Lifelong Learner2013 Volume 3

On Tuesday, June 4th, Lieutenant Governor Robert J. Duffy made his initial visit to Anderson Center

for Autism. Serving as Chair of the Regional Economic Development Councils, Lieutenant Governor Duffy has facilitated the implementation of the Administration’s economic development agenda through efforts to rebuild New York’s economy. Lieutenant Governor Duffy’s visit to the school’s sprawling campus was very meaningful to the parents of Anderson Center and the agency’s Executive Team. “It means a lot to the extended Anderson family that the Lieutenant Governor is interested in our school, campus and Adult Programs,” stated one parent. “He also suggested other policy makers we should reach out to.” Anderson Center’s newly formed advocacy group, Anderson Family Parents, along with Executive Director Neil J. Pollack and Chief Operating Officer Patrick D. Paul, were able to acquaint the Lieutenant Governor with the agency , strengthening the important relationship with Albany. The visit began with a tour, encompassing Anderson Center’s campus that just completed an eight-year overhaul (see page 8) to build five new resident homes, a multi-functional village center and to

renovate their integrated business center. “Lieutenant Governor Duffy seemed to be really taken by the Anderson Village. I believe that he was most impressed with the environment we were able to achieve for our students, adults, families and staff,” says Patrick Paul. “It is clear that the Anderson Center for Autism not only provides support for autistic children and their families, but creates a strong, undeniable sense of community, which is invaluable for the families I’ve met,” said Lieutenant Governor Duffy. “It is fantastic to see world-class facilities and passionate advocates like this that are dedicated to improving the lives of New Yorkers every day. This center is yet another example of the great work New Yorkers are doing across the state.” The tour was followed by an in-depth Q&A session with the parents of Anderson Family Partners. Parents were able to explain the significance the agency has made in the lives of their children, as well as specific ways

Anderson Center stands apart from other agencies of its kind. “The questions the Lieutenant Governor asked demonstrates just how much he cares about the specific needs of our children,” says Anderson Center parent Carol Antonoff.

Lieutenenat Governor Robert Duffy Visits Anderson

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“The Importance of Being a DSP”By Neil J. Pollack

Who answers the door when you drop off or pick up your child? Who comforts your child in the middle of the night when he/she is ill? Who supports your child during community activities? More than likely, it

is a Direct Support Professional (DSP). Without question these staff members are the cogs that keep the wheel going in human services. They carry out the day-to-day tasks in- and outside the home, they must follow plans of support, and care for our loved ones. This group of “behind the scenes” staff have an indescribable impact on the lives of the individuals we serve. DSPs are responsible for the wellbeing of children and adults who require equal amounts of instruction, support, compassion, creativity and consistency. These staff members encounter difficult behaviors and in the face of turmoil, maintain calm composure while calling upon their training to ensure the safety of the individual, other people in their care and themselves. As someone who began as a DSP, I will tell you it is one of the most rewarding, and

challenging, positions I have ever had. People who choose human services do not expect to get rich, have the best hours, or be recognized for their contributions - most people do this work simply because of their inherent desire to serve others. While noble, passion for the field is simply not enough. The requirements from our state agencies continuously add pressure to these essential staff members, but they are not recognized in a financial way that allows for higher wages. Organizations are left to find creative solutions to motivate their workforce. I have long advocated and continue to fight for uplifting this field. It is my fervent belief that education is the fundamental key for warranting increases in compensation. As a result, in 2001 we expanded our education assistance to include financial incentives for DSPs encouraging them to continue their formal schooling. We then took all the educational program offerings for staff and placed them under one umbrella known today as Learn & EarnSM. I am pleased to report that our average DSP has 51 college credits with those numbers steadily climbing. At Anderson Center we offer staff incentives to continue their education, to work their way up our career ladder and to set higher goals for themselves. In a time of budget cuts, expecting inducements by government to help organizations preserve quality DSPs may be unrealistic. I counter, that it is impractical for them not to. At Anderson we are constantly striving to enhance the work environment for our essential DSPs.

Anderson Center for Autism & Anderson Center Services, Inc.

Francis M. Synan, Chair Eric D. Gorman, 1st Vice Chair Elizabeth P. Corcoran, 2nd Vice Chair Justin L. Cole, Treasurer Richard W. Lewis, Secretary Neeraj Alimchandani, Trustee Elinor B. E. Arnold, Trustee Rebecca M. Blahut, Trustee Joan Blutreich, Trustee Jason Christopher, Trustee Pompey H. Delafield, Trustee Joseph Lepore, Trustee Alayar Kangarlu, Trustee

Peter M. Olympia, Jr., Trustee John P. Pecchia, Trustee Jeanne R. Raichle, Trustee John A. Scileppi, Trustee Edward J. Sullivan, Trustee

Anderson Foundation for Autism, Inc Margaret Cusumano, Chair John Maserjian, Vice Chair Justin L. Cole, Treasurer Tondra Lynford, Secretary Susan Angeles, Trustee Gregory S. Burns, Trustee Barry Feirstein, Trustee Vance Gage, Trustee Joseph T. Kirchhoff, Trustee

David W. Melby, Trustee William F. Melcher, Trustee Marisa Perez-Rogers, Trustee Maryann R. Pilon, Trustee Rebecca A. Valk, Trustee

Lifetime Honorary Trustees Ellen L. Baker Michael McNaughton Jaime Rodriguez-Tellez Wilfred Rohde John A. Scileppi Sarah E. Sholes Fritz Sonnenschmidt

Anderson Boards of TrusteesAnderson Center for Autism operates under the guidance of two exceptional Boards of Trustees. We appreciate

the contributions that each of these talented and generous individuals makes towards the achievement of our goals.

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Americans love graduations. While in the past, we focused on high school and college ceremonies,

lately we celebrate many additional milestones, starting as early as nursery school. Anderson families are no exception. Their children, siblings and friends attend our school to work hard and learn very important academic – and life - skills. We also offer programs that help integrate students throughout society.

During their time at Anderson they study subjects at their personal grade level while addressing the

unique challenges that come with being on the autism spectrum. For some it is the smallest thing society takes for granted such as personal hygiene, play or integration. It is not uncommon for families to come here feeling deflated, uncertain what the future will hold and keeping their expectations at bay. However, children who enter our program come here with a clean slate and we strive to help them bolster their potential and opportunities for a full life. We believe - and witness - our students achieve monumental things. The progress we see our students make is awesome – literally awe inspiring – to those of us who witness it firsthand. We see young people grow to levels that allow them to thrive in community settings and voluntarily helping others in society. They achieve their own greatness. This is why we celebrate our graduates each year. We thank the media for coming to support Anderson and tell the stories of greatness accomplished

This year’s spring prom was a memorable night for all attendees. The students looked amazing in their vibrant

colors. You can see how excited they were to don suits, gowns and even a few tuxedos. Everyone enjoyed the traditional prom complete with limos, enthusiastic dancing, a photo-booth, fantastic food and even a balloon drop! All the students thank the Millbrook School for donating clothing and decorations, the Prom planning committee, and the staff who helped with prepping and primping that had everyone looking their best.

Prom 2013!

Anderson Graduation Ceremony

Continued on Pg 4

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by the students of Anderson Center. Each year a dozen or more graduates proudly receive their diploma. They wear the cap and gown, pose for pictures and see their parents beam with pride. Families celebrate their child’s achievements for what might have once been considered

unimaginable. This year thirteen students graduated! All of them now proudly take their place living in community group homes and participating in programs that help support

our society. Many are volunteering their precious time to help others in need, animals waiting for adoption, growing food in our gardens and living life to their fullest. We salute the class of 2013 and their families! Another successful and memorable Graduation ceremony is complete. My heartfelt thanks to the dozens and dozens of people who contributed to the 2013 Graduation Ceremony. Several parents and

family members expressed their heartfelt appreciation for their child’s experience at Anderson and for the beautiful ceremony. Thanks to Tina Payeur who is truly the backbone of this event and to Maria Espie and Kathy Murphy for assisting with all the crazy details in Tina’s absence. Thanks to everyone on the Graduation Committee, the Development team, Food Services,

Operations, Residential and Education Staff, Case Managers - the list is quite long! Thanks to everyone who came to support and (silently) applaud the graduates. Now it’s time to get ready for 2014.

The 10th Annual Woodstock HOG T-Shirt Run was held at Anderson Center for Autism on August 11, 2013. This

year 250 shirts were donated to the children and adults…the most that has ever been collected! Also, this year the largest number of motorcycles ever participated in this event. The children and adults enjoyed interacting with the members of the club, picking out shirts, and looking at the motorcycles! Thank you to now retired Anderson RN Jane Gallo and the Woodstock H.O.G. Club for a wonderful day.

H.O.G. T-Shirt Run

Continued from Pg 3

Autism Speaks chose Anderson Center for Autism’s Wurtemburg residence as July’s “Home of the Month”! Each

of Anderson’s adult residences has its own unique charm, and we are proud that Autism Speaks recognized the superior work of our direct care and support staff in making this home a gem!

Wurtemburg Home of the Month

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T his summer’s Hudson Valley Renegades Autism Awareness game was a smash hit! Anderson Center

for Autism sponsored the evening and everyone who came out had a great time! Neil Pollack and Amanda Coons opened the

game with a pre-show interview and Chris O. from the adult program threw out the first pitch!!! The crowd cheered upon hearing all about

Anderson’s accomplishments! Thank you to everyone who brought their families and friends. It was great to see everyone together having a great time. We look forward to next year!

Autism Awareness Night with the Renegades

Dine Out and Support Anderson

Applebee’s in Poughkeepsie didn’t know what hit them on July 31, until they remembered that it

was fundraising day for Anderson! 200 individuals dined at Applebee’s on July 31, 2013, and 10% of each check brought in money to Anderson Center! Thanks to everyone who came to Applebee’s last week to show your support. It was wonderful to see so many Anderson employees and families enjoying a meal and

raising money at the same time. We are honored to have such a devoted group of Anderson employees. Thank you for everything you do!This was the first of many creative ways to support Anderson Center. Tell us about your favorite restaurant a why you think they should support Anderson Center for Autism.

Don’t Miss October’s Dinner Out!During the month of October, join us each Thursday night at the Steel House in Kingston where 10% of all

checks will be donated to Anderson. Come out and support our cause!

June 11 marked the official end of eight

years of construction workers, upheaval, and dust on Anderson’s campus with an open house celebration held in the magnificently

renovated Business Center at the Spruces. Anderson staff, board, donors, and friends feted with great food and merriment and recognized the integral role various staff and vendors played in completing this enormous project on time and with minimal dirsuption. Contact us for a tour.

Master Site Plan is Complete!

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On June 7, 2013, the torrential downpour could not slow Anderson’s Jonathan B. down. Jonathan,

joined by his brother Verlaine by bicycle, and Special

Olympics coach Amanda C. participated in the 2013 Dutchess County run, a fundraiser for Special Olympics NY. The 8.75 miles crossed hills, bridges, and the

Walkway. Anderson staff and other SO athletes braced the downpour to cheer on Jonathan.

On June 13, 2013, we celebrated the accomplishments of

our 85 Anderson Athletes and coaches who participated in Anderson Athletics competition throughout the year. The dinner also marked another successful year. It was a great opportunity to showcase the brand new Anderson uniforms made possible by an AFA grant. All athletes and coaches received certificates of achievement for their hard work. The night ended with a great send off for the seven athletes headed to the NY State summer

games in Buffalo.

On June 14, 2013, Anderson Athletics Blue Knights Ed B., Rob G., Jai M., Ella J., Berecia J., and Matt R. accompanied by coaches Amanda C. and Justin P. boarded a Coach bus in their brand new uniforms and headed to Buffalo for the NY State Summer Games for track and field. The athletes and coaches stayed in the University of Buffalo dorms for the weekend and competed in 15 track and field events. The athletes worked hard, cheered for one another, and everyone had a blast. They returned to Anderson with an astounding ten individual gold medals, one silver medal, one bronze, and one 4th place ribbon. Additionally, our relay team took home the gold in the 4 x 100 meter relay. Congratulations to all athletes for a job well done.

Special Olympics Events

Anderson Athletics was recently awarded a small grant to purchase new equipment and uniforms, but the program continues to grow! This program is supported by agency dollars. If you would like to make a gift in support of Anderson Athletics and our Special Olympics activities, you can do so online.

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Employees of the MonthChildren’s Services

JuneEducation: Gregory Graham shows genuine concern and respect for all students on a daily basis. He assists whenever asked and his unassuming demeanor often helps diffuse difficult situations. He is respected and well-liked by his peers and supervisors and serves as a model for his students.Residential: Tyrone Barrett invests time getting to know the boys in his house and develops a positive rapport with each. He is willing to learn from others and has become an integral member of his team. He is reliable, caring and consistent, the perfect combination for a great ACA employee! July Education: Kendall Wolven delivers teaching interventions effectively, implements student support plans with integrity, and is willing to assist with any issues. Her support of the students does not end when school is over. She volunteered her time and talent to help make this year’s Prom a huge success. Residential: Shawnte Butler’s commitment to her students and their families earned this recognition. She has built positive relationships with the students which has extended to their families. Several parents have expressed their appreciation for Shawnte’s efforts. In addition, Shawnte has been pivotal in ensuring students use their communication systems and that other staff are trained to support this effort. AugustEducation: Vanessa Stevens enhances the learning environment of the students through her creativity and knowledge of the program. She serves as a role model of the values and policies of Anderson Center for Autism.Residential: Dandre Wheeler has a great rapport with his students. He uses teachable moments to motivate the students in his residence. His upbeat, positive attitude is truly appreciated. SeptemberEducational: Due to his dependability and his willingness to assist in any given situation, Ivan Mikler has earned this recognition. Ivan escorts children arriving to school without being asked and readily assists when needed. Ivan’s assistance and support is a tremendous help to his teammates and peers. Residential: Tarell Heard is a great team player and is always willing to help staff who need it. He ensures students are involved in recreational activities and provides them with the necessary proactive supports to encourage success.

Adult ServiesJuneSilas Michura works hard to ensure that the men at his IRA are given the best opportunities to learn and grow. He takes pride in their accomplishments and fosters opportunities to create independence. He has taken on initiatives that go far beyond what the overnight position entails and is always willing to help when needed. JulyIn the words of his Residence Manager Byron, “Chris Rios has an incredible amount of empathy, compassion, and determination and is always coming up with new ways and new ideas for the residents to be engaged in customized programming. Chris’ leadership has helped build a more cohesive team that is consistent with Anderson’s mission. He truly believes in the work that he does at Anderson and that level of conviction allows others to follow.”AugustBarry Greco works diligently to get resident input on the menu, takes them on shopping trips and gets all men involved with cooking at the IRA. He also coordinates residents’ horseback riding activity with the Hidden Hollow Horse Farm. On Sundays the men enjoy the benefits of equine therapy. Additionally Barry has greatly contributed to his house’s non-program days, scheduling volunteer opportunities at the Woodstock Food Pantry for residents. SeptemberEbrihima Singhatch is an excellent team player and performs every aspect of his job description well. He has shown that he cares greatly for the men in his IRA. Ebrahima works well with all staff and is very dependable and willing to help others. He is altogether an outstanding employee and has made a huge contribution to his team.

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4885 Rt 9 PO Box 367Staatsburg NY 12580

www.andersoncenterforautism.orginfo@acenterforautism.org

845-889-4034

How Will You Support Anderson?We accept cash donations, gifts of stock and property, paid in full insurance policies, and other assets to support the programs and services of Anderson Center for Autism. Our professional staff can customize a giving plan for you, including planned giving options. Call our Development Department at 845-889-9594 for information on how you can help Anderson serve the community through education, outreach, and advocacy for people with ASD. To make an online gift to Anderson, visit http://www.andersoncenterforautism.org/donate.php#donate

Eliza Bozenski, Director of Agency Affairs, interviews a fascinating assortment of guests on her weekly talk radio program, 1 in 88, Wednesdays at 9:30 AM online at http://www.hvradionet.com/ or on the AM radio dial at AM 920, 1260, and 1420.