Arc GLOW

Press Release

Arc GLOW, a chapter of Arc, NY, that provides innovative supports and services to people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties announced that it has sold its trash collection and transfer station to Casella Waste Systems, Inc. (Casella) a regional vertically integrated solid waste, recycling and resource management company headquartered in Rutland, Vermont.

More than 20 years ago, the Arc of Genesee opened its trash center to fill a need for theCity of Batavia, help create jobs, and produce a positive revenue stream for the organization. Now, to position itself better for the future and focus on its core mission, Arc GLOW has decided to move away from the waste and recycling industry.

“We’ve truly appreciated having the citizens of Batavia as our customers. They have been amazing advocates for our organization and the people we support, and we believe that this new partnership with Casella will help Arc GLOW focus on its core values and allow our organization to meet the needs of the people we serve in a financially sustainable way,” said Martin Miskell, Arc GLOW CEO. Casella will  continue operations utilizing the existing Arc GLOW property and staff on West Main Street in Batavia, including the Transfer Station which will be operated by an Arc GLOW work enclave with the same familiar faces that customers have been accustomed to.

Casella, which has successfully implemented similar innovative employment programs through partnerships with other organizations such as Goodwill Northern New England, has a strong presence in Batavia, providing sustainability services including trash and recycling collection to area residents and businesses.

“We’re proud to be a strong community partner in Batavia and believe that the work that has been done by Arc GLOW over the years is inspirational and aligns well with our core values,” said Casella Chairman and CEO, John W. Casella. “Casella was established nearly 50 years ago, and we believe that growing and supporting our people so that they can provide outstanding service to our customers and their communities is central to everything we do.”

Arc GLOW intends to use the funding from the acquisition to invest in its programs and services to help meet the needs of the people and families they support. According to Miskell, this has become a challenge in recent years.

“In a field where our funding is consistently being squeezed, this injection of capital will position our organization for the future. We are evaluating every program and service we provide to ensure we are meeting the needs of the people in our community. I encourage every parent, family member, or community member to reach out if there is a specific need that we need to reach.”

Current Arc GLOW customers will be contacted directly with more information on what the acquisition means for them, and both organizations feel that customers will experience very little, if any change in their current service.

As first reported by The Batavian in May, prior coverage can be found HERE

UPDATE: Statement from Martin Miskell, chief executive officer, Arc Glow

I am excited to tell you that we have sold our trash and recycling business along with the West Main Street property to Casella.

For many of you, this has been the worst-kept secret in Batavia.

We could not acknowledge anything until the deal was finalized as Casella is a publicly traded company and has to abide by the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

I know change can be hard and many citizens of Batavia and the surrounding area have been great supporters of the Agency but, this will help the Agency move forward into the future.
 

Why did we sell?

• The number of jobs provided to individuals we support has shrunk dramatically over the years.
• Our fleet was very old and would have been very costly to replace.
• We have been losing money for quite some time.
• The competition has increased dramatically in the last 10 years. The larger companies have greater economies of scale and can charge less than we can for the same service.
• We were able to sell the business when it was still valuable.
• We will be able to use this money to reinvest in our fleet, facilities, and our IT. This in turn will help us provide a higher quality of service to those we support.
• Casella has agreed to hire all staff who want to stay on with them.
• Casella has agreed to keep the transfer station open to the public and has signed a contract with us to have an Arc GLOW work enclave along with a job coach run the transfer station.
• Casella has given us the last three and a half years of their lease on Apollo Drive in Batavia as part of the deal.
• Casella has become a valuable corporate partner and will continue to help us with our annual membership drive and be a financial supporter of the Agency.

What’s happening next?

• We have six months to move out of the West Main Street location.
• Transportation will be moving to Apollo Drive, which is a great facility.
• Genesee Data Management (GDM) is also moving to Apollo Drive.
• Facility Maintenance will be moving to Walnut Street.

Press release:

Stafford Country Club hosted Arc GLOW’s 46th Annual Golf, Tennis & Bocce outing Monday, July 25. The tournament is the longest running charity event at the local private course and also features tennis and bocce divisions. 

“There’s something for everyone,” event director Sandy Konfederath said. “To appeal to golfers of all skill levels, the format was changed to a scramble in 2019,” the director said.  This year the tournament attracted 128 golfers, 20 bocce players and 16 playing tennis.

In golf play, men’s first place team winners with a 56 were Tom DePalma, Tony Formatto, Gary Kaczor and C.J. Montante.  Second place for men went to Scott Fauth, Marc Strain, Les Rose and Jeff Reuter with a 58. The mixed team of John Roche, Maria Woodward, Tina Lambert and Steve Pies recorded a tally of 62.  

This year’s hole-in-one prize on 8 was a 2022 Jeep Compass Trailhawk, courtesy of Castilone Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Unfortunately, no one shot an ace to drive away with the new vehicle.

In other on-the-course contests, Jarad Lee and Christine Penepent won longest drive on 7 and 15.  In the closest to the pin contests, Trevor Wyse won a golf bag, courtesy of C.H. Wright on 8 (10’7”); Shane Gowanlock earned first prize on 12 (40”), with Joe Shields, second (48”) and Jan Witkowski and C.J. Montante tied for third (50”). Brian Mulhern won a bicycle, donated by Adam Miller Toy & Bike in the top prize on 14 (2’4”) and gifted it to Arc GLOW’s Batavia-based supportive apartment program.

In bocce, the top team was Cathy Barcomb, Toni Funke, Mary Raymond and Sheila Laird. Donna Saskowski won bocce’s golden pallino contest.

On the tennis courts, first place team honors went to James Bellamy and Rick Morrison; second place team went to Nash Dsylva and Dave Ealy and Hollis Upson earned top score.

Tournament gold sponsors were Turnbull Heating & Air-Conditioning, MTE Turf Equipment Solutions, Crickler Vending, Relph Benefit Advisors and Casella Waste Management. Silver sponsors were: Agnes Houseknecht – In Memory of Ralph Houseknecht, Orcon Industries, Alan & Cathy Barcomb, Toal’s Plumbing & Heating, Alesco Advisors, Toshiba, Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel, In Memory of Valerie Penepent, Tecglass & Instruments, LLC, National Seating and Mobility, Parkview Health Services, The Bonadio Group and Hoffman, Hanafin & Associates. Also supporting the event were 8 golf sponsors, 3 tennis sponsors, 4 bocce sponsors, 2 cart sponsors, 8 Friend of Arc sponsors and 3 Friend of Camp Rainbow sponsors.  Door prizes, silent auction and basket raffle items were donated by dozens of area businesses and community members. The winner of the $1,000.00 Hank Memorial CA$H drawing was Lance Wetmore, a first-time tournament participant who bought his ticket at the event.  

Funds raised benefit programs and services for people with disabilities served by Arc GLOW. The tournament was founded by the late Danny Lullo, a local businessman who came up with the idea to hold a tournament to benefit Arc programs and services for people with disabilities in our community.

Arc GLOW’s Sandy Konfederath said the success of this event is directly attributed to the commitment of Arc volunteers and staff. “We have a strong volunteer base in our committee and exceptional support leading up to, and the day of the event. More than 50 people played a role in bringing all the details together - even the weather cooperated,” she said.

Ed Carney is the event chairman.  Deb Fischer chairs bocce and Calvin Klemmer and Peggy Lamb chair tennis. This year’s raffle was chaired by the Mahler family of Batavia

Submitted Photos.

Top photo: First place in Men's Golf: CJ  Montante, Tony Formato, Tom DePalma, and Gary Kaczor.

Mixed Team champions John Roche, Tina Lambert, Maria Woodward, and Steve Pies.

Bocce champions Sheila Laird, Toni Funke, Mary Raymond and Cathy Barcomb.

Second place in men's golf, Les Rose, Marc Strain, Scott Fauth, Jeff Reuter.

Press release:

Law Officers ran for a cause Thursday to support Special Olympics!  The Law Enforcement Torch Run, organized by Genesee County Sheriff’s Department Investigator Chad Minuto, is a 5k route from the Sheriff’s office on Park Road to Arc GLOW’s GO TO Hub location on Walnut Street.  The event brings awareness to Special Olympics and athletes with disabilities.

Scott, an individual in Arc GLOW’s AIM Day Habilitation program helped carry the torch over the finish line, and then everyone was treated to a picnic lunch and had an opportunity to visit with the officers.

The following participated in the event: Investigator Chad Minuto, Investigator Kevin Forsyth, Deputy Rachel Diehl, Deputy Jordan Alejandro, Deputy Trevor Sherwood, Undersheriff Brad Mazur, Batavia Police Officer Wesley Rissinger, Batavia Police Detective Steve Cronmiller, Genesee County Corrections Officer Austin Davis, Genesee County Corrections Officer Tyler Stewart and Retired Gates Police Officer Daniel Perl. Assisting with traffic were Genesee County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Kyle Krzemien and Batavia Police Officer Adam Tucker.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run is an annual event that has been held at the Arc Chapter’s Genesee County location since 2005.  “Everyone looks forward to this day, to support the officers as they raise awareness for Special Olympics,” Arc’s Community Relations Coordinator Sandy Konfederath said.  “The rain certainly didn’t dampen their enthusiasm,” she added.

Arc GLOW is apparently set to sell its garbage collection and recycling business to Casella Waste Systems.

The Arc board has not yet approved the transaction, and the terms of the sale are not available.

The Batavian made multiple attempts to reach Martin Miskell, the CEO of Arc GLOW, for comment. 

Joseph Fusco, a vice president with Casella, said, "We don't comment on rumors or reports of rumors." 

Casella is a publicly-traded company, and Security and Exchange Commission regulations can prevent people with direct knowledge of acquisitions and mergers from discussing such transactions. There may also be non-disclosure agreements in place.

The Batavian spoke with multiple Arc-connected sources about the sale of the trash business to confirm that a deal is in the works.

According to a source, Arc GLOW listed the business for sale some time ago and fielded multiple offers before settling on Casella.

Arc of Genesee (which merged this year into Arc of Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming counties) was the exclusive garbage collection service for the City of Batavia for nearly 30 years until in 2013, when the City Council agreed to allow, or require, city residents to contract individually for waste and recycling collection.

According to sources, Arc has lost money on its trash and recycling business for several years.

Arc provides services, including multiple employment opportunities, for people with disabilities.

One source said Arc employees are worried that Arc clients employed by the trash business will lose their jobs once the transaction is final.

"There are multiple people in the trash/recycling (business) worried about losing their jobs," the source said. "Arc is supposed to be an inclusive employer with the goal of servicing the community."

Fusco was given an opportunity to address that concern during a phone interview and declined.

The source also said employees have other worries:

• Loss of the drive-in recycling service for recycling and redemption; and
• Employees who receive trash and recycling services from Arc will lose their discount.

There's no information available on when the Arc board might be asked to approve the deal or when the sale might be final.

Casella acquired two local trash haulers in 2019, Trash Away and PSI Disposal.

Waste Management is the other trash hauler with a significant presence in Genesee County.

Top photo: File photo of Arc garbage collection from 2013.

Photos by Howard Owens

The Arc Recycling Center, 3785 West Main Street Road, Batavia.

File photo.  Interior of the recycling center.

File photo: Protest at City Hall in 2013 over the proposal to end the trash contract with Genesee Arc.

File photo: A packed City Council chamber for a discussion in 2013 of the Arc contract.

Since May of 2009 our entire company – from the U.S. and Canada to our family abroad – sets aside the second Thursday of the month to Renew, Energize, and Donate within the communities we serve. Join the Keller Williams Realty Batavia Branch as we volunteer at The ARC GLOW on Thursday, May 12th from 8:30 am - 2:30 pm.

Press release:

Joie shared a little bit of her life, her hopes and dreams on WBTA Radio, Friday morning during an Arc GLOW interview on Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.   She told listeners that shortly after she was born she had a stroke, resulting in a seizure disorder. She has an autism diagnosis and attends Arc GLOW’s Community Prevoc program to help develop work skills.  The Prevoc program introduced Joie to activities including delivering Meals on Wheels and volunteering at a food pantry. 

“I love volunteering at the community food pantry in Oakfield, and would love to open a food pantry of my own someday,” Joie said.

Arc GLOW’s Shelley Falitico shared Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness about the inclusion of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in all areas of community life and it’s an opportunity to highlight their contributions.

“Individuals living with disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming counties are making contributions to our community across the spectrum,” Shelley said.  “This month may be nationally recognized as DD Awareness month but we at Arc GLOW celebrate daily individuals with disabilities served, families, guardians, friends, providers, staff and all of those who use their talents and continue to push initiatives that help individuals with disabilities create a more inclusive community,” she added.   (Listen to Friday’s full interview, posted on the Arc GLOW Facebook page).

During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Arc GLOW has kicked off its annual Membership Drive, received proclamations from each of the four GLOW County Legislatures/Boards of Supervisors, and is participating in restaurant and cookie fundraisers across the four counties.  Details can be found on Arc GLOW’s website, www.arcglow.org. 

Press release:

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed March “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.” The presidential decree called for the American people to provide the “encouragement and opportunities” necessary for people with developmental disabilities to reach their potential.

On Wednesday, the Genesee County Legislature presented a DD Awareness Month proclamation to Arc GLOW, an agency that serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans and Wyoming Counties.  The agency was formed by the Oct. 1 merger of the former Genesee-Orleans and Livingston-Wyoming Arc Chapters, and is the largest Arc Chapter geographically in New York State.

Earlier this week, the Livingston and Wyoming County Boards of Supervisors presented proclamations to Arc GLOW, and the Orleans County Legislature proclamation was presented virtually at their late February meeting.

“DD Awareness Month coincides with the kickoff of the agency’s annual Membership Drive,” said Sandy Konfederath, Arc’s coordinator of community relations. “Membership is the heart and soul of our organization. Members who renew or sign up each year give us a louder voice to advocate for funding, programs and services at the state and national levels.”

Interested community members can find signup information of the Arc GLOW website at https://www.arcglow.org/index.php/membership.

Individual Memberships are $1.00.  Any level selected above and beyond that amount enhances advocacy efforts.

The proclamation reads as follows:

WHEREAS, people with a developmental disability are of all racial, ethnic, educational, social, and economic backgrounds, and all are valued members of society who find fulfillment living everyday lives, and

WHEREAS, we value what is important to people with disabilities and their families who are striving for daily lives no different than that of all other citizens, and

WHEREAS, early intervention, education, meaningful work, and home and community-based services continue to be vital to allowing citizens with a developmental disability to enjoy the rights of citizenship, achieve personal success and allows them contribute to their local communities alongside their neighbors without disabilities, and

WHEREAS, Genesee County Legislature recognizes the many accomplishments and contributions of people with developmental disabilities, we encourage all citizens to support Genesee County residents with developmental disabilities and their families in all aspects of life. Now therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the Genesee County Legislature does hereby proclaim March 2022 to be Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and urges all citizens to give full support to efforts towards enabling people with developmental disabilities to live full and productive lives of inclusion in our communities.

Photo: Genesee County Legislator Gary Maha, whose daughter is served by Arc GLOW, presents the proclamation to Arc GLOW CEO Martin Miskell, Board President Cheryl Englert and Board Member Susan Maha. Submitted photo.

There will be a 5K walk and run to support GLOW Arc and Notre Dame's athletic department on March 12.

To register for the "Running with the Irish 5k Walk/ Run and Kids Fun Run," click here.

The Fun Run starts at 9 a.m. and is for kids ages 3-12 and will be held at Vandetta Stadium.  The Fun Run is 1/2 mile run (two laps around the track) and registration is $10 with an option to purchase a T-shirt for an additional $10.

The 5K/Walk will start at 10 am across the street at Notre Dame, 73 Union St, in the driveway.  

Registration is $25 and comes with a free T-shirt if you register before March 5th.  After that registration costs $30 and supplies of T-shirts maybe be limited.  

A corned beef and cabbage meal is also available for preorder from T.F. Brown's and can be picked up at the race.  There will only be 100 meals available.

Press release:

Representative Chris Jacobs met with Arc GLOW leadership Monday and toured the agency’s Day Habilitation Center on Barrville Road in Elba.  During the tour, he had a chance to meet individuals with disabilities who attend the program there and greet some of the staff.

Following the tour, Jacobs spent over an hour with Arc GLOW leadership including Chief Executive Officer, Martin Miskell, Board President Cheryl Englert, and Board Vice President Debrah Fischer. 

CEO Martin Miskell shared news of the recent merger of Arc of Genesee Orleans and The Arc Livingston-Wyoming, resulting in Arc GLOW, geographically the largest chapter of The Arc New York.  The disability provider’s four-county service area now covers roughly 2,400 square miles and serves nearly 2,000 children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families and employs 1,000 staff members.

The group discussed advocacy priorities including the Better Care Better Jobs Act. This bill includes an investment in the disability service system as part of a COVID-19 economic recovery to support care for Medicaid recipients, and create more and better jobs for the workforce that provides that care.

Team members discussed the staffing shortage Arc GLOW and its sister chapters throughout the State are experiencing, and the need to secure adequate government funding to pay Direct Support Professionals a wage commensurate with their ability, experience, and performance.

The importance of employment opportunities for individuals wanting a job in the community was also brought to the table, as October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Congressman Jacobs said he was honored to tour the Arc GLOW facility in Elba to see firsthand the critical services provides to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our rural communities. “Organizations like Arc are crucial to providing essential support and educational services, as well as providing members of our I/DD community with meaningful employment opportunities. The leadership is incredibly passionate and doing a wonderful job, and I look forward to continuing our strong partnership to improve access to these services,” Jacobs said.    

Submitted photos.

Jacobs meets Danny.

Alicia,  Kathy, and Day Hab Specialist Kristen Ace with Jacobs as he receives a puzzle.

Jacobs meets Day Hap Center Nurse Michele Batt.

 Board President Cheryl Englert, Congressman Chris Jacobs, CEO Martin Miskell, and Board Vice President Debrah Fischer.

 

Press release:

Today, marks the announcement of Arc GLOW, a chapter of The Arc New York. Arc GLOW is the result of 18 months of strategic planning of two successful and long-standing organizations, The Arc of Livingston-Wyoming and Arc of Genesee Orleans.

As a result of this merger, our programs and services will expand to cover four counties. We are a family-founded agency serving individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming Counties. Our four-county service area covers roughly 2,400 square miles—geographically, the largest Arc chapter in New York State and the FIRST four-county chapter. 

As a unified organization, the employees of Arc GLOW will benefit from the collective knowledge and to continue to use the best practices, procedures, and policies that are focused on the people we serve and their families.

Arc GLOW is dedicated to helping people we serve to meet their full potential and find fulfillment in learning, personal relationships, employment, volunteerism, recreation, the arts, and more. We invite you to learn more about us, ask questions and visit our facilities as we put our combined 100-plus years of dedication and experience to work creating a bright and exciting future for our communities.

 

Brandon Rebert set a new course record of 18:09 today in Elba in the annual Arc of Genesee  Orleans Friends and Family 5K.

Rebert beat his 2019 winning time -- the last time the race was won -- by nine seconds.

Kim Mills took yet another women's 5K title with a time of 21:37.

As part of a statewide Day of Service project, employees of National Grid volunteered at Arc of Genesee Orleans in Batavia to dismantle obsolete machines, boxes, and pallets, that had been used to recycle cans, cardboard, plastic, and newspapers. National Grid employees broke down - and prepare for removal - old equipment that has been stored outdoors on the property since the organization began implementing a new, more efficient recycling process.

Press release:

The Arc New York chapters serving the GLOW region invite Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming County residents to “Grow with GLOW” and discover the rewards of a career as a Direct Support Professional.

Soon to be named Arc GLOW under a pending merger, Arc of Genesee Orleans and The Arc Livingston-Wyoming are participating in a statewide job fair on September 23 in Batavia and Mount Morris.

“The coordinated effort highlights the flexible, meaningful and rewarding positions available, supporting people with intellectual/developmental disabilities in their homes and day programs across our four counties,” said Martin Miskell, Arc GLOW Executive Director.

Direct Support Professionals provide integral support to individuals, such as assisting with communication, providing on-the-job coaching, and helping with daily living needs. DSP team members play a critical role in helping ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in their communities.

“This is work that matters, work that is meaningful and it’s the opportunity to feel proud of the difference DSPs make in the lives of individuals we serve.  It’s a true calling to care,” the Executive Director said.

Arc GLOW Director of Human Resources, Christa Hartigan, says new Direct Support Professional team members can expect flexibility and the opportunity to advance.  “We offer stability and a generous benefits package,” she said, adding, “If you have been wondering what’s next, it’s time to find your future and grow with Arc GLOW as a Direct Support Professional.”

The September 23 Job Fairs scheduled in Genesee and Livingston Counties will be held at the following locations and times:

• Arc Community Center, 38 Woodrow Road, Batavia from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Arc Admin. Building, 18 Main Street, Mount Morris from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Direct Support Spotlight

Oakfield native, Kristen Ace first started working at Arc after college and returned in 2018 as a Relief Direct Support Professional in residential.  She now works full time at Arc’s Day Habilitation Center in Elba as a Day Habilitation Specialist, and describes her job as very rewarding. “I love what I do and I love being here to help, advocate and teach. I go home happy, knowing that I’ve made a difference and look forward to going in tomorrow.  I smile knowing the ladies I work with had a great day,” Kristen said. “I’m glad I decided to come back to the Arc and begin my career!”

Jessica Stevens, an Arc staff from Leicester is the Assistant Site Supervisor at Arc’s Warren IRA residence in Warsaw.  According to Jessica, she enjoys finding all the good about the individuals she serves in the residential program.  “I get to learn about their past, their dreams and goals and what’s helped mold them into the person they are today,” she said, adding “Assisting people out of rough patches, reminding them of all they are, and making my guys laugh is definitely a favorite part of my job.” Jessica’s career at Arc began in the Day Habilitation program.  During the height of the pandemic, she picked up extra shifts in the residential department, and transferred there when she realized how much the enjoyed it.

“Remember, this is work that matters and an opportunity to make a positive influence on the lives of others,” Executive Director Martin Miskell said. “Please plan to attend one of our job fairs on September 23!”

Submitted Photos. Top photo: Jessica and Joe at his Arc home in Warsaw.  According to Jessica, she loves to learn about the individuals she serves and help them plan for their future.

Stephanie and Arc’s Kristen Ace show off a completed puzzle. Kristen says knowing she makes a difference each day in the lives of others is an amazing feeling.

Calling it a “success story after success story after success story,” Scott Kiedrowski, vice president of operations for Western Regional Off-Track Betting Corp. this morning informed directors of Batavia Downs Gaming’s recognition as one of four Arc New York 2021 Employer of the Year Award winners.

“We employ and welcome a number of individuals (from Arc of Genesee Orleans) who have job coaches to acclimate themselves to the building,” he said. “The program has really taken off. It gives these folks an opportunity they may not have in other areas to work, and it has been a success story after success story after success story, with all of those we have brought in to work here.”

Kiedrowski (pictured above) accepted the award on behalf of the corporation on July 29 via a statewide Zoom call.

Batavia Downs was the only business in Western New York honored this year for acknowledging the value of employing people with disabilities. Kiedrowski said between five and 10 people representing the Arc of Genesee Orleans work for the company.

“They start with a job coach and before long, they’re on their own, and it’s been working,” he said. “If ever there was an example of how this is supposed to work, it’s working here.”

In a press release previously posted on The Batavian, Arc of Genesee Orleans Director of Development Shelley Falitico says Batavia Downs has been a longtime friend of the agency, hosting Arc Night at the Races and Arc’s annual awards banquet.

Additionally, several employees from Batavia Downs’ Human Resources department took part in an onsite training – The Benefits of Hiring a Person with a Disability -- at the Arc location on Walnut Street.

The plaque reads as follows: "For demonstrating outstanding commitment and support in providing meaningful employment and acceptance of individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in the workplace."

Photo by Mike Pettinella.

Previously: Batavia Downs chosen as one of four statewide recipients of the 2021 Arc Employer of the Year Award

Press release:

City of Batavia Police Department members raised an impressive $1,500.00 among their ranks to support the Challenger Sports program run by the Batavia Y and supported by the Arc of Genesee Orleans.  

It was Police Sergeant Lawrence’s idea to target their fundraising proceeds to Challenger Baseball.  “I have a law enforcement colleague in another state that’s involved in Challenger,” the Sergeant said.  “We have a lot of new hires on the force.  This is a great cause to encourage them get involved in the community,” he stated.

Challenger sports benefits children with intellectual, developmental or physical disabilities and has offered them the opportunity to swim, bowl, dance, play baseball, soccer, basketball and tennis. 

Batavia Police department members that contributed to the Challenger fundraiser were: Officers Borchert, Cronmiller, Defelice, Flanagan, Freeman, Girvin, Gombos, Perkins, Rissinger, Chief Heubusch, Detective Hill, Sergeant Lawrence and Parking Enforcement Officer Sheflin. 

Y representatives shared the funds will be used for supplies such as adaptive equipment for future programs.

Submitted photo and press release:

Batavia Downs Gaming & Hotel has been selected one of four statewide recipients of "The Arc New York 2021 Employer of the Year Award," acknowledging the value of employing people with disabilities in their place of business

Arc of Genesee Orleans Director of Development Shelley Falitico says Batavia Downs has been a longtime friend of the agency, hosting Arc Night at the Races and Arc’s annual awards banquet.

Batavia Downs Values the Benefits of Hiring People with Disabilities

In addition, through a partnership with Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, an onsite training on "The Benefits of Hiring a Person with a Disability" was held at the Arc Walnut Street location. Several employees from Batavia Downs HR Department were in attendance and were excited to begin collaborating with Arc’s Vocational Services team. 

“Our first request of The Downs was to allow us work with Community PreVoc participants at Batavia Downs to assess their skills,” said Arc Director of Vocational Services Melissa Cotter.

“A true partnership for employment and opportunities for people we serve was definitely developing. Unfortunately, COVID hit and Batavia Downs shut down along with some of our day services and the rest of the globe."

When Batavia Downs reopened, Arc of Genesee Orleans picked up where it left off and had a perfect candidate – Caleb Miller, for an Environmental Services technician position.

Caleb’s Mom, Debbie Miller, said in a letter supporting the award nomination, “My son is 20 years old with a diagnosis of autism. When COVID hit and shut the world down, Caleb could no longer attend college.

"He was attending Genesee Community College for Graphic Arts, but online classes did not work for him. Although he did try to find a job, Caleb also knew working directly with the public would not be easy for him. Enter Arc of Genesee Orleans and Batavia Downs,” Miller said. 

Naturally, as a mother, Miller said she had fears of how the job was going to work out, but is thankful that Batavia Downs for took a chance on her son and supported him as he landed his first job. 

“Batavia Downs has now hired Caleb directly – he is on their payroll now. And he is continuing to do well. His schedule is set, he knows the busy days of the casino and the slower days. He knows some of his ‘regular’ customers and they know who he is.

"Batavia Downs has given Caleb a sense of pride and self-worth. Caleb is a normal, working 20-year-old adult. He has his own money now. What a difference the Downs has made in Caleb’s life.”

One question in the award nomination asked how does the nominee ensure that employees with disabilities are fully integrated and supported in their company’s workforce.

Cotter said the people Arc supports at Batavia Downs Gaming are not separated by what they wear, ID badges, expectations or benefits.

“They wear the same uniforms, carry the same credentials and are expected to perform the duties that they were hired for,” she said. “The supervisors and coworkers have been very warm and welcoming to the people we support. From day one, from top managers, to security guards, to every other employee, all employees have been receptive to our presence there and offer the people we support any assistance they can to be a successful employee."

Arc of Genesee Orleans representatives will be on hand at the Downs on Thursday, July 29, at 6 p.m. for the Zoom award presentation from The Arc New York state offices. The award will be presented to Henry Wojtaszek, president & CEO of Batavia Downs Gaming.

Top photo: Caleb Miller, Environmental Services technician at Batavia Downs Gaming.

The annual Challenger Baseball game was held at Dwyer Stadium this afternoon with the Batavia Muckdogs hosting clients of Arc of Genesee Orleans.

The Muckdogs play a home game tonight at 7 o'clock against Jamestown.

Officers with the Genesee County Sheriff's Office and Batavia Police Department carried the Special Olympics torch today from the Sheriff's Office on Park Road to the Arc Genesee Orleans Center on Walnut Street in support of the Special Olympics.