IN THIS ISSUE:

Features:



Prioritizing Workforce Investment!


Advocacy in Albany


Community Connections: Firemens Way Staff & Students Welcome Mid Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union to Classrooms


Community Spotlight:

Uniting Abilities First and Foundation for Abilities First Board of Directors and Executive Leadership in a Social Gathering



FAFNY News:

Welcome New Board Member, Jacob Friedman


Upcoming Events:

2024 Golf & Tennis Classic


Come Visit Our Recruitment Team


Spring Camp & CPR Events


Give an Online Gift & Support the Foundation for Abilities First NY

After the 2024-25 NYS Budget Proposal: Prioritizing Workforce Investment!

Governor Kathy Hochul delivered her State of the State on January 16th outlining proposals set to bring about positive changes for individuals with developmental disabilities including several groundbreaking initiatives aimed at enhancing community integration, fostering employment opportunities, and improving healthcare for both adults and children with developmental disabilities.


Advocates argue however, that Governor Kathy Hochul's proposed budget falls short in adequately addressing the escalating shortage of caregivers for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Compounding the issue, worker pay is failing to keep pace with inflation, with starting pay across the state hovering just above $16 per hour. Nonprofit organizations employing these caregivers contend that the proposed 1.5% funding increase sought by Hochul will not be sufficient to cover the rising costs associated with inflation. To align with the present inflation rate, a funding increase of 3.2% would be necessary. Over the past decade, costs to OPWDD providers have escalated by 27.8%, as indicated by the Consumer Price Index (CPU), while cumulative Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) was only 11.6%.That is a devastating gap of 16.2%.This prolonged period of neglect and underinvestment has resulted in a workforce crisis across the state.


In the upcoming months, Abilities First will partner and work with allied organizations to support and champion for the I/DD system that is undervalued and underfunded. We will collaborate and advocate with our state legislatures to secure additional funds and listen to the wage and staffing concerns affecting our community. Now is the moment for the I/DD Community to be heard. Click HERE to urge Governor Hochul and your legislators to #InvestInMe and hear your concerns. And stay tuned with the Abilities First social channels to see important information and updates. The next state budget is due April 1.

Advocacy In Albany - NYDA Capital Rally

A call to action to invest in the future of individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities and the people who support them! Wear Orange and show lawmakers you support investment in the I/DD Service Sector. The NYDA Capitol Rally is February 12th,11:00 AM at the New York State Capitol Building-War Room, 2nd Floor on State St. & Washing Avenue in Albany. The event will serve as a rallying point for our shared commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and raising awareness for those whose voices deserve to be heard.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Firemens Way Staff & Students Welcome Mid Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union to Classrooms

Pictured above: Firemens Way School Principal Georgia Patchen, Kathleen Schaible, Wendy Dugan, Santos

and Teacher Nancy Besio.

Mid Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union Branch Managers, Kathleen Schaible (Fishkill), Wendy Dugan (Lagrange) were greeted to a warm welcome while they recently toured and experienced the extraordinary work being done at the Abilities First Firemens Way School. Partnerships with businesses like MHVCFU are essential in creating a brighter future for all. 


If you would like a guided tour of Abilities First or more information on our schools and programs, please contact JoAnn Parker. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to:


  • Explore our facilities designed to meet the diverse needs of our students and adults.
  • Meet our passionate staff members dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
  • Witness firsthand the impact of our programs on the individuals and families within our community.
  • Learn how your business can collaborate with us to create meaningful change and lasting impact.


Whether you're interested in corporate sponsorship opportunities or learning more about our agency and how you can support our mission, our doors are open. Contact JoAnn Parker at joannparker@abilitiesfirstny.org and arrange a convenient time to visit. Together, we can explore the possibilities and forge meaningful connections that benefit us all.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Uniting Abilities First and Foundation for Abilities First Board of Directors and Executive Leadership in a Social Gathering

Pictured above clockwise: Jacob Friedman, Richard Kolosky, Kelly Martinez, Mark Nace, Amy Bombardieri, JoAnn Parker, David Melby, Jenny & Dr. Jeffery Fox.

In the spirit of unity and collaboration, our Abilities First Board of Directors and Foundation for Abilities First NY Board of Directors recently came together for a fun social evening. Coming together in the new year, provided an opportunity for key stakeholders to connect on a personal level, strengthening the bonds that drive our shared vision.


We express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who attended, bringing their enthusiasm and dedication to the table. Together, we embark on a journey of continued growth, innovation, and community impact. Here's to a year filled with meaningful connections and shared successes!

FAFNY NEWS

Welcome FAFNY New Board Member Jacob Friedman


We are thrilled to announce Jacob Friedman has joined the Foundation for Abilities First NY (FAFNY) Board of Directors. Jacob serves as an Investment Associate with Focused Wealth Management, Newburgh. Jacob resides in Newburgh with his wife, Breanna.


Jacob will join our volunteer leadership team and be included in our events committees dedicated to garnering the financial resources necessary to meet the programmatic interests and ensure the sustainability of the Abilities First mission and vision.

 

Jacob's passion for his community will undoubtedly enrich our discussions and strengthen our impact. 


Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Jacob. We are incredibly fortunate to have him join our team and look forward to achieving great things together. 

Abilities First & Foundation Events

For sponsorship opportunities or more event info, please contact

JoAnn Parker at joannparker@abilitiesifrstny.org.

See All Employment Opportunities

Exciting News! Registration for Spring Break Day Camp for OPWDD eligible students is happening now! Get ready for a week of adventure and endless fun at our Spring Break Camp designed exclusively for students who are deemed OPWDD eligible!


For more information or to register contact: Gina Carminucci at ginacarminucci@abilitiesfirstny.org or call 845-475-3217, ext. 1197. Registration deadline is February 26, 2024!

AF logo
Support the Foundation for Abilities First NY
To make an online gift to the mission of Abilities First, visit https://www.abilitiesfirstny.org/make-an-impact/donate.

For additional information on gifts, sponsorships, events, volunteering, or hosting a fundraiser, contact JoAnn Parker at joannparker@abilitiesfirstny.org.



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