westchester hosted a TECH TOOLS conference on November 20, 2014. Over 80 parents, teachers, and professionals attended workshops hosted by faculty and students from Mercy College. Pictured: Mercy College students demonstrating how apps can benefit individuals with disabilities (top and inset). Smart board technology helps teachers explain new concepts to students (bottom). 15
THE ARC OF WESTCHESTER FOUNDATION Dear Friends and Supporters, As we shine a light on accessibility in this year’s annual report, I am mindful of an alternate definition of that word: “the quality of being available when needed.” Being accessible to one another is how we create family, community, and a network of support for those who require it. We are available when needed. I am a parent of a 28-year-old son with severe autism and understand the need all Elaine Masket too well. As I travel along the arc of my son Alex’s life, it is mind-boggling to me how many professionals and kindhearted souls have made themselves available to Alex, and to us. As some of you already know firsthand, it takes much more than a village to support a person with special needs throughout a long and happy life. For my family and more than 2,000 others, it takes the vast experience and commitment of Arc of Westchester. As a highly respected, visionary leader in all that it does, Arc of Westchester knows how to make rich and meaningful lives accessible to the people it serves. Yet many essential services are either underfunded or not funded at all by the government. Through our annual fundraisers, The Arc of a Life Campaign, and the extraordinary generosity of our donors, we at the Arc of Westchester Foundation bring new friends to the Arc family. Hand in hand, we work to ensure that Arc of Westchester has the financial resources it needs to continue its illustrious record of accessibility: of being available when needed.
A Matter of Taste Breaks Records
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he 2014 A Matter of Taste dinner event broke all previous attendance records, welcoming approximately 400 people who dined on delicious foods from local restaurants, sipped on a wide array of prestigious wines and beers, and participated in live and silent auctions. The annual event, held at Westchester Country Club in Rye, raised over $260,000 to support our comprehensive and innovative programs and services for people of all ages with developmental disabilities, including autism. Former Foundation Board President Larry McNaughton and local youth organization Origami Wish received the Lifetime Achievement Award and Youth Partner Award, respectively. Larry’s remarks that evening included a description of his first visits to Arc of Westchester. “I found a caring community of people who were working together to build opportunities for people with developmental disabilities.” He shared his motto, “If you see a need, you show up. And if you have any means at all, you give.”
For over 65 years, Arc of Westchester has been fulfilling its promises to thousands of families who have required its services. This community of trust rests upon the willingness of each of us to be available when needed. As the President of the Arc of Westchester Foundation, I thank you for making yourselves accessible as you help us fulfill our mission and secure a bright future for all whom we serve.
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With deepest gratitude,
Elaine Masket President, Arc of Westchester Foundation
Thank you Larry, for everything you do for Arc of Westchester.
Dear Friends and Supporters, It is hard to believe that one year has passed since I took over the helm at the Arc of Westchester Foundation. I feel honored to be part of such an excellent organization and proud to work with staff who put people first. Through special events, individual membership, foundations, and corporate support, the Foundation enables Arc of Westchester to continue to provide excellent programs and services.
Nancy Patota
I was fortunate to join Arc of Westchester during an exciting time — our 65th anniversary — and was able to share in many of the celebrations. Most significantly, I visited Albany to advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities. It was an incredibly meaningful and powerful experience that I will not forget. Throughout the year, I’ve had the opportunity to plan and participate in long-standing traditions. One of the highlights was A Matter of Taste, which broke attendance and fundraising records, making the event the most successful to date. It is a constant thrill to raise money in support of an organization that is looking towards the future, providing accessibility and technological advances for individuals with special needs in our community. Twenty-five food and beverage merchants served attendees their top culinary fare and beverages. Participants included: An American Bistro, Abigail Kirsch, Artuso and Sons Bakery and Café, Caperberry Events at the CV Rich Mansion, Cathy’s Biscotti, Chef Johnson’s, Chocolations, Culinary Tech Institute, Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, Eastchester Fish Gourmet, Johnny Gelato, LuLu Cake Boutique, North Street Tavern, Path Coffee Roasters, Rye Roadhouse, Sam’s of Gedney Way, Sweet Sam’s Baking Company, Texas deBrazil, The 808 Bistro, The Great American Barbecue, Toscana Ristorante, Tramonto, Westchester Country Club, Yonkers Brewing Co.
While Arc of Westchester works to develop new technologies and programs, the Foundation has also advanced. We have recently implemented new database management software to help us communicate better with our valued donors and maintain more thorough records. Now the Foundation is even more efficient and effective in our important work to generate support of services for individuals and their families we are privileged to serve. Please know that the success of our current mission is not possible without your generous support. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to you and all of the donors who make it possible for us to transcend the ordinary and achieve excellence in all we do.
Many thanks,
Nancy Patota Executive Director, Arc of Westchester Foundation 17
Dear Friend,
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e invite you to take time to learn about The Arc of a Life, The Campaign for Arc of Westchester. Our goal is to raise $6 million to help those in our Westchester communities who are among the most vulnerable. We know you care William V. Healey & Laura Saggese about the young children, adolescents, adults, and senior citizens in our villages and towns who struggle every day with the enormous impact of intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism and Down syndrome, on their daily lives. Arc of Westchester’s dedication to delivering a continuum of quality care is a major undertaking. Working together, we are committed to securing a future in which all of our neighbors have access to the critical opportunities and activities that enable them to lead healthy, active, and productive lives. We ask that you join The Arc of a Life Campaign and truly make a difference in the lives of the people who rely on our critical services and supports every day. As Campaign Co-Chairs, we welcome the chance to show you the Arc programs and services to which we have devoted so much expertise, creativity, and energy. We know that you will be impressed, and promise that your visit will be joyful and life affirming. With your help, we know that we will reach our $6 million campaign goal. Please join us in support of this mission. Sincerely,
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William V. Healey Co-Chair
Laura Saggese Co-Chair
To learn more about The Arc of a Life Campaign for Arc of Westchester, please contact Nancy Patota, Executive Director, Arc of Westchester Foundation at 914.495.4625 or email npatota@arcwestchester.org.
EARLY CAMPAIGN SUCCESS
TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP GIFT The Laager Family
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estchester residents Ruedi and Alix Laager have a long history with Arc of Westchester. Their son Danny, who has Down syndrome, received all his early intervention services through Arc, and the Laagers have been active members for many years. Recently, the Laagers announced their donation of a transformational leadership gift to The Arc of a Life Campaign. “The issue of supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities goes beyond just my family,” explained Ruedi. “This is a societal issue that requires attention on both a local and a global perspective. We believe in supporting Arc because it impacts the entire community and is a leading provider in services for people with disabilities.” The Laager family has a long history of supporting children and the disability community both locally and worldwide. Alix is a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Campaign for the Westchester Children’s Museum. She is also the third generation of her family to be involved with development projects in Bhutan, a small country in the Himalayas. “Arc is an extremely well-run organization, and we can trust that when we give to Arc, our money is being properly utilized,” explained Alix. “We have decided to make Arc a philanthropic priority for our family.” The Laagers are currently developing a five-year contribution plan to help guarantee the continuation of exceptional services for Danny and his peers. Join the Laagers and help us make a difference.
The Arc of a Life Campaign Committee has been busy during the preliminary planning phase of the $6 million fundraising Campaign. Through the generosity of friends, donors, and the board, we are already approaching the halfway mark, allowing us to support improvements and services that will benefit individuals of all ages. Through this campaign, Arc of Westchester seeks to enhance the accessibility of daily life to both children and adults, and to continue to promote a life of inclusion and success. A few of the campaign’s early accomplishments include: • Support to expand and enhance operations, including new hires, at eDocNY, Arc of Westchester’s innovative social business enterprise. • The purchase of sensory gym equipment and the creation of an after-school social skills program at The Children’s School for Early Development, through the Tom Hughes Fund for Children. • The launch of a new pilot program exploring the uses of technology to enable people with disabilities to be more independent, in collaboration with Mercy College. • Installation of a new generator in the event of emergency weather conditions at Arc of Westchester’s Pemart Residence, in Peekskill, NY. The Arc of a Life Campaign has pledged to raise the funds necessary to ensure that Arc of Westchester will always be ready to adapt to change and address needs throughout the entire arc of a life. We’re planning for the future — and the future is now.
Sensory equipment at The Children’s School for Early Development helps children interact with their environment.
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ARC OF WESTCHESTER FINANCIAL REPORT 2014
STATEMENT OF FUND BALANCES
Year ended December 31, 2014 (Dollars in thousands)
STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENSES
Assets
Year ended December 31, 2014 (Dollars in thousands)
Other revenue Total Revenue
3,201
Investments, at fair value
3,336
Accounts receivable
Operating Revenues Program revenue
Cash and cash equivalents
$52,901 1,212 $54,113
Prepaid expenses and other assets Due from affiliates Assets held in custody Security Deposits Assets Limited as to Use
Operating Expenses Other Than Personnel Services
12,032
Fixed assets, Net
3,249
$54,544
1,557 90 4,638 1,017
Deferred Expenses
Property — Provider Paid
84
411
38,104 1,159
326
Subordinated Loan
Personnel Services and Fringe Benefits Equipment — Provider Paid
10,174
Total Assets
20,512 $45,346
Liabilities and Net Assets Accounts and accrued expenses payable
2,762
Accrued salaries and vacation payable
2,309
Client Funds Other liabilities
447 1,116
Current portion of loans payable
356
Current portion of bonds payable
815
Due to government agencies
2,147
Loans payable, net of current portion
-
Bonds payable, net of current portion
9,557
Total Liabilities
$19,509
Net Assets
$25,837
Unrestricted -
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Stuart Kessler at the Guardianship holiday party.
Total Liabilities and Net Assets
$45,346
ARC OF WESTCHESTER FOUNDATION
10%
State Funded
2% 4%
Government Grants
The Arc of Westchester Foundation’s mission is to increase public awareness and to raise financial support from the community, generating income through long-term investments, and making contributions to support services for people with developmental disabilities served by Arc of Westchester. Since many of the agency’s most innovative services receive little to no public funding, and government funding is subject to change, the Foundation attends to the long-term health of Arc of Westchester.
School Education Department
Total net assets on December 31, 2014 were $3,409,232 compared to $2,764,623 the previous year.
Contract Sales
In 2014, the Foundation raised over $1.9 million, exceeding our annual goal by $600,000.
WHERE THE FUNDS CAME FROM
Medicare & Medicaid
2% 5%
2%
SSI & SSA
5% 70%
Client Fees Contributions & Other Revenue
WHERE THE FUNDS WENT
2%
2%
6%
Residentials
1%
43%
Consumer Support Day Services
11%
Golfing for Kids was a repeat success, thanks to the support of many golfers and friends.
Vocational Services Preschool Rec/Respite
8%
Clinic Other Programs Agency admin
20% 7%
Tom Hughes, 2014 Golfing for Kids Lifetime Partner Award Recipient.
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GALAXY OF STARS We recognize donors who have generously given cumulative lifetime gifts exceeding $250,000 to Arc of Westchester. Their extraordinary commitment is an inspiration to us all. John M. and Katharine W. Conroy Ms. Annette Edwards* Arnold D. Frese Foundation Mr. Gerard Gleeson* Mr. Justin Israel Kresge Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Laager Mr. and Mrs. Jim P. Manzi MBIA Foundation Inc. The New York Community Trust John H. & Ethel G. Noble Charitable Trust Singer, Netter, Dowd and Berman The Taft Foundation The Tudor Foundation, Inc. United Way
The Walbridge Fund Ltd. *Deceased
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2014 DONORS
GOLD STARS $10,000 - $14,999
We are grateful to all our members and donors for their gifts in 2014.
Rita A. Aranow Family Fund Mrs. Jason Berger Entergy Mrs. Emily Perl Kingsley Mr. and Mrs. George Landegger Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Mascia Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Porcaro Mr. Douglas Scherr Mr. and Mrs. Walter J. Scherr III The Alexandra Tilly Rettler Children’s Fnd. Mr. and Mrs. David B. Walker
SHOOTING STARS $50,000 + Golfing for Kids Mr. and Mrs. Eugene M. Grant Ms. Lisina Hoch A Matter of Taste Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Laager Harold Poritz Trust The Taft Foundation The Tudor Foundation, Inc. DIAMOND STARS $25,000 - $49,999 The Genesis Property Group S&L Marx Foundation Elaine and Steven Masket Mr. and Mrs. David Stern The Walbridge Fund Ltd. PLATINUM STARS $15,000 - $24,999 Mr. and Mrs. Bertram Cohn Ms. Virginia Donovan Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Gruenberg, Jr. Mr. Robert Israel Mr. Lawrence Marolda New York Collaborates for Autism The New York Community Trust Vera and Walter Scherr Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. John D. Walker The Joseph LeRoy and Anne C. Warner Fund Inc.
SILVER STARS $5,000 - $9,999 Mr. Richard Abrons Allianz Global Investors of America L.P. Anderson Kill, P.C. Arent Fox LLP Mrs. Beth Beck Boies, Schiller & Flexner LLP Ms. Kathleen Connor John M. and Katharine W. Conroy Country Bank Mr. and Mrs. William Deutsch Ms. Tibisay Guzman and Mr. Paul Sturr The Hansan Family Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. William Healey Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hughes JPMorgan Chase Dr. Barbara Kail and Mr. Adam Stoler Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Majsak Mr. William Masket Mr. and Mrs. Larry McNaughton, Jr. Mr. Michael Meagher Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Neider Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nielsen Parsons & Whittmore, Inc. Robert G. Relph Agency, Inc. Mr. John Shapiro and Dr. Shonni Silverberg Mr. and Mrs. Richard Swierat H.O.P.E. for Youth Foundation One anonymous gift RISING STARS $1,000 - $4,999 Alliance Beverage American Petroleum Ms. Margie Anik Apache Oil Company, Inc. Aspiri Bailey, Haskell & Lalonde Agency Mr. and Mrs. Scott Baken Baumeister and Samuels, P.C. Mr. Robert Blair
Mr. Ronald G. Blum and Ms. Karen W. Lindsay David Bouley Mr. Eamonn Bowles and Ms. Jackie McGowan Brae Burn Country Club Ms. Regina Brown The Bulova Stetson Fund Mr. and Mrs. Michael Carmody Ms. Kristen Clonan Mr. John Corgan Couch Braunsdorf Insurance Group Ms. Fanny Culleton Dr. and Mrs. Cesar De Castro Ms. Janet DeVito Ms. Ruth Dewey Doral Arrowwood The Thomas Doran Trust Enterprise Fleet Management Mrs. Linda B. Evans Federal Law Enforcement Foundation, Inc. Mr. Kevin J. Fee Mr. Al Feinman Mrs. Cynthia Ferguson Mr. Jonathan Ferguson Mr. Keith E. Ferguson Ms. Alexis Fernandez Dr. and Mrs. William Frishman General Re Corporation Mr. and Mrs. Carl Genna
Mr. and Mrs. Richard E. Geyer Mark Glucksman and Roberta Leiber Mr. and Mrs. David Graff Mr. and Mrs. Howard Graff Grassy Sprain Long Term Care, Inc. Mrs. Leon Green Greentree Country Club Mr. Roger M. Harris & Dr. Claudia Sickinger Harris Mr. Audelis Hernandez Mr. John M. Hintz Ms. Marie Huffman Jackson Lewis P.C. Joseph Merrill Capital Just Energy Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Kahn Mr. Peter Knapp Bernard Krooks, J.D., L.L.M. Mr. and Mrs. Alan Kurzer Mr. Mark Leibowitz Mr. and Mrs. Jay Lerner Mr. and Mrs. Joesph J. Liberatore Mr. John G. Lundberg Mrs. Arthur Maier Mr. and Mrs. Rico Maruffi Mr. and Mrs. Edward Marx Ms. Joan Masket Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Mazzella, Jr.
Marjorie & Richard McGahren Foundation MetTel Mr. Stephen Mignogna Mr. and Mrs. Donald. Moriarty Ms. Amy Nadasdi Ms. Jane Neustadter Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Nuccio Operation Santa Claus, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Philip Orlando Mr. Stacy E. Osborne Mr. James O’Toole Parker & Carmody Ms. Nancy Patota Mr. Zef Perlleshi Personal Podiatry P.C. Philadelphia Insurance Companies Mr. Sherman Pincus Ms. Sheila Regan Ms. Jessica Catharine Reijndes Ms. Esther M. Ridder Mrs. Rita Ross Mr. Michael Saggese San Carlos Hotel Chad and Christina Sarchio Mr. Anthony Scarpati Mr. and Mrs. Michael Schneck Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Schroeder Dr. Simeon Schwartz and Dr.Ellen Greenebaum
Ms. Emily Sheu SKCG Group Mr. Eugene Small Mr. Roderick Spiegel Statewide Abstract Corp. Mr. Tom Steffanci Stifel Nicolaus Stop & Shop Mr. Peter Sturr Mr. Yale Sussman Ms. Anne F. Sweazey Mr. Jeffrey Szymanski Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Tessler Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Thompson TimesSquare Capital Managment, LLC Ms. Camille R. Tomao Trimble Family Foundation Daniel Trissi Jewelers Tropham Foundation, Inc. Trump National Golf Club USAlliance Federal Credit Union Vanguard Investors Mr. John Vanmetre Ms. Donna Vitale Wallse Mr. Lawrence M. Waterhouse, III Westchester Institute for Human Development
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Westchester Women’s Bar Assn. Foundation, Inc Dr. Louise C. Weston Ms. Cory Scott Whittier Wingate Russotti & Shapiro, LLP Mr. and Mrs. Yen Wong Mr. Jeff Wood Mr. and Mrs. James Wooley Two anonymous gifts TWINKLING STARS $500 -$999 Mr. Anthony Assalone Mr. and Mrs. Gary Aviv Ms. Lisa A. Banner Mr. and Mrs. Michael Bellantoni Mr. Mitchell I. Benerofe Mr. Edward P. Boles Ms. Dympna Bowles and Mr. Donal Farley Mr. and Mrs. Barry E. Breen Mr. John Briganti Broadway.com Mr. Stephen Bush Mr. and Mrs. David Caplan Ms. Patricia Capurso Penny Chiusano Mr. Rocco Circosta Mr. and Mrs. Roger Coleman Mr. John J. Coll
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Con Edison Solutions Confident Kid Club Ms. Stephanie Conolly and Mr. Larry Wood Mr. Scott D. Corrigan County Fair Appliance Rescue The Cuddy Law Firm Mr. Cornell Cummings Ms. Mary B. Curtis Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Daddino Mr. Jack Doherty Mr. and Mrs. Michael Doorley Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Farley Dr. and Mrs. Fred Feiner Ms. Karina Fitzpatrick Four Seasons Hotel Fross Zelnick Lehrman & ZissuPC Mr. and Mrs. John Furth General Re Corporation Mr. Albert Gentle Mr. and Mrs. David Gette Global Communication Services, Inc. Dr. Ruth Gottesman Mr. and Mrs. Brian Green Mr. and Mrs. Bill Greene Ms. Helene B. Gurian Ms. Jill Haggerty Dr. and Mrs. Zindel H. Heller
Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Hillman Mr. and Mrs. Bob Hunt IBM Employee Services Center IBM Retiree Charitable Campaign The Honorable Timothy C. Idoni Infusion JFJ Fuel/Valley Oil Company Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Junker Mr. Louis Kangas Dr. Tamir Kharouba Ms. Susan B. Kiernan Kidville Kimpton Hotel Kopff, Nardelli & Dopf LLP Ms. Elizabeth Laite The Carl & Renee Landegger Family Charitable Trust Mr. Georges G. Lederman, Esq. Mr. Martin Lee Mr. and Mrs. Martin Levine Ms. Judith Levy Mr. and Mrs. Michael Luskin Mr. and Mrs. John Macken Joseph Manzi, DDS Marriott Marquis Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Mauro Mr. and Mrs. Marc Mazur Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McCandless
Mr. Raymond McGovern Minisceongo Golf Club Mr. and Mrs. Mohan Mehra Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Mulroy Ms. Meghan E. Nee Mr. Thomas Nee Mr. Martin Nydick Ms. Kyle O’Loughlin Cahill Orsid Realty Corp. Palace Hotel Dr. and Mrs. Rich Petriccione Mr. and Mrs. Stephen G. Piccone Ms. Antonia Polcini Mr. Erik Porcaro and Mrs. Kristie M. Porcaro Mr. and Mrs. Eric Prideaux Proftech Office Products Mr. and Mrs. Salvatore F. Pugliese Restaurant North Ritz Carlton San Juan Mr. Ralph Robbins Mr. and Mrs. Antonio Rodrigues Mrs. Zita Rosenthal Mr. and Mrs. Frank Rota Mr. Miles Rubin Mr. and Mrs. Robert Rukeyser Salem Golf Club Ms. Fatima Sanwarwalla
Mr. Gregory Sanzari Ms. Rebecca Savage Mr. and Mrs. Edward Saviano Mr. and Mrs. Richard Scheiner Schenker Family Foundation Mr. Steven Schnur Ms. Lynda Schrier Wirth Mrs. Laura Scolaro Mr. and Mrs. Jack Shannon Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Sharp Ms. Noriko Shimizu Mrs. Suzanne Slattery Mr. Sean Smith Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Sommer Mr. Kenneth M. Stynes Mr. Peter Szemenyei Mr. and Mrs. Norman P. Szymanski T&M Protection Resources, LLC Ms. Courtney Topic Jacque Torres Chocolate Ms. Nathalie Toulemonde Transamerica Retirement Solutions Tudor Investment Mr. and Mrs. John Tutera Upper West Rest. Corp. Vineyard and Vine Ms. Margaret N. Vogt Mr. and Mrs. Donald Warner
Mrs. Sally Weinraub Westchester Hills Westchester Hilton Mr. and Mrs. Steven R. Yellen LEGACY OF LOVE SOCIETY We are honored to give special recognition to those compassionate, forward-thinking donors who have included Arc of Westchester Foundation in their estate plans and are helping to ensure future services for people with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Fulfilled Gifts Robert Blauner Ingeborg Childs Neil Cifichiello Murray Collier Constance Dimond Thomas Doran Annette Edwards Miriam G. Ekstein Marjorie A. Elbers Alfred S. Gano Gerard Gleeson and Family Jean Gustafson Pauline C. Halpin Helen M. Harris William Jarad Horton James B. Hosmer
Edward H. Hussey Mary A. Jensen Heinrich Joachim Noreen Koenig Charles Kingsley Lucille Kirschner Aldo Mazzarati Anne McGuire Ira Meirowitz Helen Melnick Theresa Pietsch Jay Robinson Gabriel Rubino Florence Schwartz Stella and Simon Sheib Rose Simon Marion L. Silbert Milton G. Sincoff Eleanor C. Stambaugh Robert E. Stein Laura Thorn Joseph F. Vandernoot Heljo Vosari Louise Wick Margaret Annie Wilkins Edwin F. Zimmer
Promised Gifts Gazella Allen Lorraine Bauchman Beth Beck Judith and Peter Christ Deborah Lea Cohen Ann and John Coneys Katharine Wilson Conroy Betty D’Alton Joan and Edward Dusenberry Douglas and Cynthia Ferguson Dr. William and Esther Frishman Mary Green Justin Israel Emily Perl Kingsley Theodore and Patricia Levine Julia McGuire Larry and Angela McNaughton Mohan and Suzanne Mehra Margaret Mulvey MG and Dennis Power Sheryl Frishman and Rob Rosman Rita and Mort Ross Judith Solomon Anne F. Sweazey Susan and John Walker Gertrude and Irving Wasserman Louise C. Weston, Ph.D.
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OUR LEADERSHIP ARC OF WESTCHESTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARC OF WESTCHESTER FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ARC OF WESTCHESTER EXECUTIVE STAFF
Bernard A. Krooks, Esq. President
Elaine Masket President
Richard P. Swierat Executive Director
Rosa Rodriguez President-Elect
Lawrence McNaughton Immediate Past President
Anthony Assalone Immediate Past President
John J. Corgan, Esq. Treasurer/Secretary
Tibisay Guzmán Associate Executive Director Chief Operating Officer
Jonathan Ferguson Treasurer Abby Reuben Secretary Myles Bartley Patricia Capurso Joseph Cassarini Michelle Christie Karen Corrado Miriam DeLeon Kim Gilligan Patsy Ginese Mark Glucksman Robert Hunt Anne Majsak Mohan Mehra Paul Mehta Robert Nuccio Kyle O’Loughlin-Cahill Christopher Orlando, DPM Stacy Osborne Sarah Phelan Rita Ross Jerrold Shenkman, Esq. Janet Sugar Chinika Thompson Jeffrey Wood
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DIRECTORS Katharine W. Conroy, Esq.* William V. Healey, Esq. Justin Israel Steven Masket, Esq. Laura Scherr Saggese Susan Walker* * Also Foundation Member
MEMBERS Anthony Assalone Bernard A. Krooks, Esq. Jonathan Ferguson Abby Reuben Gerald Singer Nancy Patota Executive Director, Arc of Westchester Foundation
Rosemarie Crisafi Assistant Executive Director, Residential Services Lawrence R. Faulkner, Esq. Director of Corporate Compliance and General Counsel Fran Porcaro Assistant Executive Director of Educational Services Norman Szymanski Chief Financial Officer Soosan Tehrani Controller Myriam Vocke Director of Human Resources Steven R. Yellen Assistant Executive Director Quality Improvement and Staff Development
Arc of Westchester 2014 Annual Report is published by: Arc of Westchester, a chapter of NYSARC, Inc. and The Arc of the U.S. Certified Under the Standards for Excellence Institute
Photography: Regina Moore and Juliet Adamo Editorial: Regina Moore and Whittier & Associates, Inc. Design: Maria Ackies, Maria Loren Designs, NY
Katelyn and Tim, participants in Arc’s Choices Program, enjoy sharing their favorite apps and programs.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT
O
ur mission is to empower children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, to achieve their potential by strengthening families and encouraging personal choices, abilities, and interests.
www.arcwestchester.org
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The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center 265 Saw Mill River Road Hawthorne, NY 10532 914.949.9300 www.arcwestchester.org
ON THE COVER Andrew Howsen, eDocNY IT instructor, shows employee Alma Rosenzweig the new Touch Screen Technology. This equipment has provided individuals with limited reading or fine motor capabilities the opportunity to expand their job skills.