October 20th Recognized as “The Arc Westchester Day” in Westchester County
The County’s largest organization supporting people of all ages with developmental disabilities was honored for their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic
Westchester County, N.Y. (October 20, 2020) – The Arc Westchester is pleased to announce that October 20, 2020 was officially named “The Arc Westchester Day” in Westchester County. Members of the organization’s executive team participated in a ceremony with Westchester County Executive George Latimer at the County Office Building in White Plains where they were presented with a proclamation in honor of the designation.
This proclamation was in recognition of The Arc Westchester’s efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic and its support of individuals with developmental disabilities. The celebration falls during an important month for the organization, as October is both National Disability Employment Awareness Month and Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
“I accept this proclamation on behalf of our 850 professionals who have been providing residential services, day programming, early intervention therapies, preschool education, recreational services, meaningful employment and volunteer opportunities to those we support,” said Tibi Guzmán, executive director/CEO, The Arc Westchester. “Our professionals have provided continuous supports to our individuals throughout the pandemic. Our heroes always kept our core values present at all times, while keeping health and safety at the forefront.”
October 20, 2020 would have been The Arc Westchester’s largest annual fundraiser, “A Matter of Taste””. But, as so many have done, the event was pivoted to focus on what matters most – the safety of the community. Through the efforts of The Arc Westchester Foundation, the organization has continued to be supported during this unprecedented time.
“It’s with great pleasure, and even greater gratitude, that I report, thanks to our generous donors, we are close to reaching our fundraising goal for this year’s ‘A Matter of Safety,’ an appeal we put together to support The Arc Westchester’s vital programs and services, and to offset the incredible expenses associated with keeping our individuals safe, happy and healthy during this pandemic,” said Nancy Patota, executive director, The Arc Westchester Foundation.
“A Matter of Taste” is a signature event, typically held at Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle, featuring culinary offerings from the County’s top restaurants. In honor of Arc Westchester Day, Sam’s of Gedney Way, a longtime participant, donated 10% of all proceeds from dine-in and takeout orders from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. on October 20 to support The Arc Westchester. Sam’s of Gedney Way owner Peter Hererro serves as co-chair for “A Matter of Taste” each year.
“I’m proud to proclaim October 20, 2020 as ‘The Arc Westchester Day’ in Westchester County. They annually provide support to over 2,000 individuals and have gone above and beyond during the pandemic to ensure health and safety,” said Westchester County Executive George Latimer. “I look forward to the next ‘A Matter of Taste’ event when we can celebrate their outstanding work together.”
For more information, visit www.arcwestchester.org.
