Inclusion Matters

MARCH 2025

Home is Where the Heart is

Michael Novara is living proof that thriving is possible, even when family isn’t nearby. Living in a group home (IRA) for many years, Michael has built a life filled with purpose and joy, showing that with the right support, people can lead fulfilling lives.

For more than 30 years, Michael has lived in the same certified housing environment – an IRA in Syracuse’s University area. He thrives partially because he is surrounded by other like-minded people his age who share some of his same hobbies and interests. But perhaps what can best be attributed to Michael’s success is the fact that he’s had some of the same direct support staff who have been by his side since he moved out of his parents’ home in the early 90s.

“Michael’s home is a second home to me, and he and his housemates mean everything to me,” said Vince Vercillo, Michael’s Direct Support Staff of three decades. “Because he’s had such long-term staff, we’ve been able to provide him with consistency and stability.” And because the home typically has a minimum of three staff members on hand at any time, Vince’s counterparts have also had the privilege of getting to know and support Michael. “The team knows him so well, so we’re able to collectively provide him with an interactive life while fostering the best possible environment for him to be healthy and happy,” Vince said.

According to Vince, everyone who knows Michael agrees that he lives an enriched life. But, as is the case for all of us, it doesn’t come without some real challenges. Michael is mostly nonverbal, which makes communication difficult. “He’s a man of few words, but when he does speak, his words have such meaning,” Vince explained. “He’ll shock me sometimes with something he says, and everything he says makes an impact.” Additionally, Michael is hard of hearing, and he struggles with some physical ailments such as keeping weight on. But whatever the challenge, his group home staff is there to support him. And when Michael receives community habilitation through Advocates, his mentors – including Vince – are there to help him recreate, achieve goals, or simply explore his community.

“Mike eagerly anticipates his comm. hab. time,” Vince said. “Advocates really focuses on a person’s emotional wellbeing, person-centered activities, and making sure their interests are a priority.” Vince explained that as excited as Michael is to venture into the community, those they encounter are just as happy to see him. “He’s so friendly, accepting, and tolerant of people and situations, and these characteristics benefit him whether he’s in the community or at the group home. That’s the most beautiful part about him; he’s so accepting.”

During community habilitation time, Michael enjoys watching movies, developing his musical abilities, cheering on the Buffalo Bills, caring for his pet fish, and shopping. He also receives satisfaction from volunteering his time, especially at Meals on Wheels. Currently, he is considering volunteering at his local SPCA, because of his deep love for pets and animals in general. “Whether we’re working on budgeting skills, healthy living, or just actively engaging with community, he’s open to new ideas and experiences,” Vince said. “He always has a smile and is the bright spot in people’s day.” Whatever is on Michael’s agenda, he does it with the steadfast support of someone who cares deeply about him and his success.

Like countless others who live in certified residential environments, Michael’s long-term support team, his housemates, and his community act as a reminder that the most important thing is not where or with whom we live, but rather how we live. And for Michael, that’s with a heart full of happiness. As he continues to grow, explore, and engage with his community, Michael shows that home is about more than just where one lives. With the right support, everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can find their path in life, make meaningful contributions, and live with purpose and possibility.

Do you have a friend or family member who

would make a great Mentor?

If so, please encourage them to apply on our website.

We look forward to meeting them!

We hope you'll join us on Monday, March 10th from 5-9pm for our next Dine For Dollars event at Chipotle Mexican Grill, located at 406 Towne Drive in Fayetteville.

Chipotle will generously donate 25% of all pre-tax sales back to Advocates. To ensure Advocates receives credit, simply present this advertisement (either printed or on your mobile phone) while dining in.

On behalf of our individuals, families, and employees, thank you for your anticipated support! We hope to see you there!

Join us for Advocates night at the Syracuse Crunch!

Our next Advocates-sponsored Syracuse Crunch game is Mar. 29th! People/families receiving services from Advocates along with employees are invited to join us at 7pm that evening as the Syracuse Crunch take on the Rochester Americans.

Discount tickets ($20) can be purchased by contacting

Annika Tyson: (315) 473-4444 ext. 126 or online at: www.syracusecrunch.com/advocates using promotional code: ADVOCATES

Help make our 7th Annual event our best one yet!

Join us on Saturday, May 17th

to run, walk, stroll, or roll for Advocates! Advocates' Annual Stroll & Roll 5K will be held at Onondaga Lake Park (Willow Bay, 3858 Long Branch Road, Liverpool, NY 13090.)

The race begins at 10:00 am. There will be food trucks, live entertainment, family games, face painting, and snacks. The top three winners will receive a cash prize. Register before March 16th for the early bird pricing of $30!

All proceeds will benefit people with disabilities.

We hope to see you there!

On February 11th, there was a devastating fire in the NYS Thruway Building, and the entire Advocates’ Liverpool office suite was a total loss. We are infinitely grateful that no one was hurt. Thanks to the work of our dedicated employees, all Advocates’ services have continued without missing a beat.

We remain steadfastly here

for the people and families who are counting on us,

and for our employees.

For the foreseeable future, we will be operating from the

Advocates’ Fayetteville office/

Doug Klepper Community Center

300 South Manlius Street, Fayetteville, NY 13066

(315) 469-9931

Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 5pm

Many of you have generously asked what you can do to help. You can support Advocates with a donation by clicking the button below:

In the midst of challenging times, Advocates remains resilient and hopeful.

The bonds within the Advocates family and our community are stronger than ever.

We know that all is possible when we join together.

Thank you for being a meaningful part of our bright future

as we rebuild. 

Amy Dugliss

Executive Director

Did you know?

Advocates' Executive Director, Amy Dugliss, and Self-Advocate, Nicholas Courgi, collaborate each month to bring you an Advocates-themed podcast! The Inclusion Matters Podcast can be found by searching "Inclusion Matters Advocates" on Amazon Music and Spotify.

We hope you'll tune in monthly to hear inspiring stories from Advocates!

In case you missed it

Check out a previous edition's spotlight on mentor, Steve Boudreau. Advocates thanks you for all you do, Steve!