Dear Staff,
As many of you know, the month of April is Autism Acceptance Month and here at ACLD we acknowledge the importance of the shift from "Awareness" to "Acceptance". See below in this edition of the Limelight to read about our celebration of this month, and to hear from ACLD staff about what autism acceptance means to them.
We would like to note that the agency’s newest house Calvert in Ronkonkoma is officially open, and there is an opportunity for anyone to join the house and receive a signing bonus. Click here for details and contact Human Resources at victorj@acld.org with any questions.
Last month the Human Resources Department sent an email to all staff notifying everyone that ACLD has developed two new policies that are very important for continued development of our organization. The first policy is the ACLD Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy, and the second is the ACLD Return to Work policy. See below in this newsletter for the full message from Human Resources and to read both policies.
In this edition of the Limelight, you will also find a brand new section named "Children's Services Spotlight", photos from the Employee of the Quarter lunch, highlights of personal and professional milestones for our amazing staff, and other news from across the agency.
Sincerely,
Rob, Gerard, Anne Marie and Kim
Robert Ciatto, Executive Director
Gerard DiMuro, Assistant Executive Director
Anne Marie Sime, Assistant Executive Director
Kim Leonard, Chief Financial Officer
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When talking about the shift from “awareness” to “acceptance”, our Executive Director Robert Ciatto says, “Awareness is talking about the fact that people have autism, whereas acceptance is talking about the individual person. Specifically, it’s about including them in the community, truly knowing them, recognizing their capabilities and accepting them for who they are!"
Take a moment to read what Autism Acceptance Month means to other ACLD staff around the agency.
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Matthew Alexander, Personal Care Assistant – Bethpage Day Program
“Speaking as an autistic person myself, I believe autistic people should be integrated into the community just as neurotypical people are every day.
Acceptance means having the same job opportunities made available to us as other employees. I believe someone with autism could be a Product Manager at Apple but they may be held back because of their disability and that needs to change. Individuals with autism are capable of so much.
Acceptance is the goal. Autism Acceptance Month is about adapting and making everyone feel welcome”.
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Jeanie Shelton, Assistant Director of Vocational Services
“Most autistic people experience gaps in employment. Unemployment rates are significant and underemployment is frustrating to those who are currently working. At the same time, autism can impact the employment of parents who find it challenging to balance competing priorities, frustrations of underemployment and very often one parent may be unemployed throughout childhood.
In 2009, I was given a seat on both sides of the table as a clinician (Administrator of ACLD’s Vocational Services) and as a parent of an adorable boy, named Michael who was diagnosed with autism. I cannot lie, I was heartbroken, yet so fortunate. I was employed and supported not only by my family but here at ACLD through colleagues, friends and our workplace practices which supported my family’s needs as I navigated new territory. More importantly I was embraced and comforted by earnest discussions with parents who I had been guiding for years in Vocational Services. This rare combination of support was the catalyst for acceptance, the ability to see opportunity for Michael’s future. It renewed my vision and capacity to continue to educate employers and support people in their pursuit of employment.
Michael inspires me to be a better clinician/administrator while the people I support continually make me a stronger mom as they share their challenges, strengths, values and dreams. This unique perceptive is a priceless gift for which I remain grateful.
I have witnessed significant change since I began my career 25 years ago, most people have become aware of autism and as we move forward I have new hope that Autism Acceptance Month will drive greater opportunity. I expect to see more workplaces create policies to welcome and empower autistic people and their parents, to engage in amazing career opportunities. The world is now listening, especially to autistic people so I encourage everyone to keep listening and learning so that we can move forward together”.
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Kristin Smith, Teacher Aide at the Alan and Ellen Spiegel Children’s Center
“I am a new employee at ACLD’s Alan and Ellen Spiegel Children’s Center, and I must say, this job is the most rewarding I have ever had the privilege of obtaining. The children that I am blessed to work with are exceptional beyond measures. I feel that these children have special gifts that should be acknowledged. Just because society has labeled them “different” does not make them any less. There is nothing wrong with being different.
In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, I want to commend these beautiful children for their resilience and willingness to learn and grow, as well as the staff at ACLD.
Together, we can make positive strides in this world. Thank you to everyone here at ACLD for making a difference!”.
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If you would like to share your thoughts and reflections about “What Autism Acceptance Month means to you?”, please email Sharon Geiselmann this week at geiselmanns@acld.org
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ACLD’s newest day program B.L.U.E (Balanced Living Unlimited Exploration) is an autism-focused program designed specifically to fit the needs of adults with autism, and to give them their freedom to learn and grow.
This state-of-the-art site in Deer Park has different spaces such as a sensory room, a fitness center, a culinary arts room and more, and is truly an embodiment of ACLD's commitment to acceptance.
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"Building awareness is a good foundation, but the need for acceptance and inclusion are greater than ever before. Anyone can be aware, but the difference is made when everyone accepts", says Joann Leavy, Assistant Director of Day Services.
B.L.U.E is already making a difference in the lives of the men and women at the site, and with that ACLD continues its' push for acceptance of all people with autism.
Take a peek inside a day in the life at B.LU.E. in the article below, and join us in celebrating this amazing program. This article can also be viewed in the latest edition of the Enviable Life News. Click here to see the entire Enviable Life News and all past publications.
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ACLD staff lighting it up BLUE |
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In keeping with Autism Acceptance Month, say hello to Lynn Hartmann-Alesia, a Lead Day Habilitation staff member at the autism-focused B.L.U.E. Day Program.
Lynn was hired by ACLD last summer for the opening of B.L.U.E, and since her arrival she has been a huge asset to the team. She always has a smile on her face and encourages positivity throughout the building. She is a strong leader and has been a huge help to her co-workers, always assisting wherever and whenever she is needed.
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Lynn is always looking for innovative ways to engage and interact with the people we support, and has gotten to know all of them well and pays close attention to their needs.
Due to COVID, finding volunteer sites has been a difficult task. However, through Lynn’s creative efforts, she was able to get B.L.U.E. involved in the Town of Babylon's clean up initiative project and has also gotten us on the waitlist for their Beautification Project.
In addition to celebrating her hard work and dedication at program, we also want to say congratulations to Lynn for recently becoming a grandmother to a beautiful new grandson! Congratulations Lynn and thank you for being a great ambassador, encourager and teacher for the men and women of the B.L.U.E. Day Program.
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Children's Services Spotlight |
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One of Kramer Learning Center's shining stars is Julio Moran Rodriguez, a Teacher Aide who joined ACLD in March of 2021.
Julio came to Kramer having decided that he wanted to work in a school and become a teacher, and he attributes this desire to the wonderful teachers he had in his high school.
In addition to going to school for teaching, Julio is also minoring in Gender/Women's studies. Last month for Women's History Month Julio asked to create a bulletin board to recognize all of the "Wonderful Women" at the Kramer Learning Center (see picture below).
"This project means so much to him because he was raised by all women: three sisters, his mother and his step-mother. He designed the board to represent all of the amazing women in his life, as well as represent the wonderful role all women play around the world." says Charlotte Farinella, Cucciculum Coordinator.
Farinella added, "Julio makes a difference in our lives every day with his smile and joyous greetings. His presence lights up any room he enters and he has made such a positive impact in the time that he has been working here."
Robin Stevens, Director of Children's Services also speaks very highly of Julio saying, "He is a bright spot in our days and he champions and connects with every child in his care, as well as all co-workers! We all love this beautiful board he created and these Wonderful Women are fortunate to work with him."
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Employee of the Quarter Lunch |
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Congratulations to our recent Employee of the Quarter winners! Last month we celebrated these amazing men and women at our Employee of the Quarter Lunch and thanked them for all they do for the children and adults we support.
Residential: Stephanie Murphy, Clinical Services Administrator; Tara Pace, Behavior Intervention Specialist; Sylverson Sylvestre, Assistant Manager of Yorktown IRA
Day Habilitation: Marjorie Bach, Registerd Nurse of Choices Bethpage; Chuck Lau, Day Hab Specialist at Bridges Levittown
Children's Services: Alex Hernandez, Teacher Assistant at Kramer Learning Center; Catherine Ferrera, Special Educator at Kramer Learning Center
Administration: Fred Cervelli, Coordinator of Facilities Management; Sharon Geiselmann, Employee Development & Engagement Manager in Human Resources
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Congratulations to Aimee Keegan, ACLD’s Director of Development and Community Relations for being honored at Long Island Business News' Diversity in Business Awards last month.
The Diversity in Business Awards highlights the outstanding achievements of professionals of diverse backgrounds and abilities, and those who actively support the growth of diversity and equality in our community.
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A Shining Star spotlight goes to Bobby Vandeyar, Day Habilitation Specialist at the Choices Bethpage day program.
On March 1st of this year, a man supported was choking on a piece of broccoli during lunch, and Vandeyar immediately sprung into action and performed abdominal thrusts, successfully expelling the piece of broccoli.
The nurse was notified right away and 911 was called. After being evaluated, it was determined that the adult supported was fine.
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(left to right) Scott Bradshaw and Bobby Vandeyar |
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"The Center For Learning always wants to recognize when there's a circumstance when a staff person used their training to save a life." says Scott Bradshaw, Associate Director of the Center for Learning (CFL)
Shining Star awards are presented by the CFL, and last month Bobby was presented with his at a staff meeting by Bradshaw. At the meeting, Bradshaw told the story of what happened and added that the person supported was back in program just two days later. "So, on behalf of ACLD and The Center for Learning, thank you Bobby and congratulations!"
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The Kramer Learning Center has their very own employee recognition committee at the school called the "Boost Committee", as in "boosting' each other up. Earlier this month the "Boost Committee" celebrated the Teacher Assistants and the 1:1 Aides with a breakfast thanking them for all they do.
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Last month, The Organizational Care Committee organized an Employee Engagement Day called Team Spirit Day, in which staff from across the agency came dressed in their favorite team's shirts, hats, jerseys and other apparel and accessories.
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Congratulations to Erin Dauch, Behavior Support Specialist at the Kramer Learning Center for passing her Registered Behavior Technician exam!
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Congratulations to Stelie Louis, Day Habilitation Administrator and her husband, Renauldy, on their new baby girl Elizabeth Lily. She was born on March 11th at 8lbs, 8oz, 21 inches.
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Last week our Art Program and Community Coordinator, Diane Salomé-Diaz participated in a Poetry Night at Freeport Library in which she shared three pieces from her poetry book From the Inside Out.
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Eliot Salomé-Diaz, husband of ACLD's Art Program and Community Coordinator, Diane Salomé-Diaz, has created yet another big mural, this time honoring Christopher “Notorius B.I.G” Wallace as a tribute on his 25th anniversary of passing. The mural is found in front of the corner store where he use to share his lyrics outside with friends before his success. The unveiling of the mural was on the anniversary of his death, March 7th, and was attended by public officials, advocates, people in the music industry, fans and of course the artists that collaborated on the mural. Eliot was also honored to receive a print of the street sign that was named after Biggie.
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Mural location: 981 Fulton Street, corner of James Place and Fulton Street, Christopher “Notorious B.I.G” Wallace Way.
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Saint Patrick's Day Parties |
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Last month the staff at our community residences and day habilitation programs threw parties for Saint Patrick's Day.
Here's some shots of adults we support celebrating at the day programs of Bridges Levittown, Bridges Bethpage and Program Without Walls, and the community residences of East Hills and Sejon.
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Employee Referral Program |
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Don't forget about the NEW EMPLOYEE REFERRAL PROGRAM! You can now earn up to $6,750 when you refer people to work at ACLD. See the flyer below for details.
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Message from Human Resources: ACLD has developed two new policies that are very important for continued development of our organization. See attached policies for reference. Additionally, these two policies have been updated in our employee handbook that is posted on ADP homepage and Microsoft Teams.
The first policy is the “Diversity, Equity and Inclusion” policy for ACLD. Diversity is a top priority for our organization and we believe this will help foster and further cultivate a respectful environment. ACLD has already started this initiative by promoting monthly heritage highlights on our internal communications like in our employee newsletter and on ADP homepage. Additionally, ACLD is exploring training for employees that can help educate our workforce about Diversity. We also welcome new ideas and suggestions for creating a welcoming workplace. An employee can provide ideas by communicating recommendations to a supervisor or an HR representative or during a town hall meeting. Additionally, suggestions are welcome on the “bright idea box” that can be found on Microsoft teams. Please remember that everyone here at ACLD contributes to our supportive and caring culture and we can continue to do so by treating others with dignity and respect at all times.
Our second policy is called “Return to Work Policy”. This policy is intended to provide meaningful work to employees who have been either been injured or had an illness as a result from the workplace. ACLD will offer an option to eligible employees to be considered for alternate duty. This opportunity will be coordinated by a human resources representative with an employee who is on an approved leave.
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Message from the Center for Learning: The CFL runs reports which detail the training status of ACLD employees. We have posted a new version of this report. It can be accessed by going to MS Teams. Find the ACLD Today team and the Center for Learning channel underneath that.
Select “Files” at the top (See the red arrow on the image below) and then click on the folder named “02 – CFL Staff Training Reports”. (See the blue arrow on the image below). The report in that folder is organized to make it easy to find your staff’s information by work location, by department and by name. It can also be filtered so you are only looking at the staff that report to you.
REMINDER – CFL documents are now posted exclusively on MS Teams. See the image below.
This newest report has been revised to provide information on staff training in Blood Glucose Monitoring, Tube Feeding, Tube Medication and Sub-Cutaneous Injections. The report also covers:
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Employee certification in AMAP, SCIP, CPR-First Aid and AED (New Version which highlights when staff are close to expiring or already expired)
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- This report includes extensions made to staff certification expiration dates.
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Click on the report to view this information and stay on top of the training and recertification needs of your employee. |
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Help the people we support find employment |
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Do you know of a job opening in your area that would be a good fit for the men and women we support who are seeking employment in the community?
If so, please send an email to the Vocational Services department at Millerl@acld.org.
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Discounts for ACLD Employees |
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Did you know that by being an employee of ACLD, you can take advantage of exclusive discounts at different businesses such as Splish Splash, Verizon, P.C. Richard, Six Flags and a lot more?
You can also register as an ACLD employee on PlumBenefits.com to get even more discounts on vacations, entertainment, online shopping and other services. Use company code ac0825520 to register.
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Anniversary Milestones - April 2022 |
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Charles Adu Direct Support Professional, East Meadow
Amanda Brown Junior Accountant, Finance
Sannurha Clerville Direct Support Professional, Residential
Jodiann Gayle-Victor Human Resources Generalist, Human Resources
Nadege Joseph Direct Support Professional, Residential
Aaron Simpkins Direct Support Professional, Brighton
Rosmaliz Valdes Romero Operations Manager, RewearAble
Nedlyne Viliere Direct Support Professional, Residential
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Rodeanna Manragh Direct Support Professional, Residential
Marie Saint Preux Direct Support Professional, Spur Drive
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Marie Casimir Residential Assistant Manager, Residential
Emmanuel Lysse Residential Assistant Manager, East Meadow
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Marycara Ferdinando Trainer, Center for Learning
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Welcome ACLD New Hires - March 2022 |
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Prince Agyemang Direct Support Professional, Eastover Drive
Smoky Anelus Direct Support Professional, Lynbrook
Elizabeth Azzaro Day Habilitation Specialist, Program Without Walls
Jordyn Carr Direct Support Professional, Dix Hills
Phania Charles Direct Support Professional, Ronkonkoma
Salina Diaz Direct Support Professional, Spur Drive
Jewaans Dieudonne Direct Support Professional, Calvert Avenue
Yolanda Dorado Respite Counselor - In Home Waiver, Bethpage 807
Lorraine Dunkel Special Educator, Spiegel Center
Ginette Eneus Direct Support Professional, Bethpage 857
Jennie Estimable Direct Support Professional, Thomaston
Cyprian Ikwuazom Registered Nurse, Bethpage 857
Ashton Jackson Direct Support Professional, Sejon
Marie Jean Day Habilitation Specialist, Bethpage 837
Farah Lewis Direct Support Professional, Russell Gardens
Djemimadh Lubertine Direct Support Professional, Yorktown
Liam Mahoney Network Specialist, Bethpage 807
Laurente Marcellin Direct Support Professional, Calvert Avenue
Lisa Philander Direct Support Professional, Eastover Drive
Bryanna Ramirez Direct Support Professional, Northport
Bettyna Sainte-Croix Direct Support Professional, Northport
Dakshesh Sanghavi Physical Therapist, Bethpage 857
Diana Vasquez Respite Counselor - In Home Waiver, Bethpage 807
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Don't forget to give a SHOUT OUT to recognize someone at your location for something special they did for you, your department or a person we support. |
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The Organizational Care Committee is always looking for new ideas and suggestions from all of YOU to continue to make ACLD one of the best places to work, and for children and adults to receive supports and services.
Now it is easier than ever before to share your bright ideeas. Just click here and your Bright Ideas will be sent directly to the Organizational Care Committee. A representative from the committee will respond to you promptly, and if your idea is implemented, you will earn a $25.00 gift card!
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RewearAble has replaced their bins on the Bethpage Campus with beautiful newly designed bins (see below). These new bins can also be found at the new B.L.U.E. program in Deer Park, and will soon replace the bins at the Hauppauge day program.
Donation bin addresses: 807 South Oyster Bay Road, Bethpage, NY 11714 / 305 Oser Avenue, Hauppauge, NY 11788 / 775 Long Island Avenue, Deer Park, NY 11729
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Submit YOUR stories for the "Limelight" |
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Each month we include stories in this newsletter about YOU and all of the amazing staff here at ACLD!
BUT WE NEED YOUR HELP to find out about these stories. Please send us anything to include such as:
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A story about how you or someone else went above and beyond to help the people we support, organized any fun or educational activity, or did anything to further our mission in any way
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Information on any staff member or team who you would like to see spotlighted for their exceptional work.
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Information or news useful for staff across the agency. Anything important or fun.
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Proud moments for you or your family (Personal or professional milestones, awards, weddings, educational degrees or works in the community).
- Or anything else you can think of!
Don't be shy about submitting stories - we need new ones every month!
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"the limelight" is an initiative of the
Communications Committee
and is produced by the
Development and Community Relations Department.
Jonathan Dolan, Editor. For questions, comments or suggestions, please email dolanj2@acld.org
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Thank you to all who have submitted information
and photos. Keep them coming!
We welcome your comments and suggestions.
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