Westchester Arc’s 57th annual meeting, held on June 13 at the Crowne Plaza, White Plains, focused on a “Lifetime of Inclusion,” with workshops on educational, residential and transition planning. Members elected new officers and board members, and self-advocates voted for the first time for representation on their own Customer Service Council. The event also featured an art show, auction and musical performances.
Ronald C. shows off his painting during the 10th annual art show. Fifty individuals with developmental disabilities displayed their work.
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Artist Donna G. claimed first prize in Westchester Arc’s annual
art show. |
Sashikant B. was one of 10 artists to receive an honorable mention. |
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Program Director Bill Porcaro fired up the audience for a friendly bidding war during the art auction. Nearly $1,000 was raised to support Westchester Arc's art program.
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“To Include or Not?” featured a panel discussion on the most effective approaches to educating children with developmental disabilities.
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Dr. Ted Roth, psychologist, addressed parents’ concerns on transitioning their children into the adult world during “Is It Time to Let Go?”
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Emily Perl Kingsley, parent, and Larry Rufo, IRA services director, offered advice on dealing with the emotional issues that can result when offspring wish to live independently.
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Self-advocates elected officers to their customer service council.
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Will H., Chinika T, and Lois G. ran for president.
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Vance J. charms the crowd while outlining his qualifications for vice president.
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New President Chinika T. delivers her acceptance speech. “My priorities as president will be helping others learn to read and get jobs in the community,” she said.
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Carolyn H. was elected secretary.
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New board member Rosa Rodriguez spoke about the benefits of PACDS (Parents Assistance Committee On Down Syndrome). “I’m very grateful to be a part of a group that helps parents communicate with, and understand, their children.” |
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Outgoing president, Mohan Mehra, received the Katzenberg Award for his longtime service to individuals with developmental disabilities. The agency also presented him with a scrapbook detailing his accomplishments as president. |
“Everyday Hero” Mavis Dehaney spoke about enriching the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities through person-centered planning. |
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Rohan Robinson performed an original reggae song based on his experiences as an “Everyday Hero.” The composition has become a theme song for many individuals with developmental disabilities. |
The Yonkers League, led by President Lucy Egan, raised over $11,000 for Westchester Arc. |
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Northern Westchester League President Rita Ross reported on the various contributions made by the volunteer group.
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Westchester Arc Executive Director Ric Swierat presented Justin Israel, former president and longtime agency friend, with the Family Partnership Award. |
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Newly elected president, Anne M. Majsak, concludes the annual meeting. |
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Información
en Español
Arthur, Arthur! Arthur S. proudly displays his photograph on the cover of Westchester Arc’s annual report.