Arc Westchester to Honor Local Employers at Tarrytown Breakfast

The Arc Westchester, the largest support organization for people with developmental disabilities in Westchester County, will host its annual Employer Recognition Breakfast and Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 23. The event is scheduled to run from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel in Tarrytown.

The organization states that it currently supports more than 150 individuals working in the community. This figure is supported by a network of over 100 business partners. Barry Clark, Executive Director of The Arc Westchester Foundation, cited a specific placement metric in a statement provided to the press. He noted that the agency maintains a 75% employment rate for clients seeking work. This figure compares favorably to the 38% nationwide average for similar populations.

The breakfast serves as a platform to recognize local businesses that have established partnerships with the agency. These relationships are designed to create consistent employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. The Arc Westchester CEO Tibi Guzmán emphasized the value of diverse workforces in a written statement. She stated that the organization is dedicated to identifying opportunities for supported individuals to work and thrive as valuable employees.

Guzmán attributed the success of these placements to a shared belief among the 100 companies that participate in the program. She described the collaboration as a way to build a stronger workplace environment. The agency views these partnerships as a method for clients to earn an income and build meaningful careers.

Ellen Bloom, MPH, will deliver the keynote address at the event. She currently serves as Director of Community Affairs for New York-Presbyterian Westchester, New-York Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health, and New York-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital. Her remarks will focus on the impact of inclusive employment on both the individuals served and the local community.

The ceremony will present several awards to specific organizations and individuals. The City of Yonkers Office for the Aging will receive the Distinguished Partner Award. Compass Group is set to accept the Impact Award, while Grapes the Wine Company will be honored with the New Partnership Award. Cintas will receive the Continuing Partnership Award, and New York-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health will take home the Employer Excellence Award.

Jack Lambert, an Administrative Assistant at South East Consortium for Special Services, Inc., will receive the Anthony Cannata Memorial Employee Award. The event is also designed to educate potential employers about the agency's Career Services program. Sponsorship opportunities associated with the breakfast help fund these educational efforts.