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    • The Resource Center recently said farewell to longtime employees Mary Jo Hamilton and Joyce Peterson, who combined had almost 70 years of service with TRC.

    Mary Jo joined The Resource Center in March 1982, not long after graduating from Brockport State with a degree in recreation and leisure, with specialization in therapeutic recreation.  She also minored in special needs for people with intellectual disabilities.

    Mary Jo came on board about three weeks before the opening of our Intermediate Care Facility on Foote Avenue in Jamestown, and that is where she spent most of the first 20 years of her TRC career.  In that time she steadily moved up the ladder, starting out as a Recreation Therapist and then becoming a Direct Care Supervisor, Residential Coordinator, Assistant Program Administrator, and Program Administrator for Adult Developmental Services.

    From 2004 to 2008, Mary Jo’s career took a slightly different turn as she served as Quality Assurance and Verification Coordinator.  In 2008 she became Associate Director of Residential Services, and she remained in that role until 2015, when she was promoted to Director of Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services.

    Mary Jo had good relationships with the people living in TRC’s homes, and their families.  Our staff also valued her – Direct Support Professionals appreciated the fact Mary Jo spent her early years of her TRC career in the direct support realm, so she understood the challenges faced by DSPs.  Her peers depended on her knowledge to help guide the agency in areas of policies, procedures and regulatory compliance.

    During a virtual retirement celebration attended by dozens of TRC employees and some of her family members, Mary Jo shared some reflections on her time at The Resource Center.

    “Working here gave me many opportunities to make a difference, grow, learn from my mistakes, and, most importantly, assist and get to know the people we support,” she said.  “I thank all of you who have made my job easier because you worked so hard.”

    She praised those who provide direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

    “A special `thank you’ to all DSPs, but no words can thank you enough, as you make it happen – you are the nuts and bolts of TRC.

    “And of course, why we are all here – for the people we support.  This is what drives all of us, makes us laugh, love, and want to do our best to ensure they are living the life they want to live.”

    Mary Jo’s last day as a TRC employee was March 4.  Since then, she has moved south to enjoy the next phase of her life and her new full-time role — that of a doting grandmother.

    Our other retiree, Joyce, joined TRC in October 1990 as a Habilitation Skills Technician in the Day Habilitation Program at the Michael J. Raymond Center on Jones & Gifford Avenue in Jamestown.  The following year she became Manager of our home on Chandler Street in Jamestown and spent two years in that role before becoming Treatment Coordinator for some of our Intermediate Care Facilities.

    Joyce spent many years with our Article 16 Clinic as Treatment Coordinator and Assistant Administrator of the Clinical Team.  In 2015 she became a Rehabilitation Case Manager in the Supported Employment Program before becoming a Vocational Evaluator two years ago.

    Joyce was a leader in developing TRC’s Pathway to Employment program.  She also has been a member of the Quality Assurance and Quality Improvement Incident Management Team and a Personal Outcomes Interviewer.  This past year, she also covered a Habilitation Specialist position that was vacant due to the pandemic.

    Her co-workers noted Joyce is extremely caring and genuinely wants to see people supported by TRC to succeed in all aspects of their lives.

    “I have had many wonderful experiences in my 30 years at The Resource Center and have worked with and for many great people,” Joyce said.  “I look forward to enjoying my retirement and will miss each and very person I have had the opportunity to work with and for.”

    Joyce’s last day at TRC was March 11.  She now plans to spend a lot of time on the golf course and at her camp.

    We thank Mary Jo and Joyce for their decades of dedicated service in support of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  We wish them a long, happy and healthy retirement!

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

    Denise, The Resource Center’s Chief Executive Officer, is ranked No. 62 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 sixth straight year Denise has been included on the Power 250 list since she became TRC’s Executive Director in 2015, and it represents her highest ranking.

    Business First’s ninth annual Power 250 list and rankings were determined from a consensus of the members of its newsroom.  The magazine realizes some people may question its selections.

    “We concede that this is objective and for that reason alone will generate discussion.  Influence and power mean different things to different people, but we can all agree that we know power and influence when we see it,” said Donna Collins, Business First’s Editor.  “Factors we consider include length of time in an executive position, companies with sizeable employment and payrolls, and non-profits making an im0act on community welfare.”

    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 Denise has again been recognized as one of the region’s premier business leaders.

    “We were 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, President of the Board of Directors.  “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 proud of Denise and feel very fortunate to have an Executive Director of Denise’s caliber leading 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.  To learn more, phone 483-2344 or visit www.resourcecenter.org.

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

    In addition, Business First created a separate “Power Politicians” list, which included Assemblyman Andy Goodell at No. 18, Senator George Borrello at No. 22 and Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel at No. 24.

    Pictured in TRC’s current art room are, from left, Kyle Morgan, Vice President and Wealth Advisor with KeyBank; Susan Gutierrez, Art Instructor; Glenn Miller, artist; Courtney Sinatra, KeyBank Relationship Manager; John Vogan, Supervisor for Intellectual and Developmental Disability Services; Jessica Harley, Direct Support Professional; and Denise Jones, Executive Director.

    People with disabilities will have the opportunity to express themselves through art thanks to KeyBank and the First Niagara Foundation.

    Officials at The Resource Center recently announced they have received a $200,000 commitment from KeyBank in partnership with First Niagara.  The money will be used to create the Edgewater Art House, which will be the new home of The Resource Center’s award-winning art program for people with disabilities.

    “We are thrilled that KeyBank and First Niagara Foundation have provided this generous funding to move us closer to our dream of creating the Edgewater Art House,” said Denise Jones, TRC’s Executive Director.  “We are grateful that KeyBank and First Niagara recognize the important role the arts play not only in providing fulfilling lives to people with disabilities, but also in expanding our community’s cultural vibrancy.”

    “We at KeyBank are very proud to support the work being done at The Resource Center to provide individuals with disabilities access to multiple art forms that will help foster vital social and emotional skills,” said Elizabeth Gurney, Executive Director of the KeyBank and First Niagara Foundations.  “The new Edgewater Art House will fill an important need in the Jamestown community for those with diverse skills and abilities by creating opportunities for self-expression and inclusion that will help lead to long-term success in school, work and life.”

    The Edgewater Art House will be developed on property The Resource Center owns on Eighth Street in Jamestown, adjacent to TRC’s Edgewater Day Habilitation Program that opened last year.  An existing structure will be renovated to create the Edgewater Art House.  The facility will offer many opportunities for art classes including painting, drawing, mixed media, and ceramics.  A gallery space will allow those participating in the art classes to showcase their art.

    Art has been a hobby and passion of people with disabilities for as long as The Resource Center has existed.  When TRC’s first educational classes began in 1959, arts and crafts were key components of daily lesson plans.  Art has remained an important facet of The Resource Center over the years, providing people with disabilities the opportunity to express themselves in ways they might not be able to convey with words.

    To give more people the opportunity to experience the arts, in 2007 The Resource Center collaborated with area arts organizations and independent artists to offer classes in painting, mixed media, dance/movement, drama, music, and song writing.  The results were tremendous and convinced TRC to add a full-time art instructor to its staff.  In the ensuing years, works created by people with intellectual disabilities at TRC have been featured exhibits locally and across New York State, and some of the artists have won awards.

    The success of its art program led The Resource Center to want to expand the program.  But because the program is currently housed within a state-certified facility at 75 Jones & Gifford Avenue, only people enrolled in TRC’s Day Habilitation Program can participate.  Since the Edgewater Art House will be a non-certified site, it can be used by people with intellectual disabilities who do not attend TRC’s Day Habilitation Program, as well as by people who participate in TRC’s behavioral health programs.

    The Resource Center set a goal of raising $315,000 in order to begin construction of the Edgewater Art House.  The commitment from KeyBank and First Niagara, combined with contributions from The Lenna Foundation, Filling the Gap, Inc., and many private donors from among The Resource Center’s staff and the community, have enabled the capital campaign to reach its target.  The Resource Center is working with architects to finalize design plans before seeking bids for the project.  Renovation and construction work is expected to begin in late spring.

    Besides giving more people with disabilities the opportunity to create art, the Edgewater Art House will benefit the greater Jamestown community.  The Edgewater Art House, which will be located along the Chadakoin River across from McCrea Point Park, will aesthetically complement the city’s ongoing waterfront revitalization efforts.

    For more information or to make a donation in support of the project, visit www.edgewaterarthouse.com or phone The Resource Center at (716) 483-2344.  Donations also may be mailed to The Resource Center, 200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701.

    ABOUT KEYBANK
    KeyBank’s roots trace back 190 years to Albany, NY. Headquartered in Cleveland, OH, KeyCorp is one of the nation’s largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $170.3 billion at December 31, 2020. Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of over 1,000 branches and more than 41,000 KeyBank ATMs and Allpoint surcharge-free ATMs for many customers when using a KeyBank debit card nationwide. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications, and derivatives to middle-market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit https://www.key.com/. KeyBank is Member FDIC.

    ABOUT THE FIRST NIAGARA FOUDATION
    Founded in 1998, the First Niagara Foundation will carry out the philanthropic legacy of First Niagara Bank, which was acquired by KeyBank in 2016. The Foundation, in partnership with KeyBank, supports not-for-profit organizations dedicated to empowering individuals and neighborhoods primarily in Western New York. For more information, visit http://www.firstniagarafoundation.org

    Pictured are The Resource Center employees in charge of implementing the STARS Wellness Program (from left, Heather Courtney, Donna Trusso and Jon DeSantis).

    The Resource Center’s employee wellness program has again earned national accolades.

    For the fifth straight year, The Resource Center was named one of the “Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America” by Springbuk, a health analytics company that has conducted the annual Healthiest Employers competition since 2009.  The Resource Center came in 55th place.

    The Healthiest Workplaces in America program honors people-first organizations that prioritize the well-being of their employees.  These Healthiest 100 companies were recognized because of their commitment to workplace wellness and their exceptional health and benefits offerings.  They were chosen out of the national pool of applicants from all regions, size categories and industries.  Award applicants were evaluated across six categories: vision, culture/engagement, learning, expertise, metrics, and technology.

    The Resource Center was eligible for the Healthiest 100 Workplaces competition because TRC came in first place in a regional employer wellness competition last spring.

    The key to The Resource Center’s inclusion as one of the country’s healthiest workplaces is its STARS employee wellness program.  STARS assesses each person along five life dimensions: basic needs, physical health, mental wellness, family/social relationships, and employment issues.  STARS participants meet with a certified health coach to develop and monitor a personalized wellness plan.  STARS members receive discounts on their health care costs and wellness activities, and they can earn incentive points they may redeem for prizes.  Participation in the STARS program is voluntary.  Many of the wellness activities are open to all TRC employees, not just those who are enrolled in STARS.

    “The STARS Wellness Program is thrilled to have received recognition for our wellness initiatives from a local to national level,” said Donna Trusso, the STARS program manager.  “We strive to make improvements on a continual basis.  It is very meaningful to witness the increased involvement and engagement among staff who credit the program for having a positive impact on our work environment.  Healthy employees are happy employees.”

    TRC officials were glad The Resource Center again is ranked among the nation’s 100 healthiest workplaces and credited the work done by the STARS team.

    “The Resource Center’s STARS team is an amazing group of individuals who lead the agency’s wellness initiatives every day,” said Heather C. Brown, assistant executive director for program operations.  “They engage staff in positive ways to achieve results.  They take the time to develop individual plans and always go the extra mile.  We are most proud of how STARS focuses on the whole person and family, not just physical health but all social determinants of health and wellness.”

    The Resource Center’s 2021 Membership Cards are available, offering discounts at dozens of local businesses as a way of thanking people for demonstrating support for those with disabilities through a financial contribution.

    Here’s some background information that explains Membership:

    Last year, The Resource Center had 1,762 members.  This year, we have set a goal of reaching 2,500 members.  Though that may seem like a big number, we could easily get there if the family members of every person we support decided to become a member.

    As a thank-you for becoming a member, The Resource Center offers a TRC Membership Card that entitles people to discounts at dozens of local businesses: Amherst Exterminators/Comfort Pest Control; Applebee’s; Arby’s; Ashville General Store; Bag & String Wine Merchants; The Basket Company; Chautauqua Marina; Circle Mechanical; D&F Auto; Domus Fare Restaurant; Elite Kreations; Enterprise Rent-A-Car; Escape Rooms Jamestown; Everyday’s Super True Value; Flowers by Anthony; Jamestown Bowling Company; Jamestown Cycle Shop; Kara Bemis Yoga; Lakeview Gardens; Lakewood Apothecary; Lander’s Men’s Store; Madenford Spring & Auto; The Main Landing Restaurant; National Car Rental; Orkin Pest & Termite Control; Rookie’s on the Lake; RydersCup Coffee; St. Elmo’s Spa; Sandee’s Bakery; Stella: A Kitchen & Bar; Surroundings Art Gallery & Frame Shop; Top Shop; and The Resource Center.  The discounts can be used over and over throughout the year.

    Click here to see the full list of Membership discounts.

    Click here to pay your Membership Dues.  On that donation page, you also can sign up adult members of your household as Members of TRC.  Or, you can send a check to The Resource Center, 200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701, and write “membership” on the memo line.  For more information (including learning how your business can become part of TRC’s discount program), or to have a membership form sent to you, phone Steve Waterson, Community Relations Director, at (716) 661-4735.

     

    After a one-year absence, The Resource Center again sits atop the list of the region’s healthiest employers.

    The Resource Center recently was named the healthiest employer in Western New York among large businesses (those employing more than 500 people) in Buffalo Business First magazine’s annual competition.  This marked the fourth time in five years The Resource Center has claimed the title in its division.  TRC also won in 2016, 2017 and 2018, and the agency has been a finalist in the two years (2015 and 2019) it didn’t come in first place.

    The honor was announced during a virtual celebration sponsored by Independent Health, Wegmans, Springbuk, and Walsh Duffield.  A total of 19 finalists vied for the top spots in three categories: small (businesses with two to 175 employees); medium (176-499 employees); and large.

    “Company leadership decided years ago that creating energy and excitement about health starts with a very visible wellness program,” Michelle Cioci Adams, Business First’s Associate Editor, said in announcing TRC’s victory.  “Onsite certified coaches help employees work through stress and reach their healthy goals, and weight-watch programs are a part of the education component.”

    Adams was referring to The Resource Center’s STARS employee wellness program.  In place since 2013, the program provides a variety of wellness options for TRC employees.

    Donna Trusso, STARS Project Manager, said that despite TRC’s past success in the Healthiest Employers competition, she did not think The Resource Center would win this year.

    “I was surprised.  I really wasn’t getting my hopes up,” she said of her reaction upon hearing TRC announced as the winner.  “The competition was pretty great.”  All companies operating in the eight-county region were eligible to enter the Healthiest Employers competition.  The other finalists among large businesses were AAA Western & Central New York; Beechwood Homes; BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York; Community Services for Every1; Fresenius Kabi USA; and Reid Petroleum.

    Donna believes the key to TRC’s success in the Healthiest Employers competition is the fact The Resource Center operates its own program dedicated to employee wellness, whereas most other companies use an external vendor to operate their corporate wellness programs.

    “That speaks volumes, I think, for The Resource Center and the importance they place on health and wellness by investing in a full-time program,” she said.

    Donna said another factor that likely played well in the judges’ minds is that she and her team have established collaborations with other organizations locally and regionally.  These include Chautauqua Health Network, Hope Chautauqua Bright Spots, Live Well Western New York, Population Health Collaborative, Prevention Works, Roswell Park, Tobacco-Free Chautauqua Cattaraugus Allegany.  In addition, TRC hosts several American Red Cross blood drives each year.

    She noted that employees enrolled in the STARS program do well in terms of undergoing preventive screenings and managing their medical conditions.  Last year TRC employees realized improvement regarding blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  Tobacco use declined, physical activity increased and there was a decrease in the number of emergency room claims, Donna said.  Weight risk decreased, but the number of overweight employees remains higher than average, she said.

    While Donna was surprised TRC won the competition, the other members of the STARS wellness team were not

    “This win was exciting for me,” said Jon DeSantis.  “It’s exciting we’re able to say we were selected the healthiest employer in the region.”

    “I expected us to win,” said Heather Courtney, who like Jon is a certified wellness coach.  She said TRC employees are becoming more engaged in the agency’s wellness program, and as people’s health improves, the STARS program also gets better.

    “People are taking more control of what they can control,” Heather said of TRC employees’ commitment to personal wellness.  She said more employees are realizing that achieving their wellness goals takes time, and they appreciate the small accomplishments along the way.  “It takes away that overwhelming feeling they have to tackle it all at once.”

    TRC’s STARS wellness program features a personalized wellness plan based on a person’s self-reported satisfaction level along five life domains.  STARS offers lunch-and-learn education and exercise get-togethers, discounts on health insurance premiums and weight-loss programs, and employees can participate in several group and individual challenges throughout the year.  Through participation in those challenges and other activities, STARS enrollees earn incentive points that can be redeemed for prizes.  Though only employees who participate in TRC’s health plan are eligible to enroll in STARS, The Resource Center allows all employees to undergo health coaching with Heather and Jon.

    STARS participants annually undergo a biometric blood analysis.  While individual results are confidential and shared only with the employee, the STARS team receives a report summarizing the combined results of everyone who undergoes the testing.  Those data enable the STARS team to assess how well STARS enrollees are performing as a group, and the results help form the program’s goals for the coming year.

    Having again been named one of Western New York’s Healthiest Employers, The Resource Center is automatically entered into the national Healthiest Employers competition.  Last year TRC was ranked the 41st healthiest workplace in America.  Donna noted TRC’s scores in several categories of the WNY Healthiest Employers competition were higher than in the previous year, and she expressed hope this will result in TRC improving its ranking on the national stage.

    Wherever TRC ends up being ranked in the national competition, Donna is optimistic about the future of the STARS program.  Goals for the coming year include bringing wellness initiatives into TRC’s group homes in order to improve the health of people with disabilities who live in the homes.  She credits Heather, Jon and the other members of TRC’s staff assistance program for the success of TRC’s wellness program.

    “This is a phenomenal team, and that’s what’s moving it forward,” said Trusso.  It was a sentiment shared by The Resource Center’s management.

    “We are so proud of our wellness team and all TRC team members overall as we continue on this journey to wellness,” said Heather C. Brown, Assistant Executive Director, who oversees all of TRC’s health services.

    Donna also noted the accomplishment of the Jamestown Board of Public Utilities, which was named the Healthiest Employer among small businesses.  The BPU has earned first place three years in a row.

    Members of The Resource Center’s STARS wellness program demonstrate their commitment to fitness: Heather Courtney keeps count as Jon DeSantis performs pushups while getting questionable support from Donna Trusso.

    TRC self-advocates who passed away last year will be remembered at our annual William Haenggi Celebration of Life on Friday, January 29.

    The event will honor people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who received Residential supports from The Resource Center and who died between October 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020.

    Because of the pandemic, the Celebration of Life will be a virtual event.   It will begin at 6:00 p.m. and include a slideshow containing photos and personal information about each of the people being remembered.  The Reverend James D. Witherington Jr., M.Div., Chaplain at Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care, will share some remarks.

    People who would like to attend the Celebration of Life should RSVP by Monday, January 25, by phoning Renae Thayer at (716) 661-1441 to obtain the login information for the Zoom event.

    The Celebration of Life is named in memory of William Haenggi.  Bill was a longtime member of TRC’s Board of Directors who passed away in 2018.  As the General Manager of Sunset Hill Cemetery in Lakewood for many years, Bill was instrumental in getting burial plots donated for use by self-advocates who did not have funds for a plot.

    Here are the people who will be honored at the Celebration of Life:

    Nancy B.
    Joseph B.
    Ralph C.
    Robert F.
    Sharon H.
    Ruth H.
    Ryan J.
    Harry K.
    Catherine K.
    Paul P.
    Christopher S.
    Donald T.

    Click here to make a donation to the William Haenggi Celebration of Life Fund in memory of someone who has passed.  Money from this fund is used to pay the funeral costs of people with disabilities who do not have the financial resources to cover such expenses.

    TRC Community Health Center’s commitment to the health of its patients has earned the Jamestown medical provider recognition from the New York State Department of Health.

    TRC Community Health Center’s Primary Care Office was recently recognized as a New York State Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH). Each year since 2011, The Resource Center has been recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home under the National Committee for Quality Assurance, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving health care quality. New York State’s PCMH recognition has additional requirements that support federal initiatives focused on improved patient care, staff satisfaction and quality, while also reducing health care costs.

    “Recognition as a PCMH demonstrates that TRC Community Health Center provides the highest level of patient care, and quality improvement and a patient-centered approach to care that results in patients that are happier and healthier,” said Stephen Riczker, Practice Manager.

    Primary care providers earn PCMH recognition by using evidence-based, patient-centered processes that focus on highly coordinated care and long‐term, clinician-patient relationships. The PCMH recognition covers The Resource Center and members of its clinical team within TRC Community Health Center’s Primary Care Office.

    “We are pleased to have such an outstanding team in the primary care office at TRC Community Health Center,” said Heather C. Brown, Assistant Executive Director. “Recognition from New York State is just another example of their hard work, commitment and overall dedication to this community and the patients they see every day.”

    Heather and Steve praised the efforts of Jason Carmen, Clinical Revenue Cycle Administrator, and Allison Rounds, Population Health Manager, in guiding TRC through the process of submitting information for the PCMH certification review.

    The NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of primary care that combines teamwork and information technology to improve care, improve patients’ experience of care and reduce costs. Medical homes foster ongoing partnerships between patients and their personal clinicians, instead of approaching care as the sum of episodic office visits. Each patient’s care is overseen by clinician-led care teams that coordinate treatment across the health care system. Research shows medical homes can lead to higher quality and lower costs, and can improve patient and provider reported experiences of care.

    To earn recognition, The Resource Center demonstrated the ability to meet the program’s key elements, embodying characteristics of the medical home. NCQA standards aligned with the joint principles of the Patient-Centered Medical Home established with the American College of Physicians, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Osteopathic Association.

    TRC Community Health Center is located at 890 East Second Street. The practice provides primary medical care to people of all ages. For information or to schedule an appointment, phone (716) 661-1447.

    On Giving Tuesday, make a gift to help people with special needs stay connected during the pandemic!

    December 1 is “Giving Tuesday,” a day when people all over the world are encouraged to make donations to support worthwhile causes. This year, The Resource and the “Dream On” Kathy Seastedt Memorial Fund are focused on raising money to assist people with disabilities whose lives have been turned upside down because of the pandemic.

    COVID has forced many businesses, including The Resource Center, to change the way they operate.  And this has created challenges and hardships for people with disabling conditions:

    In all of these cases, technology helped people stay connected. People used iPads, tablets and other devices to contact friends and family, or to attend counseling and medical appointments remotely via tele-health.  While some people already had technology they could utilize to stay connected, others did not. In those instances, our “Dream On” Kathy Seastedt Memorial Fund has stepped in to provide money for people to buy iPads and other devices.

    The Dream On Fund is named in memory of Kathy Seastedt.  She was a 25-year employee of The Resource Center when she passed away unexpectedly in 2008. Kathy’s deep, abiding passion to support people with disabilities inspired us to rename our Community Support Fund in her memory. The fund provides money to people with disabilities who have urgent needs.

    Often, a relatively small amount of money can make a big difference in someone’s life. In the case of helping people to acquire technology during the pandemic, the average amount of money provided by the Dream On Fund has been $244.

    With our community experiencing another surge in positive COVID cases that threatens to restrict our operations, in the coming weeks and months we will need to provide additional technology to people with disabilities. This includes people living in our homes, as well as folks who live on their own in the community or with their familiesOn Giving Tuesday, please consider making a donation to our “Dream On” Kathy Seastedt Memorial Fund at Filling the Gap, Inc. (Filling the Gap raises money to support The Resource Center’s mission.) Your gift will make a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities as they adapt to the changes brought by the pandemic. Click here to make a donation. Or you can mail a donation to Filling the Gap, 92 Fairmount Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701, and write “Dream On Fund” on the memo line.

    Thank you! Your support will enable people with disabilities to keep from feeling isolated during the pandemic.

    (NOTE – This event has already taken place. Click here to watch the video.)

    Everyone is invited to join our virtual celebration when we present the 32nd annual Ability Awareness Awards on Friday, November 20.

    Because of the pandemic, we couldn’t old a large, in-person celebration this year to honor this year’s award recipients. Instead, the awards were presented over the course of five small luncheons. Those events were recorded and will be shared at the virtual celebration, which will tale place at 6:00 p.m. via a Zoom videoconference. To register to attend the event and receive the access info to the Zoom meeting, click here or phone Victoria Trass Bardo at (716) 661-1477.

    Here is a rundown of this year’s honorees:

    Can Kings – Employer of the Year
    Can Kings is a can and bottle redemption business with locations in Fredonia and Silver Creek. The Resource Center’s Supported Employment Program began partnering with Can Kings several years ago, with Can Kings performing vocational assessments of people with disabilities who were seeking employment. One of those assessments resulted in a job offer, and that person has been successfully employed since June 2018.

    Marcus Promber, left, his daughter, Mariska, and Donald

    During COVID, Can Kings owner Marcus Promber has been accommodating and understanding regarding this employee, who initially was leery about coming to work. Marcus gave the person as much time off as he needed, then readily accepted the employee back once he felt comfortable returning to work.

    Marcus has expressed interested in utilizing Can Kings for additional vocational assessments and hiring more people with disabilities from The Resource Center.

    In accepting the award, he praised the work ethic of his employee from TRC, whose name is Donald.

    “I can’t say enough about him as a worker. He’s the first one out the door to help customers, and he’s the one I point out to people, `That’s how it should be done,’” Marcus said. “Diligent, kind; I mean, I can’t say enough about him.  It’s more his award than anything.”

    Peter Carlo – Volunteer of the Year
    Because of the pandemic, there haven’t been a lot of opportunities for people to volunteer at The Resource Center. But the pandemic hasn’t stopped Pete and his one-man mission of spreading the word about TRC.

    Pete Carlo and his wife of 67 years, Mary Ann

    Pete is a Korean War veteran who loves his hometown of Jamestown and works hard to improve the community.  He has donated more than 300 American flags to local organizations. He also has a fondness for The Resource Center, as his daughters both worked for TRC. Pete believes the community at large doesn’t know enough about The Resource Center, and he has taken it upon himself to change that. For the past few years, everywhere Pete goes – restaurants, veterans events, medical appointments, political gatherings, or ceremonies at which he donates American flags – he carries with him a supply of writing pens that have The Resource Center’s name on them. Outgoing and eager to meet folks he doesn’t know, Pete often uses the pens to strike up a conversation and ask people if they’re familiar with TRC.

    True to form, after accepting his award, Carlo began distributing pens to those in attendance. “This is what it’s all about: tell the people what The Resource Center is all about,” he said. “I want them to know that they’re here in Jamestown, they’re here to help you. But they can’t help you if you don’t ask for help.”

    CEO Denise Jones and Mary Davis

    Mary Davis – NYSID Outstanding Performer
    Mary 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 Davis for her job performance as a member of the TRC Environmental Services crew that maintains the Interstate 86 rest area in the Town of Ellery. Mary also was recognized as a NYSID Outstanding Performer in 2005.

    Among her responsibilities, Mary drives the crew to and from the facility; cleans the restrooms; and keeps the lobby and outside area looking pristine. She also does the inventory and the ordering of supplies, along with performing grounds checks. Mary also assists travelers with directions or suggests ideas on what to see while in the area.

    “This is the best job I’ve ever had, and I hope I never lose it,” she said.

    Jennifer DeWolf

    Jennifer DeWolf – Advocate of the Year
    Jennifer is a direct support professional at The Resource Center, working with people with disabilities in TRC’s Dunkirk Day Habilitation Program and at some of the agency’s homes in the North County. Jenn respects the people she supports and is committed to assisting them in meeting their milestones. She also engages the people she supports to participate in community service projects.

    Jenn stands out in other ways. When she notices issues that should be addressed, she shares her concerns with other members of her teams. Her co-workers praise the quality of her documentation regarding the people she supports, and she never gives the impression that she is above any aspect of the demanding job of being a direct support professional.

    “I’m very honored to receive this award on behalf of all the individuals I have supported the last seven years of working as a DSP,” Jenn said. “I would also like to thank all the people that I have worked with, all the managers and my co-workers that I’ve worked with from Lake Shore Day Hab, Birchwood, Eagle and Water IRAs … and helped me grow to the DSP that I have become.”

    Nancy Hunt

    Nancy Hunt – Health Provider of the Year
    Nancy is a respiratory therapist who works at UPMC Chautauqua and at The Resource Center, where she supports people living in TRC homes who have breathing difficulties or other airway concerns. Nancy conducts frequent visits with the most compromised individuals, recommending the most appropriate treatments to keep them out of the hospital. When hospitalization becomes necessary, she advocates for her patients to ensure the hospital treatment team provides the best care possible. Nancy also regularly communicates with the staff at TRC’s homes to keep them up to date on the person’s health status while they’re in the hospital.

    Her TRC co-workers respect and appreciate Nancy’s knowledge, experience and compassion, and they also are grateful to her for helping to order and maintain the agency’s respiratory equipment.

    “I’m very honored to receive this award,” Nancy said. “I’ve worked for The Resource Center for years, and I love every minute of it.  I’ve met so many wonderful clients and staff members. We work as a team, and I will always cherish it.”

    Courtney Poitras

    Courtney Poitras – Personal Success Award
    Courtney has managed to remain employed after previous jobs went away, and she now works in The Resource Center’s Jamestown manufacturing facility.

    In her personal life, Courtney has a self-directed plan that enabled her to move out of a TRC home and into her own apartment. She lives independently, with minimal support provided by The Resource Center.

    “I love living on my own. I get to do whatever I want, and I feel free,” Courtney said. “I love being on my own. It’s awesome.”

    She thanked her parents, as well as her support staff, her support broker and the staff at her former home for preparing her to live independently.

    Courtney was thrilled to receive the Personal Success Award (“I feel like I’m famous!”), and she had a message for other people with disabilities who may be considering moving out on their own or looking for a job. “Keep trying, sand don’t be afraid to try new things.”

    Ashlee Terry

    Ashlee Terry – Edwin Roth Mental Health Award
    Ashlee is an applied behavior science specialist at two of The Resource Center’s homes on Foote Avenue in Jamestown. The people living in these homes have a variety of challenging behaviors. Under Ashlee’s guidance, the teams in the homes have been able to assist individuals in improving their lives. Examples of these successes include a young man who no longer needs assistance from law enforcement when he becomes agitated; several people who no longer have to be hospitalized; and a few people who have been able to move into less-restrictive living situations.

    Ashlee advocates for the people she supports to ensure their needs are met. She plays a key role in developing behavior plans for each person. When she doesn’t know how to address an issue, she conducts research to find the needed information. And if a plan doesn’t work, she’ll rewrite it until it yields positive results.

    “I just wanted to say thank you to everyone,” said Ashlee, emphasizing that any success she has realized is the result of the team members with who she works. “I’m here because of them and with them. This award goes out to all of us, not just me. We work super hard, we’re diligent and we find the answers that we need.”

    Brianna Wicks and her mom, Patty

    Brianna Wicks – Outstanding Achievement Award
    Brianna has had a momentous year on her pathway to becoming an adult. After finishing school and enrolling in The Resource Center’s Dunkirk Day Habilitation Program last year, she moved out of her family home and into a home operated by TRC. As a member of a health self-advocacy group in her day program, Bri proudly shared how she has advocated for herself, from relaying issues to TRC staff, talking with her doctor about changes she wanted to make regarding her medications, and being aware of movement and other ways to improve her health. And after the health self-advocacy group met at the start of the pandemic to discuss ways to help people stay safe, Bri gave a presentation about it to staff and peers in the day program.

    She has been learning to give people personal space, honor their wishes regarding personal touching and patiently take turns with the attention of others.

    Being forced to stay at home during COVID was a major upheaval for Bri, as she missed being able to see her family and friends. She talked with staff about things she could do to make herself and others feel better, and in response she wrote letters to some of the people she missed.

    Wendy Wilcox – Bruce Walford Community Support Award
    Mondays through Fridays, Wendy has a full-time job at M&T Bank. On weekends, she works at The Resource Center providing direct support to people with developmental disabilities living in TRC’s homes. In that role she has forged strong bonds with the people she supports strives to ensure they get to participate in community events.

    Wendy Wilcox and Doug Anderson, who is a member of TRC’s Board and the Aktion Club

    Wendy also is a longtime member of the Jamestown Kiwanis Club. Combining her passion for community service with her commitment to support people with disabilities to enjoy meaningful lives, a few years ago she started an Aktion Club. An initiative of Kiwanis International, Aktion Clubs provide opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to engage in community service. Wendy facilitates the group’s meetings, arranges transportation for group members and supports them to participate in community service activities.

    Wendy also is active in her church, and her faith has inspired her to support people with disabilities to be able to attend church services.

    In accepting her award, Wendy praised the volunteers with developmental disabilities who serve as members of the Aktion Club.

    “These guys and ladies are the best volunteers you could ever find,” she said. “They have the best ideas, they want to think about helping people, helping animals, helping kids, helping anybody, all the time.”

    YMCA Camp Onyahsa – Community Support Award
    For more than a decade, Camp Onyahsa and The Resource Center have partnered to provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience the wonders of summer camp. Throughout the week, campers enjoy all of the activities Onyahsa has to offer – swimming, boating, fishing, archery, arts and crafts, nature walks, basketball, tetherball, and making S’mores by a campfire. The final night of camp typically involves a big party, with counselors performing skits and everyone getting the chance to sing and dance.

    Jon O’Brian, Camp Onyahsa Director

    Because of the pandemic, TRC officials weren’t sure there would be a Camp Week in 2020.  But Camp Director Jon O’Brian and his staff developed a process for safely operating. Though overnight camping wasn’t possible, TRC’s campers were able to do most of the other things they enjoy about camp.

    Jon noted that he was a young counselor when The Resource Center first established an overnight camping program at Onyahsa in 1979. He shared some of the memories and names of TRC campers he has known over the years. Jon said TRC’s camp week is a highlight of the summer for him and his staff, and he knows the annual experience is important to the campers. So he and his staff were determined to come up with a safe way to hold camp week for TRC.

    “We know that several campers count the days until camp begins each year, and we did not want to disappoint them,” he said.

    Jon also took time to praise TRC and its employees.

    “I want to use this opportunity to also recognize the great work of The Resource Center in our community, and the tremendous dedication especially of its frontline staff, whose efforts are perhaps too often unrecognized and maybe even underappreciated in our region.”

    The awards luncheons were held at Calarco’s restaurant in Dunkirk; Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron; The Chop House on Main in Jamestown; and Stella: A Kitchen & Bar in Lakewood. Each of the award recipients was given a trophy, plus certificates of recognition provided by Congressman Tom Reed, Senator George Borrello, Assemblyman Andy Goodell, and County Executive PJ Wendel.

    This year’s awards selection committee was composed of Sandy Ahlgren, a retired teacher; Victoria Trass Bardo, development and events manager for Filling the Gap; Toni DeAngelo, retired wellness director at UPMC Chautauqua; Kathy Field, TRC’s associate executive administrative assistant; Dan Hocking, co-owner of ACME The Appliance Store; Elizabeth Williams, a member of TRC’s board of directors; and Barrie Yochim, executive director of Meals on Wheels of the Jamestown Area.

    Click here to make a donation to The Resource Center Excellence Awards Fund in honor of one of the award recipients.

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