We recognize the challenges of the current COVID-19 crisis, especially for our Chapters. These are truly uncharted times for our field, our state and the country. In light of the evolving situation, we wanted to brief you on The Arc New York State Office operations going forward. 

In an effort to comply with the Governor's Employee Reduction Mandate, we have made decisions that will allow us to perform as much work remotely as possible. That being said, we continue to be 100-percent operational and committed to supporting you and your needs at this time. We are available by email and telephone, and meetings will continue via electronic means as scheduled. NYSARC Trust Services remains operational as well, with some modifications of our processes. We do not envision any significant impact on the services we offer to Chapters or to our Trust beneficiaries. 

 

I have deployed my entire team to help you manage the current crisis, providing support on all aspects of the situation, including funding, operations, legal, communications, advocacy and guardianship. It is absolutely critical that we maintain open communication regarding the challenges you are facing and successes you are having as we navigate this unprecedented situation. Your feedback helps us to intervene quickly with our regulators, and to share best practices with all of you. 

As this crisis is our top priority, some other organizational activities may be deferred until the situation stabilizes. We hope you understand that we will get back to our many important organizational initiatives as quickly as possible. 

 

In the interim, please know that we are available and ready to assist you.  We have experienced serious challenges before, and we have always persevered. We have incredible talent across the organization, and enduring dedication to the people and families we support. I am confident that we will get through this together as a unified Arc New York family.