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

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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Tony Z. can't wait to open his gift.

Guardianship Celebrates the Holidays

Westchester Arc’s guardianship services spread holiday cheer during its annual dinner dance, held at the Westchester Marriot on December 3.

Over 150 people—including Westchester Arc consumers, board members, parents and staff—attended the spirited event. Guests donned formal wear and dined by candlelight. Individuals served by the agency’s guardianship program received personalized gifts, including books, CDs and clothing. Attendees who plan to use guardianship services in the future were given scarf, glove and watch gift sets.

Richard S. is given a gift by Mary    Dantin, Westchester Arc foundation board member.

Tony Z. was thrilled with his hula hoop. “He loves sports and dancing,” explains guardianship advocate Roberta Nickelsen. “We figured this would be a great gift for someone who likes to have fun while staying active.”

Indeed. Hula hoop in hand, Tony was one of the first people on the dance floor. Music that ranged from Motown classics to calypso kept everyone moving. Crowd favorites included the electric slide, limbo
and conga.

“I haven’t had this much fun in years,” boasted Larry C.

Larry C. get in a few quick steps with Nancy Succoso, Westchester Arc assistant executive director.

“Westchester Arc did a wonderful job,” comments parent Judith Solomon. “Our family is still 10,000 miles high from the party. We really appreciate all the agency does.”

Thelma Elliot, a longtime Westchester Arc residence counselor, and Reverend Jesse and Gladys Woodley received the 2007 Nat Mills Award for demonstrating exceptional advocacy on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Thelma has gone to great lengths to establish personal relationships and provide family-like care to the residents of the agency’s Bedford men’s house. As family care providers, Reverend and Mrs. Woodley have given an individual with developmental disabilities a place in both their home and their congregation.

 

The dance floor was a popular place to be.

From left, Nancy Succoso, Westchester Arc assistant executive director; Reverand Jesse and Gladys Woodley, recipients of the 2007 Nat Mills Award, and Ric Swierat, Westchester Arc executive director.

Residence counselor Thelma Elliot (far right) receives the 2007 Nat Mills Award.

As the local chapter of NYSARC, Westchester Arc serves as legal guardian to 43 adults with developmental disabilities. The agency also provides education and technical assistance to family members and others interested in becoming guardian to an individual who has reached the age of 18 and is unable to make major personal decisions. The staff is committed to person-centered support and assists individuals with all aspects of their lives, from establishing a home to sharing in birthday parties.

“Guardianship services is about adding personal touches that help enhance an individual’s life,” continues Roberta. “This party is a true example of that. We went to great lengths to ensure the night was special, because those we serve are special. I’m glad everyone had a good time.”
Robert C. chats with Kim Kaiser, Westchester Arc guardianship
advocate. 		Ruth Dewey, Westchester Arc guardianship committee member, enjoys dinner with her son, Chris.

John and board member Susan Walker enjoy a festive dinner with their daughter, Elizabeth.

The limbo proved popular with guests.

Bob S. didn't want the evening to end.