Liberty

2015 Annual Report

Arts in Action

It has been said that art is an expression of one’s self—a meaningful way to share

thoughts, feelings, and creativity. This medium of communication is a perfect outlet for the individuals in the Liberty Through the Arts program. It’s a way for people with physical and developmental disabilities to show who they are and what matters to them, in a safe and nurturing environment.

The Arts program began in 2009 when Art Instructor Amy Devendorf, a Direct Support Professional with the Liberty Day Program, started to share her artistic abilities with individuals. This interaction evolved into regularly-scheduled art classes at various locations and has continued to grow.

Artistic RecognitionIn 2015, much was accomplished by participants in the arts program:

• Liberty held its third Creative Expressions art show in December. For the first time, staff participated with individuals.

• Five pieces of artwork were chosen to adorn holiday greeting cards for Liberty, Liberty Foundation, and for purchase at Liberty Fresh Market.

• Awards at the Arc of Otesgo’s Annual Art Show:

Mark Klug—People’s Choice and the Creative Expressions Award for Cityscape

Crew Reddick—Juror’s Award for her piece Oh Happy Day!

Individuals in Liberty’s OPTS group won 2nd place for their collaborative artwork Catching Snowflakes

Learning to Love LearningAn Academics program was created in 2015 as an offshoot of the Arts program as a way to provide additional opportunities for learning and expressing creativity. Some offerings were: sewing, sign language, photography, gardening, pet care, and baking and money skills (through sales of art and baked goods).

Get Your News Here2015 also saw the introduction of a newsletter called Liberty Times. This quarterly publication is compiled by individuals in the Academics program. They research, interview, write, and lay out the entire publication and distribute it families, individuals in program, and staff.

Bells GaloreMusic is another wonderful way to explore creativity and imagination. In 2015, Liberty’s bell choir, the Bell Tones, was rejuvenated! This group of talented (and VERY fun) individuals played for numerous community organizations during the year: Arkell Nursing Home, Palatine Nursing Home, River Ridge Nursing Home, and The Amsterdam Century Club’s Annual Festival of Trees.

Growing to Give BackThe Liberty/FM Community Garden is now in its fourth year of growing a variety of produce for local food pantries. In 2015, fresh vegetables and fruit were given to benefit those in need in the local community.

Art in the GardenLiberty’s summer soirée was held in August at the height of the growing season. Individuals in Liberty’s programs, staff, family members, and people from the community enjoyed a dazzling summer evening in the garden viewing artwork and listening to music. This annual event is an opportunity to show how the garden assists the community and gives the art program much-deserved exposure.

Throughout the year, and on varying levels, more than 80 individuals regularly contribute to the art program through painting, drawing, poetry, photography, gardening, writing, and more. The purpose of this eclectic program is to celebrate and showcase the creativity of all the individuals involved! q

On the Cover:L–R: Heather Purtell, Alan Szala, Nicole Lyons,

and Sam Togaila perform a rousing rendition of “Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay” at Liberty’s

2015 8th Annual Follies Talent Show.

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Mark Klug

Liberty’s Bell Tones at FM

A Message from Lisa and Jennifer A Review of 2015. Facing the Challenges Ahead.

We are happy to share our 2015 Annual Report with you. This report, which highlights our services, is full of success stories that demonstrate the difference Liberty makes to the quality of life of people with disabilities. Thank you

for your support of these accomplishments. Without you, our stakeholders, we would not be able to accomplish all that we did in 2015.

We are in a time when not-for-profits are being asked to “do more with less” every year and funding cuts are now the norm. The agency is now in year two of a four-year phase in funding reduction through a statewide process referred to as “rate rationalization.” Thanks to the creativity of our staff, we have found ways to consistently ensure that what matters to our individuals is the first priority in everything we do.

One area that stands out during 2015 is Liberty’s increased use of technology. From our expanded use of Therap, our electronic record keeping software, to the use of iPads in programming, the agency has embraced technology as a way to improve communication. The electronic videos of Individual Service Plans (ISPs) have offered people in Liberty’s programs another format in which to express themselves, their goals, and desired outcomes. Our Balancing Incentive Program Grant (see Page 8 for more information) enabled us to purchase hardware and provide training in the use of the devices to individuals we support at Fulton- Montgomery Community College. We are excited about the potential technology has to increase independence for the individuals we support.

Despite the challenges we experienced as a result of the funding cuts, 2015 was a successful year for Liberty. We appreciate the generosity of our funders and donors; without their support we could not fulfill our mission.

We thank our employees who remain our strongest asset, ensuring each day that we keep our mission at the forefront of all we do. To our volunteers and the community at large, we say thank you for your continued investment in our agency and your support of our mission during 2016. q

Liberty Board President Rev. Lisa Vander Wal, left, meeting with Jennifer Saunders, CEO. 3

Rediscovering HappinessOur sincere thanks to the following individuals, families and businesses who contributed to Liberty Foundation, Inc. in 2015.

u General Donations

Amsterdam United Methodist WomenMs. Regina CassettaFulmont College Association, Inc.Galway Lioness ClubMs. Frances GargiuloMs. Valerie HarringtonHistoric Amsterdam LeagueIBM Employee Services CenterMr. & Mrs. Kenneth KrutzMrs. Margaret LazarouCongressman Paul TonkoUnited Way of Buffalo & Erie CountyWalmart Distribution Center #6096

u in KinD DonationsMr. Michael KowalskiMr. John RogersMrs. Joan SilvernailMrs. Mary Lou Warnick

u arC Car Donation ProGram

Ms. Dorothy DanaherMs. Stacy Smith

u annual membershiP CamPaiGn

The following individuals or businesses gave a donation to Liberty Foundation with their annual membership.Mr & Mrs. Kenneth AdamowskiMrs. Sharon AdamowskiMrs. Joan AlbertinAmsterdam Funeral ChapelMs. Mary Jo ArgotsingerMrs. Marie AustinMs. Alberta BaileyMs. Joanne BaileyMr. & Mrs. William L. BaileyRev. & Mrs. James BalsdonBeckmann Converting, Inc.Mr. & Mrs. Jack BetzMr. William BonnerMr. Gary BottomleyMrs. Adelaide BubniakMr. Joseph BubniakMr. & Mrs. Michael CannizzaroMs. Dorothy CarterMs. Regina CassettaMr. & Mrs. Thomas ChicoMr. & Mrs. Aubrey ClevelandMs. Connie ColaConestoga-Rovers & Associates, Inc.Mr. & Mrs. Michael CookMrs. Rowlinda D. CopelandMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMr. Paul CzechMr. Dennis DabiereMs. Dorothy DanaherMs. Judith Decker

Mrs. Rosemary DiBlasiMr. & Mrs. Alfred DiCaprio and David In Memory of Michael DiCaprioMrs. Elizabeth A. DiCaprioMr. & Mrs. Paul DiCaprioMs. Roberta DomblewskiMs. Mary DonohueExcel Dryer Inc.Mrs. Darlene Fetterly In Memory of Bob FetterlyMr. & Mrs. Sal FurnareMs. Frances GargiuloMr. James GargiuloReverend Theodore GerkenMr. Richard GlammMrs. Hildegard M. HallMrs. Valerie HarringtonMr. Leonard A. HartvigasMs. Kathy HewittMrs. Concetta HinkelMr. & Mrs. Ronald HuttonMrs. Barbara IrishMs. Opal Jania In Honor of grandson

Nicholas FilipponeMr. & Mrs. Larry JordanMrs. Mary Ann JurcsakKaren’s Produce & Ice CreamMs. Anne S. KeileyMrs. Janet L. KellyDr. Nancy KnudsenMr. & Mrs. John KolodziejMr. & Mrs. Ken KrutzMr. & Mrs. Gary KwiatkowskiMrs. Margaret Lazarou In Memory of Costa Lazarou (GE Foundation Matching Gift)Mr. & Mrs. Christopher LailMr. & Mrs. Frederick LieberDr. & Mrs. Peter LiljebergMrs. Jill LoucksMs. Cindy MacholdMrs. Lila MacPhail Mr. & Mrs. Joseph E. MazurMs. Madeline McCuneMrs. Sandra L. MockryMr. & Mrs. Wes MollerMs. Evelyn MotylMs. Karen Mullarkey & Jim In Memory of Joseph MullarkeyMrs. Peg NareMrs. Candace OpalkaMr. Matthew OssenfortMs. Larraine PaglesMr. & Mrs. John PasicznykMr. & Mrs. Daniel Pastalaniec In Memory of Dennis SomersMr. & Mrs. Carl PucciMr. & Mrs. Raymond RekscMrs. Carmella RepkaMrs. Edith RichardsMr. & Mrs. Jim RizzoMr. & Mrs. R. Scott RomanoMr. & Mrs. John RoseMrs. Kathy SaundersMs. Theresa ScialabbaMr. & Mrs. David Seeley

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony ScottMr. & Mrs. Greg SelemanMr. & Mrs. David ShecktonMrs. Joan SilvernailMr. & Mrs. Francis Slater Mrs. Joan SomersMr. & Mrs. Laawrence SpagnolaMr. & Mrs. Joseph SpodarykMr. & Mrs. Raymond SullivanDr. Dustin SwangerMr. Ron and Dr. Kelly SwartMr. & Mrs. Joe TokarczykMs. Susan TrumpickMrs. Arlene VanAmburgh &

Jeff VanAmburgh In memory of Ellen GrossmanMr. David & Rev. Lisa Vander Wal

& LindseyMrs. Anna WaldynskiMs. Susan WesoloskiMs. Kate Wolfe, Patriot Federal BankMrs. Winifred WozniakMs. Sandy Yutes

u in KinD Donations

Mr. Michael KowalskiMrs. Joan Silvernail

u memorial Donationsin memory of

neil D. ammerallMr. & Mrs. Frank Klementowski

in memory of rosemarie auriemma

Ms. Noreen Gulnick

in memory of DonalD austinMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMrs. Janice Sheckton

in memory of raymonD bubniaK

Mr. & Mrs. Victor BubniakMr. & Mrs. Paul Moore

in memory of meGan CioneK

Friends at Liberty & Van Dyke Residence

in memory of theresa Conti

Ms. Marie & Ms. Bea GrecoMs. Anne KeileyMs. Helen Podolec & Ms.Theresa RossMr. & Mrs. Mark RussoMr. & Mrs. Ken Zyzes

in memory of ranDy CzaPlinsKi

Mrs. Linda ColeMrs. Irene BollenMs. Judy and Mr. Ryan DeckerMs. Frances & Ms. Dorothy

DomkowskiMr. & Mrs. John HungershaferMr. & Mrs. Thomas LaisMr. & Mrs. Raymond Ludwin

The loss of a loved one impacts each

person differently. For some, it’s a life-altering event that can lead to deep sadness and even depression. Jamie Fredricks was very close to her father, whose death over three years ago had a profound effect on her.

Once an outgoing, friendly individual, Jamie became depressed. She did not attend the vocational program at Liberty for almost three years, did

not want to participate in activities in her community, and had no interest in leaving home.

That all changed when Carmen Irizarry became the manager of Jamie’s residence at Liberty. Carmen began to work with Jamie who little-by-little emerged from her shell. Carmen and staff at the home encouraged Jamie to seek counseling, which helped her deal with grief.

To aid in the healing process, staff helped Jamie plant a memory tree outside her home in remembrance of her father. Karen, another staff who works with Jamie, involved her in activities at the Fort Johnson Fire Department. Soon, Jamie became a member of the fire auxiliary and began volunteering and attending monthly meetings on a regular basis. Jamie enjoys this time so much she now bakes treats to share.

Jamie’s amazing transformation led to her hire as a store clerk at Liberty Fresh Market at the end of 2015. Thanks to staff support and encouragement from others, Jamie is now poised to achieve anything she puts her mind to! q

2015 Liberty Foundation Donations

Jamie holds a keepsake box that protects something very special to her—a hat her father used to wear. She’s accompanied by her house manager Carmen Irizarry.

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In September, 2015, James Getsch, a participant in the

Helping Hands Day Program at Liberty, began a new job as daily courier for New Dimensions.

Jimmy, as he likes to be called, delivers interoffice mail from Liberty and picks up and signs for outgoing mail. He has made several new friends at NDHC by arriving with a smile and greeting those he knows with hugs and handshakes.

Jimmy is aware of patients who stand outside the front doors to smoke and stops in to notify Clinical Coordinator Amanda Gunther. He likes to inform patients that they can stand on the sidewalk 25 feet away from the building. With the help of his staff, Jimmy brightens the day with his excitement to curb smoking at the entrance and getting mail delivered correctly. q

Many people feel stress when choosing the perfect Christmas present, one that will convey how

they feel and make the recipient happy.

Laura Latvis did just that this past Christmas, which helped to spread the holiday cheer to Dr. Mohamed, a physician at New Dimensions in Health Care who has been her physician for many years! She handed him the gift and said “open it, I made it just for you.” Laura had crocheted a beautiful blanket just for him. Dr. Mohamed was very touched and happy to receive such a thoughtful and personal gift from Laura. Those in the room said it was a very touching moment. Times like these show what a wonderful relationship the individuals have with their providers at the health center. q

Mr. & Mrs. Vincenzo NicosiaMr. & Mrs. John RusnicaMrs. Joan SilvernailMr. Craig SpoonerMr. Michael SpoonerMr. & Mrs. Edward Wool

in memory of Jean DowneyMr. & Mrs. Richard Baia

in memory of PatriCia Dufresne

Ms. Laurie GetsloffMr. Frank LaBateMr. & Mrs. Wes Moller

in memory of steven JaCKsonMs. Mary IsburghMr. & Mrs. Walter MalkowiczMr. Warren Malkowicz

in memory of Dorothy JorDanMr. & Mrs. Frank Klementowski

in memory of helen JohnsonMr. & Mrs. Keith HollandMontgomery County Department

of Social ServicesPerth Senior Citizens ClubMs. Mary Ann Riley

in memory of lori KantorFunds will be used for the Lori Kantor Memory Garden at Carlisle RoadMs. Colleen AthansMr. & Mrs. Glen BabcockMs. Ann Marie CappadonaDCF Regional School/Ocean CampusMs. Kelly FitzwaterGeneral Electric Aviation

Legal OperationMs. Allyson HandlerThe Hayes FamilyMr. Rick HuffMs. Gloria KantorMs. Megan LillichMs. Jean Lyndon-RodgersMs. M. Eileen MillerMr. Dan SemoMs. Amy WagnerMs. Deborah WhitworthMr. Gregory Young

in memory of Joel G. KaPlanMr. Donald Abrams, Ms. Lisa Delisle

& FamilyMr. & Mrs. Kenneth AdamowskiMs. Sarah AdamowskiMrs. Pat BeckMs. Marion BienickMrs. Irene BollenMr. & Mrs. Michael BucciferroMr. & Mrs. Armand CanestraroMr. & Mrs. Frank CaponeMr. Michael ChuneyMr. & Mrs. Michael CinquantiMrs. Nancy CollinsMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMs. Dorothy Danaher

Mr. & Mrs. Michael DeckerMr. & Mrs. Paul DiCaprioMr. David FarielloMrs. Beth FranciscoMr. David GordonMr. & Mrs. Keith HollandMr. & Mrs. Jack HotalingMrs. Dawn JackslandMr. & Mrs. Larry JordanMr. Kevin KirbeyMrs. Elaine Ko-TalmadgeMs. Nancy LevinsonMrs. Bernie MasterpoloMrs. Jennifer NewhookMr. & Mrs. Dennis Opalka Ms. Mary PetrilloMr. Carl PucciMr. & Mrs. Robert PurtellMrs. Barbara RendaMs. Joy ReynoldsMrs. Sally RomanoMr. & Mrs. John RoseMr. Dale SamilowMr. Gary SamilowMs. Jennifer SaundersMr. Bill SikoraMrs. Janet SilkaMrs. Joan SilvernailDr. Kelly SwartMr. & Mrs. John Tesiero, Jr.Honorable & Mrs. Guy TomlinsonMr. David & Rev. Lisa Vander WalMr. & Mrs. Edward Wool

in memory of Catherine latvis

Mr. & Mrs. John Mancini

in memory of Christine mazur on her birthDay

Mrs. Patricia GajewskiMs. Rita Smith

in memory of Jane morehouse

Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth DietrichMs. Marjorie DietrichMr. & Mrs. William Morehouse

in memory of DereK niCholsMr. Richard GlammMs. Frances Kerchner & TonyMrs. Genevieve Polinski & Lee

in memory of albert “al” Palmieri

Mr. Dennis Yacobucci

in memory of robert QuiCK

Mr. & Mrs. Michael CinquantiMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMr. & Mrs. Larry Jordan

in memory of robert QuiCKMr. & Mrs. Michael CinquantiMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMr. & Mrs. Larry Jordan

Jimmy signs the health center’s mail register, a job he looks forward to every day and thoroughly enjoys.

2015 Liberty Foundation Donations cont.

5newdimensionsinhealthcare.org • https://wwwFacebook.com/NewDimensionsinHealthCare

Dr. Mohamed and Laura enjoy the comfort of Laura’s kindness and talents.

Care and Comfort

L iberty Associate Director Ashley Walton recalls the

following emergency situation she experienced on her second day at Liberty:

“I had only been with the agency a couple of days when I received notification that a gentleman we support was unresponsive downstairs at the Church Street, Canajoharie, Day Habilitation site. I ran down, wondering how I could help in the situation, as I was not yet familiar with the staff, individuals, site, etc. When I arrived, what I witnessed amazed me.

Staff were calm, collected, and doing everything they could, not only to save

a person’s life, but also to care for the other individuals at the site. CPR was being administered by staff, another staff member was on the phone calmly giving notifications, and a third was conducting an activity apart so that the individuals were occupied and not upset by the situation. It was like a well-oiled machine.

After just a few minutes, a residential manager arrived who had heard about the situation. Without being asked, she came in and started gathering individuals to distract them from what was going on. She offered, ‘Hey…let’s go have a movie day at Moyer’! ‘Want to come hang out with me today?’ She had a huge smile on her face, and was solely focused on the well-being of the people we support. You would never have known what was happening in the next room.

Needless to say, I was pretty overwhelmed with different emotions that day. I was thankful that a life was saved, impressed by what I saw, and thrilled that I was going to have the privilege of working with these amazing staff members. It was a perfect example of teamwork, selflessness, and providing the best care possible to individuals.”

A celebration of life was held soon after! Suzanne Fields sent invitations to all involved, including the local Fire Chief and EMTs who responded that day. At the celebration, the Fire Chief shared, “It is very rare that they (emergency responders) learn how things work out after an incident; it’s nice to be a part of the celebration.” q

in memory of John “Jay” Quatrini

Mr. and Mrs. Sal AndolinaMs. Vera BaranelloMrs. Marget BarnettMrs. Marilyn BetzMr. & Mrs. Ed BradleyMs. Avis BrownMs. Dorothy BrownMr. & Mrs. Terence BurkeMr. & Mrs. Nicholas CassettaMs. Regina CassettaMr. & Mrs. Gerald CinquantiMr. & Mrs. Craig ColemanWayne & Doreen CostnerMr. & Mrs. John DeckerMs. Mary Carmel DetragliaMr. & Mrs. Joseph M. DiBlasiMs. Dorothy DomkowskiMs. Carol A. DouglasMs. Louis DrozicMs. Mary EckertMr. & Mrs. John FabozziMr. & Mrs. Frank FalcoMr. & Mrs. Brian Farrell & BoysMr. Louis FasolinoMr. & Mrs. Michael FraserMs. Michelle GiaimoMr. & Mrs. Joe GiardinoMr. & Mrs. Richard GlammMs. Beatrice GrecoMr. & Mrs. Ed HartMrs. & Mrs. Richard HelminMr. & Mrs. John HotalingMs. Elizabeth KindarMr. & Mrs. Robert KosineskiMr. Jeffrey KozlowskiMrs. & Mrs. Juan LaurillaMs. Gilda LibertucciMr. & Mrs. Patrick LiverioMr. & Mrs. Joseph MaglioccaMr. & Mrs. Charles MarinoMs. Olivia Marino-MyersMr. & Mrs. Michael MasterpoloThe Mercadante FamilyMr. & Mrs. Michael MurphyMr. & Mrs. Donald J. NicksonMr. & Mrs. Anthony PallottaMs. Grace PerfettiMr. & Mrs. Felix PersicoMs. Gloria J. PolackoMrs. Gen Polinski & LeeMr. Linda RanadoMs. Maria J. ReimersMr. & Mrs. Jospeh RzeznikSt. Mary’s Auxiliary, Inc.St. Mary’s Home/School AssociationMr. & Mrs. Chuck SchwartzMr. & Mrs. John SmrticMs. Sharon SmrticMr. & Mrs. Bill Stachnik & MatthewMr. & Mrs. James ThackrahMr. & Mrs. Stanley TonkoMr. & Mrs. Bob Van Allen & NancyMr. & Mrs. Peter Vertucci and FamilyMs. Antoinette Wells

Ms. Julie WellsMr. & Mrs. Michael WitteyMr. & Mrs. Edward WoolMr. & Mrs. Lawrence YevoliMr. & Mrs. Peter ZaboMs. Jennie P. ZawiszaMs. Frances Ziemba

in memory of Dennis somersMs. Regina CassettaMr. & Mrs. Keith HollandMr. & Mrs. Walter MalkowiczMs. Eleanor & Ms. Joanne ParlapianoMr. Daniel PastalaniecMr. & Mrs. Daniel PastalaniecMs. Helen Podolec & Ms. Teresa RossMrs. Genevieve PolinskiMr. & Mrs. James SokalskiMr. & Mrs. Kenneth SomersMr. & Mrs. Joseph Spakoski

in memory of Catherine swierzowsKi

Mr. & Mrs. Frank Klementowski

in memory of emma terPlaKMr. Dwayne BanaganMr. James BanaganMs. Maria BrusoeMr. & Mrs. Keith HollandMr. & Mrs. David MelloMs. Carolyn MormileMs. Gloria RayMr. & Mrs. Ronald StergasMr. & Mrs. Steven Terplak

in memory of robert J. vainosKy

Mr. & Mrs. Frank Klementowski

u honorary Donations

in honor of the staff,Queen ann roaDMs. Mary Donohue

in honor of triCia smith,Queen ann resiDenCe manaGerMs. Mary Donohue

in honor of Dennis yaCobuCCi, DireCtor of new Dimensions in health Care anD faCilities manaGement anD James burrouGhs, assistant DireCtor of faCilities manaGement

Mr. Fred Franko, Hyman Hayes Associates

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2015 Liberty Foundation Donations cont.

Members of Canajoharie Volunteer Fire Department and Greater Amsterdam Volunteer Ambulance Corps were recognized by Liberty for their life-saving efforts.

Training & Teamwork

Principal SponsorsBailey, Haskell & LaLondeFocused Wealth ManagementRose & Kiernan, Inc.

Major SponsorsSimplex GrinnellThe Bonadio Group

Tournament SponsorCDPHP

Clubhouse SponsorsCranesville Block Company

& Cushing Stone CompanyM.M. Hayes Company, Inc.Patriot Federal BankSt. Mary’s HealthcareW.B. Mason

Fairway SponsorsAlpin HausBeckman Converting, Inc.Berlin PackagingWanda & Chuck BurlingElectronic Business Products/

LanierGo Jo IndustriesLarry & Fran JordanMCT Federal Credit UnionMiracle Ear/Frasier EnterprisesNYSIDUnifirst

Hole/Tee SponsorsADS Business IntelligenceBetz, Rossi, Bellinger &

Stewart Family Funeral Home

Bond, Schoeneck &King, LLCBrown Coach, Inc.Community Health CenterCounty Waste & RecyclingDavid Weiboldt, ArchitectDutchtown Ace HardwareFremont Industrial CorporationFulton County ElectricalHardies Electric Services

Company, Inc.Hill & MarkesL & M TV & Appliances, LLCLamont EngineersMental Health Association of

Fulton & Montgomery Counties

Palmer Pharmacy

Jay & Marina QuatriniRBM Guardian Fire ProtectionJohn & Laurie RoseRuby & QuiriSenator George AmedoreDr. Michael &

Mrs. Debra SheridanSure Hands Life & Care

SystemsTag SolutionsThe Family of

Christopher SollecitoUpstate Utilities

Patron SponsorsMr. & Mrs. Robert Greco

In Kind SponsorsKen AdamowskiSarah AdamowskiFactory Eatery-Jerry DeFilippoFocused Wealth Management518 GrilleHannaford of AmsterdamMiller PrintingPepsi CorporationPrestige ServicesRaindancer RestaurantRecovery Sports Grill,

AmsterdamAndy Sanders, PGA Pro Caddy

for Pro Golfer Jimmy WalkerSegel’s JewelersShorty’s Southside TavernSievert’s Sporting GoodsSwany America CorporationSubway of AmsterdamTri-City FoodsUnifirst Corporation–

Mike SchebelW.B. MasonRick Wolcott, PGA Pro,

Rolling Hills Country Club

GolfersMr. Ken AdamowskiMr. A.J. AugustineMr. Scott AyersMr. Karl BachMr. Tim BarkerMr. Steven BaumanMrs. Pat BeckMr. Scott BeckmanMr. Jacob BrettMr. Robert BrownMr. Steve Brown

Mr. Mike BucciferroMr. Frank CaponeMr. Carl CaseMr. Jeff CaseyMs. Kristen CassellsDr. James CharlandMr. Rich CheneyMr. Ray ClapperMr. Paul CoderreMr. Jeff CoonMr. Tim CoonsMr. Wade CotonMr. Hector CruzMr. Philip DeAngeloMr. Steve DehimerMr. Robert DeSantisMr. Don DevineMr. David DiCaprioMr. Dave DowlingMr. Michael FasanoMr. Chris FedulloMr. Drew FiumanoMr. Richard FrankMr. Jeff FrankelMr. Mike FrolloMrs. Michele FurnareMr. Joe GalarneauMr. Paul GegzanoMs. Suzi GolaMr. Andy HallMr. Chad HartwigMr. Jon HarveyMr. Corey HeritageMr. John HerrickMr. Marvin HorowitzMr. Scott HortonMr. Marty HughesMr. Steve HurtubiseMr. Myles HymanMr. Jim IzzanoMs. Dawn JackslandMr. Dan JordanMr. Larry JordanMr. Jim KosakoskiMr. Bob KuelzowMr. Chris LailMr. Gary LevaMr. Ron LimoncelliMr. David LoucksMr. Jon LoucksMr. Rick MillerMr. Troy MillerMr. Tony MitolaMr. Bill MooreMr. Ken MoranMr. Rick MoreyMr. David Mysilwiec

Mr. Tim O’BrienMr. Brian O’GradyMrs. Sharon OlekaskMr. Matt OssenfortMr. Joe OuderkirkMr. Steve OughtonMr. Joe PalmiereMs. Tanya PapanierMr. Brennan ParkerMr. Kevin ParksMr. Michael PassanteMr. Jim PhelpsMr. Keith PlummerMr. Chris PorterMr. Carl PucciMr. Bob PurtellMr. Chad QuackenbushMr. Terry QuackenbushMr. Tom QuackenbushMr. Fred QuistMr. Joe RackmyreMr. Robert ReidyMr. John RoseMs. Jennifer SaundersMr. Mike SchebelMr. John SciutoMr. Frank SerafiniMr. Tony SerafiniMr. Bill SikoraMr. Bruce SkellieMr. Joe SlaterMs. Jessica SmrticMr. Ron SmithMr. Vic SperdutoMr. Ken StallMr. Dan TaborMr. Rick TannerMr. Dave TorncelloMr. Bob UrbanMr. Steve UrbanMr. Joe VanauskasMr. John VozzyMr. Eric WeidermanMr. Dave WilburMr. Stan WilockMr. Bruce WoodsMr. Jim WurzMr .Charles YarnoldMr. Jim ZambutoMs. Audra ZentnerMr. Ben Ziskin

Our sincere thanks to all our wonderful staff and community volunteers.It is no exaggeration… we could not do it without them.

Angel Pietri began working at Alpin Haus Boat and

Marine in June as a boat/craft detailer.

Angel had expressed an interest in automotive detailing for several years, but hadn’t been able to find that “perfect job.” When CEN staff learned of this job opportunity, Angel immediately came to mind. The Boat & Marine Store Manager Scott, and boat detailing supervisor Milo, explained that detailing a boat, used or new, was like creating a masterpiece.

Staff were confident that Angel was the perfect person for the job and that he would bring the passion, dedication, and precision needed to do a quality job. Angel was up for the challenge and was hired as

a seasonal, part-time employee, averaging 12 hours per week. As the boating season came to a close, Alpin Haus asked Angel to stay on as a permanent part of their team. They were so pleased with Angel’s work that they offered additional job responsibilities in the showroom and Ski & Snow Shop. Along with boats, Angel’s work now includes detailing golf carts, snowmobiles, ski jets. and any other land or water craft that the company sells.

Many of Angel’s co-workers, including Scott, Milo, Andy, and Gregg and Bud Heck (owners), regularly stop and compliment him. Angel is a person who primarily speaks Spanish with a basic understanding of spoken English. His regular contact with co-workers and customers has improved his comprehension and ability to communicate in English. Angel attended his employee Christmas party, takes occasional advantage of his employee discount, and reaps the benefits of having a membership at a Fitness Center also operated by Alpin Haus. Angel has been his happiest working; he earns a competitive wage and enjoys spending his extra earnings enjoying time with his wife Marisol. q

Robert Yesse

Pride and Perseverance2015 Liberty Foundation Golf Tournament Sponsors

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The Career and Employment Network (CEN) is a supported employment program offering individualized career planning, training, job placement and workplace support.1616 Riverfront Center • Amsterdam, NY 12010518.954.3089 • libertyarc.org

Angel prepares for his shift of detailing boats at Alpin Haus’s Amsterdam location.

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Gaining Independence, Building a Future

RAFFLE 2015

Mrs. Erin AbeleMr. Kenneth AdamowskiMs. Janelle AffinitoMr. & Mrs. Joseph AidalaMs. Lisa AltieriSenator George AmedoreMs. Nicole ArchibaldMr. & Mrs. A.J. AugustineMs. Lisa AugustineMr. Brian AuspelmyerMr. & Mrs. William BaileyMs. Barbara BanovichMrs. Helen BartoneMs. Rona BatcherMrs. Rose BazanMr. & Mrs. Jason BabiarzMs. Alexandra BarthiaumeMrs. Patricia BeckBeckmann Converting, Inc.Mr. Dylan BenoskyMr. Morgan BenoskyMrs. Debra BetzMrs. Karen BlakeMr. & Mrs. Brian BlakelyMrs. Irene BollenMr. William BonafedeMs. Jolyn BorstMs. Michele BorstMr. Gary BottomleyMr. Donald BowdenMr. & Mrs. Michael BucciferroMr. Jim BurroughsC & R RestaurantMr. Anthony CallananMs. Lori CameronMs. Barbara Hutchison CampbellMs. Amanda CampioneMr. Frank CaponeMs. Elizabeth CardellaMs. Jenai CaryMs. Julia CedenoMr. Tom ChicoMs. Maureen ChicoChuck’s Card Players: Angie, Ron, Joe, Tom, & PaulChuck’s Store

Chuck’s Store–Ken & PowellChuck’s Store–Wendy, Luana, Sue, JustinMr. Michael CinquantiMr. Gary ClaburnMr. & Mrs. Aubrey ClevelandMr. Jeff CollinsMr. David CookMrs. Nanette ConyneMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMr. Edward CzeskiMrs. Janet CzeskiMs. Tara CzeskiMs. Dorothy DanaherMr. & Mrs. Tony DargushMr. Jack DaveyMr. Phillip DeAngeloMs. Pamela DeLanoMr. Cristian DeLongisMrs. Kathy DelosMrs. Rosemary DiBlasiMr. & Mrs. Alfred DiCaprio In Memory of Michael DiCaprioMr. Paul DiCaprioMr. Ross DiCaprioMr. Stan DicksonMrs. D. Dorine DimondMr. Gary DlugasMrs. Courtney Downing-OrtizMs. Rose DumblewskiMs. Rita DunnMr. Scott EversonMr. David FarielloMrs. Darlene FetterlyMs. Debbie FrameMr. J.P. FridayMrs. Jennifer FriersMr. & Mrs. Richard FurmanMs. Deborah GabelerMs. Patricia GajewskiMs. Barbara GaneyMr. & Mrs. Frank GiaquintoMs. Kelly GilstonMs. Valorie GoodemoteMr. Robert GrecoMs. Amanda Gunther

Our sincere thanks to all the people who purchased tickets for 2015’s “Feather Your Nest Raffle” drawing held on November 4. The event netted nearly $16,000 for programs supporting individuals with disabilities at Liberty. Our congratulations to the winners of this year’s Grand Prize of $7,500, Mr. & Mrs. Ned and Patricia Reo of Saratoga Springs.

RaffleSupportersAdobi is a young lady with many exciting things

happening in her life. She has worked at Liberty Fresh Market for the past year, is an award-winning artist in the Liberty through the Arts program, volunteers through the Community Connections program, and is an active member of her church’s gospel choir, to name a few of her many activities.

Add to the list Adobi’s involvement in the THRIVE program, an innovative technological approach to learning life and job skills. Funded through a grant in 2015 (see inset), THRIVE is helping Adobi succeed at work and in all the other life-enhancing activities important to her.

Prior to her participation in THRIVE, Adobi’s independence had reached a plateau. She has a condition which impairs memory and her ability to retain learned information. A visual impairment is an additional challenge.

Adobi needed ongoing support to successfully progress through her work day and accomplish her tasks. Several tablet apps for iPads were explored and tried before finding the “perfect fit.” Adobi met regularly with Liberty’s technology specialist to customize a detailed schedule of her typical work day using “First Then.” The app shows a combination of personalized pictures and video to demonstrate job tasks. Customized audio provides schedule prompts and instructions.

Adobi is no longer dependent on the immediate support of her co-workers. The app helps her with weighing and labeling product, stocking, checking and rotating products such as cheese, and making coffee. Adobi’s supervisor Eva is very impressed with the support technology and has suggested that this approach be used for other clerks-in-training at Liberty Fresh Market.

We are excited to see how this program will impact each individual and what they will achieve by engaging in these creative supports in the future! q

In 2015, Liberty was awarded a grant for $184,845 through the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Twenty-three individuals participated in the Technology as a Helpful Resource for Individuals in Various Environments (THRIVE) program at Fulton- Montgomery Community College (FM). These individuals demonstrated a commitment to gaining increased independence through community employment. They explored assistive technology to overcome barriers and develop job skills. All earned the two-month certificate developed by FM in conjunction with Liberty Employment Services staff.

Technology has helped Adobi develop in her position as store clerk at the market.

Dedication and DependabilityRaffle Supporters continued

Ms. Donna HallMr. Barrie HamptonMr. Gary HansonMr. Sean Hardies, Polar Development Co., Inc.Mr. Brett HarrisMr. & Mrs. Edward HartMr. & Mrs. Leonard HartvigasMr. Chad HartwigMs. Katherine HazzardMs. Janet HayesMr. William HaynerMs. Cynthia HoffmanMr. Jim HolbrookMs. Sharon Holbrook-RyanMr. & Mrs. Keith HollandMr. Chuck HumphrevilleMs. Linda HuntMs. Donna JablonskiMrs. Dawn JackslandMr. Bernard JaraczMr. & Mrs. William JesenskiMr. Stephen JonesMr. & Mrs. James JordanMr. Edward KacergusMr. Kenneth KaplanMr. William KarashMs. Helen KiuberMr. & Mrs. Frank KlementowskiMrs. Lisa KlimDr. Nancy KnudsenMr. John KolodziejMr. Gary Kosiba, Kosiba’s Lock ShopMr. & Mrs. Robert KosineskiMr. Edward KosinskiMr. Jeffrey KozlowskiMr. Robert KozlowskiMrs. Sheree KretserMr. Ken KrutzMs. Debbie KurowskiMr. Michael LaCoppolaMr. Chris LailMs. Jessica LamphereMs. Melissa LasherMs. Joyce LeeLiberty Business Office Ten GangMr. Daniel LieberMrs. Immaculata LieberMr. William LoskeMs. Jill LoucksMs. Samantha LoucksMs. Patty MacekMs. Diana MackMs. Gail MaloneyMs. Patricia ManninoMs. Rita MarcuccioMrs. Tasha MarshMs. Megan MartinoMrs. Bernie MasterpoloMr. & Mrs. Raymond MayMr. & Mrs. Joseph MazurMr. Kenneth MazurMr. Larry MazurMr. Tom McNamaraMs. Lori Mead

Ms. Claire MeaneyMs. Kimberlee MessinaMr. Donald MessoreMr. Thomas MickleMr. Richard MillerMs. Susan MillerMs. Donna MochrieMrs. Robin MollerMr. John MolloyMr. & Mrs. Jeff MooreMr. & Mrs. Paul MooreDr. A. J. MoriniMr. Bernard MotylMrs. Catherine Williams-MowreyMs. Karen MullarkeyMs. Andrea MuhlebeckMr. Gavin MurdockMr. Richard MurphyMr. Daniel NatarelliMr. Wayne NellisMs. Deanna NelsonMr. Marty NephewMrs. Jennifer NewhookMr. & Mrs. Art NowickiMr. Tim O’BrienMrs. Sharon OleksakMrs. Candace OpalkaMs. Michelle OrapelloMr. Cesar OrtizMrs. Domitila OrtizMr. Joe OuderkirkMr. Nicholas PallottaMr. Joe PalmieriMr. Robert ParksMr. & Mrs. Donald ParryMr. James PartykaMrs. Karen PassinoMs Jennifer PaystMr. Nick PawlingMrs. Shirley PettengillMrs. Doreen PerrettaMs. Linda PhillipsMs. Kyra PinnMr. Christopher Porter, Fox Hill Hunting ClubMr. Carl PucciMrs. Arlene PurtellMr. Chad QuackenbushMr. Charles QuinlanMs. Sarah QuistMs. Patty RaczynskiMs. Kathleen RamirezMrs. Joan RavenMs. Cheryl ReeseMs. Cindy ReidMs. Patty RekscMs. Barbara RendaMr. & Mrs. Ned ReoMs. Aletha ReynoldsMrs. Anne RicciMs. Judy RichardsMr. Frank RileyMr. Gary Rogers, Ron, Linda & TammyMr. & Mrs. Alexander RoginskiMr. Andrew RomanoMr. Ron RomanoMr. & Mrs. Scott RomanoMs. Jan RorickMr. & Mrs. John Rose

Mr. Daniel RutnikMrs. Amy SanchezMr. Joseph SantosSantos Smartphone RepairsMs. Traci SarabiaMs. Jennifer SaundersMs. Kathy SaundersThe Saunders SistersMr. & Mrs. Anthony ScottMrs. Janice ShecktonMs. Martha ShethMr. David ShermanMs. Tammy ShippeyMr. William SikoraMrs. Joan SilvernailMr. Joseph SlaterMs. Denise SlawienskiMr. Loren SmithMr. Richard SmithMr. Fred SoberMr. Dennis SpragueMrs. Mary StachnikMrs. Maura StockwellDr. Kelly SwartMs. Margaret SzyjkowskiMr. & Mrs. Theodore TaylorMr. John Tesiero, III, Cranesville Block Co., Inc.Mr. & Mrs. Frank TherrienMrs. Loretta A. ThumMr. & Mrs. Thomas TogailaMs. Susan TrumpickMs. Linda TokarczykMs. Cathy UnislawskiMs. Eileen ValentiMs. Lori ValentiMs. Elizabeth VedderMs. Judy VickeryMs. Pam WadsworthMs. Cheryl WagnerMs. Patricia WellmanMs. Frances WendrychowiczMr. Andrew WhalenMs. Barbara WheelerMs. Danielle WhellyMr. David WieboldtMr. & Mrs. Karl WinklerMr. William WinsmanMrs. Kate WolfeMr. Jay WoodsMr. John P. Woods, Jr.Mr. Thomas WoodsMrs. Barbara WoolMr. William WyszomirskiMr. Dennis YacobucciMr. & Mrs. Billie YoungMrs. Deanna YoungMrs. Valerie ZaboMs. Susan ZapperiMs. Sandra Zarecki

u Donations to raffle

Beckmann Converting, Inc.Mr. & Mrs. Nicholas PallottaMr. & Mrs. Ned ReoMr. Daniel Rutnik In Honor of David DiCaprioMr. & Mrs. Theodore TaylorMs. Frances Wendrychowicz

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In 2015, Jeremy was chosen as one of NYSID’s Joslin Outstanding

Performers. He received a monetary award and a plaque presented by

representatives of NYSID at the Career & Employment Network’s

October luncheon. Great job, Jeremy!

Jeremy Hotaling’s friends and

co-workers know him as a friendly, yet reserved young man. He works in several areas at Liberty: storage box assembly, commercial safety product, and on an assembly line for a community employer.

Three years ago, Jeremy had difficulties learning new tasks, following directions, remaining on task, following multiple directions, and adapting to new procedures. With support and encouragement, he is growing into a motivated and dependable employee.

Jeremy now excels in multitasking; in box assembly the production is fast-paced and demanding. Jeremy has shown great strides working at Taylor Made Products, one of Liberty’s community partners. Taylor Made has noticed an improvement that Jeremy has brought to the production team.“We have met Jeremy on several occasions and his attention to detail, along with the pride he takes in his work, is the key reason for the improvement,” said a Taylor Made salesman. “This improvement to the application of grease is critical to the performance of this product.” q

Farmers’ Market…Every DayLiberty Fresh Market established a partnership with Tim and Debbie Korona (pictured below on their farm) which filled baskets with fresh, local produce throughout the 2015 growing season. Green and yellow beans, beets, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, onions, peppers, potatoes, pumpkins, radishes, tomatoes, watermelon, yellow squash, and zucchini were sold. Korona Farm has been family owned and operated since 1965 in Perth, NY.

One Year CelebrationThe market’s open house celebration featured 15 local vendors for with product tastings, a WBUG live remote and prize give-away. Liberty staff Amy Devendorf and Liberty Fresh Market store clerk Crew Reddick entertained youngsters with face painting and arts and crafts. Participating Vendors: Adirondack Pickle Company, Botanical Potions, Brooks House of BBQ, Creek’s Edge Elk Farm, Dennie’s Doggie Treats, DF Mavens, Dygert Farms Creamery, Frasier’s Sugar Shack, Gatherer’s Granola, Liberty Clean Products, LaVilla Dog Works, Mariaville Goat Farm, Mud Road Sugar House, Power House Athletics, and Thince Foods.

Clerks Find JobsTwo market clerks, Bethany Cramer and Breauna Theobald (proudly wearing their red shirts), are now store associates at Amsterdam Price Chopper. Both worked at Liberty Fresh Market for a year while receiving support through Liberty’s Pathway to Employment service. They achieved a seamless transition due, in part, to a new partnership with Golub Corporation.

The primary mission of Liberty’s market is to support and prepare individuals with disabilities to successfully enter the workforce.

Want to know the latest market news and happenings? Sign up on our website for our weekly newsletter! q

10–6 Tuesday through Saturday • 10–3 Sunday • Closed Monday

4867 State Hwy 30 • Amsterdam

Employing individuals with developmentaland physical disabilities, we’re committed to providing fresh, healthy, and affordable food

A Market with a Mission

A Warm Welcome to our Neighbors, Korona Farm

• Liberty Fresh Market is proud to be carrying fresh, seasonal produce from Korona Farm!

• Korona’s Farm is less than three miles away—a local, trusted source

• A family farm since 1965

• Farmers Market every day at Liberty Fresh Market

• More than 15 varieties of fruits and vegetables

• Buy Liberty Fresh Market…Fresh from the Farm!

LibertyFreshMarket.com

Delivered at the peak of flavor…Yellow Squash • Zucchini • Cucumbers Radishes • Beans • Cabbage • Beets Tomatoes • Corn • Carrots • Eggplant Peppers • Potatoes • Onions Cantaloupe • Watermelon Pumpkins

Stop in Today!10–6 Tuesday through Saturday • 10–3 Sunday • Closed Monday

4867 State Hwy 30 • Amsterdam

Employing individuals with developmentaland physical disabilities, we’re committed to providing fresh, healthy, and affordable food

A Market with a Mission

LibertyFreshMarket.com

Join us in celebratingONE spectacular year!

Saturday 10–6

August 22

Sample Local Foods

Meet Our Vendors

Adirondack Pickle Company W Botanical Potions W Brooks BBQ

Creek’s Edge Elk Farm W Denny’s Doggie Treats W DF Mavens

Hickory Hill Smokehouse W LaVilla Dog Works W Mariaville Goat Farm

Nut Zez W Palatine Cheese W Power House Athletics

R & G Cheese Makers W Original James Gourmet Ketchup Sauce

10

Breauna

Bethany

LibertyFreshMarket.com

A Year of ‘Firsts’ at Liberty Fresh Market

Melvin Smith was born and grew up in the small, close-knit western Montgomery County town of St. Johnsville.

This soft-spoken, kind-hearted man began attending Liberty in 1979 and for most of his 38 years with the agency has been involved in volunteer efforts in the community. Over the years, Melvin has had numerous volunteering interests, which have taken him down many different paths. He’s helped the Mohawk Valley Women’s Club maintain flowers at the “Welcome to Canajoharie” sign and has given a great deal of his time at the village office and the Canajoharie Reformed Church Comfort Zone.

This past year, Melvin indicated that he would like to help children in the community. He’s found a new passion with Liberty’s 66 Church Street Day Hab’s newest volunteer effort, the snack bag program for Canajoharie School District. He and his brother Loren have decided that Melvin will donate money each month towards the program. Melvin is proud to tell everyone about his donation and knows it will be greatly appreciated by the kids. His friendly and social nature has built lasting friendships with many people and reflect the love Melvin has for his community. q

Angelie Padilla discovered a whole new world filled with imaginative characters, each with a fantastic

point of view, when she participated in Family Support Services’ production of Aladdin.

Angelie played the role of Dinazade, one of the narrators, a particularly expressive character and dramatic storyteller. On the day of auditions, she radiated confidence and impressed the directors. This was quite a change from her 2014 audition for Rapunzel, when Angelie’s shyness limited her participation. There was much celebration among cast members when she was offered this challenge; Angelie literally jumped for joy when her role was announced! She was truly ready to stand on her own and perform on stage, recognizing that this was a chance to show what she could accomplish. After a week of working very hard, practicing and preparing for her role paid off. Angelie’s performance was a resounding success!

The Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) is a traveling production troupe that focuses on developing life skills in children through education, entertainment, enrichment, and participation in the performing arts. In 2015, they worked with 65,000 children in more than 1,200 communities in all 50 states and 17 countries.

Following a week of preparation under the tutelage of two professional actors associated with the Missoula Children’s Theatre, a public performance was given on October 24. All props and costumes were provided for this full-length production which involved more than 20 individuals. This opportunity was made possible through an $8,000 remainder fund grant offered through the NYSARC, Inc. Trust. q

In the Limelight

11

Melvin and staff member Erin Mabbett

work on filling bags

with goodies to last

recipients through the

weekend.

Angelie and fellow actor Jonathan Perez share a moment backstage before their performance.

Connected to His Community

Aclose and trusting relationship with your caregiver can make all the difference in an

older person’s quality of life. That is what the staff at Priority Care, Liberty’s out-of-state Nurses Registry, provides for individuals in their care.

Klara Goldstein has formed a special bond with staff members Madeline Ramos and Mauricio Ventura. Mrs. Goldstein looks forward to their visits and is always excited to have company. She also raves about Katia Jean, the aide who cares for her and her husband Stanley.

Klara lived briefly in Venezuela and is thrilled to practice her Spanish when speaking with her staff! She truly appreciates the professional care provided by Priority Care and values how much their compassion and friendship have improved her life. q

In late summer of 2015, Anthony Ekanem moved from his parents’ home into an apartment supported by Choices for Community Living (CCL), a subsidiary of Liberty operating in the State of Delaware.

The apartment is a newly-created home, specifically selected for Anthony and his two new housemates. It was chosen because of its convenient location near public transportation and within walking distance of many community resources, including the post office and library. Anthony gets along well with his housemates who are similar in age, as well as the staff members who support him. He’s not stopping there! Anthony is now looking toward finding a job, which will increase his new-found independence. CCL is happy to support Anthony, and others like him, in achieving their hopes and dreams. q

The Bonds of Friendship

Staff Madeline Ramos and Klara are good friends who enjoy their time together.

Relaxing in his own living room is a dream come true for Anthony!

ccldelaware.org

prioritycarenursing.com12

n Choices for Community Living (CCL Delaware) is a not-for-profit subsidiary of Liberty providing residential and day programs to people with developmental disabilities in the State of Delaware’s three counties. —40 individuals are supported in 16 homes; 51 individuals supported in 2 day programs

n Priority Care Nurses Registry is a subsidiary of Liberty providing in-home care to seniors in Broward County, Florida.—75 seniors receive in-home care services weekly

On His Own…Achieving Dreams

n Residential Services offers a variety of community living options and f lexible supports, depending on the level of support and supervision needed by each person. —52 homes for 230 individuals located in communities throughout Montgomery Countyn Day Suppport Programs provide training in daily living skills as well as offering clinical services, prevocational experiences and many opportunities for community and volunteerism. —257 people at 11 Day Habilitation program sites in Amsterdam and in communities in the western part of Montgomery Countyn Family Support Services (FSS) includes Community Habilitation, a program that provides hands-on assistance and personal skill training that encourages individuals to gain independence while living, working, and socializing in their communities. The FSS program also offers after-school, school recess, camping and recreation programs for children and adults. —180 children and adults and their families supported

n New Dimensions in Health Care is a diagnostic and treatment center providing dental and medical care to patients with disabilities and low-income families.—5,587 patients served in Montgomery County n Employment Services Liberty’s Employment Services Department offers a wide variety of programming to accommodate a person’s skill level at time of entry. The ultimate goal for each person within Employment Services is to find meaningful, lasting work in a community setting. People coming into employment services will have plenty of opportunities to expand their skill level, build confidence, and prepare for the world of work. The number of individuals enrolled in employment programs are:ACCES-VR—43Community Connections—39Community Pre-Vocational (new service 7/15)—12LifeSkills—23OMH/OPWDD Extended Services—54Pathway to Employment—19Supported Employment (CEN)—185

2015 Fiscal Report: $54.8 Million Annual Budget

13

Source of Revenue Operating Revenue by Program

Expenses

Liberty Program Information and Statistics

n Our Employees: Liberty is the second largest employer in Montgomery County, providing employment

to 785 local residents in full-, part-time and relief positions. Our employees are the core of our organization;

dedicated people who carry forth the spirit of our mission and fulfill the promise of our values on a daily basis.

Medicaid– 79% Residential Services– 60%

Wages and Salaries– 54%

Other Income– 1% Non-program– 1%

Utilities, telecommunication & taxes– 2%

Private Pay/ Long-term Care– 3%

New Dimensions in Health Care– 4%

Plant, property, and equipment– 9%

Food, supplies and materials– 3%

Contract Labor– 3%

Senior Care– 3%

Transportation related– 1%

Legal, professional– 1%

All Other– 2%

Social Security– 5%

Manufacturing Sales– 11%

Manufacturing Materials– 6%

Manufacturing Sales– 10%

Family Support Services– 6%State Governmental

Funds– 2%

Day Services– 15%

Employee Benefits– 19%

A bequest, gift of real estate, or donation of other assets to Liberty Foundation can provide important tax benefits to you as well supporting Liberty’s programs now and in the future. Kindly let us know if you have already named Liberty Foundation in your estate plan so we can acknowledge your gift now.

Special thanks to the Vander Wal family for telling their story and encouraging

others to support Liberty Foundation’s 2015 Annual Appeal. q

$2,000–$4,999Mr. & Mrs. Luke KlimMr. Steven MackMr. William G. PulverMs. Jennifer SaundersMr. David & Rev. Lisa Vander Wal

$1,000–$1,999Ms. Mary K. Donohue & Mr. William BonnerMr. John GlodeMs. Tammy HoneywellMr. & Mrs. Frederick LieberMrs. Candace Opalka In Memory of Robin BlowersMrs. Joan SilvernailMr. Dennis Yacobucci

$500–$999Mrs. Erin AbeleBeckmann Converting, Inc.Mrs. Wanda Burling In Memory of Nicholas Filippone & Thomas S. ThompsonMr. & Mrs. Gary CuylerMrs. JoAnn FullerMs. Tammy HoneywellMs. Susan HornbeckMs. Diana Mack In Memory of Tom JablonskiMr. & Mrs. Paul MooreMrs. Margaret RowleyMrs. Carrie Ann Schmidt

$250–$499Mr. & Mrs. John BetzMr. Gary M. GrecoMr. & Mrs. Jason GuttenbergMr. & Mrs. Larry JordanMrs. Robin MollerMs. Patricia Reksc In Honor of Lee PolinskiMr. William SikoraAttorney Thomas SiseMr. & Mrs. Edward Wool In Memory of Albert “Al” PalmieriMrs. Deanna Young

$100–$249Mr. Kevin BechtelMr. & Mrs. Charles Beck

Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLCMr. & Mrs. Armand CanestraroMr. & Mrs. Aubrey ClevelandMr. Paul & Mr. Ryan CzechMr. & Mrs. Michael DeckerMr. & Mrs. Alfred DiCaprio In Memory of Michael DiCaprio from Mom, Dad & Dave

Mr. & Mrs. Paul DiCaprioMs. Constance Dulysz In Memory of Tom JablonskiMr. & Mrs. John GaitoMs. Barbara GaneyMr. & Mrs. James GargiuloMr. & Mrs. Robert GrecoMr. Leonard HartvigasMr. & Mrs. Keith HollandMr. Bernard JaraczMr. & Mrs. James JordanMs. Kristy Klim In Memory of David SilkaMr. & Mrs. Robert KosineskiMrs. Cindy MacholdMr. & Mrs. Robert PurtellMs. Mary Lou RichardsMr. & Mrs. John RoseMr. & Mrs. Francis SlaterMr. James Wurz

$1–$99Mrs. Sharon AdamowskiMr. & Mrs. William AgrestaAmsterdam Funeral ChapelMrs. MaryJo ArgotsingerMrs. Marie AustinMr. Richard BacekMrs. Helen A. BartoneMr. Joseph BubniakMr. & Mrs. Michael BucciferroMs. Madeline CalellaMs. Dorothy CarterMs. Regina CassettaMr. & Mrs. Brett CollinsMr. Joseph CopelandMr. & Mrs. Edward CzeskiMr. Dennis DabiereMrs. Rosemary DiBlasiMr. Kenneth Dietrich In Memory of Jane MorehouseMr. & Mrs. Michael DufresneMs. Janet Falato

Ms. Gloria GardinerMr. James GeigerMs. Beatrice GrecoMr. William HaynerMr. & Mrs. Gary HazzardMs. Kathy HewittMs. Concetta HinkelMr. & Mrs. Ronald HuttonMrs. Dawn JackslandMs. Opal Jania In Memory of My Grandson Nicolas Filippone

Ms. Candyce JenningsMr. & Mrs. William JesenskiMs. Anne KeileyMs. Nancy KiuberMr. & Mrs. Frank KlementowskiMrs. Elaine Ko-TalmadgeMr. & Mrs. Gary KwiatkowskiMr. & Mrs. Dana LizotteMs. Madeline McCuneMs. Claire MeaneyMs. Edith MikenasMrs. Theresa NowakowskiMr. & Mrs. Howard OarePavlus OrchardsMr. Clifford PawlowskiMs. Linda PhillipsMayor James PostMrs. Margaret PostMrs. Marilyn QuatriniMrs. Joan RavenMrs. Carmella RepkaMr. Joseph ReynoldsMr. James RizzoMr. & Mrs. R. Scott RomanoMr. & Mrs. Daniel RyczekMs. Theresa ScialabbaMrs. Mary StachnikMr. & Mrs. Greg SelemanMs. Rita Smith In Memory of Christine MazurMrs. Mary StachnikMrs. Bonnie SullivanDr. Dustin SwangerMr. John ThomasMs. Judith VickeryMs. Donna WarrenMs. Anna WaldynskiMr. Eric WoodruffMs. Jennie ZawiszaMr. & Mrs. Eugene Zeiser

Annual Appeal 2015We thank all the businesses and individuals who helped make Liberty Foundation’s 4th Annual Appeal the most successful to date, raising more than $36,000.

Mr. Ken & Mrs. Pauline AdamowskiThe Estate of Mr. Christian F. Auspelmyer*Mr. Charles & Mrs. Wanda BurlingCanajoharie 2000: Mr. David Vander Wal, Mr. Stanley

Phillips & Reverend Kenneth Prol*Mr. Harold & Mrs. Donna CountrymanMr. Eugene & Mr. Robert Gretkirewicz1

Mr. & Mrs. Keith Holland1

The Estate of Mr. Joseph W. Langley*Mr. Frederick & Mrs. Immaculata LieberThe Elizabeth O. Paczek Irrevocable Trust*Mr. Edward & Mrs. Genevieve PolinskiThe Estate of Mrs. Mary G. Pugliese*Route 30 Associates: Mr. Robert Brundige, Mr. Jeff

Christiana, Mr. Albert ‘Bud’ Heck, & Mr. Doug Volean*Mr. Carl S. Jr. & Mrs. Leila N. Salmon*Mr. John P. Woods, Jr.*

The following individuals and families have shown their support of people with disabilities by making a planned gift to Liberty Foundation, Inc. in the form of a bequest, gift of real estate, or donation of appreciated stock.

For more information about how you can make a gift through your estate, please call our Foundation Office at 518.954.3202.

14

To support Liberty’s mission through a gift to the Foundation, please go to our website at libertyarc.org and click on Donate Today! * Gift has been received 1 Notified of gift in 2015

q In Memoriam qIndividuals

Richard BryanLori Kantor

Randy Czaplinski

Stephen JacksonRonda MacIntosh

Derek NicholsJesus Perez

Travis RedcrossKaren Work

StaffShannon Wojcik

Liberty Foundation, Inc.

Ensuring the Future of Programs and Services

Liberty’s Directors and Administrative Staff

Liberty Foundation, Inc.n OfficersPatricia Beck PresidentJoel Kaplan* Secretary/Treasurer

n DirectorsJack Betz • Wanda Burling Donna Canestraro • Brett Harris Jay Quatrini* • Kate Wolfe

New Dimensions in Living, Inc.n OfficersNancy Collins PresidentKelly Swart, Psy.D. Vice-PresidentRobert Purtell Secretary-Treasurer

n DirectorNancy S. Knudsen, M.D.

Choices For Community Living (CCL Delaware, Inc.)n Officers Carl J. Pucci PresidentJohn Rose Vice-PresidentKevin Kirbey Secretary/Treasurer

n DirectorsCor Catena • Jeffrey Finkle Larry Jordan • Benjamin Ziskin

u Liberty’s Mission StatementWe work together to support people with disabilities and others in need to achieve a quality of life each person values.

Administrative StaffJennifer Saunders Chief Executive OfficerCandace Opalka Chief Operating OfficerChris Lail Chief Financial Officer

DirectorsErin Abele Director of Vocational ServicesNicole Archibald Director of Human ResourcesJohn Glode Regional DirectorSusan Hornbeck Director of Corporate ComplianceDawn Jacksland Director of Sales & MarketingRobin Moller Director of Clinical & Medical ServicesCatherine Mowrey Regional Director (as of 11/20)Tim O’Brien Director of Information TechnologyMargaret Rowley Regional DirectorCarrie-Ann Schmidt Regional DirectorBill Sikora Director of Industrial Operations & Employment ServicesBarbara Wool Director of Public Relations & DevelopmentDennis Yacobucci Director of New Dimensions in Health Care & Facilities Management

These listings ref lect 2015 staffing

n Officers:Rev. Lisa VanderWal PresidentMichael Cinquanti Vice-PresidentPaul DiCaprio SecretaryJoel Kaplan*/Carl J. Pucci Treasurers

n Directors:Ken AdamowskiMichael BucciferroCarol CuylerDavid FarielloLetah GraffCalvin JenningsRobert PurtellRobert Quick*Sally RomanoKelly Swart, Psy.D.Valerie Zabo

n Directors EmeritiFrances Gargiulo Patricia Sherman

Donald S. Austin Joel G. Kaplan John “Jay” Quatrini Robert B. Quick John P. Woods

—Liberty Board of Directors—

15

n AdvisorsPauline Adamowski • Dominic AmatangeloValerie Beekman • Sharon Bellamy • Joe DaveyDarlene Fetterly • Brett Harris • Andrew Heck Jeffrey Heiser • Mary Ellen Holland • Sherry Jerome

Colleen Kaminski • William Karash • Kenneth KrutzImmaculata “Micki” Lieber • Cindy MacholdIndiria McIntosh • Russell Porath • Heather PurtellJoan Silvernail • Maura Stockwell • Valerie TarantelliJeanine Winkler • Benjamin Ziskin

* Our sympathies to the family and friends of these Board Members who passed in 2015

Carondelet Community Fund GrantNew Dimensions in Health Care received a $1,500 grant

from Carondelet Community Fund to be used towards the 1-2-3 Smile program, which focuses on children’s oral

hygiene education, the importance of dental visits, learning to brush and floss, and learning what foods

are good for your teeth and which are harmful.

43 Liberty DriveAmsterdam, NY 12010518.842.5080

libertyarc.org

A member Chapter of NYSARC

An affiliated agency of The Arc

2015 Program Highlights

An Innovative Approach

n Liberty Fresh Market celebrates its one-year anniversary as a training program for individuals we support

n A total of 55 individuals obtain paid employment at local businesses, exceeding annual goal

n Follies held its 8th Annual Talent Show at Canajoharie High School; over 100 individuals participated by singing, dancing, and playing instruments

n Liberty recognizes The Greater Amsterdam School District for the 2015 Community Partner Award in acknowledgment of its ongoing dedication to and support of the employment of individuals we support

n Rev. Lisa Vander Wal was sworn in as the new Liberty Board president

n Price Chopper of Amsterdam is selected by Career & Employment Network as its 2015 Employer of the Year

n Liberty recognized 82 tenured employees with a total of 1,485 years of service

n Individuals in Liberty programs log 27,470 hours of volunteer service to individuals and organizations in our communities q

Our ValuesQualityTeamworkIntegrityRespectResourcefulnessPerson-Centered

Scott Hartvigas is a very outgoing and charismatic young man! He’s not afraid to voice his opinion to those who know him and

even to those who don’t. When Liberty embarked upon a new and creative way to support individuals to facilitate their Individual Service Plan (ISP) review, Scott felt at home.

Being able to experience Scott’s personality and life through his video is emotional, rewarding, and definitely memorable. Scott’s excitement in creating and sharing what matters to him in such a humorous, meaningful, and tangible way is downright infectious. His video is a true expression of what is most important to him at home, at work, in the community, and with his family and friends.

Since 2011, prior to this using this technology tool, individuals would develop a personalized ISP cover page for their review meeting, a pictorial demonstration of what matters to them. It served to facilitate dialogue about supports and services which can contribute to helping a person achieve goals and was particularly helpful for those who may not read or are not comfortable sharing in a larger group.

Taking this concept a step further, in early 2015 the agency began supporting individuals to create their very own 5-10 minute video. People we support are now using them to orient and train new staff about themselves! The agency was able to assist 30 individuals in the first year and is continuing this initiative in 2016. Scott’s video is an outstanding example. Enjoy it by visiting libertyarc.org or view it on Liberty’s Facebook page. We guarantee you’ll love it as much as we do! q