ANNUAL REPORT 2008 IN THE COMMUNITY“I would like to tell you how proud we are that this day has finally arrived. It reflects our commitment to assure that people with disabilities will be a vital part of our community for many years to come.”Kevin Smith, Executive Director, Seneca Cayuga ARC

The Cornerstone is placed for the new Clark Street Road Facility.

Our Mission, Values and Operating Principles

Seneca Cayuga ARC is a not-for-profit

agency comprised of people dedicated

to assisting and supporting individuals

with disabilities, their families and

the community.

We provide opportunities and choices

for treatment, employment, education,

recreation and community living to assist

individuals with disabilities in realizing a

productive and fulfilling life.

DIGNITY AND RESPECTWe believe that our consumers and our staff are our greatest resource and should always be treated with dignity and respect.

PERSONAL GROWTHWe believe that all people should be given the opportunity to achieve their full potential in an environment that promotes personal growth and supports individual life choices.

STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCEWe are committed to standards of excellence to ensure quality of services.

COMMUNICATIONWe will work to promote open communication and teamwork.

SAFETYWe will provide a safe and accessible work environment for staff and consumers.

On the Cover: Frank Nicoletta, Sr. places the cornerstone for our new Clark Street Road facility.

In t he C ommunit y

The theme of our 2008 message is “In the Community.” It is a phrase that reflects our desire to assure that persons with disabilities are able to occupy a productive and contributing place in our communities.

We believe that we are successful in being “in the community” through relationships that have been developed with willing employers, and committed community partners. The work of dedicated staff, volunteers, and members of our board of directors assist in maintaining our community connections.

These elements are all a part of the mission of Seneca Cayuga ARC. Our continued success is vital to over 1300 people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families who depend on us for guidance, therapy, education, personal care, treatment, and support.

Over the last year, we have been able to expand and improve our services. This has allowed the persons we serve to achieve greater independence, and to be included in the life of their communities.

Behavior management supports and autism support programs are now in place to assist persons who live at home with their families.

Overnight weekend respite services are offered in our newest community home. Family members know that their family member is well

Message from the President and Executive Director

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Peter Koon, Board President and Kevin Smith, Executive Director Seneca Cayuga ARC.

cared for, and are grateful to get a break from the stresses of care-giving.

Our workplace wellness initiative continues to grow, as we continue to promote a healthier lifestyle for our staff and persons who receive services.

The integration of technology has made us more efficient, improved access to information, and reduced our administrative costs.

We believe that even in this economically challenging environment there will be opportunities to grow the agency and to better serve people. We know that we will have to work hard to continue to provide the services we currently offer as NYS confronts its uncertain financial future. The ongoing success that we have achieved, and the many positives that are a part of the Seneca Cayuga ARC, will keep us motivated and energized in the years to come. We can only do this with your support, and we are depending on you to be here with us when it matters the most.

Peter Koon President

Kevin SmithExective Director

While there is no doubt that the agency has an impressive time line of events to its credit, the opening of the newly-constructed Clark Street Road facility in the Town of Aurelius was clearly monumental! With it, the agency completed its seven-year plan for reconfiguration of day services for persons with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in Cayuga County. All ARC day service facilities are now barrier-free and designed for the unique individual needs of persons to be served.

The 15,600 square foot building, which officially opened in June of 2008, now provides day habilitation services for 24

adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in a physically-accessible environment. Administrative offices, as well as offices for residential, community services and transportation services, have been moved to this site from other locations throughout the Auburn area.

At the cornerstone placement and ribbon cutting ceremony held in July, Kevin Smith, Executive Director noted, “I would like to tell you how proud we are that this day has finally

arrived. We searched for five years for a site that reflects our desire to be a visible part of Cayuga County. It brings together people from nine different locations. We believe that the opening of this building provides a positive image of ARC to the public. Located in one of the fastest growing sections of the county, it reflects our commitment to assure that people with disabilities will be a vital part of our community for many years to come.”

Clark Street Road Facility, a Visible Commitment

In recognition of her tireless efforts in overseeing the project to its fruition, Maria Hastings, Associate Executive Director of Administrative Support, was presented with a commemorative plaque and a dozen roses.

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In t he C ommunit y

(from left) Assemblyman Gary Finch, Assemblyman Brian Kolb and Senator Michael Nozzolio were in attendance, along with other local dignitaries. The American flag which now flies at the site was donated by Congressman Michael Arcuri, while Assemblyman Brian Kolb presented the agency with the New York State flag for the new building.

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Person-centered Service Delivery

The new Clark Street Road facility was designed with input from the Building Council ensuring that the needs of all who will use the building will be met.

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In t he C ommunit yWhile the exterior design of the building is very appealing, it’s what is happening inside that is so impressive.

The facility has proven to be a wonderful site for service delivery. The light, airy atmosphere and open hallways have brought out everyone’s sunniest disposition.

“What a great facility! The environment is bright, clean and inviting; totally conducive to the person-centered philosophy!” That, according to parent, Helen Littlejohn.

Jeanne Stebbins, Director of Day Services, agrees, adding that people are more engaged in the activities offered and have shown more independence in accessing those activities now that space is plentiful and comfortable. “In many cases, we are experiencing aspects of personalities we have not seen. We don’t have to go into the hall and walk around to the other end of the room any more! We are very grateful for this wonderful building!”

Jo Petroccia, Director of Residential Services, added that staff truly appreciate the office space and the conference rooms that are now available. “By forming a Building Council, comprised

of representation from all departments, we have been able to ensure that all input is shared and concerns or suggestions for improvement are communicated. This system has helped to instill a true sense of teamwork among all the programs and services that are housed here.”

While the handsome new building is a welcome addition to the community, it also captures the spirit and warmth of the person-centered philosophy practiced inside.

“Isaac’s smile tells it all”, says Helen. “He is happy to be here!”

Of all the things Isaac enjoys about the new facility, making new friends is his favorite.

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In his two-year employment history, Steve Buchholz has achieved more at Geneva General Hospital than most of its other 1100 employees. In addition to receiving near-perfect performance appraisals, he also received the Distinguished Values Award as the Employee of the Last Quarter of 2008.

At the end of each calendar quarter, the hospital selection committee chooses one employee to receive this award. Committee members agree that selecting one employee

who ‘consistently goes above and beyond ordinary expectations and who clearly demonstrates the values of the organization’ can be a daunting task. The person selected should model dignity, responsibility, respect, vision, service and teamwork.

“While the intensive skill training services Steve received through the agency’s Supported Work Program helped him to become an independent worker, it is his conscientious application to his

work and his natural willingness to always do better that make him a successful placement, an exceptional employee”, states Certified Employment Specialist, Sandy Liberatore.

Patrick Boyle, Vice President of Human Resources at the hospital, was delighted to present the award, noting “It is a pleasure to see a co-worker embrace the healing environment as

Steve does. Steve always goes the extra mile and demonstrates real commitment to his job, his co-workers, and the patients. He’s a great team player who has earned the respect and admiration of all who know him.”

Steve won’t soon forget the honor. In addition to receiving a certificate of recognition, a cash award of $250, and use of the ‘Employee of the Quarter’ parking space, Steve’s photograph is now permanently mounted on the hospital’s ‘Wall of Fame’.

Distinguished Values

Steve’s cheerful disposition and attention to detail are just two of the many attributes he brings to his job.

In t he C ommunit y

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Steve, who has become completely independent of job support services, says his favorite aspects of being an Environmental Services Aide are working the evening hours and the people he meets.

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Among the 40 people throughout the state who were selected to participate in NYS Partners in Policymaking in 2008, three were from Seneca County. From the first training session to the graduation ceremony, Rob Gould, Michelle Musso, and James Rice proved they deserved the selection.

This leadership training program for people with developmental disabilities was designed to provide information about issues and policies related to disabilities.

Once a month for eight months, ‘Partners’ gathered in Albany to attend a two-day session. Each session was devoted to a specific topic, addressed by nationally-known presenters. Partners

completed homework between sessions and were required to work on one major assignment, such as organizing a letter writing campaign.

One of the assignments was for partners to speak of the barriers or issues in the community that disturbed them most. James had no problem choosing a topic and when it came time to deliver his testimony, he was passionate! “I spoke on ‘Unequal Opportunity Employers’. I believe

that any company with more than fifty employees should maintain a 3% disability factor.”

According to Rob, “Partners is a great program for up-and-coming self advocates. We learned about everything from legislative process to advocating for children with disabilities. We fight for integration – for people to choose what they want to do, not what ‘the system’ decides they should do.”

Partners in Policymaking

Rob, James and Michelle continue using the tools they attained to educate the community about disabilities.

In t he C ommunit y

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Lower right corner, Rob Gould has been a data entry clerk at the agency’s textile division for nine years. He is an active community volunteer and honorary member of the Waterloo Fire Department. In her nine years working in the textile division, Michelle Musso has learned most of the duties associated with the manufacturing of the fleece cap (for the US Dept. of Defense). With his strong work ethic and his desire to please, James Rice has become one of the leaders of the evening janitorial crew and he continues to pursue employment in the field of computer science, in which he holds a two-year degree.

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Being a caregiver for a person with developmental disabilities can be challenging, but complicate that diagnosis with the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease, and you have a nearly-impossible situation.

That’s what staff at our Butera Drive Individual Residential Alternative were faced with mid-way through the year when Rita began displaying signs of dementia. Once diagnosed, new procedures, documentation and added care were needed to ensure that Rita received the best

care possible. As the disease slowly progressed, staff began to feel overwhelmed with her increased needs, but they knew Rita wanted to remain at home. As in many families, the decision was made to keep Rita at home. Although the challenges are increasing, staff have been able to deal with them

and have continued to adjust to her ever-changing needs.

Eliza Thurston, Residential Manager, describes the staff as a phenomenal group, “They have witnessed the disease take away all of Rita’s abilities, and, so, have become her lifeline. They

have been able to maintain a delicate balance of providing care to one very needy individual, while never forgetting the three other people living there who have very different needs and wants.”

“At the end of the day, it is her smile that makes it worthwhile; her happiness that makes nothing impossible.”

Adjusting to Changing Needs

Pictures of Rita and the three other residents of the Butera Drive Residential Alternative are pictured here on the wall of the living room.

In t he C ommunit y

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The familiarity of everything in her home, from the furniture to the wall hangings, create a great sense of comfort for Rita.

The photo below of Kelley Clark, Skills Instructor, Kim Bobbet, Skills Instructor, and Marion Heffernan, reflects the circle of care that Rita is receiving.

Financial Report for 2008

SUPPORT AND REVENUE

Medicaid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 17,876,132Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4,105,624 OMRDD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,207,987Participant Fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,237,035 VESID/DOH/OMH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .555,123Grants/County/Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,487,516Donations/Contributions/ Investments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203,927

TOTAL $ 27,673,344

EXPENDITURES

Day Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 6,641,321 Seneca Cayuga Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,202,140Residential Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6,269,657Karl D. Warrner Clinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,087,054Early Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .196,358Community Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,494,773OPTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154,217Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114,990Administration/Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3,227,037

TOTAL $27,387,547

PEOPLE SERVED

Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87Clinical ServicesClinic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 519Early Intervention/Preschool . . . . . 52Community ServicesAlzheimer’s Day and Respite . . . . . 14Day Habilitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Residential Habilitation . . . . . . . . . . 58Family Support and Reimbursement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234Respite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192Service Coordination . . . . . . . . . . . 350Guardianship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3Behavioral Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Autism Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Individual Support Services . . . . . . 12Day ServicesDay Habilitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256F.A.M.E. Center for Creative Expression . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Residential Services . . . . . . . . . . . 101Respite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Vocational ServicesDirect Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69Supported Employment . . . . . . . . . 217Workcenter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134Pre-vocational . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

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OFFICERSPeter KoonPresident

John E. Becker, IIVice President

Thomas AckerleyTreasurer

Rose PalmieriSecretary

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFFKevin SmithExecutive Director

Kate SinicropiAssociate Executive Director – Program Support

Maria HastingsAssociate Executive Director –Administrative Support

Jodi HollandDirector of Community Services

Bill KaminskiDirector of Human Resources

Maria MayoDirector of Vocational Services

Jo PetrocciaDirector of Residential Services

Douglas ReissDirector of Fiscal Services

Cindy St. GeorgeDirector of Development

David SealyDirector of Clinical Services

Kevin SpillaneDirector of Business Operations

Jeanne StebbinsDirector of Day Services

Martin ToombsDirector of Information Systems

Pam WilsonDirector of F.A.M.E. Center for Creative Expression

Peter Koons John E. Becker, II Thomas Ackerley Rose Palmieri Peter Crego

Calvin Gee Rob Gould Mary Pat Harris Robert Herman Patricia Mapley

Board of Directors and Administrative Staff

DIRECTORSPeter CregoCalvin GeeRob GouldMary Pat Harris Robert HermanPatricia MapleyWill SchwartingSharon Trerise

ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

Carlo Frappolli

Will Schwarting Sharon Trerise Carlo Frappolli

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SENECA CAYUGA ARC IS…

1083 Waterloo-Geneva Road Waterloo, NY 13165

Alzheimer’s RespiteCamp ColumbusCHANCES, Autism Support ServicesCommunity RecreationConsumer-Directed Personal AssistanceDay HabilitationEarly StepsF.A.M.E. Center for Creative ExpressionFamily Support and Reimbursement

WATERLOO1083 Waterloo-Geneva Road Waterloo, NY 13165 315-539-5067(fax) 315-539-3735

www.sencayarc.org.

AUBURN1521 Clark Street RoadAuburn, NY 13021315-612-0100(fax) 315-255-2328

Gordon Eadie Activity CenterGuardianshipKarl D. Warner ClinicResidential ServicesRespite Seneca Cayuga IndustriesService CoordinationTransition SupportTransportation

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES

Photography: Jan Regan PhotographyClark Street Road Ribbon Cutting Photography: Tellier Studios Design: In House Graphic Design, Inc.

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

P A I DPermit No. 94

Waterloo, NY 13165

Encased in the wall behind the cornerstone is a time capsule depicting the opening of the Seneca Cayuga ARC Clark Street Road facility.