The Arc Westchester Awarded $190,309 in Grants from NYSARC Trust Services
To support guardianship and recreational opportunities for people with disabilities in Westchester County
Westchester County, NY (December 19, 2023): The Arc Westchester, a not-for-profit organization supporting people with developmental disabilities in Westchester County, has been awarded $190,309 in grants from the Trustee Management Board of NYSARC Trust Services to support The Arc Westchester’s guardianship and recreation programs.
NYSARC Trust Services administers supplemental needs trusts (SNT) and pooled trusts that can make dramatic improvements to the lives of people with disabilities by enabling individuals to maintain financial eligibility for Medicaid and other means-tested government benefit programs. For 2023, NYSARC Trust Services is proud to fulfill its commitment to enhancing the lives of people with disabilities by awarding a total of $2,697,980 to The Arc New York Chapters statewide.
This year, The Arc Westchester received $180,700 to provide guardianship services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who would not otherwise have a legal guardian or advocate. Supported by Chapter staff and community volunteers, The Arc Westchester’s Guardianship Program currently provides primary guardianship support and services to 30 people and assists 33 more as a Standby or Alternate Standby guardian. An additional part time staff advocate was added in 2023. Some funds were provided to hold an in-person celebration during the summer. In addition, guardianship staff continue to provide educational seminars to school personnel and families requesting information on guardianship, petitioning the Surrogate Court and Supported Decision-making.
NYSARC Trust Services also awarded The Arc Westchester $9,609.00 to support new recreational opportunities and enrich the lives of the more than 2,000 people it serves. The Arc Westchester used the recreation grant funds to develop additional wellness and fitness activities, explore the community through recreational day trips, and enhance programs at their summer college experience and camp excursions. These opportunities provide independence, happiness and education for the people the organization supports. Over 24 outings including aquarium visits, art centers, paint classes, bowling, baseball, football and basketball games are just some of the activities that support a full and happy life.
To learn more about The Arc Westchester, visit their website at www.arcwestchester.org.
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About The Arc Westchester
The Arc Westchester, founded in 1949, is the largest agency in Westchester County supporting children, teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including individuals on the autism spectrum, and their families. The organization’s 700 employees provide more than 2,000 individuals throughout the county with a broad range of innovative and effective programs and services designed to foster independence, productivity and participation in community life.
Their mission is to provide innovative supports for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families, to build independence, achieve personal goals and strengthen community participation.
The Arc Westchester is a chapter of The Arc USA and The Arc New York.
About NYSARC Trust Services
NYSARC Trust Services has administered supplemental needs trusts since 1972, helping thousands of people with disabilities protect their eligibility for government benefits and improve their quality of life. Our trust programs give people with disabilities the opportunity to maintain comfort and independence in the community while providing peace of mind to their family and loved ones.
NYSARC Trust Services provides administration of first- and third-party pooled supplemental needs trusts to help families plan for the future of a loved one with a disability, preserve income and assets for Medicaid planning purposes and long-term care needs, and protect unexpected windfalls of money.
For more information, please call (518) 439-8323 or visit us online www.nysarctrustservices.org.
