Buffalo Business First magazine has released its annual ranking of the most powerful people in Western New York, and once again Denise Jones has placed highly on the list.

Jones, The Resource Center’s Chief Executive Officer, is ranked No. 74 on this year’s “Power 250” list. The list reflects those who, in Business First’s opinion, are the 250 most influential people in the eight-county region. This is the fifth straight year Denise has been included on the Power 250 list since she became TRC’s Executive Director in 2015. This mark’s her highest ranking on the list; last year, she was No. 91.

Business First’s eighth annual Power 250 list and rankings were determined from a consensus of the members of its newsroom.

“We concede that there is no formula for computing power and influence. Influence means different things to different people, but most of us will agree on this: We all know power and influence when we see it,” said Donna Collins, Business First’s Managing Editor. “Factors we consider include length of time leading a company, CEOs of companies with sizable payrolls and leaders whose decisions affect many individuals,”

Denise, a certified public accountant, joined The Resource Center in 1990 as the agency’s first Internal Auditor. In 1997 she was named Finance Director, and she worked in that capacity until becoming Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Executive Director for Administrative Services in 2004. In 2008, she was promoted to Chief Operating Officer and Associate Executive Director.

TRC officials were pleased Jones has again been recognized as one of the region’s premier business leaders.

“The Board of Directors was delighted to learn that Denise has been included in the Business First listing of the 250 most powerful business leaders in Western New York,” said Patricia Perlee, Board President. “Denise is dynamic, knowledgeable and well respected within the community. She believes every individual is unique and valued and should be respected. We are extremely fortunate to have a director of Denise’s caliber heading our organization.”

The Resource Center has been supporting people with disabilities and their families since 1958. The Resource Center also provides a variety of health-related services that can be utilized by anyone, regardless of whether they have a disability. TRC also performs subcontracting work for the federal government and local businesses at manufacturing facilities in Jamestown and Dunkirk.

Other people from Chautauqua County or the developmental disabilities field who appeared on this year’s Power 250 list included:

• Rhonda Frederick, President and CEO, People Inc. – No. 21
• Dan Reininga, President and CEO, Lake Shore Bancorp – No. 114
• Anna Dibble, Plant Manager, Cummins Inc. – No. 132
• Mari Howard, CEO, Intandem – No. 137
• Bridget Bartalone, CEO, Person Centered Services – No. 178
• Michael Hill, President, Chautauqua Institution – No. 191
• Greg Edwards, CEO, Gebbie Foundation – No. 194

In addition, this year Business First created a separate Power Politicians list, which featured Assemblyman Andy Goodell at No. 17 and Senator George Borrello at No. 20.

Joan Scalise accepts her certificate from Mark Morton and Denise Jones.

The Resource Center’s annual budget preparation process can be a frustrating and confusing time for TRC managerial staff, who must make careful assumptions for the coming year that include setting revenue and expense targets as well as determining staffing needs.

When developing their spending plans, TRC administrators inevitably turn to Joan Scalise, Assistant Director of Finance in charge of budget and allocations. In Joan, administrators find a knowledgeable, patient person who can answer any question and resolve any problem people encounter as they prepare their budgets.

For her efforts, Joan received TRC’s Agency-Wide Staff Appreciation Award for the fourth quarter of 2019. A luncheon in her honor was held at the Dunham Avenue building.

At the luncheon Mark Morton, Assistant Executive Director for Employee Relations, said Joan had been nominated for the award by senior administrative staff in the Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services Division. Lori Carlson had traditionally done much of the work in preparing the I/DD budgets, but last year she was promoted to Director of Property and Maintenance. This meant a number of administrators in the I/DD Division had to become involved in preparing the 2020 budgets.

“The budget process can be very stressful and overwhelming to staff. When the person on the other end of the phone or across the desk is as warm, friendly and positive as you are, the stress level comes down and the task seems less daunting,” Mark said.

This was a theme that was repeated at the luncheon as several people came forward to express their appreciation to Joan. They cited her patience, cheerfulness and accessibility, and all were genuinely grateful to Joan for assisting them in developing their budgets.

“You made it something that wasn’t easy, but was understandable,” Kristen MacKenzie, Residence Coordinator Supervisor, said of Joan’s guidance regarding the budget process.

Kelly Dimitri, Chief Financial Officer, noted The Resource Center has some 250 cost centers, each requiring its own budget. The people responsible for putting together those 250 budgets look to Joan for guidance in developing and managing their spending plans.

“There is no doubt you are the driving force of the budget,” Kelly told Joan.

Denise Jones, Chief Executive Officer, praised Joan’s attention to detail and ability to foresee the consequences that would be felt across other aspects of the organization when changes are proposed to specific areas of the budget.

“Her corporate knowledge is just so strong and so good,” Denise said. “It’s one thing to read numbers on a spreadsheet, but another to make sure people understand.”

Marie Carrubba, a member of TRC’s Board of Directors, has served on the agency’s Finance Committee for 20 years. She appreciates Joan’s input when the committee reviews the budget.

“I can’t thank you enough for all of your contributions,” Marie told Joan. “You explain things to people who aren’t finance experts.”

Mark noted that Joan, who has worked at The Resource Center for 32 years, is one of the many employees whose behind-the-scenes work is critical to TRC’s operations.

“We have a lot of staff who have been here a long time, who do their job every day,” he said. “It is great that what you do and the positive and helpful manner in which you do it is being highlighted and recognized. It is well deserved.”

“I’m very humbled,” Joan said after accepting her award. “Thank you, thank you, thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

She said she was grateful to other TRC employees who have helped her to be successful in her job. She singled out Joshua Straight, Assistant Director of Information Systems, and Kristen Rendel, Business Systems Analyst, for their assistance in managing TRC’s online budget-submission process.

Joan’s husband, Larry, and daughters, Sam and Alex, attended the luncheon. Joan said that if not for TRC she wouldn’t have her family, explaining that she met Larry thanks to the efforts of his late mother, Pat, who worked with Joan at TRC’s Carl Cappa building in the 1980s and 1990s.

Noting that she has been a TRC employee for more than half of her life, Joan said she will always have a fondness for The Resource Center and the people with whom she works.

“This is my immediate family,” said Joan, gesturing toward her husband and daughters before turning to address her co-workers assembled in the room, “but this is my family as well.”

Friends of The Resource Center and the public is invited to attend a free Health & Safety Fair on Monday, January 13.

The event will be held on the first floor of TRC’s Michael J. Raymond Center, located at 75 Jones & Gifford Avenue in Jamestown. The event will run from 10:00 to 2:00.

Information will be available regarding the services The Resource Center provides to people with disabilities, as well as the health services TRC offers to anyone in the community. A number of external organizations will be represented as well, including the Chautauqua Children’s Safety Education Village; Chautauqua County Humane Society; Cornell Cooperative Extension; Healthy Community Alliance; Jamestown Fire Department; Meals on Wheels; UPMC Chautauqua’s Center for Imaging & Medical Arts; and the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) nutrition program operated by Catholic Charities. There also will be information about autism, Down syndrome, essential oils, lead screening, and poison prevention.

In addition, there will be fun activities such as dance instruction, Zumba, a scavenger hunt, and demonstrations by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department’s K-9 unit, the Warrin’ Wrecking Dolls roller derby team and TRC’s “Train Like an Astronaut” program. There also will be people dressed as characters with names like Gangster Germ, the Germinator, Bar of Soap, and Water Faucet.

Lunch, featuring baked potatoes with healthy fixings, will be available for purchase.

Those attending the Health & Safety Fair will receive a goody bag containing health-related information and items made by people with disabilities in TRC’s Day Programs. There also will be drawings for door prizes.

The Health & Safety Fair is being organized by longtime TRC employee Linda Gorton. She said the event was created with a goal of increasing awareness about health and safety issues among people with disabilities, TRC employees and the general public, while presenting the information in entertaining ways.

“We’re holding this event to make everybody aware of all of the healthy things going on at The Resource Center and in the community, and to present that information in a fun way,” Linda said. “We’ll have a lot to see and do.”

Parking is available across the street. For more information, phone 664-3893.

A radio show that previews the Health & Safety Fair will air from 11:30 to noon Saturday, January 11, on WJTN (1240 AM and 101.3 FM in the Jamestown area).  Click here to listen to the show live on the Internet.

The 19^th annual Marine Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County is entering its final days, and organizers are seeking the community’s help in making this year’s campaign a success.

Specifically, volunteers are needed to bag toys any time between 8:00 and noon Saturday, December 14, at Allied Alarm Services, 2020 Allen Street Extension in Falconer. This is an opportunity for people to play Santa by selecting toys for some of the more than 3,000 local children who have been registered to receive toys this holiday season, then place the toys into bags in preparation for distribution to families.

Staff and self-advocates from The Resource Center’s Community Pre-Vocational Program sort toys in Dunkirk. Pictured are, from left, Jason Kurgan, Community Coaches Beth Ray and Jessica Sayers, Tommy Proper, and Amy Ippolito.

“Saturday is the big bagging day at Toys for Tots,” said Heather C. Brown, assistant executive director at The Resource Center. She has been one of the lead coordinators of the local Toys for Tots drive since it started in 2001. “If you are able to stop down, please do so. It’s a great way for families and friends to get into the Christmas spirit and support those less fortunate in our community.”

There will be additional opportunities to volunteer from 9:00 to noon Sunday in Dunkirk; 9:00 to noon Monday in Jamestown and Dunkirk; and noon to 4:00 Thursday in Dunkirk. For more information about Toys for Tots or to sign up to volunteer, phone 661-1042 or 661-1433.

What began as a small project to help nine families back in 2000 has now grown into an effort that annually helps about 1,000 local families and more than 3,200 children who otherwise might go without on Christmas, as part of The Resource Center’s Marine Toys for Tots program.

“It’s amazing that we have been doing this for 19 years,” said Heather.

And the numbers of those in need keep growing year after year and are expected to climb again this season.

“We believe that there continues to be so many people living in poverty and just not able to make ends meet for anything extra at the holidays,” she said.

To meet the growing need, The Resource Center has partnered with more groups, schools and organizations to identify new families in need that haven’t reached out for help in the past.

“We see so many people who work multiple jobs just to pay the day-to-day bills and just are in need of a little boost at Christmas to be sure their children have something to open on Christmas Day,” Heather said.

Applications were accepted online through December 8. Having families apply online was one of the major changes made to the program last year.

“That saves the family from having to apply in person and then make a second trip for pickup. They just apply online, and we verify all of the details when they come to pick up their toys a few days before Christmas,” said Heather.

With thousands of toys being donated, Toys for Tots organizers were grateful that again this year, Allied Alarm Services offered the use of its warehouse to store the toys.

“It is a gift for us to play a small part in the Chautauqua County Toys for Tots organization again this year,’ said Mike Roberts, Allied Alarm’s president. “The generosity and outpouring of giving we see from so many people in our community is heartwarming and inspires us to give back so that more children can receive the love, joy, peace, promise, and hope this season brings. We are honored to be part of the amazing people who put this together. To put a smile on over 3,000 children’s faces is one the real joys of the Christmas season.”

Support from the local business community grew this year, with more than 130 local businesses placing collection boxes at their locations. Many businesses and groups hosted events to support Toys for Tots as well.

In addition to the donation boxes, Toys for Tots is also accepting monetary donations that can be mailed to TRC’s administrative offices at 200 Dunham Avenue in Jamestown.

“We are looking forward to the busy shopping season and the support of our generous community again this year,” said Patrick Smeraldo, another lead Toys for Tots coordinator who works as an independent service coordinator for the Chautauqua Connections Children’s Coalition.

The generosity of the community was out in full force at the annual Jamestown Christmas Parade and Holiday Celebration on December 6, put on by the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation. People were asked to bring toys to the parade and place them on our Toys for Tots float. Those who did so received a coupon for a free medium coffee or hot chocolate from Tim Hortons.

Other partners that helped TRC and the Chautauqua Connections Children’s Coalition with designing the float (pictured below) and collecting toys during the parade included the Jamestown Police Department, the Jamestown Fire Department, Lake Shore Paving, and the Jamestown High School cross-country team.

Coming off of a record year in terms of the number of children supported through the toy drive, organizers of the local Marine Toys for Tots campaign are counting on the community’s generosity to make this year’s effort a success.

For the 19^th straight year, The Resource Center is coordinating the Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County. Assisting in operating the campaign again this year are Chautauqua Connections, Inc., and the Chautauqua Connections Children’s Coalition.

Begun in 1947, the Marine Toys for Tots campaign seeks to deliver a message of hope to less-fortunate children throughout the United States by providing them with toys for Christmas. More than 700 toy drives are held nation-wide each year. The Resource Center has led the local toy drive since 2001. Last year, 3,213 Chautauqua County children received gifts.

This year, applications must be submitted online at www.jamestown-ny.toysfortots.org.

Children age 17 and younger whose families meet household income guidelines are eligible for assistance through Toys for Tots. Applications will be accepted until December 9.

The Resource Center’s primary mission is supporting people with disabilities. While many people with disabilities benefit from Toys for Tots each year, TRC also coordinates the annual toy drive in order to give back to the community. Though TRC organizes the toy campaign, support from area residents and businesses makes the effort a success.

In addition to placing toys in the collection boxes that are located at area businesses, people can donate toys by attending the Jamestown holiday parade Friday, December 6, and placing their gifts on The Resource Center’s Toys for Tots float. On Saturday, November 30, the fourth annual “Teddy Bear Toss” will take place at Northwest Arena, with fans encouraged to throw teddy bears onto the ice after the Jamestown Rebels score their first goal. The bears will be donated to Toys for Tots.

Cash donations also are welcome, as the money is used to buy gifts for children in age groups that typically do not receive a lot of toy donations. The Resource Center will host its annual Holiday Shopping Extravaganza at 200 Dunham Avenue on Saturday, December 7, from 10:00 to 4:00, and proceeds from the event will go to Toys for Tots. People can also donate by mailing a check (made payable to Toys for Tots) to The Resource Center, 200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701.

With thousands of toys being donated, organizers need a large warehouse space to safely store the toys. For the fifth straight year, Allied Alarm Services has donated the use of its facilities to store the toys that are donated

Toys for Tots organizers are seeking volunteers to assist with sorting and distributing toys. If interested, phone 661-1042.

Updates on the toy drive can be found by visiting the Chautauqua County, New York – Toys for Tots 2019 Facebook page.

Area residents can support the Toys for Tots drive by placing new, unwrapped toys in any of the collection boxes located at more than 130 sites throughout Chautauqua County. Toys will be accepted until Friday, December 13. Here are some of the toy drop-off locations:

Anytime Fitness
Applebees – Dunkirk
Artone
Ashville Free Library
Aspen Dental – Lakewood
Bemus Elementary School
Bemus Point Golf Course
Bemus Point Inn
Big Lots – Jamestown
Brookdale
BWB
Celoron Moose
Chautauqua Childrens Gym
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel
Chautauqua Inst. Book Store
Chautauqua Institution Main Office
Chautauqua Mall
Chautauqua Patrons Insurance
Chautauqua Works
The Connection
CPL Team Architecture & Engineering
Cummins
Dollar General – most Chautauqua County locations
Dom Polski Club
Ed Shultz – most locations
Edward Jones Financial
Elks Club
ERA Real Estate -all Chautauqua County locations
Falconer School
Family Martial Arts Center Fredonia
Fancher Chair
Farm Fresh Foods -Third St.
Felice Corp. Center
Fitness Bunker
Forbicci Hair Design
Fredonia Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram
Gerber Collision
Greater Chaut. Federal Credit Union
H&R Block
Holiday Inn Express
Hyundai
Inscape
Jackson Center
Jamestown Area Federal Credit Union – Second St
Jamestown Area Federal Credit Union- Lakewood
Jamestown Rubber Stamp Co
Jefferson School
Karma Salon
Keller Group -Lockwood Agency
Kia of Jamestown
Kirk’s Jewelers & Gifts Inc
LandPro
Larson-Timko Funeral home
Literacy Volunteers of Chautauqua County
M&T Bank – Falconer
M&T Bank – Foote Ave
Matco Tool
Northwest Arena
Panache Salon
Piazza’s Carpet One
Premier Listings Real Estate
Pucci’s Carpet One
Quick Solutions
Red Lobster
Regal Services
Ring School
Robo Wash – 2nd St
Roots Salon
RS Motors
Serta Mattress Company
ServPro of Jamestown/Olean
Sheridan VFW
Shults Accident Repair Center
SKF
South County Office Building
St. James Church
Starbucks
Tanglewood Manor
Temple Elementary School
Tim Hortons – All Chautauqua County locations
Tops – Washington St.
The Resource Center – all locations
UBS Financial Services Inc.
VA Clinic – Dunkirk
VFW – Silver Creek
VFW -Westfield
Wal-Mart- Fredonia
Wal-Mart- Lakewood
WCA Home Assisted Living Facility
Weber Knapp Co.
Wegmans
Woodforest National Bank
Woodlawn Credit Union-Fredonia
Woodlawn Credit Union-Lakewood
Xplosion All Stars Competition Cheer Team
YMCA – Jamestown
YMCA – Lakewood

The First Lutheran Community Outreach Store in Jamestown recently presented $1,000 to the Marine Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County. Pictured are, from left, Debi Brandi, Store Manager; Toys for Tots Coordinators Patrick Smeraldo, Independent Service Coordinator with Chautauqua Connections, Inc., and Terri Johnson, TRC’s Director of Employment and Community-Based Services; Jane Young, a TRC employee and member of First Lutheran Church; and Pastor Daniel Nagle.

The Resource Center will renew its annual gift to area residents when it sponsors the 2019 Jamestown holiday parade.

The event is scheduled for Friday night, December 30. This marks the 15^th straight year TRC has been the parade’s presenting sponsor.

“The Resource Center is proud to sponsor the Jamestown holiday parade for the 15th straight year,” said Steve Waterson, Community Relations Director. “The parade is a wonderful tradition that is eagerly awaited by many and draws thousands of people downtown to watch and be a part of this magical holiday spectacle. Sponsoring the parade is a way for us to thank the community for all of the support it provides year round to The Resource Center and the people with disabilities we serve. We’re happy to once again partner with the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation to make this special event possible.”

The theme of this year’s parade is “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Floats will begin lining up at 5:00 on the Third Street Bridge. The parade will begin at about 6:30 and continue down Third Street to City Hall. Besides the parade, there will be pre-parade musical entertainment, a traditional tree-lighting ceremony and a fireworks display.

The holiday parade, which is coordinated by the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, has been a long-standing tradition in the city. Area residents, businesses, social organizations, and non-profits come downtown the evening of the parade to celebrate the holidays, attend one of many area holiday events, and support local business. The Resource Center enjoys sponsoring the parade as a way of giving back to the community for its support of TRC.

The Resource Center will have a float in the parade. TRC service recipients, employees, Board members, and families and friends are invited to walk along the parade route with TRC’s float and hand out candy to onlookers. We also plan to have a bus in the parade for people who want to take part in the event but would prefer not to be out in the cold. If interested in being part of TRC’s parade procession, find TRC’s Toys for Tots float on the Third Street bridge between 5:00 and 6:30.

TRC and the Chautauqua Connections Children’s Coalition, which again this year are coordinating the Marine Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County, are encouraging area residents to support the effort by bringing toys to the parade. Additional connections have been made this year to make donating a toy at the parade easier than ever. Toys for Tots will have a common drop point near the intersection of Spring Street and Third Street during the parade, and they will collect toys on the Tots for Tots float. The float will be near the front of the parade with TRC, and will be collecting toys as it moves along the parade route. Anyone who donates a toy will receive a coupon for a free medium coffee, courtesy of Tim Hortons. Additional Toys for Tots partners include Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, Lakeshore Paving, Jamestown Police Department, Jamestown Fire Department, and the Jamestown High School Cross Country Team.

For more information about the parade, visit www.jamestownrenaissance.org.

Pictured are, from left, Shawn Shilling from the Jamestown Fire Department; Terri Johnson, TRC; Patty Perlee, President of TRC’s Board of Directors; Patrick Smeraldo, Chautauqua Connections, Inc.; Heather C. Brown, TRC; Corey Moore, Jamestown Police Department; Blake Tarana, Tim Hortons; Selina Phillps, TRC; Victoria Trass Bardo, Filling the Gap, Inc.; Cathy Ensminger, TRC; Kristy Kathman, Jamestown Renaissance Corporation; and Cristin Hockenberry, Jamestown Public Schools.

Fans of the Jamestown Rebels get excited whenever the hockey team scores. The first goal the Rebels score during their November 30 game will be more exciting than usual.

That’s because Jamestown’s first goal will be a signal for fans to throw teddy bears onto the ice in a promotion to benefit The Resource Center’s Marine Toys for Tots drive.

The event is called the Teddy Bear Toss, and this marks the fourth straight year it has taken place. Fans are encouraged to bring new, stuffed bears to throw onto the ice after the Rebels score their first goal. (If Jamestown doesn’t score during the first two periods, the Teddy Bear Toss will take place during the second intermission.) The bears will be collected and then given to Toys for Tots.

Jamestown Rebels players and Northwest Arena officials collect some of the toys at last year’s Teddy Bear Toss.

TRC officials are grateful the Rebels and Northwest Arena were willing to conduct a Teddy Bear Toss again this year.

“We’re so glad the Rebels and the arena wanted to do the Teddy Bear Toss again,” said Steve Waterson, Community Relations Director. “Our community is very supportive of the Toys for Tots drive, and the Teddy Bear Toss is a great way to collect some toys while giving fans the opportunity to have fun by throwing teddy bears onto the ice. We appreciate the players and coaches being willing to delay play for the Teddy Bear Toss and then help collect the toys.”

Rebels’ officials also are looking forward to the Teddy Bear Toss.

“The Rebels are pleased to once again team up with The Resource Center for our annual Teddy Bear Toss night. Having this promotion is a wonderful way to bring the community together to support the Toys for Tots drive and the children of Chautauqua County. We couldn’t be more excited for this night.” said Tommy Gerace, Director of Community Relations.

The Rebels’ opponent will be the Johnstown Tomahawks. Game time is 7:05. Gerace noted that fans will receive a discount on their ticket purchase if they bring a stuffed animal to throw onto the ice. He said more information can be found at www.rebelshockey.us.

While fans of the hometown team likely want Jamestown to score lots of goals, Waterson joked that he hopes the Rebels don’t score as quickly as they did at last year’s Teddy Bear Toss game. In that contest, the home team scored about 90 seconds into the game, and because the first goal occurred so soon some late-arriving fans missed the Teddy Bear Toss.

Waterson noted the popularity of the Teddy Bear Toss, saying that more than 1,100 people attended last year’s game, including hundreds of TRC employees and their families. About 400 stuffed toys were collected during last year’s game, and he thinks this year’s Teddy Bear Toss will be even more successful. Waterson said each toy donated is needed, and this was especially true last year when TRC experienced a greater than 20 percent increase in the number of children and families seeking assistance through the Toys for Tots program.

This marks the 19^th straight year The Resource Center has coordinated the Marine Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County. Last year a record 3,213 local children received toys. People interested in applying for toys should do so online at www.jamestown-ny.toysfortots.org. The application deadline is December 9.

For more information about the toy drive, phone Terri Johnson at 661-1433.

Representatives from the Jamestown Rebels and The Resource Center pose with some stuffed bears. Pictured from left are Team Captain Eric Olson; Tommy Gerace, the Rebels’ Director of Community Relations; and Terri Johnson, TRC’s Director of Employment and Community-Based Services and one of the lead organizers of the local Toys for Tots drive.

The accomplishments of people with disabilities were highlighted when The Resource Center held its 31^st annual Ability Awareness Awards Celebration.

The event took place October 24 at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron. The celebration was an opportunity to recognize people with disabilities who have made meaningful strides in their lives, as well as honor community residents and organizations that have helped improve the lives of those who have a disability.

Welcoming remarks were given by Denise Jones, The Resource Center’s Executive Director. She noted that this year marked a change in the event’s name. For its first 30 years, the celebration was known as the Disability Awareness Awards.

“When we created this event in 1989 that name made sense, because we wanted to help the community understand that people with disabilities can accomplish great things. Thirty years later calling this event the Disability Awareness Awards seems outdated, because we witness every day the successes of the people we support,” Denise said. “Thank you for joining us today for this celebration. By being here, you’re helping to carry on a 60-year tradition of valuing people with disabilities. We’re proud to have you as a partner in our ongoing mission of making a difference in people’s lives.”

The first honor of the evening was the Community Partnership Award, which was presented to the Fluvanna Free Library. People with disabilities from The Resource Center enjoy visiting the library, and the staff there were cited for their efforts of providing a welcoming space.

Library Director Lynn Grundstrom noted that libraries provide opportunities for patrons to “play games, use computers, search the Internet, and explore the world,” among other things.   “I’d like to thank everybody on behalf of the Fluvanna Free Library for this award. It shows that our endeavor to become a community hub is actually being very successful.”

The Health Provider of the Year Award was given to William Bowler, who has been a Physical Therapist at TRC’s Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Jamestown since 2004. . Bill possesses a caring, dedicated demeanor and displays an optimistic attitude every day. He works hard to ensure that all of his patients – people with disabilities from TRC, as well as community members needing treatment – receive the maximum benefits from therapy in order to reach their optimum level of independence.

Bill said health care is a chain that includes administrators, patient access specialists and providers, working together. “I’m very fortunate to work in a clinic that all the specialties are very cooperative, they’re very supportive of each other, and it’s been a real pleasure for the last 15 years,” he said.

The Advocate of the Year was Don Caruso. Don is a full-time employee in TRC’s Maintenance Department who fills in as a Direct Support Professional at one of TRC’s homes. Sensitive, caring and fun, he spends quality time with the home’s residents. He has formed a close relationship with one resident, becoming this man’s life champion.

“I want to thank the whole, entire agency for giving me the opportunity to do this, to work with these guys,” Don said.

The Elmer Muench Volunteer of the Year Award was given to the Sunny Side Up band. Sunny Side Up has been performing at The Resource Center’s Senior Adult Day Habilitation Program in Jamestown for many years. Staff and program participants enjoy having Sunny Side Up perform, and they count down the days until the band’s next appearance. Sunny Side Up brings many smiles when they perform, and over the years the band’s members have developed friendships with the Senior Day Hab participants.

“The Senior Day Hab has been part of my life for 20 years,” said Brenda Carr, who founded the Sunny Side Up band many years ago. “If you want to be lifted up, go there. Volunteer your time. It’s the best.”

The Volunteer of the Year Award is named in memory of Elmer Muench, a longtime volunteer for The Resource Center.

The Personal Success Award was given to Jesterfer Johnson. When Jesse suddenly became homeless, The Resource Center stepped in to find emergency housing for him and connect him with the supports he needed to rebuild his life. Eventually, Jesse was able to get his own apartment and retrieve his dog. He also obtained a part-time job. Throughout the challenges he’s faced, Jesse has maintained a positive and optimistic attitude, never becoming frustrated or sad about his situation. He enjoys volunteering, attending church functions and visiting with friends

“I want to thank all the people for having my back, and all the people at my church (Zion Tabernacle) and my father up there in heaven,” Jessie said.

The Bruce Walford Community Service Award was presented to TRC employee Shelly Pratt for her efforts in organizing the agency’s participation in the Chautauqua Lake Dragon Boat Races each year. Shelly recruits more than 50 volunteers from among TRC employees as well as the people with developmental disabilities who TRC supports, thereby giving them the opportunity to take part in a unique activity. Shelly approaches her organizing role with passion and enthusiasm that are infectious.

The Community Service Award is named in memory of the late Bruce Walford, manager of TRC’s Dunkirk manufacturing facility.

The Outstanding Achievement Award was presented to Dione Ransom. Dione has made tremendous progress since he came to The Resource Center four years ago. He has learned to control his emotions when angry or upset, and he has begun to use his voice more and expand his vocabulary.

Dione left before the awards were presented, so Nick Couse, the Assistant Manager at Dione’s home, accepted the award on his behalf. “He has come a long way,” Nick said of Dione’s progress during the past few years. “I just want to thank everybody from the TRC organization that has helped him reach where he’s at right now.” He also credited Dione’s tutor, David Digirolamo, for his efforts in helping Dione.

The Edwin Roth Mental Health Award was given to Laurie Fenton. Laurie, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with TRC’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services, is passionate about her work and is the first to say “let’s do it” when it comes to new programs or ideas. Her compassion shows in her desire to help anyone who comes her way.

“It’s an honor to be recognized like this. I feel like advocating is just, really, it’s the job,” said Laurie, who thanked her mentors for their support. “I also have to give credit to my nursing team, because they’re the guts that are in the background doing a heck of a lot of work, getting the medications approved, case management, insurance needs, et cetera.”

The Mental Health Award is named in memory of the late Ed Roth, an official with the New York State Office of Mental Health.

The Business/Employer of the Year Award was given to Servpro of Jamestown and Olean. Servpro has hired several people with disabilities through The Resource Center’s Supported Employment Program and has provided unpaid work experiences to people enrolled in TRC’s Community Pre-Vocational Program so they can experience working in an office setting.

“We are now a stronger, more diversified company,” said Bill Uhl, Servpro President. “We are thankful to have a great relationship with The Resource Center. We appreciate their help, their guidance and the wonderful people who have joined our team. We look forward to our continued success with this amazing organization.”

Also recognized at the awards celebration was Andrew Dyckes. He was honored for having been selected by NYSID (New York State Industries for the Disabled) for recognition in its annual Outstanding Performer Program. NYSID honored Andy for his job performance as a member of the TRC Environmental Services crew, cleaning Fredonia Middle School. It’s a job he’s had for 25 years.

“Thank you very much for picking me for the award,” Andy said.

The final honor was the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was given to Lyman Buck III. Lyman began supporting The Resource Center in 1984 through his position as Senior Vice President at KeyBank. Over the years, he has assisted TRC in securing funding from KeyBank and KeyBank Foundation that has been used to help pay for renovations to TRC’s Jamestown and Dunkirk Dental Offices and Michael J. Raymond Center, and to support employment programs for people with developmental disabilities. For more than 20 years Lyman has served on TRC’s Finance Committee, sharing his expertise in banking, community grant opportunities and the financial policies and practices of similar non-profit agencies. He and his wife, Janette, have been financial supporters of The Resource Center and TRC Foundation over the years, earning a place on our Legacy Circle of donors.

“I have been blessed to be able to serve The Resource Center for the last 35 years,” said Lyman. In recognition of receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award, he was given a painting made by people with disabilities in TRC’s Creations Art Program. Lyman said that over the years he has acquired 15 such paintings, which he proudly exhibits at his home. In tribute to the quality work done by TRC’s artists, Lyman commented, “I have an art gallery that is probably one of the best in the world.”

Closing remarks were given by Patricia Perlee, the President of TRC’s Board of Directors.

Each award recipient received a trophy, plus certificates provided by Congressman Tom Reed, Assemblyman Andy Goodell and County Executive George Borrello. Two people who receive supports from The Resource Center, Dennis Bottomley and Josh Holsinger, helped hand out the awards. TRC’s Steve Waterson was the master of ceremonies, while TRC employee Jane Young was the event photographer.

This year’s Awards Selection Committee was composed of Victoria Trass Bardo, Development and Events Manager for Filling the Gap; John D’Agostino, Publisher of the Observer; Kathy Field, TRC’s Associate Executive Administrative Assistant; Mary Keeney, a member of the Celoron Board of Trustees; and Shirley Sanfilippo, Celoron Clerk/Treasurer.

Also recognized at the awards celebration were individuals and businesses who within the past year achieved significant levels of cumulative financial contributions to The Resource Center, TRC Foundation or Filling the Gap. Those achieving milestone giving levels during the past year were Lake Shore Savings ($150,000); the Observer and Janice Pratt-Scott ($10,000); Tom Brigiotta ($5,000); and Michele Albaugh, Christopher Anderson, Christopher Cowen, Dr. Frederick Giddy, Rebecca Hamlet Kapple, Heidi Lawson, John and Dory Matwijkow, Dr. K. Patrick Seastedt, Yvonne Tovell, and Wendy Triscari ($1,000).

Major sponsors of this year’s event were FSC Systems, NYSID, and Saxton Kocur & Associates.

Click here to listen to a radio show that recaps the Ability Awareness Awards Celebration.

Recipients of the 2019 Ability Awareness Awards pose together. Pictured are, from right, sitting, Jesterfer Johnson, Personal Success Award; Shelly Pratt, Bruce Walford Community Support Award; Andy Dyckes, NYSID Outstanding Performer; Don Caruso, Advocate of the Year; Bill Bowler, Health Provider of the Year; and Laurie Fenton, Edwin Roth Mental Health Award; and, standing, Lynn Grundstrom of the Fluvanna Free Library, which received the Community Partnership Award; Bill Uhl and Renee Hall of Servpro, the Employer of the Year; Lyman Buck III, Lifetime Achievement Award; and members of the Sunny Side Up Band, which received the Elmer Muench Volunteer of the Year Award.

Everyone is invited to attend The Resource Center’s “Celebration of Life” on Friday, November 8. The event will remember people living in TRC homes who have passed away since January 2017.

William Haenggi

The free event will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Conference Center of our facility at 200 Dunham Avenue in Celoron. (Please park in the rear lot off of Allegheny Avenue and use the entrance at the top of the ramp on the left.)  In addition to remembering people with disabilities who have passed away, we will be formally dedicating the annual Celebration of Life event in memory of William Haenggi, a longtime member of our Board of Directors who died last year.

The Celebration of Life will begin with a brief ceremony to remember each of the people who has passed away.  Then there will be music and dancing, similar to the monthly Friday night dances TRC hosts.  A photo and biographical information about each of the people being remembered will be on display throughout the event.

If planning to attend, please RSVP by phoning 661-1441.  Here are the self-advocates we will be honoring at the Celebration of Life:

Davida Boyardi
Laurie Burt
Madeline Cammarato
Sandy Clark
Thomas Cochran
Herbert Curtis
Patricia Dale
Randy Darrin
Kenneth Davis
Ronald Dennison
Sandra Dulaney
Steven Fagerstrom
Richard Ferguson
Gregory Freyburger
Rosalie Giunta
Linda Haviland
Laurel Hotelling
Annette Kortwright
Lillian Johnson
Beverly Long
Robert McCandless
James Oakes
Sebastian Raffa
Sheree Smith
Heather Stahley
Angela Taber
Paul Thomas
Melissa Trask
Charlotte Werner
Cindy White
Michael Wilcox
Judith Wilkins
Mabelle Woodworth

The Resource Center recently observed National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week by honoring employees who have done an exemplary job in providing direct support to the people with developmental disabilities who TRC serves.

The agency’s annual Everyday Hero Celebration was an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of direct support professionals (DSPs) throughout the agency while spotlighting five employees for their efforts during the past year. Those employees were Gladys Alverio, Alta Harding, Pennifer McCartney, Christine Monroe, and Lauri Vincent.

Mark Morton, Assistant Executive Director for Employee Relations, welcomed people to the event, held at The Resource Center’s administrative offices on Dunham Avenue in Celoron.

“We have so many great DSPs,” said Mark. He noted that the interaction between direct support professional and the person they’re supporting is the most important quality measure for agencies like The Resource Center.

“If you think about it, all the activities of The Resource Center really go to supporting that interaction. That is really what this agency is about,” Mark said. “That interaction really drives the mission – helping people be more independent, bettering the quality of life, being more productive.”

He added that the role of a DSP is similar to other jobs that require proficiency in a number of hard and soft skills.

“Like any other recognized profession – whether it’s nursing, teaching – being a professional in direct support requires a multitude of skills, competencies, attitudes, and beliefs. So the people we hear about today bring those skills, qualities, competencies, attitudes, and beliefs needed for the many interactions they have with the people they support, each and every day.”

Mary Jo Hamilton, Director of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services noted that when she visits TRC’[s homes and Day Programs, she notices all of the ways in which staff are supporting people to have the best lives possible.

“I see all the DSPs paying attention to really all those little, tiny details for each person, so they can ensure that everyone’s comfortable,” Mary Jo said. “Yhey’re ensuring that whatever they want is happening, whether it be going to a Buffalo Bills game or going for a walk in the park. So however big or small it is, you guys are the ones that are making sure that it’s happening.”

Denise Jones, TRC’s Executive Director, praised the DSPs for the support they provide to people with disabilities. She said that when she encounters DSPs, “One of the first things I ask is, `What do you enjoy about what you do?’ And without hesitation, and without exception, the first response is, `We do what we do for the people we support. We love the people that we support, and that’s why we’re here and that’s why we do the job.’ It gives me chills. I have goosebumps right now just repeating that, because that’s where we need you to be, and that’s where our staff are, and I’m so proud of that.”

Denise told the DSPs at the Everyday Hero event, “Your dedication and your support for the people we support is just outstanding and second to none.”

Terri Johnson, Director of Employment and Community-Based Services, told the Everyday Heroes that the work done by DSPs and Community Coaches is what makes TRC successful.

“Without your dedication and hard work, it’s not possible for us to do what we do on an everyday basis. Thank you so much for not only inspiring the people that you support, but the rest of your teams as well,” Terri said. “Now you are part of an elite group of people that all of your co-workers should be aspiring to get to as an Everyday Hero.”

Assemblyman Andrew Goodell dropped by the event to praise TRC’s DSPs and present each Everyday Hero with a certificate from his office. County Executive George Borrello also provided certificates to the Everyday Heroes.

Here is some info about our 2019 Everyday Heroes:

Gladys Alverio – Gladys, a Direct Support Professional at TRC’s home on Eagle Street in Dunkirk, has only worked at The Resource Center for about 18 months, but in that time she has made a positive impression. She is a reliable employee who always is at work when she’s assigned and is willing to work extra shifts when needed. Gladys often cooks with the home’s residents.

“She rallied other staff members around her and shows natural leadership skills,” said the co-worker who nominated her as an Everyday Hero. “Gladys always is heard laughing and has such an upbeat outlook. “Gladys takes new employees under her direction and trains them properly to the daily functioning of the house, for the benefit of the people we support.”

Alta Harding – Alta, a Lead DSP at one of TRC’s homes on Foote Avenue in Jamestown, has worked at The Resource Center for about three years. She is described as a hard worker who is dedicated to enhancing the lives of the people living in the home and who advocates for the residents to experience the best things in life while working toward independence.

“Every day, Alta comes into work with an amazing attitude and makes everyone around her happier,” said a co-worker who nominated her. “Alta continues to find new ways to engage with our individuals and helps other staff in finding new approaches.”

“Alta is very dedicated, she is reliable and is a joy to work with,” said another co-worker. “Alta has a great relationship with all the people she supports and also their families, and her co-workers.”

Pennifer McCartney – Penny is a Community Coach who has worked for The Resource Center since 2003. In her role, she integrates people with developmental disabilities into the community, and she is adept at coming up with fun and interesting experiences. Examples include arranging for people to make chocolate treats during a visit to Webb’s Candy Shop in Mayville, and a trip to the Grape Discovery Center in Westfield to learn about the local grape industry.

“Not only does Penny go above and beyond to provide fun opportunities, she is also very patient and loyal to the people she supports,” said the co-worker who nominated her. “She is a great communicator, brings fun and humor with her wherever she goes and is truly passionate about providing the utmost support to people.”

Christine Monroe – Christine, a DSP Lead in the Discoveries Day Habilitation Program, has worked at The Resource Center for three years. The program offers opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to explore their community and become a part of it. Christine was cited for her efforts in finding places for people to visit.

“She takes the time to make sure that each place in the community they go to is somewhere that the people have chosen,” said the person who nominated Christine. “She makes their time in the community meaningful, enjoyable, and encourages the people to learn and develop relationships.” She has even taken American Sign Language training so that she can help a person she supports to better communicate with people in the community.

Lauri Vincent – Lauri, a Self-Determination Assistant, has worked at The Resource Center for about two years. She was honored for the ways in which she has supported a woman to improve her life by, among other things, obtaining her driver’s license and acquiring a job.

“Lauri is absolutely wonderful in assisting the person she supports,” said the person who nominated her. “Lauri provides support to help her with her anxiety so she is able to be successful in her life. Lauri motivates/encourages her daily and has made a huge difference in her life for the best.”

Thirteen other employees nominated for Everyday Hero recognition received honorable mention: Don Caruso, Alyssa Fardink, Jessica Hatfield, Lisa Hoch, Ashley Luka-Conley, Jason Lutgen, Jill Marsh, Cherish Matteson, Kayla Ormsby, Tanya Schmidt, Cheryl Stow, Nichole Washer, and Margaret Wilson.

Click here to listen to a radio show about the Everyday Hero Celebration.

Click here if you’d like to make a donation to next year’s Everyday Hero Celebration in honor of one of this year’s awardees, or your favorite DSP.

Pictured are, from left, sitting, our Everyday Heroes: Lauri Vincent, Christine Monroe, Pennifer McCartney, Alta Harding, and Gladys Alverio; and, standing, some of the people who received honorable mention: Margaret Wilson, Jessica Hatfeld, Nichole Washer, Don Caruso, Tanya Schmidt, and Alyssa Fardink.