Genesee ARC will be sponsoring a local screening of the Sprout Film Festival on Saturday, March 19 at the Batavia High School auditorium. There will be two different showings; 2:30p.m. - 4:30p.m and 6:00p.m. - 8:00p.m. Donations are greatfully accepted.
In celebration of our 45th anniversary year Genesee ARC is sponsoring a local screening of the Sprout Film Festival. The event, which showcases films by and about people with developmental disabilities will be held Saturday March 19 at the Batavia High School auditorium.
Sprout is a private, non-profit organization founded in 1979. The mission of the New York City-based organization is to provide innovative programming that raises the profile and showcases the work of people with developmental disabilities.
The local showing will include a selection of short films, ranging from documentaries to music videos. Some films are moving, enlightening and inspirational; others are humorous, whimsical and fun. Each film will be introduced by a Sprout representative. There are two show times, and 2:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.and donations are gratefully accepted.
The Sprout Film Festival is made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts, administered by the Genesee-Orleans Regional Arts Council. Any one with questions may call ARC Director of Development, Shelley Falitico at 343-1123 ext. 231.
Genesee County Sno-Packers Snowmobile Club hosted clients of Genesee ARC today for the third annual "Winter Fun Party" at the club's facility in Oakfield.
The event is part of Genesee ARC's "Challenger Sports" program.
The party featured snowmobile rides, crafts and a lunch.
The club received a grant from KLIM, a maker of snowmobile clothing, so each participant received a KLIM beanie.
Photos from today's event can be purchased by clicking here.
More photos to view after the jump:
Special Olympics athletes representing Genesee ARC participated in a snowshoe competition Saturday (Jan. 22) at Bristol Mountain Ski Resort.
Missy Cook, Laura Mroz, Casarah Dieck, Erik Goodrich, Carl Jeerings, James Grudzien, Juan Baez and Jason Stimson took part in individual and relay events bringing home nine gold, eight silver and four bronze medals.
Special Olympics provide year-round competition for athletes with disabilities. Two snowshoe team members, Erik and Casarah, have been selected to compete in the State Winter Games Feb. 4 – 5 in Syracuse.
Press release from Genesee ARC:
Batavia, NY -- Family and friends of Genesee County ARC’s first PREP for Life Class gathered Thursday, Jan. 13 for a graduation ceremony at Genesee Community College’s Stuart Steiner Theatre.
Ten students walked across the stage to obtain their achievement certificate, marking completion of the program aimed at expanding their educational and vocational options.
PREP is an acronym which stands for People Realizing Education and Employment Potential. The program is a partnership between Genesee ARC and Genesee Community College and was established to improve student transition from high school to employment. It is a non-credit certificate program for individuals with developmental disabilities who desire a college experience.
The graduates are: Melissa Cook, Jesse Gray, James Grudzien, Dwight Hicks, Sherrie McKenzie, Andrew Moyles, Jason Northrup, Corinne Phelps, Christine Tinklepaugh and Janette Vick.
"PREP for Life grew out of our conversations with families who wanted their children to have access to more life experiences and skills," says Genesee ARC Executive Director Donna Saskowski.
Students learned skills in the areas of socialization, self-advocacy, time management, transportation, adaptive living skills, career exploration, job readiness and employment training. Another aspect of the curriculum included community volunteerism. Students used classroom space at the Genesee ARC Community Center, and at GCC they used the library, cafeteria, computer lab and meeting space.
According to Clifford Scutella, GCC director of Student Activities, it has been a pleasure interacting with the PREP for Life Students.
“They love life and being here brings so much joy to us and everyone at the college,” he said.
Since PREP for Life began, Mr. Scutella has always reached out to include the students in college activities. He was a speaker at Thursday’s graduation. PREP for Life Teacher and Genesee ARC Day Habilitation coordinator Kim Weber also addressed the students and guests.
“As a teacher, I believe that every day is about learning -- not just for the students, but for the teacher as well,” she said. “Each day the students have taught me something about myself, life and becoming a better person."
Graduates can now use the skills they have developed to help focus on their future. Opportunities include a new program option called AIM (Adults In Motion). It is a community-based enrichment program that gives individuals an opportunity to further explore their interests and goals.
It offers a variety of instruction and experiences designed to increase independence in various functional living skills such as safety, health and nutrition, hygiene, recreation and leisure, career exploration, and community access.
There is also the potential for training in prevocational/vocational areas through the Vocational Department at the Genesee ARC Work Center and the new Culinary Arts Program at the Genesee ARC Community Center.
Photo submitted by Sandy Konfederath.
The Local ARC group was at Walmart helping Salvation Army ring the bells.
Care-A-Van Ministries pulled up with the bus and provided Christmas music for the local shoppers as well. It was a fun night with the two organizations working together.
Betsy from ARC with Robin Walters, PR Director of Care-A-Van Ministries
Supporters of Genesee ARC were on hand Saturday evening for a dedication ceremony at its new community center, 38 Woodrow Road, Batavia.
Tom Houseknecht, center above, also announced that Genesee ARC's fundraising campaign for the facility exceeded goals. A total of $761,307 was raised. The goal was $750,000.
The center was also officially named the Edward S. Houseknecht building. Edward, who died at age 3, was the first child of Ralph Houseknecht Sr. and his wife. The tot inspired the entire Houseknecht family to aid other families with children with disabilities.
Pictured with Tom Houseknecht are his sisters, Katie Houseknecht and Mary Kay Barton.
Michael Richenberg, 20, from Elba, won the Genesee ARC 5K in Elba on Saturday. His 18:44 time beat Batavia High basketball player Collin Mulcahy, 16, by 12 seconds.
The other top 10 finishers were:
Kimberly Mills, 19, Basom, 19:08
Kevin Lavare, 30, New York, 19:14
Judy Arlington, 44, Lockport, 20:38
Chad Minuto, 34, Batavia, 21:04
Justin Carlson, 13, Le Roy, 21:07
Tom Moran, 57, Batavia, 21:17
Michael Skowronski, 13, Lewiston, 21:21
Patrick Miller, 45, Spencerport, 21:32
The top two women walkers were Kayla Russo, 16, of Williamsville, at 27:06 and Laura Felice, 74, of Jamestown at 40:37.
The top two men walkers were Paul Spiotta, 52, at 42:17 and Clarice Parrag-Graney, 68, at 44:07.
For complete results, click here.
Join the Fun! Save the Date! Register Now!
On your mark, get set, GO! Plans are underway for Genesee ARC’s Annual Friends & Family 5K. The 6th annual event is scheduled for September 25 in Elba. The 5K raises money for disability services and helps fund the Genesee ARC Mary Anne Graney Memorial Scholarship. Mrs. Graney was a dedicated parent, a long-time supporter of Genesee ARC, and a strong advocate for persons with developmental disabilities.
The Friends & Family event is made up of a 5K certified course, 5K Walk and a Fun Walk, with the route beginning near and ending at the Genesee ARC Day Habilitation Center, 4603 Barrville Road, Elba. Pre-registration for participants in the 5K is $15.00 by September 12 or $20.00 on the day of the 5K. Fun Walkers pay $10.00 before September 12 and $15.00 on September 25.
The “out and back” course will begin on Barrville Road, head west, then turn, heading east on Bridge then north on Luddington to the end, then back to the ARC Day Habilitation Center. Affected roads will be closed while runners are on the course. ARC is working with Town of Elba, Highway officials and the Genesee County Sheriff’s Department to ensure a safe, fun time for everyone.
Prizes will be presented to the overall male and female runners, with medals awarded to the male and female first and second place runners in the following age categories: 8–12, 13–18, 19–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and 70+. Medals will be awarded to the top three 5K Walkers (regardless of gender). The first 150 registered runners and walkers will receive a Friends & Family 5K t-shirt. PCR Timing returns this year as the official race timer.
After the Run/Walk, participants will be treated to a post race party, with music provided by The Buffalo Road Show. Kid-friendly activities include a bounce house, face painting and Magician, Adam Michael. Again this year, to go along with the country theme, event organizers are planning to showcase the produce from Elba area farmers in a “Taste of Elba.”
Title sponsor of the Friends & Family 5K is the Buffalo Law Firm of Webster Szanyi LLP. Organizers are also welcoming MVP Health Care as the Health & Wellness sponsor. Promotional support is being provided by Media Sponsor, WBTA, and the T-shirt sponsor is Genesee Valley Penny Saver. T.F. Brown’s and Clor’s Meat Market have volunteered to help by providing food for the post race party.
For a registration form or information on the Genesee ARC Friends & Family 5K, call Sandy Konfederath at ARC at (585) 343-1123 ext. 226, or email sandyk@rochester.rr.com. You may also pick up a form at 64 Walnut Street, Batavia and several area locations including WBTA, the Elba Town Hall and post office.
Genesee ARC sponsored what it dubbed a "Ginormous" garage sale at its new Woodrow Road community center. By the time I got there, the crowd had pretty much thinned out, but Trilateral Commissioner Sandy Konfederath said they had a big crowd this morning and the sale went well.
NOTE: The sale continues Saturday, July 31. Hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Genesee ARC will be holding a "Ginormous Garage Sale" at its Community Center site, at 38 Woodrow Road in Batavia. This will take place from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday, July 30 and Saturday, July 31.
Those who wish to help can donate items to the sale or purchase an outdoor 9' by 18' space for their own sales.
Genesee ARC will be holding a "Ginormous Garage Sale" at its Community Center site, at 38 Woodrow Road in Batavia. This will take place from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday, July 30 and Saturday, July 31.
Those who wish to help can donate items to the sale or purchase an outdoor 9' by 18' space for their own sales.
ARC's proceeds will go toward the People Realizing Potential Capital Campaign and toward art and recreation programs for children with disabilities.
Call Darla at 343-1123, ext. 250, for further details.
If you're in the market for a smart bandana for Bowser or a nifty cap napper for Fifi, the Genesee County ARC has some doggone good pet products that you can buy to support a great cause.
The pet line began a year ago in May. It helps ARC employ people with different types of disabilities, giving them a sense of pride and accomplishment. ARC also makes boxes for jewelry, filters and for Yancy's Fancy cheese.
Paul Saskowski, ARC's marketing manager, came up with the idea for pet products when he noticed that even during a recession, people spend money on their pets. Pets are treated like members of the family and they have their own special needs.
He did extensive research on the types of materials used in making pet products, such as the dog beds, and the prices stores charged. He wanted high-quality products that were durable and competitively priced.
These include: beds, cat nappers, dog bandanas, dog jackets and soon they hope to bring back their toothsome "Bark Bones."
The popular pet beds range from $25 to $75. They are very tough and will take even the most destructive pet awhile to tear it apart.
"We are nearing our 100th bed sold,” said Saskowski.
A heavy, water-resistant canvas is used for the bottom of the pet beds. The bed can easily be wiped down if it gets wet. There are four colors to choose from -- brown, khaki, black and tan. The top is made from a soft fleece and there are six colors/patterns to choose from: camel, rifle green, dog bones, white paws, red paws, and "bow-wow."
The stuffing is made from a cotton blend. To help with recycling and cut down on the amount of unused material, excess padding from ARC's manufacturing of jewelry boxes is included in the stuffing. This also helps make the beds softer. The beds are machine washable. Just throw the bed in the washing machine and follow the care instructions.
They come in small, medium and large. There is also the option of fiberfill or a pillow-top orthopedic, depending on how soft you want the bedding.
"All orders are custom made," he said, this way, customers can choose their own color/pattern and add the pet's name.
One person sews the pet products and she can make two to three beds per day. Once the order is ready, either the customer will pick up the product or Saskowski will drop it off. On rare occasions, an order comes from out of state and the product is packaged and mailed. Most of the orders come from within the area; the farthest one shipped went to Florida.
The cat nappers are $10, made from cozy fleece and have a touch of irresistable catnip sewed into them. They come in a variety of colors. The dog bandanas cost $2 to $4 are also made from fleece with many prints to choose from, including seasonal holiday ones.
The dog jackets also come in a variety of colors and sizes range from x-small, small and medium. Prices are $10-15. Each item can be personalized with your pet's name for only $5 more.
The Bark Bones are an all-natural, oven-baked dog treat. Currently, the ARC kitchen is undergoing renovations and as soon as they are completed, production of the treats will start once again. These have been a big hit. Dogs find them quite tasty.
Currently the pet product line gets all of its business through fliers in various animal hospitals and shelters, at fairs and local markets, and by word-of-mouth.
"We have fliers in the State Street Animal Hospital and in Mount Morris."
ARC anticipates getting a website to sell the pet line soon, making the products easier to order for a greater number of customers. Several organizations are said to be waiting for the website to launch and plan to post a link to it.
All money made from the pet line stays with the Genesee County ARC.
Its mission statement is "...to support people with disabilities in partnership with their families and the community. We embrace the individuals and nurture their social, spiritual, physical and emotional growth."
To order products or find out more, contact Paul Saskowski at (585) 343-1123, ext. 258 or via e-mail at <www.pasaskowski@rochester.rr.com>.
Two Genesee ARC Staff Members took the afternoon off Wednesday for a cause. Claudia Nigro and Eileen Corcoran went to Total Image Hair Salon, Batavia, to donate their hair to Locks of Love. Locks of Love is a Florida-based non profit organization that makes hair pieces for financially disadvantaged children suffering from a long term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. The two creative, long-time ARC employees also used this opportunity to raise money for the Genesee ARC People Realizing Potential Capital Campaign.
Eileen, a veteran Locks of Love donor recruited Claudia months ago. Then when ARC’s Capital Campaign was announced, the two “put their heads together” and decided to use the occasion to also raise money to benefit the campaign underway to renovate and refurbish the Genesee ARC Community Center (former St. Mary’s School, Woodrow Road, Batavia
We asked our friends and family to make pledges,” Eileen said. Claudia added, “Everyone was so generous!” When all of their pledges are collected, their final tally will exceed $700.00!
Genesee ARC Director of Development, Shelley Falitico praised her colleagues for coming up with this unique idea. “It benefits not one, but two organizations,” she said. Regarding the capital campaign, Shelley added. “Genesee ARC Staff have been very generous. With Eileen’s and Claudia’s pledges, gifts from Staff will exceed an impressive $25,000!”
To date, $702,000 has been raised in the $750,000 campaign. Community Members can make a donation on-line at www.peoplerealizingpotential.com or by calling the Genesee ARC Development & Community Relations Department at 343-1123.
About the donors: Both are Genesee County residents. Eileen is a Counselor in Genesee ARC’s Vocational Services Department and has been employed by the local disability service provider since 1997. Claudia is a member of the Community Relations Team and is marking her 20 year employment anniversary with Genesee ARC in 2010.
The mission statement of the Genesee County ARC is "Genesee ARC exists to support people with disabilities in partnership with their families and the community. We embrace the individuals and nurture their social, spiritual, physical and emotional growth."
The ARC employs many people with different types of disabilities to make products, and that gives the people feelings of pride and accomplishment. The ARC has several different product lines including: boxes for filters, jewelry boxes, boxes for Yancy's Fancy cheese, and now they have expanded to include pet products.
"We just celebrated our 1 year anniversary at the end of May."
Paul Saskowski, the Marketing Manager, for the ARC came up with the idea for pet products when he noticed that even during a recession people spend money on their pets. Pets are members of the family and have their own special needs. Saskowski did extensive research on the types of materials used in making pet products such as the dog beds and the prices stores charged. He wanted a high quality product that was durable and would last while keeping the prices competitive.
"We sell the following pet products: pet beds, cat nappers, dog bandanas, dog jackets, and hope to bring back their bark bones."
The pet beds are very durable and will take even the most destructive pet a while to take one apart. The cat nappers are made from fleece and have a touch of catnip sewed into them and are $10. They come in a verity of colors to choose from. The dog bandanas are also made from fleece with many prints to choose from including holiday ones for the change in the season. The price ranges from $2-4.
The dog jackets also come in different colors and the sizes range from x-small, small, and medium. The prices start from $10-15. Each item can be personalized with your pets name for only $5 more. The bark bones are an all-natural dog treat that are baked in an oven. Currently the kitchen is undergoing renovations and as soon as they are, completed production will start once again. These treats are tasty and have been a big hit.
"We are nearing our 100th bed sold."
In the last year, the ARC has sold almost 100 beds. All of the beds are custom ordered and can be personalized to include the name of the pet. The beds come in three sizes: small, medium, and large. There is also the option of fiberfill or the pillow top orthopedic depending on how soft you want the bedding. Prices range from $25-75.
"We only use high quality durable materials."
A heavy water resistant canvas is used for the bottom of the pet beds. The bed can easily be wiped down if it gets wet. There are four colors to choose from brown, khaki, black, and tan. The top is made from a soft fleece and there are six colors to choose from camel, rifle green, dog bones, white paws, red paws, and bow-wow.
The stuffing is made from a cotton blend. In addition to help with recycling and cut down on unused material, the excess padding from the jewelry boxes, is included in the stuffing. This produces little waste and makes the beds softer. The beds are machine washable, just throw the bed in the washing machine and follow the care instructions.
"We have flyers in the State St. Animal Hospital and in Mount Morris."
Currently the pet product line gets all of its business through the flyers in various animal hospitals and shelters and by word of mouth. Saskowski is anticipating on getting a website created soon. This way the products will become easier to order and more people will have access to the products. Saskowski has several organizations already lined up waiting for him to have the website available because they will post a link to his site and more people will be aware of the products. He has also attended fairs and the Batavia Market in an effort to get his product out to the people.
"All orders are custom made."
Each order is filled as Saskowski receives it. This way the custom can choose which pattern and even add the name of the pet. One person sews the pet products and she can make 2-3 beds per day. Once the order is ready, either the person will pick up the product or Saskowski will drop it off. On the rare occasions, an order comes in from out of state the product is packaged and mailed. Most of the orders come from within the area; the farthest one they shipped is Florida.
"All money stays with the Genesee County ARC."
All the proceeds go directly to the ARC, helps support the people, and the programs involved in creating a better living for people with disabilities. By buying products from the ARC, you are helping to support a local business, and because the workers are members of the community, you help support the community as well.
To submit an order you can email Paul Saskowski at pasaskowski@rochester.rr.com.
Steve and Crystal Hawley present Annie Watts, a server at Larry's Steakhouse in Batavia, with a restaurant promotion card to benefit Genesee ARC. On Sundays through Wednesday until June 9, eleven area businesses will give a percentage of proceeds to the Genesee ARC Capital Campaign underway to complete work at the agency’s Woodrow Road site, the former St. Mary’s Elementary School.
Genesee ARC will receive a donation equal to 10% of each purchase when the customer presents a promo card or ad at participating businesses. Clip and save promo ads were published in The Daily News, area penny savers and are available online at www.wbta1490.com.
Along with Larry’s Steakhouse, the following businesses are participating: Alabama Hotel, Alex’s Place, Batavia Restaurant Supply, Bohn’s, Clor’s, D & R Depot, Delavan’s, Sport of Kings, TF Browns and Terry Hills.
Money raised in this promotion will go towards the creation of a Culinary Arts Training Program at the Genesee ARC Community Center for people with disabilities. The goal is to train individuals in all phases of food preparation and serving for placement at jobs in the community.
Donations to support Genesee ARC’s Capital Campaign may be made on line at www.peoplerealizingpotential.com. Anyone with questions may contact Genesee ARC Director of Development, Shelley Falitico at 343-1123, ext. 231 or sfalitico@rochester.rr.com.
Local business leaders during a tour of the Genesee ARC Community Center. Pictured from left to right are: Rick Mancuso, Eva Bohn, Skip Charvella, Colleen Odessa and Steve Mullen. The group is part of a larger contingent helping to raise funds to support a new Culinary Arts Training Program for people with disabilities.
Batavia – Members of the local restaurant industry have joined in the fundraising efforts to help renovate the Genesee ARC Community Center. Eleven area businesses are participating in a promotion that will give a percentage of proceeds to the Genesee ARC Capital Campaign underway to complete work at the agency’s Woodrow Road site, the former St. Mary’s Elementary School.
The promotion runs Sundays through Wednesdays from April 11 - June 9. Genesee ARC will receive a donation equal to 10% of each purchase when the customer presents a promo card or ad at the following participating businesses: Alabama Hotel, Alex’s Place, Batavia Restaurant Supply, Bohn’s, Clor’s, D & R Depot, Delavan’s, Larry’s Steakhouse, Sport of Kings, TF Browns and Terry Hills.
The promotion excludes Mother’s Day or any other promotions or discounts. Anyone with questions may contact Genesee ARC Director of Development Shelley Falitico at 343-1123, ext. 231 or sfalitico@rochester.rr.com.
Genesee ARC introduced its new Community Center tonight in a special program that included an art exhibit by ARC clients and a presentation on the organizations fundraising campaign.
Genesee ARC acquired the former St. Mary's School at 38 Woodrow Road, Batavia, two years ago and is in the process of completely remodeling the facility to meet the needs of clients and families.
The project will cost more than $1.4 million, with $750,000 of the funds necessary for the project coming from private donations. So far, 59 percent of the total has been raised, and Genesee ARC is looking for other community members to step forward and help with the fundraising drive.
Tom Houseknecht and his wife Lynn are co-chairs of the campaign. The Houseknecht family has been involved with Genesee ARC from its earliest days. Tom's parents, Ralph and Agnes, lost a developmentally disabled child who was 3 years old and realized the need to support families with developmentally disabled children. The entire Houseknecht family has been involved in supporting Genesee ARC for nearly 35 years.
"We have received much more than we have given, as we have all experienced the special gifts of these individuals and the families that ARC serves," Tom Houseknecht said.
The new facility will offer a culinary arts program, a creative arts room, family support services, recreation and physical fitness and a resource center.
Tonight's program included a showing of art work by several Genesee ARC clients. The featured artist was Henry James Stratton II (pictured below), also known as "Hank," or, in Challenger Baseball season, "Hammerin' Hank." Hank likes to paint super heroes and villains, but his 11-piece exhibit included a sunset, a zoom mobile and a birthday bonanza.
Several of the artists wanted to have their pictures taken tonight. Please take a moment to click the "read more" link below to see the pictures of these artists and their works.
Joe Gear and his piece, "America."
John Brown with "Train Going Into Station" and "Train With Smoke." John made the wooden frames.
Mary Abella with her son Vincenzo Falcone and his piece, "John 3:16."
Kathy Gartz with "Butterlies."
Genesee ARC Executive Director Donna Saskowski was named Social Worker of the Year by the Western Division of the New York State Chapter of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).
She was selected for her service to people with developmental disabilities, her leadership skills and commitment to community development. Her award nomination was submitted by Barbara Demerest, of Amherst, a former aide to New York State Senator Mary Lou Rath.
“Community leaders and families served by ARC continually note the major positive impact that Donna’s leadership has on the lives of the individuals and families her agency serves, and on the larger community," Demerest said.
During the awards presentation, Demerest said, “Donna particularly has forged partnerships and collaborations, not only strengthening services but integrating persons with disabilities into their communities and maximizing their opportunities for full participation.
"Among the many initiatives she has led are a recreational partnership with the YMCA and a major fundraising effort for the Genesee ARC Community Center (formerly St. Mary’s School).”
Saskowski, a lifelong resident of the town of Darien, received her bachelor's and master's degrees in Social Work from the University of Buffalo School of Social Work and has been on staff at Genesee ARC since 1989 and Executive Director since 2004.
In addition to her affiliation with NASW, Saskowski is a member of the Batavia Rotary Club and the Genesee County United Way Board of Directors. She is president of the Finger Lakes Collaborative, and belongs to NYSARC’s Executive Directors’ Association and Developmental Disabilities Alliance of Western New York. In 2006, she was a member of the Community Health Foundation Leadership Fellows and she is a member of Leadership Genesee’s Class of 2005.
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