Special Employment Edition 2014

Employer Recognition Breakfast Leaves Attendees Feeling Inspired

E

very year, Arc of Westchester hosts its annual Employer Recognition Breakfast, designed to honor present and potential employers who partner with Arc of Westchester’s career and employment programs to provide employment opportunities for individuals who are developmentally disabled or have autism, and this year we celebrated our 26th event!

In the late 1980s, Arc of Westchester began to create a community-based employment program for individuals and local businesses. Today, there are 350 adults working in a pharmaceutical company, law firms, county government offices, health clubs, day care centers, restaurants, movie theaters, schools, and pharmacies. There are over 250 companies in Westchester that participate in this program, and the annual breakfast celebrates their partnership with Arc of Westchester.

Each year, breakfast attendees leave the morning better informed, encouraged to do more and proud to be partnering with such a wonderful organization. Business owners left the breakfast feeling energized, thinking about other ways they can work with Arc of Westchester, and potential employers were able to speak with current managers to learn what it’s like to work with Arc of Westchester’s employment program. The breakfast is so inspirational that as soon as it ended a few new employers requested to join the program. Long-standing employers were equally enthused. Before the breakfast was over, one long-time employer had already put in a request for a second employee, and another long-standing employer could not wait to ask about a partnership with one of Arc of Westchester’s most successful businesses — eDocNY.

“

Yes, it’s a job, but it’s also a relationship.

“This event is something I am so proud of,” beamed Maria Lagman, Arc of Westchester’s Career Supports Coordinator and one of the organizers of the annual breakfast. “This is what it’s all about; to celebrate a successful partnership with the employers and the individuals that we serve. To place an individual in the right job with the right employer, that’s what matters. You have to make sure that there is a click between the individual and the employer. Yes, it’s a job, but it’s also a relationship. And we do that. We are helping build relationships with this program.”

5

Arc of Westchester 2015 Employer Recognition Breakfast will be held on Friday, April 17, 2015 at 8:00 a.m.

We look forward to seeing you there!

At the 2014 breakfast, we recognized two outstanding individuals who have proven that being an employee with a developmental disability is often better than being a “regular” employee.

Thomas Chin, Starbucks

Tommy personifies all the major characteristics that an employer looks for: hard work, dedication, reliability, and a positive attitude. Tommy is extremely popular among his colleagues and the store’s “regulars” who ask for him by name. On the morning of the breakfast, twelve of his colleagues attended to show their support!

Paul Morris, Oppenheimer & Co. and NY Medical College

”

With a room full of government officials, small and large business owners, and employees who all support Arc of Westchester’s employment program, the annual employment breakfast accomplished its goals to celebrate and educate.

Save the Date!

Anthony Cannata Award Winners

W

hen Joe left the military almost 40 years ago, he was not looking for a job in the social services field.

But during his first interview at Arc of Westchester, Joe was introduced to a man with developmental disabilities who asked Joe if he was going to work at Arc. Then, as if to encourage Joe, the man leaned in and gave Joe a hug.

Making Good Business Sense

“I immediately thought to myself ‘that’s it,’” Joe recalls.

“I was hooked, and I still enjoy my job to this day.”

www.arcwestchester.org

Joe has spent his career helping people just like the man who gave him that first hug. As the senior job developer, Joe focuses on finding employment for small groups of adults with developmental disabilities. Many of these individuals have never worked before, and Joe helps find jobs that teach them how to contribute to society.

Inside

“I place groups of four individuals into a job so that they have a sense of community,” Joe explains. “Most of them aren’t able to work by themselves so a job coach is on site with them the entire time. The coach teaches them how to do their job and makes sure the job is done correctly. Once they can master that, we try to get them individual jobs.”

Some individuals work at the Westchester County Airport, others have the important role of maintaining apartment buildings, and there are people who help assemble decorative products for local companies. In addition, Joe has also developed partnerships that provide jobs in local towns like Armonk, Bedford, and Yonkers.

And, he has secured work for a group of 20 employees with Publishers Circulation Fulfillment.

IMAGINE...

Page 1

How does he do it? Ask anyone who knows him and they will immediately describe his larger-than-life personality and passion for his job. Ask Joe, and he’ll tell you that he promotes employment for Arc of Westchester participants wherever he goes. Always looking for new employers, he simply never takes “no” for an answer.

Page 2

Project SEARCH Moving Up: Tibi Guzmán Assumes New Role

“Usually, they say yes,” Joe says. “I ask them to just give us the opportunity to work. And once they do, they fall in love with their new employees. And I actually become friends with the employers. We’ll play golf or racquetball together. And while we play, I talk to them about what’s next for their business and how we can help.”

E

veryone at Arc of Westchester loves what they do. It’s an honor to serve individuals with developmental disabilities and we take deep pride in knowing we are a nationwide leader in employment services. But we can’t do it without your help.

You are the reason our participants find employment in our community. You are the reason our job coaches are on hand to ensure success. And you are the reason more and more people with developmental disabilities are living productive, meaningful lives as part of our community.

Your tax-deductible gift to Arc of Westchester helps make all our extraordinary achievements possible. Please give generously to continue the success of our renowned employment program. Thank you.

If you are new to our community, we invite you to become a member today. If you are already part of our family, please renew your support at

Creating Lives of Distinction

Joe Cavallo (right) with an employee at Vernon Manor.

Your Support Matters

Paul’s elevated level of motivation to improve himself and his honest way of relating to people has been a significant part of his character for his entire life.

A part-time employee at NY Medical College since October 2010, Paul took it upon himself to independently pursue employment at Oppenheimer & Co. during the summer of 2012. Paul now works as an office assistant at Oppenheimer & Co. and an office clerk at NY Medical College.

imagine

Special Employment Edition

Meet Joe Cavallo, Arc of Westchester’s Senior Job Developer

Page 3

Employee Spotlight: Regeneron Job Coaching

Stay Connected

Page 4

Join us online

Transitions

Along with our new look, is a new address. We can now be found at www.arcwestchester.org.

Update us under your Favorites!

Employment Website FAQs

Our Facebook page is a place where you can read and share stories, give us your feedback, view our photos, and hear about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Visit us every day!

Page 5

Employer Breakfast, Award Winners

Tell us what you think

Like what you’ve seen here? Have some great story ideas to share? Shoot us an email at info@arcwestchester.org and give us your leads.

We value your input.

Page 6

www.arcwestchester.org/join.

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The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center • 265 Saw Mill River Road • Hawthorne, NY 10532 • 914-949-9300 • www.arcwestchester.org

Joe Cavallo: Making Connections and Changing Lives

Creating Lives of Distinction

F

or many families, educational and social milestones mark the school years, and the path to adulthood is well defined. But for others, especially those caring for a loved one with a developmental disability, the question of what’s next lingers as they begin to age out of high school.

At Arc of Westchester, we believe that everyone should have a place in the community. When we first set out to create employment opportunities, there was a strong need but very few options. We were on the cutting edge in 1960 when we opened our first employment workshop in White Plains, and within a few years we had 40 employees.

Richard P. Swierat Executive Director

Today the number of individuals and families who need our support has grown exponentially, and while progress doesn’t happen overnight, together we’ve made great strides toward creating inclusive workplaces.

Less than 10 years ago, many people with disabilities spent their days in sheltered workshops. 2014 marks a milestone for Arc of Westchester as we close all of our workshops. We now have 350 individuals with developmental disabilities working in shops, restaurants, schools, and offices — an extraordinary accomplishment that marks our place as a leader in the community serving people with developmental disabilities.

Our career and employment programs help people find their own interests and develop their particular talents. We ensure that each person is integrated into his or her workplace. And we stay involved with our employees and employer partners every step of the way.

It’s so important to us that families know there are opportunities for fulfilling and rewarding careers for their sons and daughters. And equally important, we want businesses to be aware of the social and fiscal benefits of inclusionary workplaces.

We can’t change the world alone, but together we can design a future full of promise that extends through the entire arc of a life.

Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism Graduates Obtain Valuable Workplace Skills

W

ith any new job, there’s a learning curve, and for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), that learning curve can be great. But Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism (PSCA) not only provides young adults with ASD a year of on-the-job training, it often gives them a leg up on their competition. The program allows young men and women with ASD to gain confidence, become independent and learn valuable workplace skills during their last year of high school.

Graduates also leave the internship program with an understanding of workplace culture and the ability to develop a resume, interview, and secure a permanent job.

This past summer, six young men graduated from the PSCA program, supported by family, friends, and numerous staff from NewYork-Presbyterian/Westchester Division, the PSCA job site. Throughout the touching ceremony, various speakers shared the benefits of having an employee with ASD as part of their team.

After 600 hours of three different internships and an additional 300 hours of training in competitive, transferable and marketable job preparation, these six graduates obtained the skills necessary to acquire a steady job in their community. Each participant has spent time working with an Arc of Westchester job coach to help obtain a job after graduation. After graduation, they transitioned into Arc of Westchester’s adult program, and are receiving continued assistance with job placements and ongoing career counseling.

PSCA was created by New York Collaborates for Autism in partnership with NewYork-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.

Meet Three of Our Featured Graduates

Give us a chance to work and we’ll make It work for you!

Employer Spotlight

A

Arc of Westchester’s partnership with Regeneron began in 2011, and Regeneron now employs ten Arc of Westchester participants.

These employees work as facilities aides and have proven to be reliable, conscientious, and show responsibility and consistency in their work.

Luckily, Arc’s Transitions Planning team can help make life easier after high school. They break this process down into small, sequential steps, so that you feel informed, empowered, and able to connect your child to the important adult services that they will need to live a full and happy life within their community.

“Regeneron takes pride in doing the right stuff and we think this is the right thing to do,” says Joanne Deyo, Vice President, Facilities.

“One of the fears a company may have is that they are going to have to supervise an individual all the time and deal with problems they are not used to. Arc of Westchester provides job coaches who supervise the employee based on their skill level. Some need more and others are more independent. The support system is there!”

Their first piece of advice? Start early. Believe it or not, planning begins at the age of 12, and by the age of 15, a student’s IEP includes a transition plan that defines areas of interest, life goals, and skills they will need to achieve those goals after high school. To start, schedule an appointment with a member of the Transitions Planning team by contacting Carol Gearing at (914) 495-4620 or cgearing@arcwestchester.org.

Arc salutes Regeneron for their efforts to work with individuals with developmental disabilities. They are a model employer that embraces diversity in our community.

Job Coaches: Arc’s Secret Formula for Success

“

“

They let me go and do things on my own, and I was able to remember what I had to do.

—Geoffrey

”

”

“

H

What I liked was that they made me feel like I was part of a real team. And what was most important, was that I tried until I got it right.

—Drew

”

iring an employee with a developmental disability can be rewarding for the employer, the staff, and, of course, the employee, but new employers also have many questions and concerns about how this individual will fit into their work environment. Arc of Westchester’s Job Coaching department works closely with each employee and employer to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Job coach Michael Papa helped John Jaeger get a job at Home Depot. John is so successful that he no longer needs Arc’s job-coaching services.

C 2

Each employee placed through Arc is assigned a job coach who works closely with the employer to ensure that there are no concerns regarding the employee’s overall performance at work. The coach also regularly meets with the individual to ensure that their expectations are being met and that they are satisfied with their job.

When hiring an employee with a developmental disability, an employer can feel confident that their new employee will demonstrate the same level of professionalism as the rest of their colleagues. Their job coach will help coordinate safe and reliable transportation to and from work, and when not at work, job coaches help individuals improve on essential job skills such as time and task management, identifying resources, enlisting help, being an attentive listener, and following directions.

Moving Up: Tibi Guzmán Assumes New Role

ongratulations to Tibi Guzmán on her new role as Associate Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer. Tibi has been an integral part of Arc of Westchester for the past 10 years, previously supervising the team responsible for day and community services and growing the community-based employment program by an average of 80 new positions per year. In her new role, Tibi will be responsible for supervising all agency services and managing all financial, human resources, and facilities functions for the 2,000 individuals served by Arc of Westchester. She will continue to guide the evolution of the services and programs into a strongly supported community presence in Westchester County.

F

or parents of a teenager with intellectual or developmental disabilities, thinking about their adulthood is terrifying. Will my child receive proper medical care from the state? Who will help my child learn the necessary skills to apply for a job? How will I maintain the ability to make necessary medical decisions for my child? These daunting questions can consume parents, leaving them stressed and confused.

rc of Westchester partners with more than 250 businesses across the county, many of whom we have worked closely with for decades.

One strong example of a long-standing relationship is the enduring and expansive partnership with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Based in Tarrytown, this leading science-based biopharmaceutical company discovers, invents, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines for the treatment of serious medical conditions.

Meet all of our employers: www.arcwestchester.org/employ

I learned self-advocacy and how to work independently.

—Grant

After High School, What Now?

Job coach Gail Osbourne with Kyle Siczewicz at Jackson Lewis LLP. Kyle’s responsibilities include filing, copying, organizing supplies, and assisting with special projects.

Job coaches help ensure that the individual secures and maintains a job that makes him or her feel important, and that the employer benefits from an exceptional employee who brings a new perspective to the workplace.

They can help clarify confusing acronyms and jargon, identify which programs and services will fit your child, and when/how to apply for those necessary services. Take their advice and begin the process early — years before your child’s 18th birthday when, according to the government, an individual is a legally competent adult and can manage their own affairs.

Employment Website Is Here

N

ew to Arc of Westchester or unfamiliar with its employment services? Have a lot of questions but not sure who to ask? No problem. Arc of Westchester’s Employment website is the perfect first step for anyone interested in working with one of the employment programs, whether you are a student, parent, teacher, business leader, or employer. Profiles, FAQs, Steps to Success videos — you can find it all on the site.

One of the site’s features is the listing of person-centered programs that prepare individuals for successful careers. Through a combination of videos and written descriptions, the site describes how Arc staff support individuals throughout their employment, highlighting long-term success stories. The site also includes information for potential employers to learn about how the partnerships work.

The Employment website is a great first step when considering working with Arc of Westchester’s employment services.

www.arcwestchester.org/services/disability-employment

FAQs

Interested In Partnering With Arc of Westchester? What You Need To Know Is partnering with Arc of Westchester right for my business?

Yes. Companies of all sizes and types benefit from having a diverse and skilled workforce. We will work with you to identify how your needs can be met.

What kind of companies have you successfully worked with in the past?

Arc of Westchester has placed individuals in long-term employment with retail stores, food service companies and restaurants, schools and education facilities, financial services firms, law offices, and government offices.

What if I don’t need a full-time employee or more than one employee?

We have several different employment options for individuals and for groups, and we can work with you to create a custom program specifically for your business.

Is my company responsible for training the person/people we hire?

We train all employees and regularly check back in, on a schedule that is pre-determined with each employer, to ensure the employee is functioning in his/her role.

What are the benefits to my company/business?

In addition to demonstrating that people with intellectual or developmental disabilities are contributing members of society, your company will also be gaining a reliable employee who values his/her ability to contribute to your business goals and is enthusiastic about being a member of your community. Your company may also be eligible for a Department of Labor tax credit.

To find out more, visit:

www.arcwestchester.org/services/ 4 disability-employment/faqs

Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism Graduates Obtain Valuable Workplace Skills

W

ith any new job, there’s a learning curve, and for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), that learning curve can be great. But Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism (PSCA) not only provides young adults with ASD a year of on-the-job training, it often gives them a leg up on their competition. The program allows young men and women with ASD to gain confidence, become independent and learn valuable workplace skills during their last year of high school.

Graduates also leave the internship program with an understanding of workplace culture and the ability to develop a resume, interview, and secure a permanent job.

This past summer, six young men graduated from the PSCA program, supported by family, friends, and numerous staff from NewYork-Presbyterian/Westchester Division, the PSCA job site. Throughout the touching ceremony, various speakers shared the benefits of having an employee with ASD as part of their team.

After 600 hours of three different internships and an additional 300 hours of training in competitive, transferable and marketable job preparation, these six graduates obtained the skills necessary to acquire a steady job in their community. Each participant has spent time working with an Arc of Westchester job coach to help obtain a job after graduation. After graduation, they transitioned into Arc of Westchester’s adult program, and are receiving continued assistance with job placements and ongoing career counseling.

PSCA was created by New York Collaborates for Autism in partnership with NewYork-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.

Meet Three of Our Featured Graduates

Give us a chance to work and we’ll make It work for you!

Employer Spotlight

A

Arc of Westchester’s partnership with Regeneron began in 2011, and Regeneron now employs ten Arc of Westchester participants.

These employees work as facilities aides and have proven to be reliable, conscientious, and show responsibility and consistency in their work.

Luckily, Arc’s Transitions Planning team can help make life easier after high school. They break this process down into small, sequential steps, so that you feel informed, empowered, and able to connect your child to the important adult services that they will need to live a full and happy life within their community.

“Regeneron takes pride in doing the right stuff and we think this is the right thing to do,” says Joanne Deyo, Vice President, Facilities.

“One of the fears a company may have is that they are going to have to supervise an individual all the time and deal with problems they are not used to. Arc of Westchester provides job coaches who supervise the employee based on their skill level. Some need more and others are more independent. The support system is there!”

Their first piece of advice? Start early. Believe it or not, planning begins at the age of 12, and by the age of 15, a student’s IEP includes a transition plan that defines areas of interest, life goals, and skills they will need to achieve those goals after high school. To start, schedule an appointment with a member of the Transitions Planning team by contacting Carol Gearing at (914) 495-4620 or cgearing@arcwestchester.org.

Arc salutes Regeneron for their efforts to work with individuals with developmental disabilities. They are a model employer that embraces diversity in our community.

Job Coaches: Arc’s Secret Formula for Success

“

“

They let me go and do things on my own, and I was able to remember what I had to do.

—Geoffrey

”

”

“

H

What I liked was that they made me feel like I was part of a real team. And what was most important, was that I tried until I got it right.

—Drew

”

iring an employee with a developmental disability can be rewarding for the employer, the staff, and, of course, the employee, but new employers also have many questions and concerns about how this individual will fit into their work environment. Arc of Westchester’s Job Coaching department works closely with each employee and employer to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Job coach Michael Papa helped John Jaeger get a job at Home Depot. John is so successful that he no longer needs Arc’s job-coaching services.

C 2

Each employee placed through Arc is assigned a job coach who works closely with the employer to ensure that there are no concerns regarding the employee’s overall performance at work. The coach also regularly meets with the individual to ensure that their expectations are being met and that they are satisfied with their job.

When hiring an employee with a developmental disability, an employer can feel confident that their new employee will demonstrate the same level of professionalism as the rest of their colleagues. Their job coach will help coordinate safe and reliable transportation to and from work, and when not at work, job coaches help individuals improve on essential job skills such as time and task management, identifying resources, enlisting help, being an attentive listener, and following directions.

Moving Up: Tibi Guzmán Assumes New Role

ongratulations to Tibi Guzmán on her new role as Associate Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer. Tibi has been an integral part of Arc of Westchester for the past 10 years, previously supervising the team responsible for day and community services and growing the community-based employment program by an average of 80 new positions per year. In her new role, Tibi will be responsible for supervising all agency services and managing all financial, human resources, and facilities functions for the 2,000 individuals served by Arc of Westchester. She will continue to guide the evolution of the services and programs into a strongly supported community presence in Westchester County.

F

or parents of a teenager with intellectual or developmental disabilities, thinking about their adulthood is terrifying. Will my child receive proper medical care from the state? Who will help my child learn the necessary skills to apply for a job? How will I maintain the ability to make necessary medical decisions for my child? These daunting questions can consume parents, leaving them stressed and confused.

rc of Westchester partners with more than 250 businesses across the county, many of whom we have worked closely with for decades.

One strong example of a long-standing relationship is the enduring and expansive partnership with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Based in Tarrytown, this leading science-based biopharmaceutical company discovers, invents, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines for the treatment of serious medical conditions.

Meet all of our employers: www.arcwestchester.org/employ

I learned self-advocacy and how to work independently.

—Grant

After High School, What Now?

Job coach Gail Osbourne with Kyle Siczewicz at Jackson Lewis LLP. Kyle’s responsibilities include filing, copying, organizing supplies, and assisting with special projects.

Job coaches help ensure that the individual secures and maintains a job that makes him or her feel important, and that the employer benefits from an exceptional employee who brings a new perspective to the workplace.

They can help clarify confusing acronyms and jargon, identify which programs and services will fit your child, and when/how to apply for those necessary services. Take their advice and begin the process early — years before your child’s 18th birthday when, according to the government, an individual is a legally competent adult and can manage their own affairs.

Employment Website Is Here

N

ew to Arc of Westchester or unfamiliar with its employment services? Have a lot of questions but not sure who to ask? No problem. Arc of Westchester’s Employment website is the perfect first step for anyone interested in working with one of the employment programs, whether you are a student, parent, teacher, business leader, or employer. Profiles, FAQs, Steps to Success videos — you can find it all on the site.

One of the site’s features is the listing of person-centered programs that prepare individuals for successful careers. Through a combination of videos and written descriptions, the site describes how Arc staff support individuals throughout their employment, highlighting long-term success stories. The site also includes information for potential employers to learn about how the partnerships work.

The Employment website is a great first step when considering working with Arc of Westchester’s employment services.

www.arcwestchester.org/services/disability-employment

FAQs

Interested In Partnering With Arc of Westchester? What You Need To Know Is partnering with Arc of Westchester right for my business?

Yes. Companies of all sizes and types benefit from having a diverse and skilled workforce. We will work with you to identify how your needs can be met.

What kind of companies have you successfully worked with in the past?

Arc of Westchester has placed individuals in long-term employment with retail stores, food service companies and restaurants, schools and education facilities, financial services firms, law offices, and government offices.

What if I don’t need a full-time employee or more than one employee?

We have several different employment options for individuals and for groups, and we can work with you to create a custom program specifically for your business.

Is my company responsible for training the person/people we hire?

We train all employees and regularly check back in, on a schedule that is pre-determined with each employer, to ensure the employee is functioning in his/her role.

What are the benefits to my company/business?

In addition to demonstrating that people with intellectual or developmental disabilities are contributing members of society, your company will also be gaining a reliable employee who values his/her ability to contribute to your business goals and is enthusiastic about being a member of your community. Your company may also be eligible for a Department of Labor tax credit.

To find out more, visit:

www.arcwestchester.org/services/ 4 disability-employment/faqs

Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism Graduates Obtain Valuable Workplace Skills

W

ith any new job, there’s a learning curve, and for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), that learning curve can be great. But Project SEARCH Collaborates for Autism (PSCA) not only provides young adults with ASD a year of on-the-job training, it often gives them a leg up on their competition. The program allows young men and women with ASD to gain confidence, become independent and learn valuable workplace skills during their last year of high school.

Graduates also leave the internship program with an understanding of workplace culture and the ability to develop a resume, interview, and secure a permanent job.

This past summer, six young men graduated from the PSCA program, supported by family, friends, and numerous staff from NewYork-Presbyterian/Westchester Division, the PSCA job site. Throughout the touching ceremony, various speakers shared the benefits of having an employee with ASD as part of their team.

After 600 hours of three different internships and an additional 300 hours of training in competitive, transferable and marketable job preparation, these six graduates obtained the skills necessary to acquire a steady job in their community. Each participant has spent time working with an Arc of Westchester job coach to help obtain a job after graduation. After graduation, they transitioned into Arc of Westchester’s adult program, and are receiving continued assistance with job placements and ongoing career counseling.

PSCA was created by New York Collaborates for Autism in partnership with NewYork-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.

Meet Three of Our Featured Graduates

Give us a chance to work and we’ll make It work for you!

Employer Spotlight

A

Arc of Westchester’s partnership with Regeneron began in 2011, and Regeneron now employs ten Arc of Westchester participants.

These employees work as facilities aides and have proven to be reliable, conscientious, and show responsibility and consistency in their work.

Luckily, Arc’s Transitions Planning team can help make life easier after high school. They break this process down into small, sequential steps, so that you feel informed, empowered, and able to connect your child to the important adult services that they will need to live a full and happy life within their community.

“Regeneron takes pride in doing the right stuff and we think this is the right thing to do,” says Joanne Deyo, Vice President, Facilities.

“One of the fears a company may have is that they are going to have to supervise an individual all the time and deal with problems they are not used to. Arc of Westchester provides job coaches who supervise the employee based on their skill level. Some need more and others are more independent. The support system is there!”

Their first piece of advice? Start early. Believe it or not, planning begins at the age of 12, and by the age of 15, a student’s IEP includes a transition plan that defines areas of interest, life goals, and skills they will need to achieve those goals after high school. To start, schedule an appointment with a member of the Transitions Planning team by contacting Carol Gearing at (914) 495-4620 or cgearing@arcwestchester.org.

Arc salutes Regeneron for their efforts to work with individuals with developmental disabilities. They are a model employer that embraces diversity in our community.

Job Coaches: Arc’s Secret Formula for Success

“

“

They let me go and do things on my own, and I was able to remember what I had to do.

—Geoffrey

”

”

“

H

What I liked was that they made me feel like I was part of a real team. And what was most important, was that I tried until I got it right.

—Drew

”

iring an employee with a developmental disability can be rewarding for the employer, the staff, and, of course, the employee, but new employers also have many questions and concerns about how this individual will fit into their work environment. Arc of Westchester’s Job Coaching department works closely with each employee and employer to ensure that everything goes smoothly.

Job coach Michael Papa helped John Jaeger get a job at Home Depot. John is so successful that he no longer needs Arc’s job-coaching services.

C 2

Each employee placed through Arc is assigned a job coach who works closely with the employer to ensure that there are no concerns regarding the employee’s overall performance at work. The coach also regularly meets with the individual to ensure that their expectations are being met and that they are satisfied with their job.

When hiring an employee with a developmental disability, an employer can feel confident that their new employee will demonstrate the same level of professionalism as the rest of their colleagues. Their job coach will help coordinate safe and reliable transportation to and from work, and when not at work, job coaches help individuals improve on essential job skills such as time and task management, identifying resources, enlisting help, being an attentive listener, and following directions.

Moving Up: Tibi Guzmán Assumes New Role

ongratulations to Tibi Guzmán on her new role as Associate Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer. Tibi has been an integral part of Arc of Westchester for the past 10 years, previously supervising the team responsible for day and community services and growing the community-based employment program by an average of 80 new positions per year. In her new role, Tibi will be responsible for supervising all agency services and managing all financial, human resources, and facilities functions for the 2,000 individuals served by Arc of Westchester. She will continue to guide the evolution of the services and programs into a strongly supported community presence in Westchester County.

F

or parents of a teenager with intellectual or developmental disabilities, thinking about their adulthood is terrifying. Will my child receive proper medical care from the state? Who will help my child learn the necessary skills to apply for a job? How will I maintain the ability to make necessary medical decisions for my child? These daunting questions can consume parents, leaving them stressed and confused.

rc of Westchester partners with more than 250 businesses across the county, many of whom we have worked closely with for decades.

One strong example of a long-standing relationship is the enduring and expansive partnership with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Based in Tarrytown, this leading science-based biopharmaceutical company discovers, invents, develops, manufactures, and commercializes medicines for the treatment of serious medical conditions.

Meet all of our employers: www.arcwestchester.org/employ

I learned self-advocacy and how to work independently.

—Grant

After High School, What Now?

Job coach Gail Osbourne with Kyle Siczewicz at Jackson Lewis LLP. Kyle’s responsibilities include filing, copying, organizing supplies, and assisting with special projects.

Job coaches help ensure that the individual secures and maintains a job that makes him or her feel important, and that the employer benefits from an exceptional employee who brings a new perspective to the workplace.

They can help clarify confusing acronyms and jargon, identify which programs and services will fit your child, and when/how to apply for those necessary services. Take their advice and begin the process early — years before your child’s 18th birthday when, according to the government, an individual is a legally competent adult and can manage their own affairs.

Employment Website Is Here

N

ew to Arc of Westchester or unfamiliar with its employment services? Have a lot of questions but not sure who to ask? No problem. Arc of Westchester’s Employment website is the perfect first step for anyone interested in working with one of the employment programs, whether you are a student, parent, teacher, business leader, or employer. Profiles, FAQs, Steps to Success videos — you can find it all on the site.

One of the site’s features is the listing of person-centered programs that prepare individuals for successful careers. Through a combination of videos and written descriptions, the site describes how Arc staff support individuals throughout their employment, highlighting long-term success stories. The site also includes information for potential employers to learn about how the partnerships work.

The Employment website is a great first step when considering working with Arc of Westchester’s employment services.

www.arcwestchester.org/services/disability-employment

FAQs

Interested In Partnering With Arc of Westchester? What You Need To Know Is partnering with Arc of Westchester right for my business?

Yes. Companies of all sizes and types benefit from having a diverse and skilled workforce. We will work with you to identify how your needs can be met.

What kind of companies have you successfully worked with in the past?

Arc of Westchester has placed individuals in long-term employment with retail stores, food service companies and restaurants, schools and education facilities, financial services firms, law offices, and government offices.

What if I don’t need a full-time employee or more than one employee?

We have several different employment options for individuals and for groups, and we can work with you to create a custom program specifically for your business.

Is my company responsible for training the person/people we hire?

We train all employees and regularly check back in, on a schedule that is pre-determined with each employer, to ensure the employee is functioning in his/her role.

What are the benefits to my company/business?

In addition to demonstrating that people with intellectual or developmental disabilities are contributing members of society, your company will also be gaining a reliable employee who values his/her ability to contribute to your business goals and is enthusiastic about being a member of your community. Your company may also be eligible for a Department of Labor tax credit.

To find out more, visit:

www.arcwestchester.org/services/ 4 disability-employment/faqs

Employer Recognition Breakfast Leaves Attendees Feeling Inspired

E

very year, Arc of Westchester hosts its annual Employer Recognition Breakfast, designed to honor present and potential employers who partner with Arc of Westchester’s career and employment programs to provide employment opportunities for individuals who are developmentally disabled or have autism, and this year we celebrated our 26th event!

In the late 1980s, Arc of Westchester began to create a community-based employment program for individuals and local businesses. Today, there are 350 adults working in a pharmaceutical company, law firms, county government offices, health clubs, day care centers, restaurants, movie theaters, schools, and pharmacies. There are over 250 companies in Westchester that participate in this program, and the annual breakfast celebrates their partnership with Arc of Westchester.

Each year, breakfast attendees leave the morning better informed, encouraged to do more and proud to be partnering with such a wonderful organization. Business owners left the breakfast feeling energized, thinking about other ways they can work with Arc of Westchester, and potential employers were able to speak with current managers to learn what it’s like to work with Arc of Westchester’s employment program. The breakfast is so inspirational that as soon as it ended a few new employers requested to join the program. Long-standing employers were equally enthused. Before the breakfast was over, one long-time employer had already put in a request for a second employee, and another long-standing employer could not wait to ask about a partnership with one of Arc of Westchester’s most successful businesses — eDocNY.

“

Yes, it’s a job, but it’s also a relationship.

“This event is something I am so proud of,” beamed Maria Lagman, Arc of Westchester’s Career Supports Coordinator and one of the organizers of the annual breakfast. “This is what it’s all about; to celebrate a successful partnership with the employers and the individuals that we serve. To place an individual in the right job with the right employer, that’s what matters. You have to make sure that there is a click between the individual and the employer. Yes, it’s a job, but it’s also a relationship. And we do that. We are helping build relationships with this program.”

5

Arc of Westchester 2015 Employer Recognition Breakfast will be held on Friday, April 17, 2015 at 8:00 a.m.

We look forward to seeing you there!

At the 2014 breakfast, we recognized two outstanding individuals who have proven that being an employee with a developmental disability is often better than being a “regular” employee.

Thomas Chin, Starbucks

Tommy personifies all the major characteristics that an employer looks for: hard work, dedication, reliability, and a positive attitude. Tommy is extremely popular among his colleagues and the store’s “regulars” who ask for him by name. On the morning of the breakfast, twelve of his colleagues attended to show their support!

Paul Morris, Oppenheimer & Co. and NY Medical College

”

With a room full of government officials, small and large business owners, and employees who all support Arc of Westchester’s employment program, the annual employment breakfast accomplished its goals to celebrate and educate.

Save the Date!

Anthony Cannata Award Winners

W

hen Joe left the military almost 40 years ago, he was not looking for a job in the social services field.

But during his first interview at Arc of Westchester, Joe was introduced to a man with developmental disabilities who asked Joe if he was going to work at Arc. Then, as if to encourage Joe, the man leaned in and gave Joe a hug.

Making Good Business Sense

“I immediately thought to myself ‘that’s it,’” Joe recalls.

“I was hooked, and I still enjoy my job to this day.”

www.arcwestchester.org

Joe has spent his career helping people just like the man who gave him that first hug. As the senior job developer, Joe focuses on finding employment for small groups of adults with developmental disabilities. Many of these individuals have never worked before, and Joe helps find jobs that teach them how to contribute to society.

Inside

“I place groups of four individuals into a job so that they have a sense of community,” Joe explains. “Most of them aren’t able to work by themselves so a job coach is on site with them the entire time. The coach teaches them how to do their job and makes sure the job is done correctly. Once they can master that, we try to get them individual jobs.”

Some individuals work at the Westchester County Airport, others have the important role of maintaining apartment buildings, and there are people who help assemble decorative products for local companies. In addition, Joe has also developed partnerships that provide jobs in local towns like Armonk, Bedford, and Yonkers.

And, he has secured work for a group of 20 employees with Publishers Circulation Fulfillment.

IMAGINE...

Page 1

How does he do it? Ask anyone who knows him and they will immediately describe his larger-than-life personality and passion for his job. Ask Joe, and he’ll tell you that he promotes employment for Arc of Westchester participants wherever he goes. Always looking for new employers, he simply never takes “no” for an answer.

Page 2

Project SEARCH Moving Up: Tibi Guzmán Assumes New Role

“Usually, they say yes,” Joe says. “I ask them to just give us the opportunity to work. And once they do, they fall in love with their new employees. And I actually become friends with the employers. We’ll play golf or racquetball together. And while we play, I talk to them about what’s next for their business and how we can help.”

E

veryone at Arc of Westchester loves what they do. It’s an honor to serve individuals with developmental disabilities and we take deep pride in knowing we are a nationwide leader in employment services. But we can’t do it without your help.

You are the reason our participants find employment in our community. You are the reason our job coaches are on hand to ensure success. And you are the reason more and more people with developmental disabilities are living productive, meaningful lives as part of our community.

Your tax-deductible gift to Arc of Westchester helps make all our extraordinary achievements possible. Please give generously to continue the success of our renowned employment program. Thank you.

If you are new to our community, we invite you to become a member today. If you are already part of our family, please renew your support at

Creating Lives of Distinction

Joe Cavallo (right) with an employee at Vernon Manor.

Your Support Matters

Paul’s elevated level of motivation to improve himself and his honest way of relating to people has been a significant part of his character for his entire life.

A part-time employee at NY Medical College since October 2010, Paul took it upon himself to independently pursue employment at Oppenheimer & Co. during the summer of 2012. Paul now works as an office assistant at Oppenheimer & Co. and an office clerk at NY Medical College.

imagine

Special Employment Edition

Meet Joe Cavallo, Arc of Westchester’s Senior Job Developer

Page 3

Employee Spotlight: Regeneron Job Coaching

Stay Connected

Page 4

Join us online

Transitions

Along with our new look, is a new address. We can now be found at www.arcwestchester.org.

Update us under your Favorites!

Employment Website FAQs

Our Facebook page is a place where you can read and share stories, give us your feedback, view our photos, and hear about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Visit us every day!

Page 5

Employer Breakfast, Award Winners

Tell us what you think

Like what you’ve seen here? Have some great story ideas to share? Shoot us an email at info@arcwestchester.org and give us your leads.

We value your input.

Page 6

www.arcwestchester.org/join.

6

The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center • 265 Saw Mill River Road • Hawthorne, NY 10532 • 914-949-9300 • www.arcwestchester.org

Joe Cavallo: Making Connections and Changing Lives

Creating Lives of Distinction

F

or many families, educational and social milestones mark the school years, and the path to adulthood is well defined. But for others, especially those caring for a loved one with a developmental disability, the question of what’s next lingers as they begin to age out of high school.

At Arc of Westchester, we believe that everyone should have a place in the community. When we first set out to create employment opportunities, there was a strong need but very few options. We were on the cutting edge in 1960 when we opened our first employment workshop in White Plains, and within a few years we had 40 employees.

Richard P. Swierat Executive Director

Today the number of individuals and families who need our support has grown exponentially, and while progress doesn’t happen overnight, together we’ve made great strides toward creating inclusive workplaces.

Less than 10 years ago, many people with disabilities spent their days in sheltered workshops. 2014 marks a milestone for Arc of Westchester as we close all of our workshops. We now have 350 individuals with developmental disabilities working in shops, restaurants, schools, and offices — an extraordinary accomplishment that marks our place as a leader in the community serving people with developmental disabilities.

Our career and employment programs help people find their own interests and develop their particular talents. We ensure that each person is integrated into his or her workplace. And we stay involved with our employees and employer partners every step of the way.

It’s so important to us that families know there are opportunities for fulfilling and rewarding careers for their sons and daughters. And equally important, we want businesses to be aware of the social and fiscal benefits of inclusionary workplaces.

We can’t change the world alone, but together we can design a future full of promise that extends through the entire arc of a life.

Employer Recognition Breakfast Leaves Attendees Feeling Inspired

E

very year, Arc of Westchester hosts its annual Employer Recognition Breakfast, designed to honor present and potential employers who partner with Arc of Westchester’s career and employment programs to provide employment opportunities for individuals who are developmentally disabled or have autism, and this year we celebrated our 26th event!

In the late 1980s, Arc of Westchester began to create a community-based employment program for individuals and local businesses. Today, there are 350 adults working in a pharmaceutical company, law firms, county government offices, health clubs, day care centers, restaurants, movie theaters, schools, and pharmacies. There are over 250 companies in Westchester that participate in this program, and the annual breakfast celebrates their partnership with Arc of Westchester.

Each year, breakfast attendees leave the morning better informed, encouraged to do more and proud to be partnering with such a wonderful organization. Business owners left the breakfast feeling energized, thinking about other ways they can work with Arc of Westchester, and potential employers were able to speak with current managers to learn what it’s like to work with Arc of Westchester’s employment program. The breakfast is so inspirational that as soon as it ended a few new employers requested to join the program. Long-standing employers were equally enthused. Before the breakfast was over, one long-time employer had already put in a request for a second employee, and another long-standing employer could not wait to ask about a partnership with one of Arc of Westchester’s most successful businesses — eDocNY.

“

Yes, it’s a job, but it’s also a relationship.

“This event is something I am so proud of,” beamed Maria Lagman, Arc of Westchester’s Career Supports Coordinator and one of the organizers of the annual breakfast. “This is what it’s all about; to celebrate a successful partnership with the employers and the individuals that we serve. To place an individual in the right job with the right employer, that’s what matters. You have to make sure that there is a click between the individual and the employer. Yes, it’s a job, but it’s also a relationship. And we do that. We are helping build relationships with this program.”

5

Arc of Westchester 2015 Employer Recognition Breakfast will be held on Friday, April 17, 2015 at 8:00 a.m.

We look forward to seeing you there!

At the 2014 breakfast, we recognized two outstanding individuals who have proven that being an employee with a developmental disability is often better than being a “regular” employee.

Thomas Chin, Starbucks

Tommy personifies all the major characteristics that an employer looks for: hard work, dedication, reliability, and a positive attitude. Tommy is extremely popular among his colleagues and the store’s “regulars” who ask for him by name. On the morning of the breakfast, twelve of his colleagues attended to show their support!

Paul Morris, Oppenheimer & Co. and NY Medical College

”

With a room full of government officials, small and large business owners, and employees who all support Arc of Westchester’s employment program, the annual employment breakfast accomplished its goals to celebrate and educate.

Save the Date!

Anthony Cannata Award Winners

W

hen Joe left the military almost 40 years ago, he was not looking for a job in the social services field.

But during his first interview at Arc of Westchester, Joe was introduced to a man with developmental disabilities who asked Joe if he was going to work at Arc. Then, as if to encourage Joe, the man leaned in and gave Joe a hug.

Making Good Business Sense

“I immediately thought to myself ‘that’s it,’” Joe recalls.

“I was hooked, and I still enjoy my job to this day.”

www.arcwestchester.org

Joe has spent his career helping people just like the man who gave him that first hug. As the senior job developer, Joe focuses on finding employment for small groups of adults with developmental disabilities. Many of these individuals have never worked before, and Joe helps find jobs that teach them how to contribute to society.

Inside

“I place groups of four individuals into a job so that they have a sense of community,” Joe explains. “Most of them aren’t able to work by themselves so a job coach is on site with them the entire time. The coach teaches them how to do their job and makes sure the job is done correctly. Once they can master that, we try to get them individual jobs.”

Some individuals work at the Westchester County Airport, others have the important role of maintaining apartment buildings, and there are people who help assemble decorative products for local companies. In addition, Joe has also developed partnerships that provide jobs in local towns like Armonk, Bedford, and Yonkers.

And, he has secured work for a group of 20 employees with Publishers Circulation Fulfillment.

IMAGINE...

Page 1

How does he do it? Ask anyone who knows him and they will immediately describe his larger-than-life personality and passion for his job. Ask Joe, and he’ll tell you that he promotes employment for Arc of Westchester participants wherever he goes. Always looking for new employers, he simply never takes “no” for an answer.

Page 2

Project SEARCH Moving Up: Tibi Guzmán Assumes New Role

“Usually, they say yes,” Joe says. “I ask them to just give us the opportunity to work. And once they do, they fall in love with their new employees. And I actually become friends with the employers. We’ll play golf or racquetball together. And while we play, I talk to them about what’s next for their business and how we can help.”

E

veryone at Arc of Westchester loves what they do. It’s an honor to serve individuals with developmental disabilities and we take deep pride in knowing we are a nationwide leader in employment services. But we can’t do it without your help.

You are the reason our participants find employment in our community. You are the reason our job coaches are on hand to ensure success. And you are the reason more and more people with developmental disabilities are living productive, meaningful lives as part of our community.

Your tax-deductible gift to Arc of Westchester helps make all our extraordinary achievements possible. Please give generously to continue the success of our renowned employment program. Thank you.

If you are new to our community, we invite you to become a member today. If you are already part of our family, please renew your support at

Creating Lives of Distinction

Joe Cavallo (right) with an employee at Vernon Manor.

Your Support Matters

Paul’s elevated level of motivation to improve himself and his honest way of relating to people has been a significant part of his character for his entire life.

A part-time employee at NY Medical College since October 2010, Paul took it upon himself to independently pursue employment at Oppenheimer & Co. during the summer of 2012. Paul now works as an office assistant at Oppenheimer & Co. and an office clerk at NY Medical College.

imagine

Special Employment Edition

Meet Joe Cavallo, Arc of Westchester’s Senior Job Developer

Page 3

Employee Spotlight: Regeneron Job Coaching

Stay Connected

Page 4

Join us online

Transitions

Along with our new look, is a new address. We can now be found at www.arcwestchester.org.

Update us under your Favorites!

Employment Website FAQs

Our Facebook page is a place where you can read and share stories, give us your feedback, view our photos, and hear about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. Visit us every day!

Page 5

Employer Breakfast, Award Winners

Tell us what you think

Like what you’ve seen here? Have some great story ideas to share? Shoot us an email at info@arcwestchester.org and give us your leads.

We value your input.

Page 6

www.arcwestchester.org/join.

6

The Gleeson-Israel Gateway Center • 265 Saw Mill River Road • Hawthorne, NY 10532 • 914-949-9300 • www.arcwestchester.org

Joe Cavallo: Making Connections and Changing Lives

Creating Lives of Distinction

F

or many families, educational and social milestones mark the school years, and the path to adulthood is well defined. But for others, especially those caring for a loved one with a developmental disability, the question of what’s next lingers as they begin to age out of high school.

At Arc of Westchester, we believe that everyone should have a place in the community. When we first set out to create employment opportunities, there was a strong need but very few options. We were on the cutting edge in 1960 when we opened our first employment workshop in White Plains, and within a few years we had 40 employees.

Richard P. Swierat Executive Director

Today the number of individuals and families who need our support has grown exponentially, and while progress doesn’t happen overnight, together we’ve made great strides toward creating inclusive workplaces.

Less than 10 years ago, many people with disabilities spent their days in sheltered workshops. 2014 marks a milestone for Arc of Westchester as we close all of our workshops. We now have 350 individuals with developmental disabilities working in shops, restaurants, schools, and offices — an extraordinary accomplishment that marks our place as a leader in the community serving people with developmental disabilities.

Our career and employment programs help people find their own interests and develop their particular talents. We ensure that each person is integrated into his or her workplace. And we stay involved with our employees and employer partners every step of the way.

It’s so important to us that families know there are opportunities for fulfilling and rewarding careers for their sons and daughters. And equally important, we want businesses to be aware of the social and fiscal benefits of inclusionary workplaces.

We can’t change the world alone, but together we can design a future full of promise that extends through the entire arc of a life.