advocacy-and-resource-center

DDAM Spotlight: Anita

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:03:00 GMT

Blue Bloods, Lattes, and Being the “Big Sister”

To kick off Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), we’re thrilled to introduce: Anita

Voices in Action: NYS Assemblymember Michael Cashman Visits ARC

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:46:03 GMT

This week, ARC had the distinct honor of hosting New York State Assemblymember Michael Cashman for a meaningful and mission-focused visit.

The visit was centered on direct conversation and real-world impact. We were thrilled to have Board Member and President of our Self-Advocacy group, Mark Fournier, participate in the discussion. Speaking from his lived experience, Mark shared his thoughts on critical issues facing our employees: the importance of stable staffing, and the urgent need for fair, livable wages.

Mark highlighted how, for him and others who reside in our residential facilities, staff are more than just people filling schedules — they are a source of trust, safety, and quality supports for individuals receiving services. Retention happens when staff are paid wages that reflect the hard work and dedication to their positions. The more staff we retain, the people we support thrive.

Assemblymember Cashman was given a tour of our ExplorAbility program, greeted by dozens of smiling faces. He listened intently, asking thoughtful and engaging questions of our team regarding the daily realities of providing care. It’s a powerful reminder that real change can happen when policy makers step out of the Capitol and into the community to see the mission in action.

For ARC, advocacy is not a once-a-year event – it’s an ongoing commitment. Visits like this ensure our elected officials understand both the challenges we face as an employer, and the incredible dedication of our staff who show up every single day.

We are grateful to Assemblymember Cashman for taking the time to listen, learn, and witness the heart of our work.

Support the I/DD Community & Their DSPs

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:13:55 GMT

2026 - 2027 Budget Priorities

The support system the I/DD community relies on is complex and requires ongoing investment. We have made incredible progress for New Yorkers with I/DD, but the fight is ongoing. Let's continue to urge our lawmakers to invest in all New Yorkers living with I/DD and those who care for them.

Click here to let your voice be heard.

Source America

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:25:10 GMT

Steve is ready to take on the mess that winter leaves behind. In this photo, he’s holding mop heads after tackling dirty walkways tracked in from snow and salt. No matter how tough the cleanup is, Steve always approaches the job with a smile — something you can clearly see here. He takes pride in his work and puts care into keeping our spaces clean and safe for everyone. Steve has also been enjoying seeing these posts and being able to show off the great job he does, and we’re proud to give him the recognition he truly deserves.

#AbilityOne #InclusiveWorkforce #AbilityNotDisability #SourceAmerica #ARC #WinterCleanup #PrideInWork

Source America Program

Celebrating Direct Support Professionals Week: Part 2

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 01:42:29 GMT

Spotlighting Even More Incredible DSPs

1. Shania: A Nature Lover and Gardener

Shania joined ARC in November 2022 and has brought a green thumb and a love for the outdoors to our team. Here are five things to know about her:

She cares for 50 houseplants and her own garden during the summer. A greenhouse is her dream project for year-round gardening!
Her free time is spent spoiling her five cats, fish, and turtles with attention and treats.
Shania enjoys antiquing and searching thrift stores for unique finds, especially items from the Sears Merry Mushroom collection.
Hiking in the Adirondacks brings her peace and happiness, with her favorite moments spent atop the mountains.
A big fan of fall and winter, Shania looks forward to attending Plattsburgh State Cardinals hockey games with her family as a season ticket holder.

Continuing our celebration of DSP Week, we are thrilled to introduce more of the amazing individuals who dedicate their time and talent to the Advocacy and Resource Center. Their unique interests and passions add so much to our community. Let’s meet them!

2. Rebecca: A DSP Apprenticeship Graduate

Rebecca is a recent graduate of the DSP Apprenticeship Program, a two-year journey that combines on-the-job training and classwork. Here’s her experience in her own words:

“Tracking daily tasks reminded me how every moment we work is important. Tasks like keeping the house organized are actually about keeping the home safe.”
She valued speaking with other DSPs from across New York State, learning from their experiences and sharing ideas.
Rebecca says the program improved her stress management and interpersonal communication skills, both in and out of work.
She is grateful to her teachers, advisors, and HR staff for their support throughout the program.
Rebecca’s dedication ensures she continues to provide exceptional care while staying motivated and inspired.

4. Kat: A Special Olympics Coach and Family-Oriented DSP

Kat began her journey with ARC in October 2023, bringing a supportive and energetic presence to the team. Here’s what makes her special:

She is a coach for the Special Olympics, specializing in soccer and swimming.
As the eldest of five sisters, Kat takes her role as a big sister seriously.
Her favorite holiday is her birthday, January 24th, which she celebrates enthusiastically each year.
Kat’s favorite TV shows include Glee, MHA, and Ghost Whisperer.
She values her relationships with friends and family, always bringing positivity and encouragement to her role as a DSP.

5. Racheal: A Passionate Cook and World Traveler

Racheal joined ARC in February 2022, bringing energy and enthusiasm to her work. Here’s what you should know about her:

She loves to travel and has explored Puerto Rico, with dreams of visiting Hawaii in the future.
Racheal’s passion for cooking shines through in her signature dish: jollof rice with fried turkey.
Being around the ladies at Orchard Way and seeing their happiness is one of her greatest joys.
She’s full of energy both in and out of work, bringing positivity wherever she goes.
Dancing and having a good time are always at the top of her list!

We’re so proud of the dedication, creativity, and compassion that our DSPs bring to the Advocacy and Resource Center.

3. Ivy: An Outdoorsy Homebody with a Creative Spirit

Ivy has been with ARC since April 2019, and her energy and creativity shine bright. Here are five fun facts about her:

She loves the outdoors, spending time hiking, walking her dog Zelda, and enjoying the beauty of the Adirondacks.
Despite her love for nature, Ivy is also a homebody who enjoys playing video games with her husband and friends.
Arts and crafts are a passion, and she loves decorating her home with handmade creations.
Ivy’s family is her world, and she cherishes evenings playing board games after family dinners.
Music fuels her spirit, with her playlist ranging from rock and alternative to pop punk—and a secret love for pop music!

Celebrating Direct Support Professionals Week: Part 1

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 01:32:59 GMT

Spotlighting the Exceptional DSPs Who Make a Difference

1. Angela: A Grandmother and Christmas Enthusiast

Angela joined the ARC family in October 2023 and has brought warmth and joy ever since. Here are five things to know about her:

She is a proud grandmother of four: Mason, Allie, Remington, and Brandon. She cherishes the special love that comes with having grandkids.
Christmas is her favorite time of the year. Her tree is up by October 1st, and she keeps a cabinet filled with her beloved snowman figurines year-round.
Angela plays softball in a women’s fun league, where she shines as a pitcher.
After undergoing gastric bypass, she lost 175 pounds in just one year.
She is incredibly thankful for her circle of friends, her family, and her rewarding job. Angela learns something new every day and values the individuals who have changed her life.

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the heart and soul of the Advocacy and Resource Center, making a profound impact on the lives of those they support every day. In honor of DSP Week, we’re thrilled to spotlight some of the amazing individuals on our team. Let’s get to know a little more about them and the passions that drive their dedication!

2. Paytyn: A Future Nurse with a Passion for Helping Others

Since starting at ARC in July 2018, Paytyn has been an inspiring presence. Here are five things to know about her:

She loves to travel and has visited every state on the East Coast, Mexico, and Canada. Her dream destinations include Italy and Bali.
Paytyn adores her Golden Retriever, Myla, and enjoys taking her on walks around the neighborhood and nearby trails.
She is in her final year of nursing school and aspires to be a labor and delivery nurse.
She’s passionate about helping people and making a difference in their lives.

3. Melanie: A Hardworking Outdoors Lover

Melanie, who joined ARC in July 2017, is a dedicated and adventurous DSP. Here’s what you should know about her:

She has two horses, Spartan and Buddy, and has loved riding since the age of seven.
Melanie enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, camping, and swimming during her free time.
She is a mother to three children, aged 11, 8, and 6.
A true workaholic, Melanie balances two full-time jobs, including working at High Peaks Dental as a receptionist and AR representative.
She loves traveling to new places, ensuring her family takes a vacation somewhere different each year.

4. Kourtney: A Dedicated Mom and Coffee Lover

Kourtney became part of ARC in July 2023 and has quickly become an integral part of the team. Here are five fun facts about her:

She is the proud mom of a two-year-old son.
Kourtney grew up in Beekmantown and remains connected to her community.
Dunkin' Donuts coffee is a daily must for her—she can’t go a day without it!
In her downtime, she enjoys relaxing and watching Netflix.
A self-proclaimed neat freak, Kourtney takes pride in keeping things clean and organized.

6. Camille: A Runner and Rising Leader

Camille joined ARC in November 2023 and has already made a big impression. Here’s what you should know about her:

She’s training for her first marathon, aiming to complete it before the snow falls.
Camille comes from a large family of 12 siblings—she’s the sixth youngest!
She’s engaged to be married next year.
Fishing is one of her favorite pastimes, and she enjoys catching bass in Lake Champlain, Tupper Lake, and the Saranac Chain.
Within just five months of starting, Camille was promoted to Supervisor—a role she loves.

We are so grateful for the dedication, talent, and care that our DSPs bring to the Advocacy and Resource Center every day. Their hard work changes lives, and we’re honored to celebrate them during Direct Support Professionals Week!

5. Evan: A Multi-Talented Musician and DSP Veteran

Evan has been with ARC since September 2015 and is an incredible asset to the team. Here are five things you should know about him:

He has been part of the Advocacy and Resource Center for nearly nine years, spending most of his time at Turner Road.
Evan is a musician who plays guitar in a band called Lazarus Vector and owns a piercing business called PUNKture Piercing.
Inspired by his mother, who also worked in this field, Evan knew from a young age that he wanted to become a DSP.
He and his children are die-hard New York Rangers fans.
Evan has a passion for collecting horror memorabilia and movies.

Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 01:21:03 GMT

Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we will be spotlighting some of the great people we support.

Spotlighting the Amazing People We Support

This March, in honor of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we are celebrating the remarkable individuals we support by sharing their stories, interests, and dreams. Each person brings unique talents, perspectives, and joy to our community. Let’s meet some of these incredible individuals and learn what makes them shine!

1. Brenda: A Lover of Music, Animals, and Fun

Brenda lights up the room with her energy and joy for life. Here are five things to know about her:

She loves listening to music, especially upbeat tunes she can dance to. Slow or sad music makes her cry.
Bumpy trail rides make her happy. She enjoys the feeling of the wind against her face and hair and can't help but laugh when going over the bumps.
Brenda is a big fan of visiting Bankers Orchards and the petting zoo, where her favorite animals are llamas and baby goats.
She has a playful side and enjoys mischievously escaping from blankets or being repositioned, finding laughter in the small joys.
A self-proclaimed homebody, Brenda loves watching movies and giving hugs to friends and staff. Her strong hugs are her way of spreading smiles and laughter.

2. James: Aspiring Security Guard and Horror Movie Buff

James dreams big and lives with passion. Here are five things to know about him:

His goal is to work as a security guard at a hospital, as safety is very important to him.
He has a fascination with the fire department, often listening to his fire scanner at home, even if it wakes him up at night!
James cherishes the memory of riding in a District #3 fire truck during a July 4th parade, where he honked the horn and turned on the siren. He hopes to visit the fire station again and wear the gear.
He enjoys staying connected by texting, Snapchatting with his brother, and emailing friends and staff.
James loves horror movies and dressing up as different characters, with Jason Voorhees and Freddy Krueger being his favorites.

3. Heather: A Sports Enthusiast and Dog Lover

Heather’s zest for life and love of sports inspire everyone she meets. Here are five things to know about her:

NASCAR is her favorite sport, and her favorite drivers are #9 Chase Elliott and #23 Bubba Wallace.
Heather adores her two dogs, Kenneth (black) and Bear Bear (gray), who live with her at her grandmother’s house.
Bowling is a long-time passion, and she excels at it, having participated in the Special Olympics for years.
She’s a die-hard New York Yankees fan, enjoying games on TV and in person. For her birthday last year, she visited Yankee Stadium!
Fishing is one of her favorite summer activities, as she loves spending time outdoors and soaking up the sun.

4. Bobby: A Musician and Team Player

Bobby brings joy to others through his music and his dedication to helping out. Here are five things to know about him:

Bobby works hard and takes pride in earning his own money, holding jobs at Wilson’s Appliance and West Side Ballroom.
A talented guitarist, he enjoys playing at home and performing concerts for others, often with his brother Wayne and friends.
He dreams of visiting Nashville, Tennessee, to play music and meet his favorite country artists, Alan Jackson and Vince Gill.
Bobby loves watching Hallmark movies, with Christmas films being his absolute favorite.
Kindness and respect are essential to him, and he enjoys helping out at home to make life easier for everyone.

We are so proud to share the unique stories and aspirations of the individuals we support. Their positivity, resilience, and determination inspire us all.