Annual Report 2015

“MY LIFE. MY CHOICE. MY RESPONSIBILITY.” ARC OF WESTCHESTER ANNUAL REPORT 2015

Cristian Muzzio, center above, received the 2015 William B. Joslin Outstanding Performer Award by New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID) in recognition of his employment at Metro North for over six years. The award acknowledges individuals with developmental disabilities who have overcome limitations to achieve outstanding job performance and personal success.

In addition to being a successful participant of Arc of Westchester’s renowned employment program, Cristian is also an accomplished artist whose unique collection includes the art featured on gallery265’s banner, shown above. With Cristian is Arc of Westchester President Bernard A. Krooks and Executive Director Richard P. Swierat.

2

2015

A Year of Great Successes Amidst Greater Challenges

3

The challenges we face push us forward

D

ear Arc Families, Friends and Supporters,

When Arc of Westchester began, most people with disabilities were institutionalized. Today, we’re living in an age of tolerance and understanding. Our community is successfully promoting messages of choice and an acceptance of differences.

Richard P. Swierat

Sadly, however, this enlightenment is not translating into public dollars. Arc of Westchester is facing challenges so severe that family advocates are considering taking legal action against New York State for its lack of support through rate setting, harvesting all our surpluses and carving up our budgets.

Still, we never despair. The challenges we face push us forward to reinvent ourselves and be even better. Throughout this 2015 Annual Report, you’ll read how, with the help of our members, we are creating innovative solutions to ensure our continued progress and service to our community.

Our reinvestment project is a current example of how we are meeting our funding challenges head-on.

We are taking radical steps to sell and/or reallocate outmoded assets to craft better, more efficient residences and supportive housing to meet a growing demand.

Our eDocNY document management business continues to grow and we continue to build a business plan for a profitable return in the future.

Our collaboration with the UNC TEACCH® Autism Program is developing tools to help our staff be more successful at supporting employment in the community. Through our own career services initiative — Recruit, Motivate and Retain — we’re encouraging stability in our workforce so valuable employees stay. And we’re continuing to expand our focus on technology to enable people to be more independent.

With our preschool, once again our tactic is innovation. Other children’s schools and early intervention programs are shrinking and even closing down due to funding cuts. We’re finding alternative resources through our Arc of a Life Campaign, fundraising events and other Foundation efforts to secure additional resources.

gallery265 is staying dynamic and creative even though no public resources exist for this program.

We continue to develop new initiatives and actively engage all members of the community.

Across the scope of our services, from infancy to senior citizenship, we are staying true to our mission to support the full arc of a person’s life with meaning and dignity. Arc of Westchester will always remember the days of institutionalization. That was our past.

Your interest and advocacy will ensure our future. Thank you for your continued support.

Warmly,

4

Richard P. Swierat Executive Director

to reinvent ourselves and be even better.

D

ear Friends, Families and Advocates,

The New York State constitution, which dates back to the 1700’s, is clear: the state has a commitment to take care of people with developmental disabilities. Yet, despite that declaration, we have spent decades in a constant struggle.

Arc of Westchester’s founders fought for the rights and services our loved ones deserve, and they’re still fighting alongside our newer members. The challenges that lie before us are considerable. State budget cuts are ongoing. Regulations and unfunded mandates continue to be troublesome.

Bernard A. Krooks, Esq.

Here at Arc of Westchester, we are committed to finding innovative solutions. We are not waiting for someone else to find the answers — we are leading the way. The reason Arc of Westchester is so successful is because we work hard to maintain a standard of excellence. That commitment to excellence permeates our entire organization.

My term as president is coming to a close. While we can be proud of how far we have come, we need to continue to remind ourselves how much more work there is to do. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve you. As Rosa Rodriguez takes over the role, I am confident that we are in very capable hands and that this organization will continue to maintain its distinction of being at the very forefront of our movement.

Respectfully,

Bernard A. Krooks, Esq. President

O

Dear Arc of Westchester Members and Friends,

Tibi Guzmán, Associate Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer with Rosa Rodriguez.

ver ten years ago, I joined the board of Arc of Westchester while my son Ethan was a student at The Children’s School for Early Development. I saw how dedicated Arc was to helping each person find a happy, fulfilling life —and I decided that this was an organization I believed in.

Now, I’m about to step into a role that has over the years been filled by some really big shoes. My goals may be few, but they are ambitious. I’d like to expand our board with more parents, educators and professionals with diverse cultural backgrounds; I’d like to revitalize our grassroots movement to engage more members as advocates at the local, state and federal levels. And I pledge to use all my talents and abilities to push us forward and do what’s right for our children, adults and families.

Arc of Westchester has always been a maverick organization. The leadership is willing to step into new realms and try new things. Their forward-thinking philosophy inspires me and I hope it inspires you, too.

I look forward to serving you,

Rosa Rodriguez President Elect

5

Innovation Ensures Our

Breaking New Ground

A conversation with Steven R. Yellen, Assistant Executive Director of Innovation and Community Development

“

Yours is a new position at Arc of Westchester.

Tell us what’s special about it.

“

What are some of the specific innovations you’ve helped to spearhead for Arc of Westchester?

The first is what we call our Reinvestment Project. In response to state mandates on housing and the growing residential crisis, Arc took a fresh look at our properties and identified an opportunity to downsize one of our oldest residences in order to create smaller, more stable living environments.

“

This position allows me to roll up my sleeves and focus on developing new programs that are cutting edge for people we support and the agency. For an organization of this size, we need to be always looking ahead. Arc of Westchester has dedicated the time and resources to identify new people and areas needing services. We then can explore new initiatives, so we can better help children and adults with developmental disabilities, and their families.”

It’s truly a groundbreaking effort for Arc of Westchester and the beginning of an important new trend for us — taking what we currently have and shifting our resources to create new housing opportunities that allow more choice, more individualized attention, and help more people.”

“ 6

That’s very exciting. Can you tell us about the other innovative programs Arc is working on to address the housing crisis?

including myself, our director of nursing, a day services behavioral therapist, and a residential services program director.

The early feedback we’re getting from families is fantastic. They love that residences are designed for only four people, which translates into more freedom and choice.”

Tell us about the new Self-Direction program.

This is one of the top three initiatives begun in 2015 and it really underscores the values of control and choice on the part of individuals and families. Basically, people who are approved by NYS OPWDD for the program get to decide what resources and services they want within a preapproved budget, including the hiring of staff. Our role is to create that budget based on the individual’s and family’s needs and wishes. Self-Direction is hugely advantageous for people who don’t require a certified setting and want to live independently. There’s a growing demand for this service in the Hudson Valley, so we’re ramping up our expertise and our staffing to meet those requests.”

These three initiatives are totally new for Arc of Westchester. We’re still in the early stages and there are lots of hurdles to get over. Families are knocking on our doors. The need is out there and we’re not going to let our community down.

”

We’re also developing new small home environments for students who are “aging out.” They currently live in residential schools because their needs went beyond what their local school districts could provide. Once they turn 21, they’ll come back to their home counties. They’ll need an alternative setting to the residential school and that’s where we come in.

We’re looking for residences to purchase, talking to families, screening students, and determining compatible house mates. Our approach involves a cross-disciplinary team,

The future looks bright and exciting for teens and young adults exploring services.

Continued Progress and Service to Our Community Community Collaboration Launches The Rocket

I

n November 2015, County Executive Robert P. Astorino’s Food Waste Reduction initiative, in partnership with Arc of Westchester and the Westchester Community Foundation, became operational with the acquisition of The Rocket, a self-contained composter for on-site treatment of organic waste.

The initiative focuses on managing waste for businesses in a cost-effective way by repurposing it, and is unique in that it combines the efforts and resources of several organizations. Phase one focused on training 20 Arc of Westchester Arc of Westchester participants help County Executive Robert P. participants in composting, recycling, waste Astorino at a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil the The Rocket removal, organic gardening and how to assist the at the Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF) in Valhalla. county’s Department of Environmental Facilities (DEF) in operating and maintaining The Rocket.

The trainings were made possible thanks to a $15,000 grant from the Westchester Community Foundation. Purchase of The Rocket kicked off phase two.

“We are grateful to Westchester County and the Westchester Community Foundation for partnering with us to provide opportunities for individuals who were in need of job readiness skills,” said Tibi Guzmán, Associate Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer for Arc of Westchester. “They are now on a path to exploring new careers and are contributing to the sustainability of Westchester County communities.”

Arc Receives Prestigious Westchester Green Business Challenge Award

A

rc of Westchester received The Charles W. Brown, Jr. Sustainability Award for Visionary Leadership and Commitment to Sustainability at an awards banquet held on June 4, 2015.

The Westchester Green Business Challenge presented this most distinguished honor to Arc of Westchester for our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability throughout the entire organization.

Arc’s commitment includes numerous initiatives for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our educational and residential programs. Arc’s green initiatives are an important part of our business plan, and we hope that our continued efforts will inspire others to do the same.

Dr. Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of The Business Council of Westchester; WGBC’s Dani Glaser; Arc of Westchester Executive Director Ric Swierat; Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino 7

Excellence in Early Education

Emily with “Miss Marie,” her one-to-one teacher’s aide.

8

High Praise From A Grateful Mom

D

ear Arc of Westchester,

My daughter Emily attends the Children’s School preschool at Country Children’s Center in Katonah, and this past year has been one of tremendous growth: her independence and confidence have soared.

Emily’s teacher’s aide, Marie Tomanelli, has been a key contributor to Emily’s progress. Marie has gone above and beyond what I would consider her typical “job.” And while there are many examples, there is one that stands out in my mind.

Earlier this year, I met with the school and Marie to discuss my frustration with Emily’s lack of speech and inability to share her school experiences at home. Collectively, we brainstormed various strategies.

A few days later, Marie handed me a huge binder filled with laminated pictures of Emily’s activities, therapies, favorite things and school classmates — everything you could possibly imagine that would help Emily communicate with us. As a family, we share this book nightly; it has brought joy to Emily and everyone who loves her.

Marie dedicated her own personal time to creating this book, and it has changed our lives.

As a former public school teacher for 15 years, I understand what it takes for a teacher to cultivate and nurture a child who has special needs, or any child for that matter. Marie has a gift. Her exceptional care and high standards would benefit every child. This is the type of teacher we want in our classrooms so that all children can succeed to the best of their ability.

Thank you again for providing such a wonderful environment and staff for our daughter.

Best regards, Christen Riegel

The Children’s School In 1949, Arc of Westchester opened the first program in the county for children with developmental disabilities, including speech and language delays, autism and Down syndrome.

Today, The Children’s School for Early Development serves over 250 children each year and is a leader in early intervention and inclusive education for infants, toddlers and preschoolers with developmental disabilities.

Early intervention services, for children from birth to age three, include evaluations, service coordination, speech services and parent-child support groups. Preschool services offer children from three to five years community classroom experiences so that they can learn alongside typically developing peers.

The Children’s School has been recognized by the New York State Education Department’s Board of Regents as a model for collaboration with community preschools to successfully increase inclusion opportunities for children with disabilities.

9

Transition Conference The “Transitioning with Technology” conference was held on November 21, 2015 at The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center to help parents, as well as students with autism and other developmental disabilities, learn about various apps and devices that can help ease the transition to adulthood.

Mercy College and Arc: Partners in Innovation

The well-attended sessions included: planning for a successful future, getting ready for work, and safely/independently enjoying life.

Joan Toglia, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA, Dean of School of Health and Natural Sciences, Mercy College, presented the morning’s keynote, “Apps for Everyday Needs.”

Over the past two years, the partnership between Arc of Westchester and Mercy College has grown from a small study into a series of seminars and events designed to help parents, children and educators understand how technology can improve the lives of people with disabilities. With Mercy College’s help, we are able to get them one step closer to achieving their goals.

Mercy College Makes Mornings Run Smoothly

A

rc of Westchester Foundation and Mercy College School of Health and Natural Sciences partnered, through the use of a grant, to explore how the use of technology can enhance the performance of everyday living skills in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Four residents of Arc’s Borcher House participated in the study. An example of the program’s success was illustrated in the team’s work with one young man who had trouble getting dressed on time to catch the morning bus to his day program.

Mercy College students worked to increase his speed through the use of a task sequencing application on the iPad. The app used music to pace his morning routine and help him understand the concept of time. In just three months, with the use of the app, he was able to dress himself 10 minutes faster than before the program began – a simple but enjoyable strategy for helping this young man’s morning routine run more smoothly.

10

gallery265 is completely supported through private philanthropy. Our donors are the sole reason that Arc of Westchester is able to maintain a successful art program.

Antoine Hawkins

Side-By-Side For the first time in Westchester County, artists and poets with developmental disabilities and community artists and poets, celebrated their talents side-by-side at the 1st Annual Art/Poetry Festival sponsored by Arc of Westchester. National Slam Poet Eric Zork Alan served as emcee and performed an “Open Mic” session with local poets. Guests viewed over 80 works of art by artists with and without disabilities in Arc of Westchester’s gallery265.

The festival was the culmination of a series of open studio workshops and writing classes that were held for artists with disabilities and community artists.

FALL ART SHOW Antoine Hawkins, Susan Green, Daniel Kabakoff and Nadine Temperman were featured artists of gallery265’s 2015 Fall Art Show.

On display from October through December, the show expanded on gallery265’s commitment to the community and its mission to bring a variety of talent together.

gallery265 Featured At USAlliance Financial’s Inaugural Association Month In July 2015, USAlliance Financial launched its Association Month program and selected Arc of Westchester as the inaugural partner.

A sampling of gallery265’s permanent collection was loaned to USAlliance’s new branch in Port Chester for two months.

The collection contained 15 paintings, as well as several sculptures and other mediums, which brought bright colors, and compelling compositions to the building’s lobby.

11

Our Employment Program Remains Unsurpassed New Milestones for Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism

T

he 2015 Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism (PSCA) class was exceptional for two reasons: at nine students, it was our largest to date, and the first to include women — two, in fact!

PSCA’s year-long program prepared these young men and women with Autism Spectrum Disorder with valuable skills to enter the workforce. The students gained confidence, became more independent, learned valuable job-related skills and left the internship program with an understanding of workplace culture and the ability to develop a resume, interview and secure a permanent job.

Upon graduation, the young people were enrolled in Arc of Westchester’s renowned employment program and received the support of job coaches as needed to help ease the transition and guide them to success.

Congratulations to the class of 2015!

“Structured TEACCHing” Improves Employment Training

Arc of Westchester Executive Director Ric Swierat addresses graduates.

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.

E

ighteen Arc of Westchester supported employment professionals took part in a training program at New York Presbyterian Hospital in White Plains made possible by two private grants. The training was facilitated by three educators from the UNC TEACCH®Autism Program at The University of North Carolina and began a series of educational initiatives that continued into 2016. Additional trainings have consisted of video conferences and in-person lessons both in Westchester and North Carolina.

UNC TEACCH’s evidenced-based practices are designed to achieve greater job satisfaction and retention outcomes for our professional staff and program participants. Their overall mission is to create and cultivate exemplary community-based services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder across their lifespan.

Mike Chapman, UNC TEACCH, Director of Supported Employment, shares learning tools and techniques with a group of Arc of Westchester professionals.

12

All of us at Arc of Westchester are excited to be a part of this process and believe the techniques and strategies our staff members learn from this experience will enhance the quality-of-life for the people we support every day.

2015 EMPLOYER RECOGNITION BREAKFAST

“A

s an employer, when you hire a new employee, you are providing that person with the opportunity to have a meaningful life where they can build friendships and relationships — a life full of options and opportunity,” Executive Director Ric Swierat told the 27th Annual Employer Breakfast audience in April 2015. Thirteen awards were presented to individuals and companies that have championed Arc of Westchester’s career and employment programs.

“This really is the easiest award I’ve ever been given,” said Assistant District Attorney Paul Stein when accepting one of the New Partnership Awards on behalf

of the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office, Yonkers City Court Bureau. “All I had to do was hire someone who is on time, diligent, cheerful and does their job with enthusiasm every day of the week. It couldn’t be easier than that.”

Arc of Westchester works with businesses to find the right employees who will fill their staffing needs.

We focus on the individual: helping each person discover their interests, develop their talents and prepare for meaningful careers. We currently have 250 business partners with more than 300 individuals working in the community.

Photos, left to right: Dr. Marsha Gordon, President/CEO, The Business Council of Westchester, Share of Voice Award Winner; Attorney Paul Stein accepting a New Partnership Award on behalf of the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office, Yonkers City Court Bureau; Paul Feiner, Town of Greenburgh, accepts Civic Partnership Award.

Bridge to Employment Award Recipient: Stew Leonard’s

A

s a company that’s well known for its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Stew Leonard’s enthusiastically embraced its new partnership with Arc of Westchester by hiring three of our people to work in their Yonkers store. Each new employee had the opportunity to explore the different departments and tackle a wide array of tasks as part of their onsite training. Their daily responsibilities varied from arranging items on the shelves, returning products to their proper locations, organizing the Beanie Babies, watering the plants and general cleaning.

Customers, sensing the camaraderie that developed between veteran staff and trainees, showed their support by asking questions or simply saying hello. The first-time employees were very fortunate to receive such an inviting and caring occupational learning environment.

The Stew Leonard’s crew takes a break from the busy store. Stew Leonard’s is an employer who has transitioned internship opportunities to paid employment positions for individuals supported by Arc of Westchester.

13

THE YEAR IN PICTURES

2

1

3

14

4

1. “Peeps” Art Show

The 5th Annual Peep Contest offered by Day Programs invited Arc participants and staff to work together to pick an idea and create artistic projects using marshmallow peeps. This takes great team effort — and is lots of fun! The theme for 2015 was “Recycle and Repurpose.”

2. Spring Ball

Move over Dancing with the Stars! Over 550 friends danced the night away at Arc of Westchester’s 28th Annual Spring Ball. It is one of the highlights of the year for individuals all over Westchester.

3. Autism Spectrum News Champion & 914INC Thought Leader

5

Executive Director Ric Swierat was recognized by Westchester Magazine’s 914INC. publication as one of 30 local visionaries, idealists and forward thinkers who are transforming the way we live, work, learn and lead in Westchester County and beyond.

And in October, Ric Swierat was honored as a champion of the autism community with the Beacon of Hope Leader Award from Autism Spectrum News. The prestigious honor was presented at the Annual Leadership Awards Reception held at the CV Rich Mansion in White Plains.

4. Family Resource Day

2015 Family Resource Day: A Day of Transitions & Transformations, drew interested families, friends and professionals from all over the county. The Westchester Delegation to the NYS Senate and Assembly also joined for a special forum to address topics about access to residential options, early intervention and preschool reimbursement, funding employment transformation programs and other important issues.

5. Annual Meeting

25 Years!

30 Years!

The theme of our 2015 Annual Meeting was Accessibility. This year marked 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 protection to individuals with disabilities. Jordan Jankus, Arc of Westchester Technologist, presented Melissa Gomez with the SelfAdvocate of the Year Award, and the Public Partnership Award was awarded to Westchester Community College.

The college has provided space in their theater for Echo Onstage, Arc’s Summer Theater Program.

6. Staff Recognition Dinner

Over 130 Arc of Westchester employees were honored by the Board of Directors at the 2015 Annual Staff Recognition Night. Awards were presented to our dedicated professionals for years of service that ranged from 5 to 30 years.

6

15

THE ARC OF WESTCHESTER FOUNDATION Dear Arc of Westchester Friends and Supporters,

A

s I complete my second year at the helm of the Arc of Westchester Foundation, I couldn’t be more pleased by all we have achieved together.

This book salutes the remarkable foresight, compassion and generosity of our valued friends, volunteers and donors.

The Foundation is instrumental in enabling Arc of Westchester to meet a Nancy Patota burgeoning need for services for people with developmental disabilities. At the same time, state funding cuts and rate reductions threaten our very underpinnings.

Despite it all — or maybe because we are continually inspired by the challenges we face — Arc of Westchester continues to succeed through our leadership, insight and ingenuity.

It is the Foundation’s job to support innovation throughout every facet of our organization. We fund the creativity of our arts program, the groundbreaking style in which we approach employment, the state-of-theart technologies and teaching methods that make The Children’s School the best in our region, and our other acclaimed programs that support the full arc of a person’s life.

Our goal is to reduce the agency’s dependency on government funding by increasing private philanthropy, allowing Arc of Westchester to continue to offer life-transforming services, despite the shifts in our state government funding. Our $6 million Arc of a Life Campaign is key to securing our future and the standard of excellence that has become a trademark of our organization.

In this annual report, we have highlighted some of our many successes.

Ours is an ongoing commitment, across a lifetime, even across generations.

And it would not be possible without your support.

I want to thank you for your help. Together, I know we will have an even more successful year ahead.

16

Many thanks,

Nancy Patota Executive Director, Arc of Westchester Foundation

We are grateful to the following restaurants who so generously served their signature dishes and beverages to our 400 guests at A Matter of Taste.

42 The Restaurant | The Ritz-Carlton Abigail Kirsch An American Bistro Artuso and Sons Bakery and Cafe Augie’s Prime Cut Caperberry Events at the CV Rich Mansion Chocolation Culinary Tech Institute Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits Eastchester Fish Gourmet Junior’s Cheesecake Lexington Square Café Mima Vinoteca NoMa Social North Street Tavern Path Coffee Roasters Poppy’s Cheesecake Rye House Port Chester Rye Roadhouse Silver Tips Tea Sonora Standing Room Only Texas deBrazil The Great American Barbecue The Town Dock The Twisted Branch Tramonto Wuji Restaurant Yonkers Brewing Co. Zuppa

OUR JOURNEY TOGETHER

A Matter of Taste

Dear Friends, Families and Supporters,

E

ver since my family joined the Arc of Westchester family, I have looked forward to receiving the annual report. It provides such an enlightening look at our people, our programs and our initiatives; but just as important, it provides a sense of the ever-growing challenges we face to secure the funding we need to continue to be the “best of the best.”

Nancy Patota Elaine Masket, Esq.

The story of Arc of Westchester is a story of great success amidst even greater challenges.

That is the story of our families, as well. As a parent of an adult son with severe autism and extremely limited language, I know that this is how many families live their lives: celebrating successes large and small, but always in the context of tremendous challenges ahead. For instance, my son can now tell us that he’d like some chocolate cake, but what we’re aching for him to be able to verbalize is when he is not feeling right and needs to see a doctor.

This is a huge challenge that casts a long shadow of anxiety as he gets older.

And yet we remain hopeful as the successes keep piling up — for my son and for the 2,000 people who rely on Arc of Westchester’s comprehensive and innovative programs each and every day.

And just as those individuals and their families rely on us, we are relying on you to help us overcome the challenges we face. We are so grateful that you are already a friend of Arc of Westchester. Perhaps you would consider deepening that friendship. Help us spread the word of the amazing work done here. Consider volunteering: we have a host of opportunities to suit anyone’s interest and talents. And please, continue to be as generous as possible with your tax-deductible financial contributions.

Thank you for the essential role that you, our donors, have already played in our long record of success. Let’s continue, arm-in-arm, on this important journey.

Top to bottom: Guests enjoying the auction; John and Katharine Conroy, 2015 Lifetime Achievement Award recipients; Joseph A. Saccomano, Jr. accepting Business Partner Award on behalf of Jackson Lewis.

With deepest gratitude,

Elaine Masket, Esq. President, Arc of Westchester Foundation 17 17

LEADING THE WAY $6 Million Goal Promises to Ensure a Bright Future

T

he Arc of Westchester is unparalleled in its commitment to provide lifelong comprehensive services and innovative programming for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, through the entire arc of a life. We are determined to make possible a bright future for the thousands of individuals—and their families— who depend on us every day, despite ever-increasing challenges.

The Arc of a Life Campaign was Julie Marotta with Eric (rt), a student designed to address a seismic shift at The Children’s School, and his in funding resources, an exploding brother Greg. population, and changed paradigms for providing these services. Some of our top initiatives include:

• Increased opportunities for children with autism • Expanded programs that place young adults in productive jobs • Enhanced residences providing safe, attractive homes • Guardianship services for older adults in need • Technology and innovation to enable access to personal achievement

To learn more about The Arc

For a full list of campaign goals and to learn more about The Arc of a Life Campaign, visit our website at www.arcwestchester.org/campaign.

of a Life Campaign for Arc of Westchester, please contact Nancy Patota, Executive Director,

Campaign Receives First Million Dollar Gift

Arc of Westchester Foundation

The Campaign leadership received exciting news of a $1,000,000 grant. The gift is the largest grant that Arc of Westchester Foundation has ever received from a philanthropic foundation. The funds will be devoted to Campaign initiatives that place young adults in productive jobs in our community and to support training and excellence for the direct care staff in our residences.

at 914.495.4625 or email npatota@arcwestchester.org.

18

Campaign Launch Goes Public at A Matter of Taste Lead Gifts Give Campaign A Strong Start

B

efore an animated crowd at our annual fundraiser, while bright Hollywood lights began to flash and celebratory music played, Campaign Co-Chairs Bill Healey and Laura Saggese took center stage to announce the public launch of The Arc of a Life Campaign. The exciting news was met with sustained applause when Bill said, “I am excited to share with you tonight that we have received Campaign Public Launch at contributions and A Matter of Taste. pledges of over $3,000,000 towards our goal!”

“Gifts were made by our volunteer leaders on both the Agency and Foundation Boards, as well as by some exceptionally generous donors. These compassionate supporters have set a wonderful example for the rest of us and have taken us over the halfway mark,” said Bill Healey.

Ric Swierat, Executive Director of Arc of Westchester, confirmed the importance of the Campaign: “The money that we raise is critical to our future. It will ensure continuous excellence in programs, services and facilities in spite of an uncertain economy and rapidly shifting government funding.”

These early gifts are essential to the success of the Campaign. Now that the Campaign is in its public phase, leadership is reaching out to donors, friends and neighbors to join us in achieving our $6 million goal.

Donor Tribute

Justin Israel 1927 – 2016

Transformational donor, trusted advisor, board member, parent and friend, Justin Israel was an inspirational figure with boundless commitment to our mission.

Justin’s son John had severe developmental disabilities, so Justin became passionate about raising money and awareness on behalf of those with developmental challenges. He served many leadership roles at Arc of Westchester over the years, raised millions of dollars, and helped to fund The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center.

His passionate advocacy and extraordinary generosity have had a deep and lasting impact on the lives of thousands of people with developmental disabilities. He loved, he gave, he taught, he shared, he lived, he was engaged, he made a difference, and his work will carry on. Adored by all, he will be deeply missed.

Justin with his son John 19

ARC OF WESTCHESTER FINANCIAL REPORT 2015 STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENSES

Year ended December 31, 2015 (Dollars in thousands)

Operating Revenues Program Revenue Other Revenue Total revenue

54,842 479 55,321

Operating Expenses Salaries & Fringe benefits 37,848 Other than personnel services

11,754

Equipment - provider paid

1,155

Property - provider paid

3,095

53,852

STATEMENT OF FUND BALANCES

Year ended December 31, 2015 (Dollars in thousands) Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 6,466 Investments, at fair value 3,559 Accounts receivable 9,373 Prepaid expenses and other assets 289 Due from affiliates 84 Assets held in custody 956 Assets held for deferred compensation 742 Total Current Assets

21,469

Security Deposits Assets Limited as to Use Subordinated Loan Deferred Expenses Fixed assets, Net

84 4,575 1,017 368 20,865

Total Assets

48,378

Current Liabilities: Accounts and accrued expenses payable Accrued salaries and vacation payable Client Funds Other liabilities Current portion of loans payable Current portion of bonds payable Due to government agencies (Note 11) Total Current Liabilities Loans payable, net of current portion Bonds payable, net of current portion Total Liabilities

2,565 2,392 611 1,166 88 833 2,380 10,035 318 8,746 19,099

Net assets Diana Hurt is learning new skills at her recent position with HMS Host. They provide hospitality services to rest stops on the New York State Thruway.

20 1 8

Unrestricted

29,279

Total Liabilites & Net Assets

48,378

ARC OF WESTCHESTER FOUNDATION

WHERE THE FUNDS CAME FROM 1% 2%

5% 10%

%

5%

Medicare & Medicaid

1% 2%

Medicare & Medicaid

SSI & SSA

10%

SSI & SSA

State Funded State Funded

3% 2%

Government Grants Government Grants

5%

School educa?on School Education School educa?on department Department department Contract Sales

Contract Sales 72%

72%

Client Fees

Client Fees

Contribu?ons & Other

revenue & Contributions Contribu?ons & Other Other Revenue revenue

WHERE THE FUNDS WENT 7%

2%

2% 2% 11% 2%

2% 7% 2%

42%

42%

Residen/als

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 constantly shifting, the Foundation attends to the long-term health of Arc of Westchester.

Total net assets on hand as of December 31, 2015, were $4,065,186, compared to $3,409,232 in 2014.

The Foundation exceeded its annual revenue goal by raising $1,716,108, and contributed nearly $500,000 to Arc of Westchester programs that are either not funded or under funded by the government, yet are of critical importance.

Through careful control of expenses, the Foundation lowered its cost to raise a dollar to less than 11%. As a result, almost 90% of the value of your donation is available for the direct benefit of Arc of Westchester.

We are proud to be such effective and careful stewards of your donor dollars, and are grateful for your continuing generosity.

Consumer Support

Residen/als

Day Services

1%

Consumer Support

Voca/onal Services

Day Services

Preschool

Voca/onal Services Rec/Respite

9%

Preschool

Clinic

Rec/Respite

%

Clinic 19% 6%

19%

Other Programs Agency Admin

Other Programs Agency Admin

6%

On-and-off rain couldn’t stop 130 golfers from playing their best to raise money for The Children’s School at our 15th Annual Golfing for Kids.

21

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

SUPER STARS ‑ $125,000 + Golfing for Kids A Matter of Taste The Taft Foundation SHOOTING STARS ‑ $75,000-$124,999 Mr. Justin Israel Mr. and Mrs. Rudolf Laager New York Collaborates for Autism The Tudor Foundation, Inc. DIAMOND STARS ‑ $50,000-$74,999 Mrs. Jason Berger PLATINUM STARS ‑ $25,000-$49,999 Ms. Virginia Donovan The Genesis Property Group The Israel Family Foundation S&L Marx Foundation Elaine and Steven Masket The Walbridge Fund Ltd. GOLD STARS ‑ $15,000-$24,999

The Taft Foundation

Mr. H. Arthur Alonso John M. and Katharine W. Conroy The V&L Marx Foundation Ms. Eva Landegger Mr. Lawrence Marolda The New York Community Trust

United Way The Walbridge Fund Ltd. *Deceased

22

We are grateful to all our members and donors for their gifts in 2015.

Singer, Netter, Dowd and Berman The Tudor Foundation, Inc.

2015 DONORS

Parsons & Whittmore, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. David B. Walker Mr. and Mrs. John D. Walker Westchester Community Foundation SILVER STARS ‑ $10,000-$14,999 American Fundraising Auctions Anderson Kill, P.C. Arent Fox LLP Jackson Lewis P.C. Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Mascia The Alexandra Tilly Rettler Children’s Fnd. The Joseph LeRoy and Anne C. Warner Fund Inc. BRONZE STARS ‑ $5,000-$9,999 American Petroleum Anonymous Rita A. Aranow Family Fund Family and Friends of Arc of Westchester Boies, Schiller & Flexner LLP David Bouley Chubb and Son, Inc. Kathleen Connor John J. Corgan, Esq. Country Bank Mr. and Mrs. Kim Davis

Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits Entergy Mr. and Mrs. Walter Ferguson Mr. Richard Freire Ms. Tibisay Guzmán and Mr. Paul Sturr H.O.P.E. for Youth Foundation & Rotary of Peekskill Mr. and Mrs. William Healey Ms. Lisina Hoch JPMorgan Chase Mr. Tom Kallish Mr. Michael Meagher Vera and Walter Scherr Family Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Richard Swierat Trimble Family Foundation USAlliance Financial Reverend Francis X. Wallace RISING STARS ‑ $1,000-$4,999 Ms. Margie Anik Anonymous Arts Westchester Mr. Anthony Assalone Assured SKCG, Inc. Arvinder Bajaj Ellen and Scott Baken Ms. Lisa A. Banner Mr. Sal Barone

Baumeister and Samuels, P.C. BDO USA, LLP Mrs. Beth Beck Mr. Anthony Bergamo Bertine, Hufnagel, Headley, Zeltner, Drummond

& Dohn LLP Mr. Ronald G. Blum and Ms. Karen W. Lindsay Brae Burn Country Club Mr. John Briganti Ms. Eileen Brown The Bulova Stetson Fund Mr. Stephen Bush C.W. Brown, Inc. Mr. Edward Caffrey Mr. Richard Campbell Ms. Patricia Capurso Mr. and Mrs. Michael Carmody Penny and Tom Chiusano Mr. and Mrs. Roger Coleman Con Edison Solutions Ms. Stephanie Conolly and Mr. Larry Wood Mr. and Mrs. Brendan Conroy Mr. Gregory Conroy Couch Braunsdorf Insurance Group Ms. Fanny Culleton Pei Pei and Cesar DeCastro Mr. and Mrs. William Deutsch Ms. Janet DeVito

Diamond Wash and Lube Inc. Divney Tung Schwalbe, LLP The Thomas Doran Trust Enterprise Fleet Management Enterprise Holdings Foundation Enterprise Rent A Car Mrs. Linda B. Evans Mr. Kevin & Elizabeth Fee Mrs. Cynthia Ferguson Mr. Keith E. Ferguson Ms. Alexis Fernandez Ms. Melissa Fetherson Mr. and Mrs. Carl Genna Mr. Alan Getz Mr. and Mrs. Richard E. Geyer Mr. Mark Glucksman and Ms. Roberta Leiber Google Matching Gifts Program Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Graci Grassy Sprain Long Term Care, Inc. Mrs. Leon Green Mr. and Mrs. Bill Greene Gretel and Brian Green Hansan Family Foundation Dr. and Mrs. Zindel H. Heller Mr. and Mrs. Sean Higgins Mr. and Mrs. Peter Hillman Mr. Peter Herrero, Jr. Mrs. Robert Hodes

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Hughes Mr. Stephen Hurtubise IBM Retiree Charitable Campaign Ms. Karen Isaac Mr. and Mrs. Peter Jakes Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Kahn Dr. Barbara Kail and Mr. Adam Stoler Ms. Ana P. Kang Ms. Melissa Keeports Mr. Peter Knapp Mr. and Mrs. Simon Kooyman Bernard Krooks, Esq. Ms. Annie Lage Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Lazare Mr. Mark Leibowitz Ms. Judith Levy Mr. Robert Logozio Mr. and Mrs. Michael Luskin Mr. Todd Magee Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Majsak Ms. Gina Manos Mr. and Mrs. Rico Maruffi Mr. and Mrs. Edward Marx Ms. Joan Masket Mr. Will Masket and Ms. Kristin Kahlich Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Mazzella, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Mohan Mehra

MetTel Morgan Stanley Mr. and Mrs. Donald Moriarty Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Murdock Mr. Berk Nowak Mr. and Mrs. Robert B. Nuccio Mr. John W. Null Ms. Kyle O’Loughlin‑Cahill Mr. and Mrs. Philip Orlando Mr. Stacy E. Osborne Mr. James O’Toole Ms. Sharon Parente and Mr. John W. Risner Parker & Carmody Ms. Nancy Patota Pepsico Silicon Valley Community Foundation Pfizer United Way Campaign Ms. Sarah Phelan Mr. Sherman Pincus Mr. and Mrs. Erik Porcaro Mr. and Mrs. Eugene J. Porcaro Mr. and Mrs. Eric Prideaux Ms. Colleen A. Roche Mr. Peter Roggemann Mr. Robert Rosman and Ms. Sheryl Frishman Philip Russotti, Esq. Ms. Lottie Salton Chad and Christina Sarchio Mr. and Mrs. William Schneck

23

Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Schroeder Dr. Simeon Schwartz and Dr. Ellen Greenebaum Mr. John Shapiro and Dr. Shonni Silverberg Sloman Foundation Mr. Eugene Small Mr. and Mrs. David Stern Mr. and Mrs. Val Taubner TD Bank Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Tessler The J.P. Morgan Chase Foundation The Kohlberg Foundation, Inc. Mr. Peter D. Sturr Ms. Nikol Thompson TimesSquare Capital Management, LLC Mr. Kevin Timmons Ms. Camille R. Tomao Tommie Copper Inc. Daniele Trissi Jewelers Tropham Foundation, Inc. Vanguard Investors Visiting Nurse Service in Westchester Ms. Margaret N. Vogt Mr. Lawrence M. Waterhouse, III Ms. Cory Scott Whittier Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Wiegand Mr. and Mrs. James Wooley

24

Mr. and Mrs. John Zampino TWINKLING STARS ‑ $500-$9,999 Alex Anagnostidis Ms. Jacqueline Apgar Bedford Golf & Tennis Club Michael Bellantoni, Inc. Belo Cleaning Services Inc. Boyanci Wine Mr. Peter Brown Ms. Regina Brown Noel F. Caraccio, Esq. Ms. Barbara Carlon Mr. Joseph Cassarini Mr. and Mrs. Donald Cecil City Hall Restaurant Mr. and Mrs. Bob Clark Mr. John J. Coll Ms. Paddy Connelly Mr. Christopher Conroy Mr. and Mrs. Emmet Conroy Mr. Sean Conroy Containment Solutions CountyFair Appliance Rescue The Cuddy Law Firm Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Daddino Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Deely Frank and Miriam DeLeon Ms. Lynn Del Sol Ms. Dawn Diederich

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Dohn Mr. Glenn Dopf Ms. Elissa Epstein Ms. Elizabeth Evans Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Falvey Mr. and Mrs. Michael Ferguson FIC Capital Mr. and Ms. Bertrand Fontaine Fross Zelnick Lehrman & Zissu PC Mr. Bill Furber Ms. Kathleen Gardner Dr. Ruth Gottesman Mr. and Mrs. Eugene M. Grant Mr. and Mrs. David Gregory Jill Haggerty Hampshire Country Club Mr. Roger M. Harris & Dr. Claudia Sickinger‑Harris Mr. Todd Harrison Mr. and Mrs. Terence Higgins Hilton Westchester Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hunt Mr. David Hutt IBM Employee Services Center Insurance Auto Auctions Intergrated Protection Services LLC. Iona College Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Charles Jankus

JFJ Fuel/Valley Oil Company Justice Recycling Corp.

Mr. Louis Kangas Sue Ann and Gregory Keeports Mr. and Mrs. Steve Kernie Konica Minolta Business Solutions USA, Inc. Ms. Felicia Korenstein Mr. and Mrs. Alan Kurzer Ms. Elizabeth Laite Mr. and Mrs. Robert Todd Lang Lankler Carragher & Horwitz, LLP The Lawn‑Brokers Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Leo Mr. and Mrs. Joseph J. Liberatore John & Ally Macken Joseph Manzi, DDS Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Mauro The Michelangelo Microsoft Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Mulroy Naber Electric Corp.

NBC Universal Mr. Thomas Nee Ms. Jane Neustadter Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nielsen NYSARC Inc. Orsid Realty Corp.

Pepsico Foundation

Personal Podiatry P.C. Mr. Bill Porcaro Ms. Stephanie Powers Mr. and Mrs. Fred Price Proftech Office Products PROJEKT nio Mr. and Mrs. Salvatore F. Pugliese Mr. Trevor Reid, Esq. Jessica Catharine Reijnders Mr. Ralph Robbins Mrs. Rita Ross Mr. and Mrs. Frank Rota Rubino Law Firm, P.C. Mr. and Mrs. Edward Saggese Salem Golf Club San Carlos Hotel Ms. Fatima Sanwarwalla Mr. and Mrs. Edward Saviano Mr. and Mrs. Leo Schenker Mrs. Helen Schiliro Mr. and Mrs. Michael Schneck Kavian M. Shakib Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Sharp Mr. and Mrs. John Sheehy Mr. Sean Smith Standing Room Only Mrs. Robert Stanley Statewide Abstract Corp.

Tom and Roma Steffanci Ms. Miriam Stiefel

T&M Protection Resources, LLC Jacques Torres Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Tung Mr. and Mrs. Salvatore J. Vaccaro Mr. John A. Verni Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy Wallse’ Mrs. Sally Weinraub Westchester Country Club Mr. Jeff Wood 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.

25

OUR LEADERSHIP ARC OF WESTCHESTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

ARC OF WESTCHESTER FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Bernard A. Krooks, Esq. President

Elaine Masket, Esq. President

Richard P. Swierat Executive Director

Anthony Assalone Immediate Past President

John J. Corgan, Esq. Treasurer/Secretary

Rosa Rodriguez President-Elect

Tibisay Guzmán Associate Executive Director/ Chief Operating Officer

DIRECTORS Katharine W. Conroy, Esq. William V. Healey Justin Israel * Steven Masket, Esq. Lawrence McNaughton Donald Moriarty Laura Scherr Saggese David Walker Susan Walker

Claudia Sickinger-Harris, M.D. Medical Director

Katharine W. Conroy, Esq. Secretary Jonathan Ferguson Treasurer Patricia Capurso Joseph Cassarini Miriam DeLeon Sheryl R. Frishman Patsy Ginese Mark Glucksman Carolyn Holodak Robert Hunt Anne Majsak Mohan Mehra Robert Nuccio Kyle O’Loughlin-Cahill Stacy Osborne Sarah Phelan Rita Ross Eglon Simons Janet Sugar Jeffrey Wood

MEMBERS Anthony Assalone Katharine W. Conroy, Esq. Bernard A. Krooks, Esq. Jonathan Ferguson Abby Reuben Gerald Singer Susan Walker Nancy Patota Executive Director, Arc of Westchester Foundation

*Deceased Arc of Westchester 2015 Annual Report is published by: Arc of Westchester, a chapter of NYSARC, Inc. and The Arc of the U.S.

26

Photography: Regina Moore, Juliet Adamo, Christen Riegel Photography, Eric Vitale Photography Editorial: Regina Moore and Whittier & Associates, Inc. Design: Maria Ackies, Maria Loren Designs, NY

ARC OF WESTCHESTER EXECUTIVE STAFF

Norman Szymanski Chief Financial Officer Rosemarie Crisafi Assistant Executive Director, Residential Services Lawrence Faulkner, Esq. Director of Corporate Compliance and General Counsel Fran Porcaro Assistant Executive Director of Educational Services Laurel Ross Assistant Executive Director Quality Improvement and Staff Development Soosan Tehrani Controller Myriam Vocke Director of Human Resources Steven R. Yellen Assistant Executive Director of Innovations and Community Development

Certified Under the Standards for Excellence Institute

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

Chase receives support from The Children’s School for Early Development.

OUR MISSION

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

27

The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center 265 Saw Mill River Road Hawthorne, NY 10532 914.949.9300 www.arcwestchester.org

ON THE COVER My Life. My Choice. My Responsibility. This slogan was chosen by people who use the programs and services of Arc of Westchester to describe their commitment to pursue fulfilled lives of meaning and dignity.

To better support their efforts, Arc of Westchester has undergone a multi-year process of qualifying for certification from The Council on Quality & Leadership, an international organization dedicated to enhancing life for individuals with disabilities. Arc of Westchester will receive accreditation in 2016.

Featured on the cover is Arc of Westchester program participant Kevin Narine, during Arc’s 2015 Summer Outdoor Adventure program, with Catherine Tarsiewicz, Outdoor Educator at the Taconic Outdoor Education Center.