July 29, 2010; 11:27 a.m.
Ontario ARC keeps the Cruise in "Cruisin'"
Despite the noted troubles with the Canandaigua Lady, Donna Auria wasn’t worried about the cruise portion of Ontario ARC’s upcoming Cruisin’ for a Cause.
“This agency is extremely fortunate to have strong support from the community,” says Auria, the agency’s director of development. “The Canandaigua Lady is a fun part of the night; but people attend because they truly believe in our agency and what we do.”
Now in its 18th year, Cruisin’ for a Cause is Ontario ARC’s only major, annual fund raiser held at Steamboat Landing – this year on Aug. 19 from 5 to 11 p.m. All proceeds from the event go towards the agency’s recreation program, which provides fun activities – sports, social, entertainment, and leisure – for children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities throughout Ontario County.
“Recreation is one of the most important programs offered by the agency because it gives participants a chance to experience the same recreation opportunities everyone has,” adds Auria. “Plus, it provides a much needed balance to school, doctor’s appointments, and therapy sessions.”
This year, the event committee – which is comprised of parents, local business leaders, and agency staff – decided to change it up and breathe new life into the event. This included bringing on Caribbean Extravaganza – a steel drum band – and Rochester’s favorite band, Nik & the Nice Guys. For its auctions this year, Ontario ARC has lined up exciting items, including overnight trips to Atlanta, Ga. or Orlando, Fl., tickets to a Yankees game, a vacation package to the Caribbean and a week at a condo at Smuggler’s Notch.
“It’s a great way to snag a vacation for the family and also support Ontario ARC,” says Auria. “Our committee works extremely hard to secure the best auction packages in the area.”
Tickets are still available for $60 each by contacting Auria at 585-919-2191 or dauria@ontarioarc.org. More information about Cruisin’ for a Cause is available at www.ontarioarc.org/cruisin.
July 27, 2010; 2:39 p.m.
Ontario ARC appoints director of transportation and facilities
Ontario ARC has appointed Fairport resident Louis Wiesner to its Director of Transportation and Facilities position. In his new role, Wiesner will oversee the Finger Lakes Bus Service, as well as the maintenance and facility needs of the agency’s Community Learning Centers, residential homes and offices.
“Louis’ diverse experience in facility operations and business makes him a great fit for this role,” said Brenda Estey, associate executive director of support services. “I am confident that he will exceed our expectations, while delivering person-centered services to the children and adults we serve.”
Prior to joining Ontario ARC, Wiesner was the director of new business development for a local engineering firm. He has also previously served as the director of facility and services for the University of Rochester’s Medical Centers and Eastman School of Music.
July 23, 2010; 11:00 a.m.
Agency awards CA graduate Meg Baxter the Lori Brizzee Scholarship
Ontario ARC has awarded Canandaigua resident Meg Baxter its Lori Brizzee Scholarship for $1,000. The scholarship is given to one senior at Canandaigua Academy attending Finger Lakes Community College and majoring in Human Services or a related field.
Lori Brizzee – who had muscular dystrophy and spinal atrophy – was a senior vocational coordinator at Ontario ARC, where she worked for twenty years. Known throughout the agency for her positive attitude and sunny disposition, Brizzee's favorite quote was, "Because Nice Matters." The agency began the scholarship in 2006 after her passing.
"I'm pleased that another deserving student was awarded the scholarship," said Diane Triplett, Brizzee's sister and Ontario ARC residential manager. "Lori was passionate about the field and I know she would be thrilled about the scholarship."
Canandaigua Academy students interested in applying for the 2011 scholarship award should contact the school's guidance office.
July 19, 2010; 1:48 p.m.
Roseland Waterpark's "Dunk a Lifeguard" to raise funds for Ontario ARC
Roseland Waterpark's "Dunk a Lifeguard" will raise funds for Ontario ARC on July 22, 12 – 4 p.m. All proceeds will go towards the agency's programs and services, which provide assistance to nearly 1,000 children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities in Ontario County. The cost for "dunking" is $1 for three balls.
Costs to enter Roseland Waterpark are available at its Web site, www.roselandwaterpark.com.
June 28, 2010; 2:29 p.m.
Lead Sponsor Directory thanks local businesses, residents for supporting Cruisin' for a Cause
Ontario ARC has launched its Lead Sponsor Directory to acknowledge the local businesses and residents that are Lead Sponsors of the agency's major fund raiser, Cruisin' for a Cause.
Lead Sponsors donate a $1,000 or more to the Aug. 19 event, which will feature live entertainment by Nik & The Nice Guys, complimentary wines from Constellation Brands and a silent and live auction. All proceed go towards Ontario ARC's Recreation program.
For more information about this exciting event, please visit the Cruisin' for a Cause web site.
June 24, 2010
Cruisin' for a Cause is on Facebook!
Cruisin' for a Cause is now on Facebook! To RSVP to the event and share it with your friends, click on the image to the left.
Please remember, RSVP-ing on Facebook
does not mean a purchase of tickets. To get your tickets to one of Ontario County's biggest events, contact Donna Auria via e-mail or 585-919-2191.
June 14, 2010; 12:14 p.m.
Agency receives $64,000 grant from New York State's Department of Transportation
Ontario ARC has received a combined $64,000 grant from New York State’s Department of Transportation’s Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC) program and New Freedom program to enhance transportation services for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Ontario County.
The grants will fund transportation and travel education for individuals with developmental disabilities. To fulfill this need, the agency has appointed Geneva resident John Hurlburt to the role of Travel Trainer. Hurlburt will provide instruction about public transportation, community safety, and time management to increase people’s independence. Prior to this position, Hurlburt was the warehouse manager in the agency’s Abbey Industries Workcenter.
The Finger Lakes Bus Service – the name of the agency’s transportation services – currently maintains 90 vehicles that drive approximately one million miles yearly. The bus service transports 1,000 children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities to and from a variety of activities each year.
“Transportation is an important component of the services provided by Ontario ARC,” says Brenda Estey, the agency’s associate executive director of support services. “It helps people access employment opportunities, social and recreation events, and services in our community.”
The JARC program is designed to assist low-income individuals to and from work and other activities related to their employment. The New Freedom program’s goal is to improve transportation services and other transportation alternatives for individuals with disabilities. Both programs are monitored by New York State’s Department of Transportation.
June 11, 2010; 11:28 a.m.
Ontario ARC receives Special Recognition from Rochester Business Journal's Wealth of Health Awards
Ontario ARC received a Special Recognition honor from the Rochester Business Journal's fifth annual Wealth of Health Awards yesterday. The event honors local businesses and organizations for promoting wellness and encouraging physical activity in the workplace.
The agency was recognized for its various health and wellness initiatives for employees, including its Wellness Resource staff Web page, developing the Healthy Eating Tastes Good cookbook authored by the agency's nutritionist Marsha Fuller, providing an exercise DVD lending library, creating a Wellness Kitchen and hosting various wellness activities coordinated by its Wellness Committee.
June 10, 2010; 9:17 a.m.
Eberhardt Center's annual carnival seeks volunteers
Ontario ARC is currently seeking volunteers and prize donations for its annual Eberhardt Center’s carnival on July 22.
To assist the agency with the carnival, interested individuals must be at least 14 years old and able to work in between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Volunteers will be assigned to run games and activities, as well as assist with the set-up and break down of the carnival. The event – which will feature live music, dancing, and festive games – is also looking to borrow coolers and pop-up tents for the day.
For more information how on to get involved with the Country Fair, contact Liz Hedger – 585-919-2043 – or Amanda Stevens – 585-919-2058.
June 9, 2010; 12:28 p.m.
May / June edition of ARC Notes available online
The May / June edition of ARC Notes is now available online. Past editions of the agency's newsletters available in the Publication Archive section of this Web site.
June 4, 2010; 1:22 p.m.
Coordinator of Aging Services presents at annual Third Age Conference
Jody Thomas, Ontario ARC's coordinator of aging services, recently gave a presentation at the 19th annual Third Age Conference entitled, "Preventing Falls in your Agency: Fill Up Your Tool Kit." Thomas' presentation discussed the reasons and magnitude of falls, as well as proactive strategies and exercises to prevent falls. In addition, she had the opportunity to highlight Ontario ARC's decreased number of fall-related injuries since the inception of trainings, exercises, and fall prevention initiative in 2007.
June 1, 2010; 3:50 p.m.
Cruisin' for a Cause tickets and sponsorship packages are now available
Come set sail with Ontario ARC at its 18th annual Cruisin' for a Cause under the tent at Steamboat Landing on August 19. Tickets are $60 each and all proceeds go towards the agency's Recreation Program, which provides year-round activities for children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities.
This year's event will feature wine from Constellation Brands, live entertainment by Caribbean Extravaganza and Nik and the Nice Guys, along with a silent and live auction.
In addition, three scenic cruises are available aboard the Canandaigua Lady.
For more information about this year's event and sponsorship opportunities, please visit the agency's Cruisin' for a Cause section.
May 24, 2010; 9: 38 a.m.
College Experience participants take part in commencement ceremonies at FLCC and Hobart & William Smith Colleges
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(Left picture) Matt, Jeff, and Scott from the agency's College Experience program at FLCC get ready to walk in the graduation ceremonies. (Right picture) Keith from the Hobart & William Smith Colleges' College Experience program take a minute to pose after the event with dipolma in hand. |
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Last week, four participants from Ontario ARC's College Experience programs at FLCC and Hobart & William Smith Colleges -- Matt, Jeff, Scott, and Keith -- were invited to partake in their respective 2010 graduation ceremonies. Their participation in the event commemorates each young man's completion of the program. The agency's College Experience programs give young adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to attend a college environment audit classes, and utilize all of the campus facilities.
Congratulations to the graduates!
May 6, 2010; 4:13 p.m.
Ontario ARC honors its 2009 donors
The agency has released its annual list of donors from 2009 online. More than 400 people and organizations made a financial contribution to Ontario ARC between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31 2009.
"The agency is extremely grateful to the community for the ongoing financial support throughout 2009," says Donna Auria, director of development. "Their generous donations allows us to make our mission and vision come true for children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities."
To see the full list, click here.
May 6, 2010; 11:43 a.m
Agency to host "Preparing for the Future: Guardianship and Trusts" on May 18
Ontario ARC will host "Preparing for the Future: Guardianship and Trusts" to explain the legal process for
designating a guardian and establishing a supplemental needs trust at 7 p.m. on May 18. It is the first part in the Parent Connection educational series for care givers and families of individuals with developmental disabilities. The seminar will feature four expert speakers --
Robert P. Mascali, Esq., attorney, NYSARC, Inc.; the Honorable Judge Frederick G. Reed, Ontario County Surrogate Court; Elizabeth Simpson, chief clerk, Ontario County Surrogate Court; Michelle Jungermann, guardianship coordinator, Ontario ARC
For more information about the seminar and to RSVP, please contact Kathy Kanada via e-mail or directly at
585-919-2249.
May 3, 2010; 11:38 a.m
Thank you Midlakes Idol!
Ontario ARC recently received a very generous donation of $1,200 from Midlakes Middle School's Midlakes Idol event for the agency's recreation program. The program provides a wide variety of fun activities -- such as dances, bingo, movie nights, Kids Day and bowling -- for children, teenagers, and adults with developmental disabilities.
"We are truly thankful to Midlakes Middle Schools for this thoughtful donation to the recreation program," said Donna Auria, director of development.
April 28, 2010; 11:37 a.m.
Agency appoints seven to its Advisory Board
Ontario ARC has appointed seven new members to its Advisory Board -- a board of local community members and business leaders that provide community-based input about the agency's programs and services.
The new members of the Advisory Board, along with their occupations, are:
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Damian Bolster Procurement Manager, Constellation Wines North America |
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Craig Howard Director, Canandaigua V.A. Medical Center |
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Michael Kauffman General Manager, Eastview Mall |
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Jan Regan Owner, Jan Regan Photography |
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Dawn Santiago-Marullo Superintendent, Victor Central School District |
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Wade Sarkis Managing Partner, Canandaigua Financial Group |
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Hal Smith President, Halco Plumbing and Heating |
April 20, 2010; 3:33 p.m.
Raffle tickets still available!
Ontario ARC still has tickets available for its annual raffle to win a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, courtesy of Geneva Harley-Davidson. This year's first place winner will receive a 2010 Harley-Davidson FXDB (Street Bob).
The raffle also has cash prizes for the second and third place winners of $500 and $250 cash, respectively. In addition, the fourth through tenth place winners will receive prizes.
To purchase tickets, please contact Allison Cassara at 585-919-2123 or Donna Auria at 585-919-2191.
April 15, 2010; 2:13 p.m.
Ontario ARC gives back through United Way's Day of Caring
Both staff and participants volunteered their time and energy today at various sites throughout Ontario County for the United Way's Day of Caring.
Members from Ontario ARC's residential habilitation department volunteered their time at the Canandaigua Early Childhood Center at the V.A. Hospital (pictured left). Their spirit was met by the participants and staff from the College and Community Experience, who volunteered at Granger Homestead. In addition, the agency's management team -- which consists of all program directors -- helped out at Cummins Nature Center.
Ontario ARC's recreation program and Special Olympics training clubs are funded through the United Way.
April 8, 2010; 9:08 a.m.
Self Advocates raffling gift basket of local New York State products
The Self Advocacy Group of Ontario County is currently selling raffle tickets for a basket full of local New York State goodies to raise funds for its advocacy efforts and activities. The drawing will be held on April 21.
The basket contains two wine glasses, a bottle of Rooster Hill 2005 Meritage, Arbor Hill Rosé
Wine Jelly, Finger Lakes Coffee, Cheese Crisp Crackers, Bodacious Bites, along with several other cookies and snacks. Tickets are $1 each, $2 for three, and $5 for an arms length.
To purchase tickets, please contact Kathy Kanada via email or at the Main Facility, 585-394-7500, ext. 2269.
March 30, 2010; 9:28 a.m.
Canandaigua's Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club host 3rd annual bowling tournament with Recreation Program
The Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club of Canandaigua recently hosted its 3rd annual bowling tournament with participants from Ontario ARC's Recreation Program. Heralded as one of the most important programs offered by the agency, the Recreation Program provides fun athletic and entertainment opportunities for children and adults with developmental disabilities.
"We are grateful for the tremendous amount of support we receive from both the Kiwanis and Rotary clubs," said Donna Auria, director of development. "The bowling tournament is a special event that participants from the Recreation Program look forward to every year."
March 15, 2010; 2:24 p.m.
Agency accepting applications for executive director position
Ontario ARC is currently seeking qualified candidates for its executive director position. Applicants have until April 15 to submit a cover letter, along with detailed resume, to the Search Committee. For more information about the position, please visit our Employment Opportunities page.
March 9, 2010; 9:13 a.m.
Volunteer with Ontario ARC
Ontario ARC is currently seeking volunteers to assist with various tasks for its programs, services, and events. The agency has opportunities for local residents to assist individuals in Ontario ARC's community learning centers, recreation programs, or with its fund raisers -- Cruisin' for a Cause and the 2010 Holiday Gift Wrapping Booth. Visit the Volunteer Opportunities page on this Web site or call the Main Facility at 585-394-7500 and ask to speak to the Volunteer Coordinator.
March 2, 2010; 11:42 p.m.
Celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Ontario ARC is celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
throughout March with tips about raising awareness and its new video series "Meet a Self Advocate" on Ontario ARC Speaks!
For more information about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, please visit the agency's blog.
February 25, 2010; 9:17 a.m.
National Autism Center releases National Stanards Report
The National Autism Center recently released its National Standards Report, which it describes as the most comprehensive analysis of treatments of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders ever published. The report identifies 11 established treatments that are known to be effective for individuals on the Autism spectrum, as well as 22 emerging treatments that have shown some evidence of effectiveness. The goal of the survey is to give families and professionals better tools for making treatment decisions that meet the needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
The National Autism Center has three pages available for free or the full report available for $14.95 at its Web site, www.nationalautismcenter.org.
February 23, 2010; 3:01 p.m.
Ontario ARC's executive director announces retirement
Ontario ARC's Executive Director Bill Castiglione has announced his plans to retire at the end of 2010. Castiglione -- a resident of Canandaigua -- will celebrate 30 years as executive director of the agency in August.
"I have made many friends and have been given the chance to work with and for many wonderful people over the years," said Castiglione. "I believe I have helped create a culture of caring and quality services for people with developmental disabilities that will continue long after I'm gone. "
Castiglione -- known by Chapter members, parents, and participants as "Bill C." -- joined the agency in 1978 as program director of its workshop. He was appointed executive director in 1980, where he implemented a variety of new supports and services to enhance the quality of life for people with developmental disabilities.
"I thank Bill for his unwavering dedication to Ontario ARC and the people this agency serves throughout the past three decades," said Joe Bognanno, Ontario ARC's board president.
February 19, 2010; 9:32 a.m.
Eberhardt Center celebrates its own Olympic Games
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The Eberhardt Center recently celebrated its own version of the Olympic Games, in honor of the international athletic competition currently ongoing in Vancouver. Each of the facility's five core rooms were decorated to represent Canada, Greece, Australia, China, and Zimbabwe. Participants "traveled" to each country to learn more about its native hertiage and sample some local cuisine.
In addition, staff set up various Olympic Games -- Sweeping, "Target Shooting", Bowling, Wheelchair Obstacle Course, Discus -- for individuals to participate in. Here are the results:
Sweeping |
Target Shooting |
Bowling |
| David H. -- Gold Helen B. -- Silver Adam B. -- Bronze |
Ed. R & Patty S. -- Gold Tanya H. -- Silver Jim G. -- Bronze |
Ross B. -- Gold John S. -- Silver David H. -- Bronze |
Wheelchair Obstacle Course (Self Propelled) |
Wheelchair Obstacle Course (Assisted) |
Discus |
Jeff M. -- Gold
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Ken B. & Lou L. -- Gold Robert L. & Robin B. & Marsha C. -- Silver Patty S. & Rachel B. -- Bronze |
Luke A. -- Gold Molly M. -- Silver Matt W. -- Bronze |
February 18, 2010; 11:11 a.m.
Ontario ARC Speaks! goes mobile
Ontario ARC has launched a mobile-friendly version of its blog -- Ontario ARC Speaks! -- for parents, families, and chapter members to read from their BlackBerry, iPhone, or other smartphone device. Updated daily, the blog features advocacy information, news from around the world about developmental disabilities, as well as agency and program updates.
"Today's parent is constantly on-the-go -- carpooling children to and from activities, attending school meetings, going to doctor's appointments, meeting with teachers," said Donna Auria, director of development. "This easy-to-use version of our blog will help keep families updated about Ontario ARC from anywhere they happen to be."
To access the mobile-friendly version, point your smartphone's browser at http://mippin.com/ontarioarcspeak or scan in one of the barcodes in below.
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BarCode |
February 8, 2010; 2:16 a.m.
New ARC Notes is now available!
The January / February 2010 edition of ARC Notes is now available for viewing online. This edition features stories about the agency's Supported Employment program, Holiday Gift Wrapping Booth, Aktion Club, and the Creative Expressions program.
For past issues of ARC Notes, please see our publication archive.
February 8, 2010; 10:35 a.m.
Recreation Program seeks volunteers for Kids Day
Ontario ARC's recreation services is currently looking for volunteers to share their talents and skills with its Kids Day -- a program designed to bring entertainment and athletic opportunities for children ages 5 - 14.
The program is looking for individuals to share their experience in a wide variety of activities, such as knitting, sewing, woodworking, music, dance, science, drama, and nature. Volunteers are asked to commit roughly two hours of their time for one Saturday a month.
More information about volunteering with Ontario ARC's Recreation Program is available by contacting Cyndee Jepsen via e-mail or calling (585) 396-3060.
February 1, 2010; 11:46 a.m.
FAQs posted to the agency's blog, Ontario ARC Speaks!
In response to questions fielded at the recent Parent Membership & Advocacy Meeting, the agency has posted "Recap through FAQ" on its blog -- Ontario ARC Speaks!. Blog visitors are also encouraged to post any additional questions in the comment section.
Continue to the check the blog for updates and information concerning membership and advocacy efforts.
January, 15, 2010; 8:45 a.m.
Agency hosting Parent Membership & Advocacy Meeting
on Jan. 28, 6 p.m.
Ontario ARC will host another Parent Membership & Advocacy Meeting on Jan. 28, 6 p.m. at Main Facility. Board President Joe Bognanno and Board Secretary Elizabeth Palmatier will present information about Albany and the 2010-2011 fiscal situation, membership and advocacy issues, as well as future meeting and event topics.
"If we want our voices to be heard in Albany, we need to make sure that every resource is available to our parent members," said Donna Auria, director of development. "These meetings will help people empower themselves and their loved ones."
Anyone interested in attending the meetings can RSVP to Donna Auria via e-mail or by calling 585.394.7500, ext. 191.
More information is available at our blog, Ontario ARC Speaks!.
January, 12, 2010; 9:10 a.m
Looking for ARC Notes?
Please check our new blog -- Ontario ARC Speaks! -- for more information about the agency's newsletters.
January 11, 2010, 3:42 p.m.
Ontario ARC's Holiday Gift Wrapping Booth raises $19,000
Ontario ARC raised more than $19,000 for services for people with developmental disabilities through its 14th annual Holiday Gift Wrapping Booth at the Eastview Mall.
"Every volunteer, sponsor, and patron made this holiday season a bit cheerier and brighter for people we serve," said Donna Auria, director of development. "We can't thank them enough for their continued support of our organization."