Jump into June! As summer begins and the days grow warmer and brighter, we're thrilled to share the latest updates, events, and highlights with you. Let's welcome the warmth, energy, and adventure of the season— there's so much to enjoy this month!

Kenisco Dam Walk

Join WILC for a Walk & Connect at Kensico Dam!  

Looking to get outside, meet new people, and enjoy a peaceful, accessible walk? Meet us at Kensico Dam Plaza on June 17 at 11:00 AM for a gentle 1.1-mile loop hike.

(The lower loop takes an average of 29 min to complete. It is easily accessible for people of various ages and abilities, and the well-lit pathways are made of hard surfaces with wide lanes.)

Bring a snack and stick around for relaxation and conversation. 

1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla, NY

📞 RSVP to Denise Dellisanti: (845) 426-5416 ddelisanti@wilc.org

Activities for Autism Resource Guide

Looking for fun, engaging, and sensory-friendly activities to enjoy at home with your child?

WILC has created a FREE downloadable guide full of autism-friendly ideas—think board games, homemade fidgets, creative apps, Minecraft, Animal Crossing, and more! From calming sensory play to screen-time with a purpose, this 20+ page PDF has something for every interest and ability level.

📥 Download now and explore together!



New Blog & Art Showcase Submissions

Creativity is a powerful form of self-expression—and for many people with disabilities, it’s also a source of empowerment, connection, and pride.

As we gear up for Disability Pride Month in July, WILC’s latest blog explores the transformative power of the arts and highlights two exciting ways you can get involved: our annual Art Showcase and upcoming Voices Without Barriers Virtual Poetry Slam!

Red our latest blog & find out how to share your own creative voice!



Virtual Poetry Slam

Calling all poets and creatives!

This July as part of Disability Pride Month WILC is proud to present Voices Without Barriers: a Virtual Poetry Slam celebrating the power of self-expression across all types of disability—including sensory, physical, mental illness, invisible, and developmental.

🗓️ Date: July 30, 2025

⏰ Time: 1–2 PM (Zoom link sent closer to the date)

📥  Submit your poem by July 11th to Azzura’e Wilson at Awilson@wilc.org to RSVP and take the virtual stage



NYConnects

Our New York Connects team has been hard at work connecting individuals and families with essential services to help them stay safe, independent, and supported in their homes and communities. Here’s a look at the vital resources we helped coordinate this past week:

✅ We helped several seniors begin the application process for personal care services like light housekeeping and bathing assistance, through the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs & Services.

✅ We guided families through applications for support with daily living tasks to help their loved ones age in place

✅ We connected older adults with nutritious daily meals through Meals on Wheels of White Plains and Greenburgh.

✅ We supported clients in setting up Lifeline systems for 24/7 peace of mind in case of emergency.

✅ We helped seniors arrange rides to appointments and grocery stores through Family Services of Westchester.

✅ We connected seniors with in-person programs like bingo, fitness classes, and art workshops

✅ We referred isolated seniors to DOROT Westchester for meaningful companionship through weekly phone or in-person visits.

Whether it’s meals, rides, help at home, or a friendly voice, we’re here to help you navigate the services that matter most. Need support? Call us today at 866-715-4700 or go to https://www.wilc.org/ny-connects-no-wrong-door



New York Connects – Here for you every step of the way.



Michael's Fun Fact

This June is National Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month. It’s always important to be aware of your brain and memory health, even if it is something that you can’t always see in front of you or feel it happening to you.

Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. The Alzheimer's Association estimates that 6.7 million people of all ages have Alzheimer's disease in the United States. It is primarily common among the elderly and aging demographics. Alzheimer's disease can also be linked to about 60-80% of dementia cases as well.

It is important to spread awareness of Alzheimer's disease to ensure that steps can be taken to make sure that any early signs of it can be detected as soon as possible. The most vulnerable people affected sometimes do not have anyone around them to help them see if they are forgetting things or acting differently than they normally do, such as having weaker motor skills and seeing a decline in how they act physically. It’s important for people to be vigilant about these sorts of things so if you know anyone with these kinds of signs, it’s important to have them see a doctor as soon as possible.

For those who develop such disabilities, WILC can provide resources to help individuals with their needs to lead independent lives, as well as help them navigate how to best approach those issues head on.

-         Michael Colotti

All skill levels welcome! We are excited to announce the launch of our Yarn Crafting Social Club, which will provide individuals with disabilities the opportunity to develop new skills, foster creativity, and connect with others in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Love knitting, crochet, or anything yarn-related? Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned stitcher, come connect with fellow yarn lovers for some cozy, creative fun!

To reserve your spot today, email rcollins@wilc.org

Westchester Independent Living Center

10 County Center Road 2nd floor

White Plains, NY 10607

(914) 682-3926 (Voice)

(914) 259-8036 (VP)

(914) 682-8518 (FAX)

contact@wilc.org

Putnam Independent Living Services

1441 Route 22, Suite 204

(Tompkins Mahopac Bank building)

Brewster, New York 10509

(845) 228-7457 (Voice)

(914) 259-8036 (VP)

(845) 228-7460 (Fax)

contact@putnamils.org