Paying it Forward ~ Making a Difference Rotary Gift

A Publication of Genesee County Chapter NYSARC, Inc.
Spring 2015
Paying it Forward ~ Making a Difference
Combine artistic talent, enthusiastic individuals and the desire to help
others and the results can be amazing. Genesee ARC’s Friends for the Future
self-advocacy group took the lead in a “Pay it Forward” quilt project. The
concept of pay it forward, is when someone does a good deed, instead of paying
it back, the recipient “pays it forward” by doing a good deed for someone else.
Genesee ARC Intake/QI Specialist Kim Owens came up with the idea of
making quilts for those in need. When she presented it to Friends for the Future,
they loved it! Kim’s mother Mabel Buchina of Yorkshire agreed it was a
phenomenal project and offered to help by donating quilt squares and sewing
the finished pieces together.
The quilt squares were used as part of a presentation at the Finger Lakes
Collaborative Self-Advocacy Conference this past fall in Geneva, Kim explained.
“The advocates’ presented on what “Pay it Forward” means and enlisted the
help of conference attendees to design the quilt squares with meaningful and
Colleen, Nicole, Angie, Julius and Josh helped with the Genesee inspirational messages or images,” she added.
ARC Friends for the Future Pay It Forward Quilt Project.
One-of-a-kind creations include rainbows and flowers and words of
comfort like “You are Loved,” and “Stay Strong.” A shining sun, footballs and the Buffalo Bills logo also adorn the squares.
The six finished quilts will be donated to local organizations helping people who are struggling with illnesses such as
cancer. The quilts were on display during the 5th Annual Developmental Disabilities Art Show and Sprout Film Festival
March 8 at the Genesee Community College Best Center.
Rotary Gift Benefits Children
A gift from the Rotary Club of Batavia will benefit the Genesee ARC
children’s program called the “Knowing Nook.” Housed in the resource library at
the Genesee ARC Community Center, the Knowing Nook is an inclusive learning
area for children and teens with intellectual and developmental disabilities,
providing adaptive technology and equipment including a lending library.
The $2,500 Rotary Club grant will support the purchase of technology
and equipment needs. “With the help of the Rotary Club, we will expand on
devices and software for the children to use,” Director of Development Shelley
Falitico said. “We are so appreciative of Rotary President Dan Fischer and Club
Members supporting this initiative,” she added. The Knowing Nook offers iPads
with child-friendly apps, computer station, a smart TV with a Wii gaming system
and children’s books.
Genesee ARC serves approximately 125 children with
intellectual and developmental disabilities through our Family
Support and Service Coordination programs. Services are in high
demand and Genesee ARC is experiencing a dramatic increase in
requests from families asking for support. (Photos: Joel, Emmaly and Xania
using iPads in the Knowing Nook in the Genesee ARC Resource Library.)
Executive Director’s Report
by
Donna Saskowski
“We seem to be digging out of a long, severe winter,
with some help from higher temperatures. While many of us
stayed inside safe and warm over the last four months, many
things were still occurring throughout our agency.
In
addition, initiatives throughout the state have continued.
We have received messages from our State Office
(NYSARC) and OPWDD that changes are occurring
throughout our field. This is not new; this time of transition
started 2-3 years ago and will continue for at least the next 35 years.
The message that managed care will be the new
methodology for payment is still present.
While the state is delaying
implementation of Managed Care, it is by no means, a thing of the past. The
Commissioner of OPWDD has assembled a Task Force to identify what specific
steps are needed to insure a smooth transition to managed care funding. These
groups’ recommendations are due to be released in late 2015. During the
ensuing time our chapter is taking on several initiatives to help insure we are
prepared for the transition.
It is a very exciting time but also one that requires focus and hard work.
We have created work teams within the agency to address critical areas such as
achieving accreditation from the Council on Quality and Leadership;
implementing the NYS Core Competencies; and achieving full implementation of
our electronic health record, Therap. In addition we maintain a focus on safety
and training for all staff.
New York State has been strategically absent in the area of OPWDD
development. While we did receive a 2% increase for direct support wages as of
January 01, 2015 it was not sufficient to overcome three years without rate
increases. We are advocating now for further recognition of rate inequities
especially in light of the Governor’s $10.50 minimum wage initiative. We fully
support a $10.50 minimum wage for our essential direct support staff but this
must be paired with rate increases that will help us meet the requirement.
Other areas that are generating much discussion are the lack of sufficient
housing development of residential services. With minimal development in the
last several years there are not enough resources to meet the needs of aging
caregivers. The link for the “Families Cannot Be Caregivers Forever” is on our
website. Please look at the information and contact your representatives with
questions or to support this important initiative. Families who have taken on
lifelong, full responsibility for their loved one with a disability often are left with
few options in their later years when they may no longer be capable of caring for
their family member due to their own disabling conditions.
We are also continuing to voice our concern about the closure of all work
centers in New York State. We are advocates for individuals to choose where
they want to work and live, this initiative ultimately eliminates a choice that has
been viable for some people we support. At this time OPWDD has set a timeline
for closure of 2018. We have been active with other chapters to revise this
timeline and insure that “choice” by persons served are part of the broader
discussion. Very often a person with a disability who has worked for many years
in a sheltered work environment does not wish to seek employment outside of
that environment. They have developed lifelong friendships and a sense of
security at their present job. It is incumbent upon us to explore every possible
community opportunity for community based employment, but it also important
that we insure choice for the people we support in all of our vocational service
areas.
(Continued on page 4)
2
Genesee ARC
Board of Directors
President
Candie Pocock
Vice President
Debrah Fischer
Treasurer
Jane Scott
Secretary
Deborah Riggi
Ronald Cummings
Mark Daube
Kevin Fisher
Susan Maha
Jane Meier
Thelma C. Montreal
Henry Valerych
Executive Director
Donna Saskowski
LMSW
Senior Management
Associate Executive Director/
Director of Quality Assurance
Beth Hopkins, BSW, M.S.Ed.
Director of Administrative Services
Carolyn Dawson, SPHR
Director of Development
Shelley Falitico
Chief Financial Officer
Kevin Graham, CPA
Director of Vocational Services
Scott Jones
Director of Residential Services
Debra LaDue, COTA, BA
Director of Day Habilitation Services
Anthony Lewandowski, B.A., M.S.Ed.
Director of Operations
Paul Saskowski
Director of Community Services
Kim Stisser, LMSW
Newsletter Editor
Sandy Konfederath
skonfederath@geneseearc.org
ARC Horizons is Genesee ARC’s Membership
newsletter. It is designed to educate and inform
our Membership, families and the community on
issues pertaining to disabilities and events at
Genesee ARC.
Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
The spotlight was shining on Joe Gear, David Miner and Hank Stratton at the 5th Annual
Art Show and Sprout Film Festival, March 8 at the Genesee Community College Best Center.
The artists are pictured above (from left to right): Joe and his mother Ruth Gear; David and his
sister Jan Miner and Hank with his mother Loretta Stratton and friend Brittany. The talented trio
had an opportunity to showcase their work in a “Meet the Artists” segment prior to the Film
Festival. While Joe and Hank experiment with a variety of mediums in creating their artwork,
David’s specialty is photography.
The event was held in conjunction with the March observance of Developmental
Disabilities Awareness Month. It marks the fifth year in a row that Genesee ARC has brought a
Sprout touring film festival to town and the first time the Genesee chapter partnered with sister
chapter, The Arc of Orleans County. “This is about raising awareness of people with disabilities,”
said Genesee ARC Executive Director, Donna Saskowski. “Partnering with The Arc of Orleans
County is a terrific way to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” she added.
Sprout is a nonprofit that holds a yearly festival in New York City and opens its library of
films from around the world so touring festivals can travel all over the country. By presenting films
of artistry and intellect, the festival helps reinforce accurate portrayals of people with intellectual or
other developmental disabilities, promoting a greater acceptance of differences and awareness of
similarities.
The Sprout Film Festival
& Art show was presented by Genesee ARC and
The Arc of Orleans
County and was made
possible with funds from
the Decentralization
Program, a regrant
program of the New
York State Council on
the Arts, administered by
the Genesee-Orleans
Regional Arts Council.
Special thanks to our
Art Show & Film Festival
media sponsor
WBTA AM 1490/
FM 100.1!
3
Sprout Volunteers from Genesee ARC and The Arc of Orleans included:
Jonathan Doherty, Shelley Falitico, Darlene Golson and Donna Saskowski.
What’s Cookin’ with Genesee ARC Culinary Arts
Meet the Genesee ARC Culinary Arts Team. Each week Becky
Gugel, Hanna Neumann along with Jacob, Erik, Carl and Roxie produce 670 meals for the Genesee County Meals on Wheels program.
Multiply that by 52 weeks for an impressive 34,840 meals each year!
Add to the mix, the weekly Kiwanis meeting, monthly interagency council and other on-site events, and there’s always something
cookin’ at the Genesee ARC Community Center.
“We recently served an OPWDD luncheon for 100 people in
the Forum, while meals for the Meals on Wheels program were being
prepped, cooked and packed,” said Culinary Arts Manager Becky
Gugel. “It was a crazy day,” she added.
The team also began delivering Meals on Wheels the fourth
Friday of the month to seniors on one delivery route in the City.
The newest member of the crew is Culinary Arts Specialist
Hanna Neumann. “She is a great addition to the team!” Becky said.
“Everyone is really working together to get the job done.” According to
Becky, each of the individuals she works with has developed wonderful cooking skills that will serve them well when looking for a job in the community.
In the new year the team hopes to expand some of the menu options, and provide training in fine-dining setups
and enhanced customer service. When asked the most popular meal among seniors receiving Meals on Wheels, the hands
down winner is pulled pork! (Pictured from left to right: Jacob, Erik, Hanna, Carl, Becky and Roxie)
Executive Director’s Report
Top Priority: SAFETY
(continued from page 2)
Another important initiative is our work with our
sister chapter, The Arc of Orleans. We have been meeting
for more than a year to review ideas for collaboration. It
is our strong sense that working together in some vital
areas will provide distinct advantages to both chapters as
we move forward in this changing environment.
Our focus will continue to be providing services
that are satisfying to those we support and help them live
the lives they choose. All members of our agency are very
dedicated to insuring that this goal is achieved. Our
Board and staff are seeking continuous improvement and
education in all aspects of service to meet the upcoming
momentous changes.
We are looking forward to our spring and summer
activities. Our Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet is
May 15th and a great way to show your support for the
people we serve and our hard working staff. We also will
be holding our Annual Tournament July 13, 2015. Please
visit our website for more information on these events and
more.
Please consider membership in our organization as
a show of support for the people we support on a daily
basis and as an expression of support to our elected
representatives in Albany and Washington. This year the
Goal for our local chapter is 1000 members. For more
information about our “1000 Strong” please visit our
website. We look forward to seeing many of you at our
events! Have a safe and happy summer!”
Certified safety expert
Steve Fess discusses hazard
assessment during a training
with ARC’s William Sofia,
Scott Neumann, Paul
Saskowski and Scott Jones at
Genesee ARC’s West Main
Campus.
Several Genesee ARC Work Center and Trash &
Recycling Staff participated in a series of specialized safety
training courses through the Occupational Safety and Health
Training and Education Program. Over four weeks, certified
safety experts held training sessions at Genesee ARC’s West
Main Campus covering emergency evacuation, hazard
assessment and communication, electric safety, machine
guarding and spill awareness.
Funding for the training was through the New York
State Department of Labor and administered through
Genesee Community College’s Best Center. The grants
promote healthy and safe workplaces through training,
education and other methods that: Identify, evaluate, and
control safety and health hazards; Assure compliance with
occupational safety and health regulations and help
businesses and workers to prevent accidents, injuries and
illnesses.
4
Mother Advocates for Expanded Services
Althea Penepent often wonders (and worries) what will become of her
daughter Valerie after she’s gone. So, Althea has joined a growing number of
families across New York State advocating for expanded services for people
with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. The “Families Cannot
Be Caregivers Forever Campaign” is aimed at increasing funding to adequately
meet the needs of these New Yorkers, many living at home with aging parents.
Valerie is the seventh and youngest child of Althea and Richard
Penepent, born February 2, 1977. Althea shares that her pregnancy and
delivery with Valerie were the same as her first six children. She was
blindsided when her doctor came into her hospital room after Valerie was
born and coldly stated, “Women over 40 shouldn’t have a child because she’s
mongoloid,” then turned on his heel and left. A nurses’ aide called Richard
Penepent, plowing snow in the aftermath of the Blizzard of ’77, to come talk
to his wife.
When Althea told Richard their baby girl had Down syndrome, he
Althea Penepent (right) with her daughter-in-law Jeanne
calmly and confidently said, “Althea, we’ll handle it.” Those words from her
and daughter Valerie. Mrs. Penepent is speaking out on
the need for expanded services for people with disabilities husband were all Althea needed to hear to reassure her that her new baby
in New York State for her daughter and thousands of others would have every opportunity to thrive and learn in a home filled with love.
on a waiting list for residential services.
Today, Richard Penepent, 88, has dementia and has been in the LeRoy Village
Green Nursing Home for 14 months. In looking back on this last year, Althea reflects, “He doesn’t recognize very many
people any more – but he always knows Valerie, no matter what, and calls her by name.”
Genesee ARC Medicaid Service Coordinator Roxanne Monteleone has worked with the Penepent family for the
last ten years. “Valerie’s future weighs heavily on Althea. Valerie is on a waiting list for residential placement,” she said.
“It’s a very real concern for many families we serve,” Monteleone added.
Valerie has had an amazing 38 years, and she will proudly share her many accomplishments. “I graduated from
Batavia High School in 1998 and then began working at the workshop (ARC Sheltered Work Center). I like to cook, dance,
do laundry, crafts, go shopping and do jigsaw puzzles.” According to her sister-in-law Jeanne Penepent, “Valerie loves to
gives birthday cards and is always sharing little gifts for special occasions.”
The recent death of Althea’s sister and sister-in-law combined with her husband’s health and her own glaucoma
has Althea even more concerned for Valerie’s future.
“She has come a long way,” Althea said. Besides regular and special education schooling, the family paid for
private math and reading classes for Valerie for twenty years in a program that originally began at the Rochester Institute of
Technology. Valerie has been attending the Genesee ARC Sheltered Work Center day program since she turned 21. She
has learned a lot of new skills and tackles every job with great pride.
“What concerns me is where she will live, who will care for her after I’m gone,” Althea said, “Valerie is a blessing,
but my other children have families and concerns of their own. I feel a residential placement is the best for Valerie’s
future.” According to the most recent data provided by Genesee ARC’s state association, NYSARC, Inc., 12,000 people in
New York are on a waiting list for residential options, while 4,000 people are in critical need.
The last time there was any major residential development in New York State was in 1998 with the announcement
of the NYS CARES (New York State Creating Alternatives in Residential Environments and Services) program by then
Governor George Pataki. NYS CARES was pegged as a five-year plan to virtually eliminate the waiting list for out-of-home
residential services for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
“While NYS CARES resulted in meeting the needs of thousands of New Yorkers, at the time, development has been
at a standstill for years,” Genesee ARC Executive Director Donna Saskowski said. “New York needs to step up and provide
the necessary funding, to help the thousands more families like the Penepents,” she added. While facing so many life
changes, Althea Penepent wondered aloud how different life might be if Governor Cuomo was in her shoes. “If he had a
handicapped child, maybe then he would understand,” the
mother said. “Valerie votes --- people with disabilities have
rights, too,” she added. NYSARC statistics estimate nearly
200,000 people with developmental disabilities in New York
State live with family caregivers; more than 50,000 live with
family caregivers over 60 years of age.
”Who will care for Valerie
after I’m gone?”
5
Holiday Wishes Granted
Thanks to two Rochester area donors, twenty children
with disabilities served by Genesee ARC recently received
new bicycles! The Park Avenue Bicycle Shop made the
delivery to Genesee ARC’s Community Relations office in
mid-December giving staff just enough time to match bikes
to recipients and deliver them in time for Christmas.
The generous donors, Howard and Michael Ouriel are
the brothers behind the donation and said, “We just wanted
to do something for the kids.”
ARC’s Director of Development Shelley Falitico, who
helped deliver some of the bicycles, said all of the families are
appreciative of the Ouriels’ generosity. “We are so honored
that Howard and Michael thought of Genesee ARC for this
special holiday act of kindness.”
The Ouriel brothers’ support of Genesee ARC is
unique in that they reside outside of Genesee County and do
not have a family member served by the local non-profit
organization. “That’s what makes this so extraordinary,” Ms.
Falitico said. “It’s a story we are so happy to share.”
(Photos - Eric is one of twenty children who received a new bicycle! Also pictured are
Park Avenue Bike Shop Owner, Andy August and Inventory Manager Alex Oliveri.)
Genesee Sno-Packers
Host Winter Fun Day!
United Way Funding to Benefit
Family Reimbursement Program
A Building Blocks for
Change grant from the United
Way of Genesee County will
expand Genesee ARC’s ability to
serve those in need through its
Family Reimbursement Program. The United Way Board
approved $15,000 in each of the next two years to support
the program that provides financial support to families for
goods and services specific to a person’s disability that are
not otherwise covered by any other funding source.
Beth Hopkins, Genesee ARC Associate Executive
Director, oversees the Family Reimbursement Program.
“Many families who have a loved one with a developmental
disability living at home have special expenses that the
typical family does not have,” she said.
Common requests include emergency clothing,
financial assistance for respite, specialized therapeutic
programs, medical equipment not covered by insurance
plans, transportation and travel costs for medical
appointments and household items for health and safety
needs.
According to Hopkins, since Genesee ARC’s Family
Reimbursement Program began, requests have always
exceeded the amount of funding available. “United Way’s
support is going to provide much needed resources and help
ease financial burden for so many families that we serve,”
she said. Genesee ARC also receives funds from the United
Way through the donor designation option offered each fall
during their annual campaign.
The Genesee Sno-Packers Snowmobile Club hosted
a Winter Fun Day in February for children and adults with
disabilities in our community. This year there was snow
and PLENTY of it, with near perfect conditions at the SnoPackers’ home base on South Main Street Road in
Oakfield.
Club Members gave snowmobile and ATV rides to
eager riders - and for some it was a first time experience!
Later, participants were treated to lunch and warmed up
with hot chocolate.
Winter Fun Day is a Y Challenger Sports event.
Challenger is a program of the YMCA offering sports and
outdoor activities for children with disabilities.
(Photo - Jacob Hummer gives a thumbs up; by Mark Gutman, The Daily News)
6
Membership ABSOLUTELY Matters!
Henry Valerych has committed nearly 50 years of his life to
Genesee ARC as a parent, advocate, volunteer and fund raiser. Perhaps
his biggest passion is the role he plays as Chairman of Genesee ARC’s
Annual Membership Drive.
“It’s the backbone of our organization,” Mr. Valerych said matter
-of-factly. “Without Membership we have no organization,” he added,
explaining, “so much of what we do at the local level determines the
support we get from the state and federal governments.”
Mr. Valerych and his wife Ann recall the early days, attending
parent group meetings for families of children with developmental
disabilities. The Valerych’s have three children, two with disabilities
served by the Chapter. While it is easy to understand the significance
of Membership to our family, he said, “It’s difficult to understand why
more families choose to disregard the annual membership mailing we
send each year.” We absolutely need more parents and families to step
up and be counted as supporters,” the Chairman reflected. When
asked how Membership has made a difference, he replied, “The fruits
of our labor can be seen in the Work Center, Day Habilitation Center,
Community Center and our homes in the community, but we need
Henry and Ann Valerych
more people to become involved.”
The 2015-2016 Membership Drive is underway with the goal of 1,000 members this year. “Our theme is Help
us be 1,000 – STRONG!” Mr. Valerych said. Renewing current members is important – reaching out for new Members
is absolutely vital to the future of services for people with disabilities in our community.
Members must be at least 18 years of age. Annual
participation is open to: people we serve or have served
About Henry Valerych
in the past, family members/legal guardians of individuals
served, staff members of Genesee ARC, others who live or  Henry and his wife Ann were instrumental in Genesee ARC
becoming a chapter of NYSARC, Inc. on May 1, 1966.
work in Genesee County and are interested in the welfare
of people with disabilities served by Genesee ARC.
 As a founder and Board Member, Henry has held every position
and served on nearly every ARC Committee during his tenure.
Besides having a positive impact on the quality
 The Valerych’s were the first couple named “Geneseeans of the
of life for people with intellectual or other developmental
Year” by the Chamber of Commerce.
disabilities and their families, there are numerous other
benefits of signing on as a Member: volunteer opportunities,  Henry is a two-time recipient of the ARC Volunteer of the Year
Award and has been presented Lifetime Membership for his
networking, support and the opportunity to become
contributions to Genesee ARC.
involved with other families and professionals in the field.
 In addition to chairing the Membership Drive, Henry also chairs
Perhaps the most important aspect of Membership
the Genesee ARC Bowl-A-Thon and ARC Tournament raffle.
is that it gives Genesee ARC, NYSARC, Inc. and The Arc
 Received the WNY DD Day Family/Caregiver/Advocate Award
(our state and national organizations), the voice needed to
in 2002.
influence decisions made by legislators and policymakers,
allowing us to effectively advocate on behalf of the children  Joined the US Navy at age 17 during the closing months of
WWII and served aboard the USS Mosopelea ATF 158 which
and adults we support. “I can’t stress it enough - Members
was commissioned on his 18th birthday.
provide clout! A large membership means that a louder
 Retired Master Sergeant of the U.S. Army and retired from
and stronger voice is heard by state legislators and national
Graham Manufacturing.
policy makers,” Mr. Valerych proclaimed.
 Past Member of the NYSARC Board of Governors.
The Membership rate is $5.00 per person with a
 Life Member of the Batavia VFW Post 1602 and Knights of
discounted rate of $1.00 for individuals served. “It’s a small
Columbus Council #325.
price to pay to make a big impact,” the chairman
 Member of Graham Retirees.
concluded.
 Longtime member and usher at the former St. Anthony's
Church and current member of St. Joseph's Church.
(Editor’s note: If you have misplaced your 2015 Membership
mailing, please use the form on page 11 of this newsletter.)
7
In the National Spotlight
Batavia Downs and Genesee ARC were
featured in the January 2015 edition of Hoof
Beats, “the” national harness horse racing
magazine. ARC Director of Development,
Artwork by Hank
Shelley Falitico, wrote and submitted the story
following Genesee ARC’s Night at the Races held November 5
at Batavia Downs. To read the article, visit geneseearc.org and
click on News Headlines.
Special thanks to Genesee ARC Night at the Races
sponsors and donors: Down Syndrome Parent Support Group,
Tompkins Insurance Agencies, Goodwin Farm, Crickler
Vending Company, Inc., Tioga Downs, Vernon Downs,
Genesee Valley Farm, Great Lakes Plastic Co Inc., Western
New York Harness Horsemen's Association, Castilone Chrysler
Dodge Jeep, Paul & Donna Saskowski, Purple Haze Stables
LLC, Max Pies Furniture, Jeffrey Gural, Dr. Joan Ayers Genesee Valley Equine Clinic, Howard and Michael Ouriel,
Joyce's Racing Silks New York Sires Stakes and Richard Siebert.
(Hoof Beats Winner’s Circle photo by Paul White, Batavia, NY)
Chili & Chowder Fest
Thank you Mancuso Bowling Center, Rose Garden
Lanes, LeRoy American Legion Lanes and Scopano’s
Paradise Lanes for supporting the 40th Annual ARC
Bowl-A-Thon to benefit people with disabilities.
Theme Basket Raffle
We Salute Our 2014 Top Fund Raisers!
Genesee ARC’s 4th Annual Chili & Chowder Fest/
Basket Raffle was a record-setter in terms of attendance
and funds raised to benefit agency programs and services.
Over 150 baskets were featured in the November 15
event at ARC’s Community Center on Woodrow Road,
Batavia. The planning committee wishes to thank
volunteers, staff, families, community members and
businesses for their donations and participation making
the day a wonderful success.
Along with several varieties of chili and chowder,
chicken noodle soup was added to the 2014 event.
A spectacular bake sale was also featured with everything
from scones to fudge and brownies to marshmallows.
For a second year in a row, ticket-only sales were
featured the day before the raffle. Dozens of community
members took advantage of the opportunity to be among
the first to take a chance on the wide variety of donated
baskets.
Jerry Menzie Jr.
Ashley McCormack
Rose Garden Lanes
Mancuso Bowling Center
BERGEN
BATAVIA
$1,091.51
$500.00
Benjamin Sputore
Mancuso Bowling Center
BATAVIA
$100.00
Terrence Asbrand
American Legion Lanes
LEROY
Nate Goras
Mancuso Bowling Center
BATAVIA
$425.00
Ryan Wolcott
Scopano’s Paradise Lanes
OAKFIELD
$277.80
$100.00
Brad Pedro
Scopano’s Paradise Lanes
OAKFIELD
$205.00
In addition to the top fund raisers at each site pictured above, we are
pleased to recognize all of the Junior League, Community,
Genesee ARC and YMCA Challenger Bowlers that raised $100.00 or
more in donations:
Shelbi Stefaniak, Jacob Hummer, Averey Ridder, Jordan Sloat, Hank
Stratton, Josh Betters, Tyler Klein, Hudson Klein, Carissa Howard,
Jillian Menzie, Julia Menzie, Alex Matthews,
Joan Pietrzykowski, Corinne Phelps, Sara Dieck, Robin Baltz,
Tim Quinn, Josh Tiede and Colleen Fisher
*Genesee ARC and YMCA Challenger
Bowlers bowled free of charge at
Mancuso Bowling Center.
Thank you very much!
8
Memorials & Donations
Genesee ARC accepts memorials and donations which may be used for a particular purpose or at the Agency’s
discretion. All memorials are acknowledged both to the family and the donor. Checks should be made payable to Genesee ARC. Listed below are memorials and donations from October 2014 through March 2015.
In Memory of Doug Martin Jr.
In Memory of Bruce Stisser
Charles Graney
James & Mary Murphy
Nicholas & Barbara Kabala
Pavilion Town Board
In Memory of Joseph Mergler
Dave & Sheila Royal Nixon
Joan Hudson
Wish List
Can you help?
Genesee ARC program areas are
always in need of donations and replacement equipment. Take a look at our wish
list and maybe you can help.
EQUIPMENT
In Memory of Bruce Lawson
In Memory of Louis Giampola
Paul & Donna Saskowski
 Overhead Lift System
 New Hoyer lift(s)
 AED Defibrillator
Mike & Suellen Graney
In Memory of Harold Seymour
 Smart TV - New Request
 Projector - New Request
In Memory of Mary Szymanski
Maureen Reynolds-Davis
LaBella Associates, D.P.C.
The Szymanski Family
Amanda Brown & Geoffrey Wormley
Jane Ferrando
Rose Jacques
In Memory of Liana Harding
Jackie & Randy Harding
Edward & Joyce Mingle
Joseph & Deborah Falcone
Paul & Donna Saskowski
In Memory of Kathleen Montreal
Glenn George
Paul & Donna Saskowski
Dan & Deb Fischer
Helen Grapka
Carl & Candie Pocock
Tom & Pat Glair
Carl & Patricia Gardner
In Memory of Oleta Feltes
Paul & Colleen Bogart
In Memory of Dorothy Moynihan
Richard & Jane Driscoll
Donald Tiede
Paul & Donna Saskowski
In Memory of Frank DiPiazza
Tom & Lynn Houseknecht
Jeanne Ferrando
In Memory of Loretta Glazier
Marian Partridge
Richard & Joyce Glazier
Robert & Linda Shepard
Donn & Von Branton - Branton Farms
Cooperative Extension of Yates County
Edward & Grace Leanen
Darin & Jodi Glazier & Family
Lewis & Helen Partridge
Norman & Laurie Itjen
Jerry & Donna Taft
In Memory of Shirley Radley
Esther Thom
Larry & Martha Stokoe
Thomas & Sandra Madejski
Stafford Exempt Firemen Assoc.
Norma Bruscani
Richard & Elaine Walker
Debbie Kingsbury & Pamela Ellis
Gordon & Delores Seward
 Umbrellas that attach to a wheelchair
PROGRAM
 Fabric clothing protectors
 Folding or rocking chairs
 Pots, pans and griddle for cooking class
 Food processors
Small, portable, battery-operated if possible
 Digital camera for Photo Club
 Wii system and games
If you would rather make a gift to
support the purchase of a particular item,
please contact Shelley Falitico, Director of
Development at (585) 343-4203 or
sfalitico@geneseearc.org.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Save the Dates
May 15, 2015
Annual Meeting &
Awards Ceremony
July 13, 2015
Golf, Tennis &
Bocce Tournament
Gifts & Donations
The Kiwanis Club of Batavia
Mike Merritt
Howard & Michael Ouriel
Randy and Jackie Harding
Pat Robusto
Gladys & Frederick Dunham
Beverly Shear
Donald & Lydia Zinni
Jerome Pawlak
Franklin Battaglia
Earl & Ruth Geer
Diana Martino
Ruth McCracken
Peter & Mary Marullo
Patty Pacino
Gui’s ACE Hardware
Romella Hart-O’Keefe
First Congregational Church
Ronald & Wanda Gilbert
C.H. Wright Distributing Corp.
Michael Sheedy
Rotary Club of Batavia
Univera/Excellus Health
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September 26, 2015
Friends & Family 5K
Mary Anne Graney Memorial
November 21, 2015
Chili & Chowder Fest
Theme Basket Raffle
You Can Help!
For information call Community
Relations at 585-343-4203
NYSARC
Inc.
established 1949
Giving And Getting
NYSARC’s Charitable Gift Annuity program gives you the satisfaction of giving to those who are developmentally disabled,
awards you an income for life, and helps our chapters raise money. It’s the simplest, most versatile planned giving
arrangement! The gift that you make may be as small as $10,000. Your income, or annuity payment, is backed by the
general assets of NYSARC, Inc. Here are some recent rates for a Charitable Gift Annuity (these are re-calculated by the
American Council on gift Annuities on an annual basis) for one person:
Age
70
Annual Percentage Paid to Donor 5.8%
75
80
85
6.5%
7.5%
8.4%
The Benefits





Allows you to make a gift to Genesee ARC without sacrificing the income from your assets;
Receive a substantial income tax deduction at the time your gift is made;
Save capital gains tax and gain estate-tax savings;
Supplements retirement income and possibly preserves Social Security benefits;
May allow you to provide income to others, such as your loved one with disabilities.
The Payments
NYSARC offers immediate gift annuities and deferred gift annuities. The NYSARC Charitable Gift Annuity program is
regulated by the New York State Insurance Department and the annuity payment is determined by using rates calculated
by the American Council on Gift Annuities. To determine your payments, call NYSARC at (518) 439-8311 or e-mail
info@nysarc.org. All information is confidential. The annuity is structured so that under a normal life expectancy, half the
initial gift goes to NYSARC and its chapter – 90 percent to the local chapter and the rest to NYSARC's Guardianship
Services.
How a Charitable Gift Annuity (or Deferred Gift Annuity) Works
With the irrevocable transfer of cash or stock* to a charitable gift annuity (CGA), you create a lifelong income for yourself,
and a remainder gift to NYSARC and your local chapter. Your annual income is calculated according to your age.**
Deferred Charitable Gift Annuity
This plan gives a younger donor a higher rate of return when the donor wait to receive payment (defers the annuity) for a
number of years. Based on rates established in 2012, here is a snapshot of what the return would be if the annuity is
created in 2012:
Age at Time of Gift
50
55
55
Deferred to Age
65
65
70
Annual Percentage Paid to Donor
9.5% 5.3% 9.5%
*Appreciated stock is easily transferred to a Charitable Gift Annuity.
**The minimum irrevocable contribution is $10,000 in cash or marketable securities. Income beneficiaries must be at least 65 years old when income
payments begin.
Source: Banner photo and Charitable Gift annuity information, courtesy of NYSARC, Inc.; nysarc.org.
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Genesee ARC 2015-16 Membership Drive
Help us be 1,000 STRONG!
The individuals we serve each have a story. They are budding
artists, community volunteers, athletes, self-advocates, employees,
siblings, friends, children, young adults and seniors! They are just like
me and you, and when you participate in our 2015 Membership Drive
you will show your pledge of support to each and every individual
served by Genesee ARC.
This year, Genesee ARC is kicking off its annual membership drive with
the goal of recruiting 1,000 members! Help us be 1,000 STRONG and make
history! Since 1966, through the support of our members, families and the
hard work of our committed staff, Genesee ARC has provided care, advocacy
and specialized programs, services and supports to hundreds of people with
developmental disabilities and their families in Genesee County through:
Employment, Family Support, Transportation and Residential Services,
Recreation, Family Care and Medicaid Service Coordination. When you join
Genesee ARC at any level, you help us make a positive impact on the lives of
our friends, neighbors and family members with developmental disabilities.
Your Genesee ARC Membership contributes to our success in three important ways:
1.) You are added to our list of members increasing our advocacy at the state and national levels, giving Genesee ARC
and the families and individuals we serve a more influential voice in legislative matters. This has a direct impact on our
federal and state funding.
2.) Your membership contributions help fund items that government funding does not provide.
3.) Most important, your membership is a statement that you believe in the importance of Genesee ARC and support
our mission.
Please show your support today by filling out one of the attached membership forms
and joining our organization. Individual dues are $5.00 per person and if you would like,
you may donate an extra $1.00 to support the membership of an individual we serve.
Although membership in a local NYSARC, Inc. Chapter may only cost a few dollars, it plays
an important role in the Organization’s effort to advocate for and support tens of thousands
of children and adults who have intellectual and other developmental disabilities in New
York State.
Sincerely,
P.S. We need you! Help us be 1,000 STRONG!
Hank Valerych, Chair, Membership Committee
Yes! I want to support the 2015-2016 Genesee ARC Membership Drive
Name _______________________________________________________________________________
Address______________________________________________________________________________
City _______________________ State _______________ Zip _________________________________
Phone ______________________ E-mail: _________________________________________________
TO RECEIVE AGENCY NEWS AND INFORMATION
Please check all that apply:
 INDIVIDUAL $5.00 (MINIMUM)
 SUPPORTING $15.00
 BENEFACTOR $25.00
 PATRON $50.00
 For an additional $1.00, I would like to sponsor an
individual served for the 2015-2016 Membership Drive.
Signature of Member(s) included on this application:________________________________________________________
Complete and send payment to: Genesee ARC Main Office, 64 Walnut Street, Batavia NY 14020
For questions please call the Genesee ARC Community Relations office at: (585)343-4203
skonfederath@geneseearc.org
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Non-Profit
Organization
Batavia NY
Permit No. 216
64 Walnut Street
Batavia, NY 14020
(585) 343-1123
geneseearc.org
Please write to us at our address if you wish to have
your name removed from our newsletter mailing list.
Mission
Your gift for the
FUTURE!
“Genesee ARC exists to support
people with disabilities in partnership with
their families and the community.
We embrace the individuals and nurture their social,
spiritual, physical and emotional growth.”
Have you remembered Genesee ARC in your will?
A bequest helps ensure a bright future for people with disabilities
served by our Agency. If you would like more information,
please complete the form below and send it to:
Vision
Genesee ARC
Attn: Shelley Falitico, Director of Development
64 Walnut Street
Batavia, NY 14020
(585) 343-4203 ext. 222
“The vision of Genesee ARC is to be known
as the resource of choice for people with
disabilities and their families.
Name_____________________________________
Address___________________________________
We will provide a broad range of opportunities
that address their changing needs
and life-long aspirations.
_________________________________________
Phone #__________________________________
Genesee ARC envisions a world that
accepts people with disabilities as contributing
members of their community.”
Email _____________________________________
Values
The Core Values of Genesee ARC are:
Respect Integrity Fairness
Excellence Quality Innovation

I/We would like more information on ensuring a bright future
for people with disabilities served by Genesee ARC.

I/We have already made provisions in our will to benefit
Genesee ARC.
Thank you!
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