Our mission is to empower children and adults with developmental disabilities to achieve their potential based on personal choices, abilities and interests...

For more information please contact:

Cathy Bahan
Director of Marketing
and Public Affairs
phone: (914)428-8330,
ext. 3119
fax: (914) 997-2985
or (914) 428-0322
cbahan@
westchesterarc.org

Westchester Arc
Herbert Katzenberg Center
121 Westmoreland Avenue
White Plains, NY 10606
(914) 949-9300
info@westchesterarc.org

24-hour
Crisis Intervention:
(914) 949-8200

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Westchester Arc self-advocates and staff enjoyed meeting David Liscomb (left, seated), co-vice president of SANYS (Self-Advocacy Association of New York State), and Chester Finn (right, seated), chairman of SABE (Self-Advocates Becoming Empowered).

Self-Advocates Connect at NYSARC Convention


Self-advocates Eddie C., Will H., Carolyn H., Nicole W., Linda K. and Angela P. were among Westchester Arc’s representatives at the recent NYSARC covention in Albany. Westchester Arc is the local chapter of NYSARC, which is the largest not-for-profit organization in the nation serving persons with developmental disabilities.


While at the conference, self-advocates attended training sessions such as “How to Get Connected in the Community,” during which they discussed methods for finding jobs, improving services and identifying available resources. Angela P. urged others to “use the Internet” to stay informed and to develop independent living skills such as learning to take public transportation.


Attendees were eager to exchange opinions with self-advocates from around the state. During one meeting, they helped a parent understand how to effectively advocate for social inclusion for a child with autism.


“I liked representing Westchester Arc and meeting other people,” comments Eddie C.


Will and Carolyn, Westchester Arc board members, also attended the delegate assembly, where they helped shape NYSARC polices and procedures.

Westchester Arc staff—including Ric Swierat, executive director; Clive Anderson, residence counselor, and Andy Heugel, employment specialist, also attended the conference. “All of the self-advocates enjoyed the conference and expressed an interest in going back next year,” comments Andy. “They couldn’t wait to share their experiences with friends and peers at Westchester Arc.”