AHRC is Going Green!EWaste Business Kicks Off ThisSeason

E-Works, AHRC Suffolk’s new electronicsrecycling business, began fully operatingthis November! Unlike our nursery and giftbasket shop, e-Works is non-seasonal, andhas extremely large growth potential.

“We’re just at the brink of this whole recycling market,” said AHRC Suffolk’sChief Executive Officer, Bill Leonardi. “E-Works will help our agency become moreself-sufficient, while giving engaging work tothe individuals who’ve been trained to workfor the business.”

AHRC Nassau first established e-Works in2009. At the business’ start, e-Works hadfive employees. Within two years, theagency has seen a 50 percent jump in business, and offers more than 15 drop offlocations throughout the tri-state area.

With the effectiveness of NY State’s 2011 e-waste law, and AHRC Nassau’s high rateof success, it made perfect sense for AHRCSuffolk to create its own e-Works branch.

NY State’s new law, titled the NYS Elec-tronic Equipment Recycling and Reuse Act,requires manufacturers to provide convenient recycling of electronic waste, in-cluding old computer equipment, TVs and small electronics such as gaming consoles, at little or no cost to most consumers in the state. The next provisiontook effect Jan. 1, when businesses andtrash haulers will now be prohibited from

dumping e-waste in landfills or incinerators. The State’s intent is to keep lead, mercury and other toxic materials insidethose items out of landfills and incinerators,and to shift recycling costs to the firms that produce the goods.

With NY’s growing requirements, AHRCSuffolk, along with many of the other NYARCs, saw the need for such a business intheir local communities.

The pilot project commenced this Novem-ber. So far, 18 individuals with developmental disabilities served in AHRC’sPre-Vocational and Supported Work Pro-grams have been trained.

E-Works serves as a convenient, one-stop-shop for clients. 15 collection sites forequipment are located throughout Long Island. Trucks then transfer collected equipment to the main facilities, located inBohemia and Westhampton Beach, for consolidation and recycling.

Also inside our

“GReen” issue!

• DBA

transportation: “Going Green”

• 1115 Waiver:

What You

need to Know

• lincoln st.

Restoration

•10K Awarded

to educare!

• A Family’s

story

• 51st Annual

Candlelight

Ball Photos!

• spotlight staff

• Polar Plunge!

• Upcoming

events

AHRC’s eWorks needs

Clients! if you have any leads,

contacts, or

relationships with

companies, please

contact us!

631.585.0100 x 585 ornleo@suffahrc.org

cont. on page 7

The CommunicatorFall 2011 An AHRC Suffolk foundAtion newSletteR

A MESSAGE FROM AHRC’S CEO, WILLIAM LEONARDI...

As I reflect back on 2011 and my

first year as CEO of AHRC, I

think about the record snowfall,

earthquake, and hurricane that

affected us here on Long Island.

I also think about the proposed

1115 Waiver and what impact

it will have on our program

services and more importantly,

how it will affect the lives of

our participants.

We face immense challenges in 2012 that have

impacted our industry and the effects of these

challenges will be felt for several years to come. That

being said, I believe that we posess the necessary

creativity and vision at AHRC Suffolk to find

opportunity in the face of change and adversity. We

remain as committed as ever to our mission.

Please check our website www.ahrcsuffolk.org or our

Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information

about important legislative issues and events

happening at AHRC.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your

continued support and wish all

of you a Happy New Year!

page 2

December 1, 2011 By Shirley Berenstein, Director of

Public Information, AHRC NYC

Note: This article is NOT about

the nuts and bolts of the 1115

Waiver. It is about the situation we

currently find ourselves in, how we

got here, and what we need to do

to ensure that the people we are

committed to serve continue to

have the lives to which they are

entitled.

Some HistoryOver the last more than thirtyyears, since the closing of the infamous Willowbrook StateSchool, New York State OPWDD(then called OMRDD) — workingin partnership with families,individuals served and providers— built a system of services andsupports for individuals with developmental disabilities that hassurpassed any other system in thenation in its breadth and scope.It was Medicaid (the federal, untilnow open-ended “entitlement”

program which was established toassist states in the provision ofhealth care and related services –selected by each state– to be provided to eligible needy persons) that in the 1970’s became the funding source forcommunity residential development in New York beginning with ICF/MR’s.

A decade later when Congress enacted the Home and Community-Based MedicaidWaiver program, becoming awareof substantial changes in howMedicaid dollars could be used tofund community-based servicesand truly allow the field to furtherthe movement away from institutional care, New York StateOPWDD became extremely adeptat using the Medicaid program tocreate an array of long-term carecommunity services to meet theneeds of individuals with developmental disabilities. When establishing its Medicaid

program New York State opted tonot only provide the MandatedServices required for participationin the federal program, but alsoopted to offer Optional State Medicaid Services to all eligibleMedicaid recipients. And NewYork State was willing and had thecapacity to supply a high percentage of the requisite matching funds, 50% (as compared to the 30 – 40% matchof most states.)

Deficit reduction packages in the1990’s (all without major cuts infunding for programs serving low-income families and peoplewith disabilities) changed thecountry’s fiscal situation from oneof large deficits through the mid-90’s to one of large surplusesin the late 90’s. But there was adownturn in the early 2000’s withthe country again facing enormous deficits and resultingdeficit reduction efforts that thistime focused on

The 1115 Waiver – the New Way Services and Supports will be Developedin New York State: How We Got Here and What We Really Need to Do to

Build a Stronger System for People with Developmental Disabilities

stay in

the Know!

cont. on page 7

ResidenceRestoration

NEWS AROUND AHRC

Members of the Riverhead Town Board andthe Landmarks Preservation Commission(LPC) visited AHRC’s Lincoln Street residence to celebrate the spectacular exterior restoration work that the agency undertook on the house this Fall!

The home is located in the Downtown Riverhead Historic District created by theTown Board in 2008, and is also in an areadeemed eligible for listing on the NationalRegister of Historic Places.

According to Richard Wines, chair of theLandmarks Preservation Commission, “whena contractor for AHRC removed worn out vinylsiding from the structure he revealed an architecturally spectacular building underneath, with most of its original detail stillintact. AHRC’s restoration of this fine late1860′s Italianate house makes a major contribution to the preservation in Riverhead.”

Jodi Giglio, the Town Board liaison to theLPC, explained that: “Combined with the taxcredits available because of the area’s National Register eligibility, the AHRC projectwill enhance property values and encouragefurther revitalization efforts in this importantdowntown neighborhood.”

“As an agency, we are committed to being

good neighbors in the communities where we

live. Moreover, we believe that restoration of

this home will not only be good for its

Riverhead neighborhood but will also

enhance the quality of life for our residents,”

said Bill Leonardi, Chief Executive Officer,AHRC Suffolk.

The restoration of our residence wouldn’thave been possible without support fromfriends of AHRC. Thank you to RiverheadBuilding Supply for donated materials, and toWayne and Liz Kogel, whose brother, Cliffy,lives in the home, for their paint donation.

page 3

After

Before

Out of 157 applicants, AHRC’s Saul and Elaine SeiffEducare Center was awarded $10,000 in grant moneyfrom Optimum Lightpath! The grant will go towardsnew technology for students with physical and learning disabilities who have difficulty using a regularcomputer.

Optimum Lightpath, a market leader in Ethernet-based communication solutions, distributed portionsof the $100,000 grant to 11 Long Island schools.Open to public and private elementary and secondary schools, grants were awarded based onhow the school would: leverage technology to improve instruction, promote the use of technology toimprove the overall education experience, utilize newtechnology to promote distance learning, and createnew school initiatives centered on new technologies.

On November 16th, Vicky Sheilds, AHRC’s Children’sServices Director, was presented the check at Optimum Lightpath’s LI Education Tech Conference.Later in the month, William J. Lindsay, Presiding Officer of the Suffolk County Legislature, Bill Leonardi,CEO of AHRC, Grace Forestieri, AHRC's AssistiveTechnology Specialist, and Todd Cammarota, Enterprise Account Executive at Optimum Lightpathvisited the Educare Center to take photos with students and accept the award.

Always looking for new forms of technology, AHRC’sEducare Center will use the funds to purchase a TAP-it, a mobile interactive learning station designed toprovide accessibility to students with a range of physical or learning disabilities. Similar to a computer,TAP-it offers students access to web-based curriculum with screen and height adjustments thatadapt to their individualized needs. Regular

computers, though excellent learningtools, are not always accessible for students with disabilities.

“A student may be unable to enter information into the

computer because they cannot physically hold a

mouse or select keys on a keyboard. Students in

wheelchairs find it difficult to get close enough to the

computer because the table height prevents their

wheelchair from passing underneath,” explainedVicky. “It is difficult to engage students in a group

while at the computer because they must be seated

further away. These barriers reduce the effectiveness

of the computer of reaching educational goals.”

With mobile technology development on the rise,AHRC is excited to engage students with these newtools.

“When you compare the price of these large,

non-transportable learning devices to the IPad and

other mobile technologies, you’re looking at a huge

difference in cost and accessibility. A student can

learn off of the same device both in the classroom

and at home with their family,” said Andrea Nickdow,Assistant Director, Children’s Services. “It’s really an

exciting time in our field.”

Educational trends seem to be shifting across theboard.

“Students are being evaluated in a more

individualized-type system,” added Vicky. “This has

always been the goal of special education. Our

students all have different strengths and learn

differently. Technology like this, it seems, is just made

for us.”

NEWS AROUND AHRC

page 4

$10,000 Awardedto Educare

NEWS AROUND AHRC

Students at AHRC’s Saul and Elaine Seiff Educare Center were treated to thoughtful gifts fromUnited Healthcare representatives this Fall!

On November 3rd, AHRC’s Seiff Educare Center participated in United Healthcare’s Gift Initiative. Eachstudent chose between a select set of gifts includingblankets and hand-decorated stuffed animals by thecompany’s staff.

Always looking to strengthen relationships betweenbusinesses in the local Suffolk County community,AHRC, which offers its employees United Healthcarecoverage, was happy to accept the visit.

Students enjoyed sharing their assignments and works in progress with United Healthcare staff. Onepreschooler, who prior to enrollment in AHRC’s Educare Center, was non-verbal, even publicly recited the insurance company’s slogan.

“We were happy to present these items…Handing

each of the children a stuffed animal or blanket brings

warmth to our hearts. And as we watch the expression

on their faces—the smiles that were

given to us—it makes myself and the

accompanying staff feel as if we have

made a difference in that child’s day,”

said John Dallo, Vice President ofSales and Account Management,

United Healthcare.

page 5

UnitedHealth-careVisitsEducare!

NEWS AROUND AHRC

New Family Workshops

This Fall, attendees of AHRC’s first Transition toAdult Services Breakfast were given a briefoverview of the services available for their lovedone with a developmental disability. Tours of ourBohemia Adult Day Programs were also provided.

Going forward, AHRC plans on holding moreworkshops for family members/caretakers, with aResidential Services evening workshop beingplanned for Spring 2012.

Proving to be a win-win for both parents/caretakers and AHRC, the workshop introduced community members to our agency, and to otherparents/caretakers of children with disabilities.

Stay tuned for upcoming workshops by

visiting www.ahrcsuffolk.org!

page 6

AED InstallationTo keep our facilities as safe as possible, AHRC installed AED’s near the

nurse’s office in all Adult Day Services locations.

What is an AED?

An automated external defibrillator(AED) is a lightweight, portabledevice that delivers anelectric shock throughthe chest to the heart.

Why Are AEDs Important?

AED’s make it possible for more people to respond to a medical emergency where defibrillation is required. Because AEDs areportable and can be used by nonmedical people,they can be made part of emergency responseprograms that also include rapid use of 9-1-1 andprompt delivery of CPR. All three of these activities are critical to improving survival from

cardiac arrest.

Vocational Instructor, Sami Ruiz,who’s been involved with E-Workssince the initial pilot, said the training process takes time and concentration, but it’s been “amazing to see it all come together.”

“The individuals are so focused. It’sgreat to finally see them in their chairsworking—they really are enjoying their jobs,” she said.

Working and bringing home a paycheck creates a sense of confidence and self-worth. It allowsindividuals with developmental disabilities to become productivemembers of society. For Richard Mc-Donald, an e-Works employee, disassembling computers for a living taps into his own personal interests.

“I really like making my own money—it feels good,” said Richard. “I alwaysresearch on my own computer, so Ilike this.”

For the time being, Suffolk E-Works, which now operates out ofthe Bohemia Annex and Westhamp-ton’s workshop, is providing assistive services to AHRCNassau. A drop off location has beensetup at the Bohemia Annex, and

pickup routes are currently being es-tablished.

Once the business secures its owncustomers, with the efforts of MarkWilkens, e-Works Consultant, and

staff members, June Huether, Busi-ness Development for Workshop Ac-tivities, and Natale Leo, Administratorof Workshop Operations, it’ll primarilyserve companies and personal clients inSuffolk County.

With NY State’s continually increasing recycling requirements and

people’s growing interest in the envi-ronment, not to mention the expectedbudget cuts looming in our near fu-ture, AHRC Suffolk’s e-Works holdshuge growth potential.

“This is real work—and our individuals want to be busy. Theydon’t like downtime,” said Bill. “Thisnew business venture is really an op-portunity for us to control our owndestiny.”

For business propositions, pickupschedules and other information,contact Natale Leo at 631.585.0100 x 585 nleo@suffahrc.org. And lookout for the e-Works page onAHRC Suffolk’s new website, COMING SOON!

For more information on NY State’srequirements, visithttp://www.dec.ny.gov/chemi-cal/65583.html

page 7

so-called entitlementspending, which included Medicaid.When President Obama took the

reins two years ago, the economy wasmired in astronomical deficits, relentlessly rising general health care costs, and states around the nation complaining of the enormous growth in Medi-caid that was strangling their economies. The writingwas on the wall as regards the changes in the Medicaid program that would be forthcoming.

Over the last twenty-five years, New York StateOPWDD brought in sufficient Medicaid dollarsthrough its developmental disabilities programs tofund the vast array of services for this population currently in existence, and to additionally add funds tothe state’s general coffers. This has been a knownfact for a long time, as has been the fact that peoplewith developmental disabilities represent a relatively

small percentage of Medicaid enrollees but use alarge percentage of Medicaid dollars in New York.Nevertheless last year’s Poughkeepsie Journal Articles enumerating exactly how the federal Medicaidfunds for individuals with developmental disabilities inNew York were calculated — even though the federalCenter on Medicaid Services (CMS) was aware ofand had agreed on the formula – motivated a re-examination of New York State’s Medicaid situation.

To read the rest of the article, which covers The 1115

Waiver in New York State: How to Manage Care

and Manage Costs?, and Advocacy: What We

Really Need to Do to Build a Stronger System for

People with Developmental Disabilities, pleasevisit our website at www.ahrcsuffolk.org and view the

“Special Announcements” box on our home page.

cont. from pg. 2

cont. from pg. 1

AHRC Suffolk e-Works

E-Waste Processing Center &

Drop-off Location

AHRC Bohemia Annex

2900 Veterans Mem. Hwy

Bohemia, NY 11716

9am-4pm

631.585.0100 x 585

nleo@suffahrc.org

stay in

the Know!

NEWS AROUND AHRC

page 8

Senior-aged individuals withdevelopmental disabilitieshave worked, participated in,and live in AHRC’s surrounding community.Having always been treatedwith kindness and respect,they feel very strongly about giving back.

To support local causes—especially those for childrenin need, individuals served inAHRC’s Senior Day HabProgram joined in with localschools to collect aluminumtabs from cans for charity.

The recycled tabs are turnedinto cash and given to theStony Brook University Medical Center’s SunriseFund, which aids childrenwith cancer. Participants ofthe drive also urged AHRCSuffolk employees to join in.

A success for both AHRCand Stony Brook UniversityHospital, the program hasbound staff and individualsserved together through acommon cause, whileadding to the total donation

amount.

Lakeland Fire Department visited

AHRC’s Lakeland Day Habilitation

Program and the Seiff Educare Center!

The crew reviewed fire safety and

prevention, and allowed students and

adult-age individuals the opportunity to

explore the truck and learn the uses for

its different buttons and tools. As

always, the visits were very exciting and

educational for all involved!

FireSafety

SeniorsGivingBack

IN-KIND AND SPECIAL PROJECTS

they are donations that are

provided in goods an services rather

than monetary

AHRC Suffolk is currently looking

for donations of materials and

contractors for:

1. our dix Hills Residence kitchen

Please contact donna Borrill at

631-585-0100 ext.548 or email

dborrill@suffahrc.org to see how you

can help!

In-KindDonations

thanks to in-kind donations, our

lincoln Street Residence has been

fully restored to comply with

Riverhead’s Historical Society’s

codes!

Special thanks to the kogel family

and Riverhead Building Supply for

their generous in-kind donations.

What are In-KindDonations?

How Can You Help?

page 9

AHRC’s new sports slab will

allow individuals served in

our day Hab programs the

opportunity to play games

right outside of the Bohemia

facility!

thanks to Reliable Garden

and fence and Pereira

Concrete for their in-kind

donations! thanks to Pilot

employee Benefits Group for

their generous donation to

make this project a reality!

In November, eight computers and two color printers were setup in AHRC’s Bohemia Day Habilitation Program. Thanks to St.John’s High School for their donation of the computers, and especially to Len Krebs, the school’s Technical Director.

AHRC would also like to thank Gerty DeLuca from HornellBrewing Company-Arizona Beverages, for her donation of thelarge laser jet printer. With the help of Ann Lehuta, AHRC’s Network Administrator, and Russell Patterson, technical consultant, the agency purchased two more inkjet printers andfour computer tables.

A special thanks to Russell for reworking the computers, and

his sons, Ryan and Andy, along with Ann, for the testing and

setup of all the equipment!

NewComputerLab

AHRC’s Shoreham Day Habilitation Program held abig party for program participant’s family members this Fall!

Family members and caretakers of individuals servedin the program were asked to bring in past pictures oftheir loved ones. Visitors shared stories and got toknow one another. The gathering was a great success!

NEWS AROUND AHRC

page 10

FamilyDay

John Jorg, an artist who also has a developmental disability, displayed his beautiful paintings atNYSARC’s 62nd Annual Convention. (Pictured rightwith AHRC staff member, Laura Musselwhite)

NYSARC Display

DBATransportation

SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR

For over 25 years, AHRC andPaul Johnston, FoundationBoard Member and owner ofDBA Transportation, havemaintained a successful working relationship. ThoughPaul has no direct connectionto the developmentally disabled population, he strongly supports our agencyand its mission.

An advocate of many causes,Paul feels strongly about thefuture of our environment.Having attended a recent conference on the cost and“green” benefits of propane-operated vehicles, he decidedto look further into the topic.

Listed as an approved cleanfuel by U.S. Government energy policy makers and energy administrative bodies,numerous studies on propaneemissions have determinedthat using propane cuts smogproducing exhaust by as muchas 70 percent.

DBA Transportation, located inBohemia, NY, operates 23diesel-powered vehicles—16vans and seven buses. Serving only AHRC, the company provides transportation for individualswith developmental disabilitiesto and from their Adult Day Habilitation Programs at ourBohemia and WesthamptonBeach facilities.

With such high travel frequency, Paul began toweigh fuel options. In 1998,diesel fuel cost 75 cents per

gallon. Today, a gallon ofdiesel fuel prices at $4.29.Though propane gas gets lessmiles per gallon, the cost permile is cheaper, along with themaintenance fees.

Propane’s “green” benefits andlower costs, compared to thatof diesel fuel, eased Paul’s decision. To date, two of DBA’sseven buses are completelyoperated on propane.

As part of a trial period, thecompany is “testing the twobuses for around six months. Ifall goes smoothly, they’ll gradually switch all of the vansand buses to propane,” hesaid.

Paul is both a firm backer anddear friend of AHRC. He’smade it a point to make manyof DBA’s fleet wheel chair accessible. Drivers are also required to experience thewheelchair lift firsthand.

“It’s important for them to understand the anxiety ofsome of the individuals whenbeing transported from the busto the ground,” said Paul. “I’vegotten to know so many of theindividuals we transport—andthey have fears, just like us.”

During his time with AHRC,Paul has “learned how theagency takes care of peoplewho would otherwise havebeen misunderstood or neg-lected.” “It brings me great satisfaction to be part of theteam effort in accomplishingthis goal.”

page 11

For more propane information

visit www.propane101.com

DBA Transportation

65 DaVinci DriveBohemia, NY 11716

631.580.1662precisiontransportation@msn.com

Turn Your Pumpkin into Something!

AHRC's Annual Day Habilitation pumpkindecorating contest was more creative thanever this year. Individuals served at our Bohemia Facility, along with staff, enjoyeddisplaying their works for all to see!

Celebratingthe Season

NEWS AROUND AHRC

page 12

Everyone got festive this year at AHRC’sSeiff Educare Center’s Fall Family Festival!The day began with a costume paradewhere students (and most visitors) showedoff their latest Halloween getups.

Students and family members then work on“spooky” projects together, and visitors attend a dance party in the Center’s multipurpose room, or play outside in the“pumpkin patch.”

Grand-parents DayAHRC Seiff Educare Center’s Grandparents and Special Friends Day hadthe greatest turnout ever! Over 78 visitorscame to share the school day with students.

Held on November 16th, Ken Grau, an Educare Center speech language pathologist, also made a presentationabout new technologies in the classroom.

HAPPENINGS

page 13

AHRC Suffolk will partner up with Autism Speaks LongIsland to host their first Polar Plunge on Saturday,March 3rd at the Bay Shore Marina, S. Clinton Street,Bay Shore.

Polar Plunge registration will start at 8:30am and the plunge will begin at 10:00 amsharp. Registration is $20.00 and all agesare welcome. Ages twelve and under arefree and students can receive community service hours! Come out, plunge and help make a difference in the lives of children and adults. Corporate sponsorships are also available. For more information, contact the Foundation Office at 631-585-0100 x 583.

IronMan/Woman Golf

Will You Take the Plunge?

REGISTER ONLINE!REGISTER ONLINE!www.walknowforautism

speaks.com/PolarBearPlunge

AHRC’s Ironman / Woman Golf Event was held on Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at Great Rock Golf Club inWading River.

Despite the rainy weather, eight golfers played up to 73holes from sunrise to sunset!

Marc Blitstein, AHRC Foundation Board President, andMichael Busch, played the most holes, with AHRC’s CEO,Bill Leonardi finished close behind at 72 holes. Thanks to

all supporters, the AHRC Foundation made nearly

$14,000 to benefit children and adults with

developmental disabilities.

page 14

51st AnnualCandlelight Ball

HAPPENINGS

Once again, the 51st Annual Candlelight Ballwas a great success! With nearly 500 guestsin attendance, all funds raised by the gala’sraffle contest and silent auction will go towards AHRC’s programs, services, andsupports for individuals with developmentaldisabilities.

AHRC honored Foundation Board Member,Filomena Lombardi, and the entire LombardiFamily for their continuous support of ouragency and its fundraising events.

To strengthen the already positive relationship between AHRC and the Lom-bardi family, J. Andreassi, Director of Development, along with Lisa Bochner, COOof AHRC, and Bill Leonardi, CEO of AHRC,invited all family members to tour our Bohemia Workshop, Annex, and Day Habilitation Programs prior to the event. The Lombardi’s also visited AHRC’s Seiff Educare Center, where Vicky Sheilds, Director of Children’s Services, and AndreaNickdow, Assistant Director of Children’s

Services, escorted guests through the

different classrooms.

The Lombardi’s, especially “Mamma,” whocelebrated her 80th birthday at the gala,were very moved by our agency’s dedicationto those we serve.

With the outstanding food, the festive musicperformed by the Edwin Vasquez band, andthe company of friends, family members,employees, politicians, and individualsserved by AHRC, the night turned out to beone to remember!

page 15

Gerry Sweeney and wife, Dolores, havebeen tireless advocates for children and adults with developmentaldisabilities. Their passion to stay in-volved and share information with otherparents and caretakers stems from arare incidence that happened to Denise,their 46-year old daughter, in 1966.

Born a typical functioning child,Denise’s disability developed after suffering from Post Vaccinal Encephali-tis—a direct result of the Small Pox vac-cine. Odds of reacting to the vaccineare one in a million. Denise happenedto be that one.

Though she is very high functioning, herlife, and that of her parents, has neverbeen the same.

In the 27 years Denise has spent withAHRC, “she’s always excelled at herjobs in the workshop and Annex,” saidDolores. “My daughter is excellent withnumbers—she will remember thingsthat I just simply cannot. Doctors havesaid that if she hadn’t suffered from thePost Vaccinal Encephalitis, shewould’ve done something great withmath. But I say, ‘don’t go there’—welove Denise just the way she is.”

The family first got involved with AHRCthrough the Sachem Special EducationProgram. Having lived in Queens, NYprior to Denise’s diagnosis, Gerry, a re-tired MetLife executive, moved the fam-ily to Holbrook--part of the SachemSchool District.

Though Sachem’s Special Ed Programwas highly respected, the world was adifferent place in 1971.

“I remember feeling very alone at thattime,” said Dolores. “There were onlyfour Special Ed classes from kindergarten to 12th grade available.

‘Mainstreaming’ was thebuzz word in education, but there werea lot of ignorant people. The Special Edteachers were amazing, but there wasdefinitely a level of discrimination against them from otherfaculty.”

Dolores and Gerry are not exactly the“sit back and wait” types. Lack of programs and supports for children withspecial needs only propelled them further into the educational advocacymovement.

As the first Special Education Coordina-tor on Sachem’s PTA, Dolores felt herposition was “not enough.” “We neededa stronger voice.” She then joined otherparents to create one of the first SpecialEducation PTA (SEPTA) on the Island.And though SEPTA’s establishment wasan uphill battle, new legislation from Al-bany, called “Project Re-Entry,” helpedbeef up the school’s Special Ed pro-gram. “That one change made all of the difference—schools were getting double from the State for each child with special needs that they took in.Sachem’s Special Ed program just ex-ploded,” said Dolores.

As graduation approached, theSweeney’s once again found themselves researching services thatwould meet their daughter’s specialneeds. Having first looked at BOCES,AHRC’s person-centered planningseemed like a better fit.

“The interaction with friends and staffhas been a very positive experience forher,” said Dolores. “I know that it takesa tremendous amount of patience andtolerance to do this job. Yet the Pro-gram Supervisors and other staff mem-bers have always treated Denise with ahigh level of kindness and respect.”As parents, “you often worry about theway your child is being treated,” said

Dolores, a member of AHRC’s Auxiliary.“But AHRC staff members have listened to me. They’ve taken care ofthings when I expressed concern—thatmakes me feel good as a mother.”

Though Denise has grown up, Gerryand Dolores are still heavily involvedwith advocating for people with developmental disabilities.

“Other parents look forward to their kidsgrowing up and living their own lives,but our kids are different. We can’t justlet them go. We have to be there forthem, we have to be their voice,” saidGerry.

Dolores, who now works as an officeaid in the Sachem School District, canempathize with other “tired” parents, but having pioneered her way through many barriers, she refusesto forget the importance of advocacy.“We’re all tired—we’ve all done a lot for our children. But you have to stay involved. You have to attend meetingsand learn all of the necessary information.”

Denise still resides at home, but she recently considered moving into one ofAHRC’s residences, where she attendsthe Weekend Respite Program.

“If she was happy, I’d be OK with it,”said Dolores. “It’d be great for the fu-ture—to know that she was in goodhands,” added Gerry.

To Dolores and Gerry—

a sincere thanks for all ofyour support!

We just simply couldn’t do it without you.

A Family’s Perspective

THE AHRC FAMILY

page 16

A puzzle piece is the sign for autism, which is a disorder that causesone to think in a different way than others, gives some the inability totalk, and gives seizures to some with a more severe case.

My brother, Michael, happens to have a more severe case of this syndrome. Michael represents a single puzzle piece. When making apuzzle each piece is needed, each piece is special, just like my

brother. Our family would not be complete without him, just as a puzzle would not becomplete with a missing piece.

He inspires me just by the way he struggles through each day. Michael is the strongestperson I have ever met, and it is an honor to have a brother as wonderful as him. WhenI feel defeated or I am facing rough times, I think to myself, if my brother is strongenough to overcome autism, I can overcome my problem. One glance into his eyeschanges your outlook on the world. Just waking up in the morning and seeing his face reminds me how lucky I am to have a brother like Michael. EverythingI do, I do for him.

Never is there a day that his face lacks a smile. On July 30, 2011, Michael went toStony Brook Hospital, so they could track his seizures. He had 30 electrodes attachedto his head with gauze, and he stayed at the hospital for three days. Every time I visited him he had a tremendous smile on his face. That is what had the greatest impacton my life. I know that I wouldn’t be able to endure that pain, the fact that he did itwith a smile on his face forever changed my heart.

When I become older I have to take custody of my brother when my parents are unableto take care of him. This entails that I must have a husband who appreciates mybrother and friends too. Years ago a good friend of mine would not enter my brother’s room to get something with me, because he was in there. I was so appalled; Ididn’t know what to say. I just stood there, staring at her blankly. Most people feelbad for those like my brother. I don’t. I feel bad for people like my friend. It’s unfortunate when someone cannot appreciate autistic children. I know it can seem scary to some people who aren’tused to it but if you enable yourself to give them a chance,you will see how warm-hearted they are.

I attend all of the events they have at my brother’s schooland watch him overcome his disability by achieving goals.I’ve watched him participate in things such as: walking inhis Halloween parade, throwing a soccer ball, riding apony, and throwing beanbags. I admire how he climbsover all the obstacles in his life and never gives up. Iwatch over him, as I know he watches over me. I lovemy brother more than anyone or anything; he is thepuzzle piece I hold close to my heart.

A Single

Puzzle Piece

By Faith Pelle

page 17

SPOTLIGHT STAFF

“Weare one bigfamily”

Three years ago, Lisa Hart, Housepar-ent of AHRC’s Oakdale residence, had no prior experience withthe developmentally disabled popula-tion. Fast forward to January 2012, andeven a perfect stranger could see justhow much AHRC has changed her life.

Along with close friends, family, and theeight residents of our Oakdale IRA, Lisaand her husband, Harry Schenkel, celebrated their wedding at Sylvia’s inHarlem on January 2nd.

“They really are my family,” said Lisawhen describing her roleas Houseparent. “Like every family,

each person has their own schedule,

but we support one another. We eat din-

ner together every night.”

And like all families living under oneroof, personalities sometimes do clash.“There are times when we all love each

other and times when we disagree—but

that’s just part of being a family. And it’s

my favorite part of what I do for a

living.”

Lisa discovered AHRC through a friend,who told her about our Residential Pro-gram. She interviewed and was hired asDirect Care for Oakdale and AHRC’sother residences. With time on her side,Lisa began working just as the Housep-arent of the Oakdale IRA was preparingfor retirement.

At first, she admitted to being “totally i

ntimidated” by the position. “It is a really big job,” said Lisa. But the House-parent took her “under her wing” andprepared Lisa for the task at hand.

After much training, she moved herselfand McKenzie, Lisa’s 14-year-olddaughter, into the house’s apartmentfull-time. Her then finance, Harry, whoworks in Finance, recently became aPastor at the Transfiguration Church inHarlem. So Lisa, McKenzie, Harry andhis three children, Harrison, 19, Saman-tha, 16, and Hunter, 13, spend

Friday through Sunday in their newbrownstone, located on 126th street.

With such a hectic schedule, Lisa credits her “amazing staff,” which includes a Houseparent Relief employee and several Direct Careworkers, for keeping the householdpleasant and orderly.

“There’s no way that anybody could do

this without a staff—it’s the kind of job

that is your entire life. You’re running

the household, but no matter how great

the Houseparent is, it’s the staff that set

the mood and tone. It’s such a

combined team effort.”

Working for AHRC has “been such a

great gift,” said Lisa. “My Director, the

staff—everyone has been so amazing.

They all go above and beyond.”

Lisa, though quite modest, has added apersonal touch to AHRC’s Oakdale IRA.With religion being such a prominent part of her life, Oakdale’seight residents attend services at eitherSt. Johns in Bohemia and St. Anne’s inOakdale once per week. The household also celebrated Christmas bylistening to Harry’s sermons in Harlem’sTransfiguration Church.

Going forward, Lisa would like to bringresidents to the church in Harlem moreoften. With the generous donation of aminivan from one of the resident’s families, the group can now split up fordifferent themed day trips.

Having never worked with the disabledpopulation prior to AHRC, Lisa sure hasembraced our agency’s mission.

“From working with people with

developmental disabilities, I’ve learned

to really be in the moment. I used to

always be thinking about the future and

get hung up on the past—those little

things in life that get out of hand. But

our residents don’t do this. They live

for now.”

Transfiguration Church

74 West 126th Street

Harlem, NY

Sunday service at

10:30am

Herb Gold

passed away the

day after

thanksgiving at

the age of 96. A generous

benefactor to organizations and

individuals throughout the world,

Herb supported many causes

including AHRC Suffolk.

Born in Brooklyn, Herb joined his fa-

ther's business building homes and

apartment buildings in Rockville Cen-

tre and Hewlett Harbor. He

continued to build on long island as

a partner of the firm Stackler, frank

and Gold.

in 1941 he met Rita weinstein and

when he asked which street he

should take to drive her home, she

told him to take the long way, and

they did: He was married to Rita for

67 years before her passing in 2008.

together, they raised their son

Richard, who passed at 35.

“Herb and Rita were the most

devoted couple i’ve ever known,”

said ken walker, AHRC Board Mem-

ber and dear friend of Herb. “i feel

lucky to have had them in my life and

will miss my friendship with Herb. we

played tennis until he was just shy of

90, and sailed the Sea Bird up until a

couple of years ago.”

Aside from his support for AHRC,

Herb established the Rita Gold early

Childhood Centers at Columbia uni-

versity's teachers College and in tel

Aviv. He funded many

scholarships for young opera

singers, as well as for

underprivileged students making it

possible for them to go on to higher

education. Herb was also a

generous donor to the nYC opera,

Julliard, and the Sarasota opera.

Herb lived life to the fullest, inspiring

those around him to strive to fulfill

their highest potential. with such a

lifelong commitment to service, Herb

left quite an extraordinary legacy.

“He really was an inspiration to me,”

said ken. “i feel lucky to have known

him.”

In Memoriam...

Jim lehane, AHRC Suffolk Honorary

Board Member, passed away on october

20, 2011.

Jim joined the Board of directors in october

of 1970. He then served as President from

1978-1979, 1979-1980 and 1981-1982.

throughout the years, Jim also served on

AHRC’s Budget & finance Committee,

Community Residence Committee,

Guardianship Committee, Personnel Pol-

icy/By-laws Committee, Public information

Committee, Program evaluation Committee

and the nominating Committee. Jim was

voted in by the Board of di-

rectors at the January 2006

Board of directors meeting

as an Honorary Board

member and continued to

serve as an advocate, as

well as on the Guardian-

ship Committee until 2011.

Always a committed supporter of AHRC, Jim

rarely missed a Guardianship

meeting—in fact, he was usually the first

member to arrive. those who were

lucky enough to encounter Jim knew

that he was a gentle soul—one who was ad-

mired by all.

HerbertZ. Gold

James D. Lehane

page 18

irving Silverman passed away

on June 3, 2011. irving and his

wife, Rose, were active mem-

bers of AHRC for many years.

their son, dennis, was institu-

tionalized at the willowbrook School when he was

around 10 years old. Rose was instrumental in

helping news reporter, Geraldo Rivera, expose the

horrific conditions of the facility to the world.

for over 25 years, dennis lived happily in AHRC’s

Shoreham iCf until he passed away

earlier this year.

irving was a wonderful man. He loved helping

others and learning new things. following retire-

ment from his cleaning supply business, irving

and Rose moved to florida, where they lived in

willow Bend, a vibrant retirement community.

irving quickly became popular with fellow

seniors--he helped organize the Senior Computer

Club and served as the club’s instructor.

“He never turned anyone down that asked for his

help,” said a friend.

A truly honorable member of AHRC, irving left a

large bequest to our agency upon his passing.

Irving Silverman

News from AHRC’s Foundation Office

page 19

We’re Social like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com

/AHRCSuffolk, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ahrcsuffolk and view

us on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/user/AHRCSuffolk

to receive the latest on AHRC and the developmental disabilities

community’s events, news, legislative issues, videos, and much much more!

Membership Matters!

AHRC Suffolk has enormous challenges ahead of us.We are in the midst of a difficult economic climate andare inevitably facing budget cuts that can affect the programs and services we offer.

For only $15, your membership includes:

• Involvement in legislative agendas to address the needs of people with intellectual and other disabilities and their families

• Discounts to Baskets For All Occasions. Visit www.ahrcstore.com or call 631.585.0100 ext. 535 or email at baskets@suffahrc.org

• Discounts to Flowerfield Gardens, our 2.1 acre nurseryand retail garden shop located at 1210 Portion Road,Holtsville NY. Call 631.696.5953 or email flowerfieldgardens@suffahrc.org.

• Discounts to AHRC’s Gift Shop.

• Our quarterly newsletter, The Communicator, E-News,and access to NYSARC, Inc. publications and white

papers

Together, we have strength in numbers.Become a member of AHRC and

make your voice count.

Become a member today!Contact J. Andreassi,AHRC Director of Development at631.585.0100 x597or email jandreassi@suffahrc.org.

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www.ahrcsuffolk.org

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Dates to Remember

March 3, 2012 AHRC and Autism Speaks Long Island’s Polar Bear Plunge

April 2012 Chinese Auction, AHRC, Bohemia Cafeteria

April 15, 2012 Car Show, Seiff Educare Center Parking Lot

April 18, 2012 Staff Appreciation Day

April 27, 2012 Arbor Day Ceremony, AHRC

April 2012 Ironman/Student Golf Event with Marty Lyons Foundation, Great Rock Golf

Course, Wading River

May 9, 2012 Seiff Sports Day, Southampton Youth Services, Southampton

May 2012 Invitational Golf Event

June 2012 Blood Drive, AHRC, Bohemia Cafeteria

June 7, 201221st Annual Golf Classic, Port Jefferson Country Club, Port Jefferson

June 19, 2012 Annual Membership Meeting/Fashion Show, AHRC, Bohemia

July 20, 2012 AHRC Auxiliary Cake Sale, AHRC, Bohemia

July 14, 2012 AHRC Family Fun Day & BBQ, PAL, Holtsville

July 28, 2012 AHRC Suffolk 5K Run, Southampton Village

October 23, 2012 Ironman/Woman Golf Event, Great Rock Golf

Course, Wading River

November 2, 2012 Candlelight Ball, Villa Lombardi’s, Holbrook

December 2012 Holiday Craft Fair, AHRC, Bohemia

Follow Us!

Have an event or story that you

would like to share with our AHRC

community?

How about being featured?

Call kate Mammolito at

631-585-0100 x 263 or email

kmammolito@suffahrc.org!