About 140 people were recognized for their years of dedicated service to improving the lives of people with disabilities when The Resource Center held its 34th annual Employee Service Recognition Luncheon.

The event, held January 15 at the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron, honored employees and members of the board of directors who, during 2018, reached milestone years of service with The Resource Center.

The longest-serving employees recognized at this year’s event were Karl Erb of Mayville, a direct support professional (DSP) aide in TRC’s day habilitation program on Lake Shore Drive in Dunkirk, and Mark Morton of Jamestown, assistant executive director for employee relations. They both have been working at The Resource Center for 40 years.

“I’ve had a really great time working here at The Resource Center,” Erb said. “I’ve made a lot of good friends, and had some really fine experiences, and learned a lot, and I feel really rewarded.”

In accepting his award, Morton noted that much has changed at The Resource Center since he joined the agency in 1978, “but the one constant that made it a great place to work then and a great place to work now is the people – the people who receive services, the staff who provide services and supports.”

He added, “I am so thankful for TRC for providing the opportunity for me to make a living and have a career doing what I love to do best: working with individuals who have a disability and working with those who provides services and supports to individuals who have a disability.”

Honored for 35 years of service with TRC were:
Linda Braun of Jamestown, supervising nurse
John DePane of Jamestown, staff development specialist
Jennifer Frederick of Jamestown, residence manager
Deborah Rapp of Jamestown, day services supervisor

“I love what I do every day when I get up in the morning, and it’s because of the people we support and certainly the people I’ve been honored to work with,” DePane said.

“I really, truly love coming to my job every single day,” Rapp told the audience. “To all of the new people in our agency: if you have that in your soul, you will know it.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Employees recognized for being with the agency for 30 years were:
Dr. Robert Ellis of Stockton, senior psychologist
Rebecca Mirek of Dunkirk, day services supervisor
George Mitchell Jr. of Jamestown, maintenance helper
Karen Moynihan of Ashville, transportation manager

Those completing 25 years of employment were:
Faith Baker of Jamestown, employment services administrator
Roselle Cash of Brocton, direct support professional (DSP) lead
Pamela Cranston of Westfield, dental assistant
Debra Hall of Bemus Point, DSP careerist
Bruce Main of Jamestown, case manager
Cynthia Neu of Jamestown, manager of personalized recovery-oriented services
Philip Opeil of Forestville, production maintenance technician
Barry Simmons Jr. of Jamestown, mechanic
Philip Thomas of Jamestown, residence manager
Suzanne Tracy of Sinclairville, day services supervisor
Donald Traynor of Bemus Point, staff development specialist
Steven Waterson of Jamestown, community relations director
Kristen Wilson of Jamestown, DSP lead

Recognized for 20 years of service were:
Shawn Avery, Jamestown, community coach
Lela Berry, Panama, residence coordinator
Frances Carlson, Mayville, secretary
Leslie Fickling, Celoron, family care/self-advocacy coordinator
Katrina Gibson, Jamestown, DSP careerist
Wendy Giunta, Jamestown, RC
Ke-Khee Greenough, Silver Creek, mental health clinician
Beverly Heglund, Jamestown, community coach
Robert Sherbine, Jamestown, DSP lead
Jessica Smith, Jamestown, residence coordinator
Jill Suter, Jamestown, day services supervisor
Karen York, Jamestown, DSP aide

Honored for 15 years of service were:
Sondra Apperson, Jamestown, DSP lead
Joanne Bevan, Erie, assistant executive director for program operations
Christine Burger, Jamestown, DSP aide
Jennifer Clark, Dunkirk, DSP careerist
Angela Dalrymple, Bemus Point, DSP careerist
Ernest Green Jr., Falconer, licensed practical nurse (LPN)
Troy Hicks, Jamestown, general aide
Christopher Howard, Jamestown, nurse manager
Dr. Todd Jacobson, Jamestown, board of directors
Lynn Ling, Lakewood, DSP careerist
Erin Lutgen, Jamestown, DSP lead
Thomas Mabes, Stockton, maintenance specialist
Maria Martinez, Jamestown, general aide
Pennifer McCartney, Mayville, community coach
Alberta Monagle, Jamestown, DSP lead
Brandey Oakes, Lakewood, integrated site manager
Jennifer Peters, Jamestown, industrial specialist
Lisa Peterson, Falconer, residence manager
Tammy Sawyer, Cherry Creek, DSP
Kimberly Scoma, Jamestown, site supervisor
Barbara Stewart, Jamestown, board of directors
Julie Swanson, Lakewood, internal auditor
Tina Uber, Jamestown, DSP careerist
Julie Vogan, Jamestown, residence coordinator

Completing 10 years of service in 2018 were:
Dustin Allen of Jamestown, DSP careerist
Sandra Biggers, Sinclaurville, residence manager
Cherie Bunce, Corry, coordinator of nursing services
Bonnie Clark, Jamestown, LPN
Christopher Clark, Jamestown, DSP aide
Katie Cleland, Jamestown, medical aide
Rita Cybulski, Jamestown, DSP aide
Yvonne Gilbert, Dunkirk, lead manufacturing supervisor
Stacy Harrington, Mayville, residence coordinator supervisor
Shawn Johnson, Jamestown, DSP lead
Lori Lang, Warren, site manager insurance specialist
Tammy Mancuso, Jamestown, cook
Danny Mealy Sr., Jamestown, industrial specialist
Dr. Adnan Munir, Lakewood, physician
Elizabeth Nuhfer, Jamestown, DSP careerist
Kelly Patterson, Jamestown, DSP careerist
Gwen Sample, Jamestown, accounts payable clerk
Noelle Saulter, Buffalo, DSP lead
Laura Seiberg, Bemus Point, nurse manager
Haeden Smith, Ashville, DSP aide
Tabatha Stenstrom, Jamestown, life coach
LeeAnn Sunderlin, Jamestown, DSP aide
Connie Truax, Sinclairville, cook
Rita Varney-Smith, South Dayton, case manager
Andrea Vullo, Frewsburg, bookkeeper
Shelly Williamson, Dunkirk, DSP lead
Philip Wright, Ashville, behavior technician

Recognized for five years of service were:
Tanya Baker, Jamestown, general aide
Leslie Bamburoski, Lakewood, residence manager
Courtney Beckerink, Jamestown, self-determination assistant
Angelica Camacho, Jamestown, LPN
Scott Cappa, Jamestown, community coach
CodyAnne Chambers, Ripley, employment facilitator
Melinda Covell, Kennedy, certified occupational therapy assistant
Amy Curtin, Bemus Point, DSP lead
Jonathan DeSantis, Jamestown, health coach
Jennifer DeWolf, Sheridan, DSP careerist
Jennifer Diaz, Dunkirk, patient registrar
Leslie DiNapoli, Jamestown, accounts receivable clerk
Brittany Dorman, Dunkirk, community coach
Stefanie Gifford, Lakewood, residence manager
Kenley Goodwin, Jamestown, DSP lead
David Gowan, Jamestown, DSP careerist
Paige Green, Kennedy, general aide
Valery Guerrero, Brocton, DSP aide
Donna Haenggi, Lakewood, board of directors
Samuel Hicks, Ashville, DSP lead
Kaylie Himes, Cattaraugus, DSP careerist
Edythe Johnson, Jamestown, community coach
Janice Johnson, Lakewood, human resources specialist
Charles Klenke, Jamestown, purchasing agent
Joseph Koterass, Kennedy, LPN
Bethanne Landy, Celoron, driver
Melissa Lauffenburger, Frewsburg, LPN
Coryn Majck, Fredonia, self-determination assistant
Amanda Majewski, Mayville, site supervisor
Dante Moore, Panama, DSP careerist
Kenneth Moskwa, Jamestown, cook
Lacie Munson, Jamestown, LPN
Megan Nation, Randolph, job coach
Aliza Neal, Frewsburg, job coach
Tara Nitkiewicz, Sherman, residence coordinator
Lynford Osgood, Jamestown, assistant residence manager
Michelle Pattison, Cassadaga, day services supervisor
Patricia Perlee, Jamestown, board member
Todd Rapp, Jamestown, registered nurse
John Rogers, Falconer, production maintenance technician
Lisa Roland, Forestville, DSP lead
Allison Rounds, Falconer, patient access specialist
Jodi Sadlowe, Jamestown, accounts receivable specialist
Alice Sanchez, Falconer, lead manufacturing supervisor
Gina Sink, Jamestown, applied behavioral science specialist
Ada Sommers, Kennedy, community coach
Joshua Straight, Jamestown, business systems analyst
Lexi Stroebel, Mayville, medical aide
Shannon Studd, Jamestown, human resources specialist
Shelby Surrena, Frewsburg, behavior intervention specialist
Carl Swanson, Jamestown, community coach
Linda Ward, Lily Dale, licensed certified social worker

Employees were called forward one at a time to be thanked for their years of dedicated service. Staff with 15 or more years at The Resource Center received a monetary award and a gift (40 years – picture frame; 35 years – clock; 30 years – paperweight; 25 years – pen and letter opener; 20 years and 15 years – jacket or fleece). Employees with 10 or five years of service received a jacket or a fleece.

Welcoming remarks were given by Morton.

“If you have been here for at least five years,” Morton said, “at some point along the way you made a commitment to share your talents, use your knowledge, develop your expertise, and give a part of yourself to The Resource Center mission and the people we serve.”

Remarks also were made by Executive Director Denise Jones and R. Michael Goldman, board president.

Jones said she was not aware of any other organization that takes time to honor so many of its employees on an annual basis. “It’s always striking, the teamwork that we have here, and all of the history that we have as an organization. So thank you all for making that commitment to the people that we support, to your team members and to the organization. It really is appreciated.”

The Resource Center has been supporting Chautauqua County residents with disabilities, and their families, since 1958. The agency also offers a variety of health-related services that are available to anyone in the community; these services include primary care, dental care, counseling and psychiatric services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, audiology, and podiatry.

Beth Jermain and Karen Williamson have received The Resource Center’s top employee honors for 2018.

Jermain, The Resource Center’s support option administrator, received the Joseph Trusso Jr. Employee of the Year Award for the positive difference she has made in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities, not only in 2018 but throughout her 30-year career at TRC. She is committed to assisting people with disabilities to attain their ideal lives.

Jermain was nominated for the award by Terri Johnson, TRC’s director of employment and community-based services.

“Beth truly listens to what people have to say and helps them to achieve their goals. Whenever anyone puts up barriers, she does whatever she can to help the person jump over the barriers,” Johnson said. “She spends not only her entire work day but also her evenings and weekends to enhance the independence and integration of people with disabilities. She is a lifelong learner who strives to not only push herself and the people she has supported, but the entire TRC staff. She takes the time to educate people on the agency’s core belief of person-centered thinking.”

Johnson said Jermain is passionate about helping people achieve greater independence and will do what she can to help them succeed. “Even as her roles have changed over the years, Beth continues to give TRC and the people she supports her time and attention. Beth has supported people even after services ended and continues to be a support to many,” Johnson said.

She noted that during the past year, Jermain has been asked to help lead an initiative to work with local businesses to identify employees who need assistance in order to maintain successful employment, and that Jermain “dove in feet first and is giving it her all and continuing to learn things along the way.”

Jermain is grateful for her long career at TRC and for having opportunities to assist people with disabilities.

“I have always been thankful for and cherished the many opportunities I have been given to support people to obtain some of their life goals, in pursuit of the enriched life that they are yearning and striving for,” she said.  “It has been an honor to have them trust me, depend on me and allow me to assist them to overcome and/or manage the challenges they are facing.   It is very exciting to be a trusted partner in their journey.

“I am also very appreciative of TRC for helping me reveal my strengths, find my passions and put them to good use in carrying out the agency’s mission.  My strengths have always been nurtured, and I have always been trusted and given the autonomy I need to do my best.”

The Employee of the Year Award is named in honor of Joe Trusso, a former Chautauqua County legislator who served on TRC’s board of directors for 38 years. Trusso died last year, so two of his relatives who happen to work for The Resource Center – niece Resa Rosen-Murray and daughter-in-law Donna Trusso – were on hand to reminisce about Trusso and to help present the award to Jermain during TRC’s 34^th annual Employee Service Recognition Luncheon.

The Resource Center’s other major employee honor is the Norma J. Smith Award. It is presented to a non-supervisory staff member who has excelled in providing direct support to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The award was given to Williamson, who has worked for TRC since 1989 and is a direct support professional lead at the day habilitation program on Fluvanna Avenue in Jamestown.

“Karen leads her team with excellence and is truly dedicated to improving the lives of those who receive services from us,” said her supervisor, Autumn Wilson. “Karen has the ability to look at the big picture and see possibilities instead of barriers. Her experience has given her wisdom to know that things don’t always improve overnight, but with diligence and caring the possibilities are endless.”

Wilson said that the efforts of Williamson and her team have led to a number of successful outcomes. She cited the experiences of two people in the day program who have gone from being withdrawn and occasionally aggressive, to now enjoying happy lives.

“Karen believes that all people should be treated equally and that any dream can be achieved with the right supports,” Wilson said. “Her positivity and obvious caring are credit to for the success of these individuals to be able to make friends and enjoy new experiences. Karen is a perfect example of a direct support professional who is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for persons receiving services from The Resource Center.”

The award was created in memory of the late Norma Smith, who worked as a direct support professional at The Resource Center from 1983 to 1991.

The Resource Center is celebrating its 60^th anniversary of improving the lives of people with disabilities, and area residents are invited to join the celebration by becoming members of TRC.

The Resource Center is a membership organization, and membership is open to anyone 18 and older who believes in TRC’s mission of supporting people with disabilities to enjoy meaningful, satisfying lives. Membership dues are $10 per year.

Those who become members will receive a 2019 membership card offering discounts at these businesses:

• Applebee’s
• Arby’s
• Circle Mechanical
• Comfort Inn
• Enterprise Rent-A-Car
• Everyday’s Super True Value
• Flowers by Anthony
• Jamestown Bowling Company
• Jamestown Cycle Shop
• Lander’s Men’s Store
• Lucy Town Sweets at the Basket Company
• The Main Landing Restaurant
• Midas Auto Service
• Orkin Pest & Termite Control
• Peterson’s Candies
• RydersCup Coffee
• Salon 1
• Sandee’s Bakery
• Serenity Salon and Spa
• The Resource Center

The discounts can be used over and over throughout the year.

TRC members who join The Resource Center’s email list will be kept up to date on things taking place at The Resource Center, and they are invited to attend TRC’s annual meeting in June. Area residents who become members of The Resource Center also can take pride knowing their support gives TRC a stronger voice when the organization advocates on behalf of people with disabilities.

To become a member, send a $10 check to The Resource Center, 200 Dunham Avenue, Jamestown, NY, 14701, and write “membership” on the memo line. You can pay your membership dues online. For more information about membership (including how your business can join our Membership Discount Program), or to have a membership form sent to you, contact Steve Waterson at 716-661-4735 or at steve.waterson@resourcecenter.org.

Those looking to enjoy a fun night out while supporting people with disabilities should plan to attend the third annual Sassy Baggs & Beyond “Blingo” fund-raiser Wednesday, February 6.

The event will be held at The Resource Center’s administrative offices at 200 Dunham Avenue in Celoron. Doors will open at 6:00, with the Blingo games starting at 7:00. Those planning to attend should park in the rear lot and use the entrance at the top of the ramp.

The evening will feature 12 games of bingo, with handbags (from designers such as Fossil, Betsy Johnson, Michael Kors, and Jessica Simpson) as prizes. In between the Blingo games, there will be drawings for additional prizes donated by area merchants.

Admission is $20. Included in the cost of admission are the Blingo games and a chance to win a door prize.

The event is being organized by Filling the Gap, Inc., which works with The Resource Center to improve the lives of people with disabilities in Chautauqua County. Money raised through Sassy Baggs & Beyond Blingo will benefit The Resource Center Look Good Fund at the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation.   The Look Good Fund was established by former area resident and Resource Center Board of Directors member Margaret Look, who wanted people with disabilities to be able to obtain money for things such as a haircut or new work clothes.

Blingo organizers saw a large increase in the number of attendees last year, and they expect even more people will attend this year’s event.

“It’s a fun night out for the gals and a perfect Valentine’s gift for your sweetie,” said Victoria Trass Bardo, Development and Events Manager for Filling the Gap. She added that while the event mainly attracts women, men are welcome to come and play Blingo.

Tickets are available at The Resource Center’s offices on Dunham Avenue and at Filling the Gap’s offices inside the Felice Corporate Center at 92 Fairmount Avenue in Jamestown. There are a limited number of tickets, and if the event does not sell out, then tickets will be available at the door. For more information, phone Vicky at 661-1477.

The success of The Resource Center’s employee wellness program has again garnered national recognition.

Donna Trusso, the Manager of TRC’s STARS wellness program, recently was named to the Corporate Health and Wellness Association’s 2018 “Well-being 100” list of wellness leaders. The Well-being 100 Awards honor professionals, consultants, agents and brokers in the human resources, wellness and benefits fields who have done a good job in engaging employees to become healthier. Donna and the other award recipients were recognized during the annual HEALTHCARE ЯEVOLUTION convention in Orlando, FL.

“At a time when employers need to hone in on cost-effective strategies to improve the health and well-being of their employees, Well-being 100 Awards seeks to sift through the white noise and shine a spotlight on the real success stories,” said Renée-Marie Stephano, President of the Corporate Health and Wellness Association and editor in chief of Corporate Wellness Magazine, in announcing the awards program.  “People are truly making a difference that will create more high-performance organizations.”

More than 500 people were nominated. The top 100 wellness leaders were not ranked, but the top 20 received recognition as wellness champions. Though not placing in the top 20, Donna was happy to be included among the top 100 wellness leaders.

“It really was quite an honor,” she said.

Donna said she was surprised to learn she had been nominated for a Well-being 100 Award. She said that when she became a certified corporate wellness specialist in 2016, she met some people affiliated with HEALTHCARE ЯEVOLUTION. They kept tabs on what Donna and her STARS team have been doing at The Resource Center, and this year they decided to nominate Donna.

The Well-being 100 Award follows on the heels of TRC being named one of America’s 100 healthiest workplaces for a third straight year. Donna said that while the Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America competition recognizes successful wellness programs, the Well-being 100 Awards spotlight the program managers who deal with the day-to-day operations.

“I really don’t consider myself a leader. I’m just doing my job to the best of my ability,” Donna said. “It takes a team. I’ve got a wonderful team.”

She said one of the reasons The Resource Center receives such positive recognition is that TRC operates its own full-time, in-house wellness program, whereas many other companies contract with outside vendors to operate their wellness programs. Ultimately, Donna said, it’s TRC’s workforce that has made the STARS program so successful.

“A lot of the credit has to go to the people who have bought into this and are trying to make improvements in their lives,” she said.

Implemented several years ago, the STARS wellness program assesses each person along five key life dimensions: basic needs, physical health, mental wellness, family/social relationships, and employment. STARS participants enjoy the opportunity to meet with a certified health coach to develop and monitor a personalized wellness plan; discounts on their health care costs and wellness activities; and the ability to earn incentive points that can be redeemed for prizes.

Participation in the wellness program is voluntary. Many of the STARS activities, such as health coaching and the lunch-and-learn series, are open to all TRC employees, not just those who are enrolled in STARS. For 2019, Donna said the program will expand to allow all TRC employees to earn incentive points.

There will be a long break in the action after the Jamestown Rebels score their first goal at the Northwest Arena on Friday, December 7.

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

The third annual Teddy Bear Toss will take place that night. The past two years, fans threw stuffed bears onto the ice during the intermission between the first and second periods. This year, Rebels’ representatives suggested making the event more exciting by having the team’s first goal be the trigger to start the Teddy Bear Toss.

Fans are encouraged to bring new, stuffed bears to throw onto the ice. The bears will be given to Toys for Tots. For people who forget to bring a teddy bear to the game, the Rebels plan to have bears for sale. Proceeds will be donated to Toys for Tots.

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

“We appreciate the Rebels’ willingness to do the Teddy Bear Toss promotion,” said Steve Waterson, community relations director. “Last year we saw a big increase in the number of bears that were thrown onto the ice, so we anticipate there will be even more next Friday. The community really gets behind Toys for Tots, and this is a fun way for fans to support the toy drive.” He noted that hundreds of TRC employees plan to attend the game.

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

“The Jamestown Rebels are thrilled to partner with The Resource Center and Toys for Tots for this special night,” said Tommy Gerace, director of community relations. “Both organizations provide tremendous support to the Jamestown community and its surrounding areas, and the Rebels are happy to host the annual Teddy Bear Toss in support of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots.”

The Rebels’ opponent for Friday’s game is the Johnstown Tomahawks. Game time is 7:05.

This marks the 18^th straight year that The Resource Center has coordinated the Marine Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County. Last year more than 2,600 children received toys, and organizers expect to assist about that many children this year.

For more information about Toys for Tots, visit www.toysfortots.org or phone 661-1042.

People looking to do some holiday shopping will have two opportunities to do so at The Resource Center.

From 8:30 to 3:00 Friday, December 7, TRC will hold its 19^th annual Craft Bazaar at its Michael J. Raymond Center, 75 Jones & Gifford Avenue in Jamestown. Hand-crafted items, baked goods and flavored coffees will be featured. There will be prize drawings. Lunch will be available for purchase. Visitors also are invited to tour the facility and learn more about the activities and opportunities available to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Resource Center supports people with disabilities and their families in Chautauqua County. Proceeds from the craft bazaar will benefit people in TRC’s day habilitation programs. For more information about the craft bazaar, phone 661-4800.

The following day, TRC will host its annual Holiday Shopping Extravaganza at its administrative office building, 200 Dunham Avenue. The event, which runs from 10:00 to 4:00, will feature more than 30 vendors. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase, and there will be a Chinese auction.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Marine Toys for Tots program. While admission to the craft show is free, attendees are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the toy drive. This is the 18^th straight year that The Resource Center has coordinated the Marine Toys for Tots drive in Chautauqua County.

Those planning to attend the December 8 craft show should park in the rear lot off of Alleghany Avenue and enter the building through the door at the top of the ramp. For more information about the event, phone Evelyn Wright-Kegelmyer at 661-1429.

Tuesday, November 27, is #GivingTuesday, a day that not-for-profit organizations across the country seek online donations from their supporters and followers. As part of #GivingTuesday, The Resource Center and Filling the Gap, Inc., are joining hundreds of other organizations in New York State to participate in an initiative called #NYGivesDay.

We are asking people to donate to our “Dream On” Kathy Seastedt Memorial Fund. The Dream On Fund is administered by the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation. The fund provides money for Chautauqua County residents with disabilities who have urgent needs.  We’ve provided money for things such as:

• enabling a woman to travel to Pennsylvania to visit her aunt after her mother died.
• repairing a couple’s heating system.
• paying for Sign Language classes.
• helping a woman realize for college dream by paying for her room and board.
• enabling people with disabilities to go to summer camp.
• buying eyeglasses, medicine and other needed health-related items.
• making car repairs.
• buying household items such as beds, refrigerators and stoves.

Often, it doesn’t take much money to help someone in need.  For the 2017-18 fiscal year, we spent $20,292.22 to assist 89 people, which averages out to about $228 per person.  And in the case of those who needed help with their rent or utilities, the Dream On Fund enabled about 30 people to keep a roof over their heads or keep the lights on.

The Dream On Fund is named in memory of Kathy Seastedt, who was a 25-year employee of The Resource Center when she died unexpectedly in 2008.  Kathy had a passion for supporting people with disabilities.  “Dream On” was chosen as the fund’s name because that was name of Kathy’s favorite song by her favorite band, Aerosmith.

As part of #NYGivesDay, incentive prizes will be awarded to organizations that are successful in raising online donations. Here is a list of the prizes that are up for grabs:

First Donation of the Day
(A $250 prize will be awarded to the organization that receives the first online donation.)

Golden Ticket Hours (10:00 – 11:00 a.m.)
(A $250 prize will be awarded to a randomly selected organization that receives an online donation during this hour.)

Lunch Hour Mania (12:00 – 1:00 p.m.)
(A $250 prize will be awarded to a randomly selected organization that receives an online donation during this hour.)

Night Owl (10:00 – 11:00 p.m.)
(A $250 prize will be awarded to a randomly selected organization that receives an online donation during this hour.)

Most Unique Donors
(A $500 prize will be awarded to the organization that has the highest number of unique donors from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.)

Most Dollars Raised
(A $500 prize will be awarded to the organization that raises the most dollars from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.)

Visit https://www.nygivesday.org/organizations/filling-the-gap-inc to make a donation! Thanks for your support!

 

 

 

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 18^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. About 2,400 usually are supported through the annual toy drive, and last year more than 2,600 Chautauqua County children received gifts.

The biggest change in the way this year’s drive will operate is that families – themselves, or through their children’s school or service coordinator – are encouraged to apply for assistance online. To do that, people should visit www.toysfortots.org and click on the “Donate or Request a Toy” link, then follow the steps to navigate to the Chautauqua County campaign.

People without internet access can apply in person. Walk-in applications will be accepted in The Resource Center’s facility at 407 East Chestnut Street in Dunkirk from noon to 3:00 on Thursday, November 29. For Jamestown-area residents, applications will be accepted in The Resource Center’s offices at 200 Dunham Avenue from 1:00 to 4:00 on Friday, November 30, and from 9:00 to noon Saturday, December 1.

All applicants must bring identification for themselves and their children living in their household, as well as proof of household income. Children age 17 and younger whose families meet household income guidelines are eligible for assistance through Toys for Tots. Efforts are made to help all families that apply for assistance.

“If there is a need, we will do what we can to help,” said The Resource Center’s Terri Johnson, one of the toy drive’s lead organizers.

She and her colleagues are pleased with the outpouring of support they have received thus far. Toy collection boxes have been placed at more than 100 locations, and a number of businesses and organizations will be holding events to raise money and toys. The goal of the toy drive is to collect enough toys to provide one large gift and at least one stocking stuffer to every child who is registered to receive assistance.

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.

“We are so fortunate to be working with so many community partners to bring Toys for Toys to Chautauqua County again this year,” said TRC’s Heather C. Brown, another of the lead organizers. “We can’t do this without the many donors, volunteers and supporters. Each year we are concerned that the donations will not equal the need, and each year this community pulls together to be sure each child has a present to open on Christmas morning, and we are thankful that we can play a part in making that happen.”

In addition to placing toys in the collection boxes that are located at dozens of area businesses, people can donate toys by attending the Jamestown holiday parade Friday, November 30, and placing their gifts on The Resource Center’s Toys for Tots float. On Friday, December 7, the third 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 a Holiday Shopping Extravaganza at 200 Dunham Avenue in Saturday, December 8, 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 fourth straight year, Allied Alarm Services has donated the use of its facilities to store the toys that are donated. Mike Roberts, the owner of Allied Alarm, said he and his staff welcome the opportunity to support the toy drive.

“It’s become part of who we are. We love doing it,” Roberts said. “We’re all so blessed. For us to be able to give a little bit back and bring some smiles to children’s faces is an honor.”

During the first three weekends in December, volunteers will be sorting toys and preparing them for distribution. Organizers are seeking volunteers to assist with this effort. Anyone interested can phone Brown at 661-1042 for more information. Updates on the toy drive, including the dates of fund-raising events and a list of businesses where collection boxes are located, can be found by visiting the Chautauqua County, New York – Toys for Tots 2018 Facebook page.

The accomplishments of people with disabilities were highlighted recently when The Resource Center held its 30^th annual Disability Awareness Awards Celebration.

The event took place October 30 at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Dunkirk. 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. “This is my favorite night of the year,” said Jones, explaining that this year’s event was significant because TRC recently observed the 60^th anniversary of its founding.

“In these trying times, it’s as important as ever to take time to look beyond the uncertainties that exist in our world and set aside our hectic schedules to appreciate the inspirational stories which represent the differences we make each and every day,” she added. “Tonight we’ll celebrate the achievements of several people with disabilities who have realized significant accomplishments during the past year. Because of our employees, volunteers, and families and community partners who’ve always been the pillars of our success, we’ll recognize several of them for their efforts in building a better world.”

The first honor of the evening was the Community Partnership Award, which was presented to Raymour & Flanigan. The company was honored for partnering with The Resource Center to hold community events at Raymour & Flanigan’s West Ellicott showroom. These events have included art exhibits to showcase the talents of people with disabilities and a children’s Halloween costume parade.

The Health Provider of the Year Award was given to UPMC Chautauqua’s phlebotomists, laboratory team and billing department. They were recognized for accommodating residents of TRC homes who need their blood tested. Rather than inconvenience the residents by having them be transported to the hospital to have their blood drawn, the phlebotomists visit TRC’s homes once a week to collect blood. The lab workers run the necessary tests, and the billing department ensures the test codes are correct so that each person’s insurance will cover the cost of the service.

“They enjoy going out and seeing people,” Phlebotomy Supervisor Elaine Golden said of her team’s willingness to visit TRC’s homes. “They enjoy working with the challenges that come of all the different people that they are drawing.” She said the award was a surprise, joking that often people don’t like phlebotomists because having blood drawn makes some people anxious.

The Advocate of the Year was Mary Hayes of Dunkirk. Hayes is a member of Make A Mark, a self-advocacy group for people with disabilities that meets at TRC’s Mary Andrews Center on East Chestnut Street in Dunkirk. She has written letters that have been published in the Observer. This year, she persuaded Mayor Wilfred Rosas to proclaim March as “Spread the Word to End the Word” month in Dunkirk in support of an initiative to eliminate the negative use of the word “retarded” because it is hurtful to people with intellectual disabilities. Hayes also appeared on WDOE radio to discuss the Spread the Word campaign. In addition, she provided information to County Executive George Borrello for his proclamation in connection with the annual Laurel Memorial Run and Walk, which celebrates the achievements of people with disabilities.

Hayes credited teachers with instilling in her a sense of self-confidence and a determination to never give up, and she had a message to share.

“My advice to special education or special needs students who attend classes in local school districts, and in BOCES: to be successful, show other people what you can do. Do not let anybody knock you down and tell you, you can’t do it. You can do it. Wish it, dream it and do it,” she said. “Always remember one thing – no one can take away the things your teachers have taught you in school. The things you have learned in school cannot be taken away from you.”

The Elmer Muench Volunteer of the Year Award was given to Alan and Sharon Richards of West Ellicott. Once a week, the retired couple volunteers at TRC’s Michael J. Raymond Center in Jamestown. Sharon, a retired teacher, assists with baking and crafts projects in the Day Habilitation Program. She also involves program participants in making puppets and staging puppet shows. In addition, she serves on TRC’s guardianship and nominating committees. Alan assists with sorting and filing records in the Diagnostic and Treatment Center. A retired certified public accountant, he also serves on TRC’s finance committee and board of directors.

The Volunteer of the Year Award is named in memory of Elmer Muench, a longtime volunteer for The Resource Center. The award carried special meaning for Sharon Richards.

“This is humbling,” she told the audience as she accepted the award. “But I have to tell you, we learned from the best. Elmer Muench was my dad, so this is super.”

The Personal Success Award was given to Brenda Martinez of Jamestown. Her recent accomplishments have included obtaining her driver’s permit, taking responsibility for her finances, attending DEG classes, finding child care for her daughter, and overcoming social anxiety. She credits her infant daughter as being the inspiration for turning her life around, as Martinez says she needs to make good choices in her own life in order to give her daughter the best life possible.

“I just want to say ‘thank you’ to my staff and the support that I get every day,” Martinez said.

The Bruce Walford Community Service Award was presented to Amanda Martinelli and her teen-aged son, Christopher Decker, of Jamestown. They received the award in recognition of a fund-raising initiative they developed. To demonstrate appreciation to The Resource Center for the supports the family has received over the years, mother and son collected redeemable beverage containers, cashed them in and donated the money to the Step Up for Autism celebration, an annual event organized by TRC and Filling the Gap, Inc. The pair’s effort resonated with the community, and many people and businesses supported them by donating their own redeemable cans and bottles. In addition, Martinelli persuaded one redemption center to give her 6 cents per container instead of the usual nickel. The initiative raised a total of $457, which works out to more than 7,500 bottles and cans.

After accepting the award, Martinelli shared that over the years, The Resource Center has helped Christopher in overcoming the effects of several childhood health issues. “The Resource Center has been a family of ours,” she said in explaining why she wanted to do something to support TRC. She added that she and Christopher will continue the fund-raising effort during the next year and will present the proceeds to TRC at the 2019 Step Up for Autism event. She said those wishing to support their effort can take their redeemable bottles and cans to the redemption center on Allen Street in Jamestown.

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 Mallory Wojcinski of Dunkirk. Wojcinski is a strong supporter of Roswell Park Cancer Institute, visiting there weekly and reaching the 500-hour mark as a Roswell volunteer. She also supports Roswell by collecting candy at Hallo0ween to give to children at the facility, as well as initiating fund-raising activities to benefit Roswell and its Courage of Carly Fund. She participates in the TOPS 5K Walk to benefit Roswell and has been the event’s top individuals fund-raiser the past three years, collecting more than $3,000 for this year’s walk. Besides all that she does for Roswell, Wojcinski is a coach for the bumper bowling league at Lucky Lanes in Fredonia and is involved with the local Special Olympics bowling program, participating in the New York State Summer and Winter Special Olympics Games. She is a member of a cheerleading team composed of people with disabilities, and she has participated in Junior ROTC and is a life member of the Girl Scouts.

Representing the City of Dunkirk, Vicki Westling read a letter from Don Williams, First Ward Councilman, who praised Wojcinski’s efforts. “She has shown Dunkirk leadership the last seven years by attending Music on the Pier every Thursday night in the summer, selling suckers and collecting money to donate to various causes,” Williams’ letter said. “Mallory is always reminding people of the importance of these events, and never gives up, week after week, trying to achieve her donation goals.”

With her sister, Allison, helping to translate, Wojcinski thanked her family for their support over the years. She also thanked the community for their support and donations in helping her to surpass her fund-raising goal for this year’s TOPS 5K. “She’s very goal oriented and super selfless,” Allison said of her sister. “This is one person that’s amazing.”

The Edwin R. Roth Mental Health Award was given to Paul Hurley of Dunkirk. Hurley is an employment specialist in The Resource Center’s Gateways PROS Program in Dunkirk, which offers personalized recovery-oriented services to people with behavioral health challenges. He supports people who have mental health disorders or addiction issues and assists them in finding or maintaining employment. He organizes groups so people seeking employment can find support and natural connections among one another, and he provides them with tools and information they can apply outside of the group.

“I’m really accepting this award as a team award, because we really support each other and hold each other up,” said Hurley of his co-workers.

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 Special Event Volunteer of the Year was Marcos Figueroa of Jamestown. Figueroa was honored for his efforts in establishing and coordinating an annual Lip Sync Battle that benefits the Mark Pacheco WOW (Working on Wonders) Fund, which provides money so people with disabilities at The Resource Center can enjoy experiences they otherwise could not afford. Figueroa handles much of the work involved with the Lip Sync Battle, which grows in attendance each year. He spearheaded the creation of the fund in tribute to Pacheco, a TRC co-worker who died in 2010 from injuries sustained in an altercation in downtown Jamestown.

“I lost a good friend, and we started this fund, Working on Wonders, because he was assaulted just standing in the street, and didn’t make it. I wish we could have started it before this happened, but I know he’s happy and he’s proud, and the Lip Sync Battle is a huge event that he would have loved,” Figueroa said. “I’m very honored and I’m very proud and I won’t stop, and I think that everybody in their hearts today should volunteer. Even if it’s to open a door for someone, you are volunteering. And as they say, in a world where you can be anything, be kind.”

Also recognized at the awards celebration was Andrew Speer of Lakewood. 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 Speer for his job performance as a member of The Resource Center’s Environmental Services crew that maintains the Interstate 86 rest area near Bemus Point. Cynthia Slovensky, Commodity Sales Specialist with NYSID, was on hand to present Speer with a certificate and a monetary award from NYSID.

“Being in front of a microphone, I feel like I should be singing,” joked Speer, a musician who performs locally. He thanked NYSID for honoring him.

The final honor of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was given to Donna Haenggi of Lakewood in appreciation of the contributions she and her late husband, William, have made over the years. The couple has been involved with The Resource Center since 1990, serving on the board and committees, as well as volunteering at events. For many years, they conducted a Bible study class for people with intellectual disabilities.

Haenggi said she was happy to receive the award but was sad her husband, who died in May, was not there to enjoy the evening.

“We moved to this area 31 years ago,” Haenggi said, “and it wasn’t long before we both were actively involved in The Resource Center. We’ve made many, many friends over the years, and we’ve had a real close group of parents that have been involved. I just encourage everybody here to try to get involved in something. It just does you a world of good.

She added, “It’s been our privilege to volunteer for The Resource Center. It’s not only opened our hearts, but has enriched our lives. I will continue to serve as long as I can. I just enjoy every minute of it.”

Closing remarks were given by Rebecca Hamlet Kapple, a member of The Resource Center’s Board of Directors.

“Tonight is a celebration of all the good,” Kapple said. “Look at all the amazing businesses, family members, support staff that have worked hard this year and every year to build up the people that The Resource Center serves. That is incredible. I mean, you walk into this room and you feel like, `Oh, my God, it’s the Oscars.’ Because it is. It’s that time to celebrate.”

Each award recipient received a trophy, plus certificates provided by Congressman Tom Reed and Assemblyman Andy Goodell. Two people who receive supports from The Resource Center, Michael Ostrye and Thomas Proper, 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; Greg Krauza, district representative for AFLAC and a longtime TRC volunteer; and Mayor Rosas.

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 Brown & Brown of New York ($50,000); HM Insurance ($25,000); The Evans Agency and Denise and Steven Jones ($10,000); and Jennifer Capitano, David Clark, Frederick and Mary Santucci; Vincent and Nancy Tocco, and Richard and Sandra Weimer ($1,000).

Sponsors of this year’s event were Brown & Brown Insurance, Lake Shore Savings, NYSID, Premier Consulting Associates, and Saxton Kocur & Associates.