Some new features have been added to this year's Allies in Disguise 5K and Mile, including a team competition in the 5K.

 

Allies in Disguise is set for 10 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 29 at Painted Post's Craig Park.

The 5K will have a four-person team competition. The top male, female and mixed teams - based on combined times - will win prizes. The team members also compete individually in the 5K, which will have a professional timing service. 

 

Prizes will go to the overall male and female winners, and medals to the top three finishers in nine age-group categories.

Also new this year, prizes will be awarded to the top male and female wheelchair finishers in the 5K.

And, since it's a Halloween costume run/walk, a prize will go to the best costume at the event.

Allies in Disguise will have refreshments, music and children's activities. The entry fee is $20, with discounts for families and 5K teams, and includes an Allies in Disguise T-shirt. 

For more details, go to aimcil.com. To register or buy a disability awareness bracelet or key chain, click here. We're also seeking local businesses to support Allies, which is AIM's fall fundraiser. A list of sponsorship incentives is posted here.

AIM will host a 1950s-themed block party from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8 at its Elmira office, 350 W. Church St.

There will be a DJ, food, games and raffles.

The party is open to AIM consumers ages 14 and older. It's free to attend and is supported by the OPWDD Family Support Services Program.

RSVP to Wendy Watkins at 962-8225, ext. 223, or [email protected] . The deadline to RSVP is Sept. 7.

Anne Crozier joined AIM as a Medicaid service coordinator in June. She provides ongoing support to people with developmental disabilities and their families, helping them access supports and services.

Q: Tell us about your background and what led you to AIM.

A: Growing up with a cousin with a developmental disability and always being there for classmates with disabilities, made me realize that was something I wanted to do in life.  Sixteen years ago, I made the decision to begin working in a residence with six individuals.  There were days that were challenges, but the experiences with them and watching them grow was all that truly mattered.  After moving out of the area, I began working in day programs as well as vocational settings.  In 2012, I had the opportunity to apply to become a Medicaid service coordinator, and I haven't looked back since.  I am so happy to be able to work with individuals to help them see their abilities, rather than their disabilities.  My family and I relocated to the Corning area in May, leading me to find AIM. 

Q: Tell us about your job at AIM. What are the challenges? What do you enjoy?

A:  As a Medicaid service coordinator, as my caseload grows, I look forward to connecting individuals with services that are appropriate to their needs and working with families and services providers.  Although new to the area (that being my biggest challenge) and learning what is around here, I am eager to assist and learn at the same time. 

Q: What do you like to do outside of work?  

A:  Outside of work, I enjoy time spent with my family.  My husband and I have a very active 3-year-old daughter who loves to be outdoors and spend time with her grandparents and great-grandparents.