As we experience the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s clear that our sta and our community are rising to the challenge. There is plenty of good work and unity happening around us. When we can rely on one another, our faith and resilience will see us through these troubling times. A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends,

We’re all learning to navigate the changing demands of a world disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the needs change among the people who choose our services, we continue to walk alongside them, anticipating bends in the road and shifts in the landscape. I’ve been amazed at the response from our workforce to the demands of this crisis, with its impact on our lives that we never could have imagined. Their dedication has really inspired me, as they’ve adapted quickly and created solutions to unexpected problems. I can’t thank them enough for the sacrifices they’ve made. As a broad and growing service provider, Heritage Christian Services has always aimed to support a healthy and thriving community. We’re continuing to do great work, maintaining our foundational programs that aim to create a community that is safe and meaningful for all. Our staff’s passion for putting people first and serving the common good has inspired broad community support, too, with donors, business partners and friends recognizing them Marisa Geitner as community heroes. If you’re able, consider contributing to our Emergency Fund, which was created to allow us to put resources where there is an urgent need. It especially lets us help our direct support professionals through this challenging time. You can support that effort by visiting HeritageChristianServices.org/EmergencyFund. As we produced this issue of Spirit, we faced a shifting reality. We still wanted to share some good news and stories about things we’re looking forward to. I hope you’ll find some comfort here, and that you’ll see that our work is successful only with the contributions and support of our greater community. While we move through this time of uncertainty, our faith continues to guide us. Even though we can’t yet see how this challenge will resolve, our hope and optimism will help us find new solutions. We are stronger together. †

Sincerely, When you see this icon it means there’s a video at Marisa Geitner HeritageChristianServices.org/spirit-newsletter. President & C.E.O.

"… there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other." 1 Corinthians 12:25

About Us SPIRIT is a bi-annual publication of Heritage Christian Services. At Heritage Christian Services, people come first.

Heritage Christian Services partners with thousands of people throughout Rochester and Buffalo to ensure everyone – including A Second Thought Resale Shop • Springdale Farm and Balcony Point children and people with developmental disabilities – feels valued Eleversity • Employment Alliance and respected. Most of the agency’s 3,000+ employees work to Expressive Beginnings Child Care • Heritage Christian Stables support people so they can find the best place to live and work Ferncliff Apartments • Pieters Family Life Center and build strong community connections, through residential International Ministries • Heritage Hollow Retreat Center support, respite, community habilitation and employment Heritage Gardens supports. Other employees work with children at Expressive CORPORATE OFFICE Beginnings Child Care in Henrietta, Greece or Webster. 275 Kenneth Dr., Suite 100 Rochester, NY 14623 The agency is also known for community impact programs that Telephone: (585) 340-2000 address health and wellness, education and self-empowerment. REGIONAL OFFICE Together, those programs serve more than 25,000 people 130 John Muir Dr., Suite 106 annually. Amherst, NY 14228 Telephone: (716) 743-2020 Visit HeritageChristianServices.org. A Compass Agency TDD: (800) 662-1220

2 SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 EXPRESSING GRATITUDE VIDEO TESTIMONIALS SAY THANKS TO EMPLOYEES

HCS recently released a video to let staff know how much they’re appreciated as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. The staff’s dedication and teamwork have always been something to get excited about. But in these times of isolation and social distancing, they’re still doing outstanding work. Our community is enthusiastic about the staff’s contribution to getting through this difficult time. A variety of people expressed their gratitude via video, and it really shows that the connection between our community and our staff is as vibrant as ever. The success of Heritage Christian Services, and our resilience through this pandemic, is built on community support and an outstanding workforce. Thank you, again, to all of the staff at Heritage Christian Services.

Watch the video.

Here are some things people said about the frontline staff at Heritage Christian Services: “We appreciate and recognize our frontline staff as community heroes. Thank you so much for everything that you do.” “Our direct support staff are simply the best.” “We’ve always recognized and seen our frontline staff as the community heroes that they are. Thank you all for everything that you’re doing.”

A Second Thought Resale Shop • Springdale Farm and Balcony Point Eleversity • Employment Alliance Expressive Beginnings Child Care • Heritage Christian Stables Ferncliff Apartments • Pieters Family Life Center International Ministries • Heritage Hollow Retreat Center Heritage Gardens

SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 3 CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY’S SUPPORT

In an update to our staff in April, Mark Zawacki talked about the inspiring level of support we’ve received from our community as we learn ways to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's what he said in his video to the staff, which you can watch here:

"If you haven’t had the opportunity to experi- ence it, I can’t overstate the outpouring of support that we’ve received from the community. We absolutely know this generosity comes because of the hard work and reputation of our staff, and the many ways our workforce enriches the lives of peo- ple with intellectual and developmental disabilities. "As you may know, the Heritage Christian Services Foundation was established 32 years ago to assure the sustainability of our agency. Now, its role to raise and provide needed resources for staff and people supported by Heritage Christian is more important than ever. "As an organization, we’re facing major chal- lenges. We’ve had several fundraisers and special events that support our programs be cancelled or postponed. Additionally, as we pause operations for our day hab, respite and other programs, we expect a more than $4 million loss of revenue by the end of May. "This loss is further complicated by unexpected expenses that are helping to protect people during this crisis, running more than $600,000 a month, for staffing, medical equipment and supplies. "The Foundation remains ready to meet the challenges: • We started an emergency response fund to help offset revenue losses and have raised more than $125,000 from private donors in a month. • We also quickly organized a new fundraising event – the Stronger Together one-hundred-minute virtual race – that has collected more than $20,000 in just a couple of weeks with over 100 people registered. • We’re applying for community grants and accepting donated supplies. It’s been amazing. Dozens of volunteers have sewn and donated more than 3,000 cloth face coverings that have been delivered to 70 agency sites. • Local businesses have donated hundreds of bottles of hand sanitizer and vital cleaning supplies. • And in thinking ahead, we repurposed some of our sites, like the Pieters Family Life Center and Ellicott creek Day Hab … and we’ve been able to organize large food orders, collect medical equipment and distribute donations to four hundred people across Rochester and Buffalo. "This is because of you. Your passion for putting people first and serving the common good inspires community members to act like you. Our donors, business partners and friends recognize all of you as our community heroes, and they prove that with their donations. "We have a long way to go, but we’ll never falter for the people we support because we care so much about them. If there’s one thing I want you to take away today, it’s knowing how much you’re appreciated and how you’ve got the community’s backing. Be safe and take good care of yourselves." †

4 SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 ERN TO EXPAND TO BUFFALO Companies band together and share resources that assist employees

For the families of people who choose HCS Many people are familiar with the services, ERNs contribute to continuity of Employee Assistance Plan, which is care. If a direct support professional is able another a valuable resource that offers to work things out in their personal life, the counseling support through many people they work with benefit, too. companies, including Heritage Christian Employer Resource Networks are private/ Services. But the ERN offers broader and public collaborations that work to increase more immediate support than an EAP. job retention by offering support and training This service offers an extra personal to employees. ERNs, made up of businesses touch, Durrant says, and ultimately helps that share the low-cost services of an on-site people stay in their jobs. success coach, focus on reducing turnover, For instance, an employee might be improving performance and creating a better struggling with the demands of a parent workplace culture. with dementia. Or, for someone who During difficult times, extra employee Representatives from the Employer works overnight, finding childcare can be support services are needed more than Resource Network are working with existing an issue. Through the ERN, an employee ever. The changes brought about by the networks across all forms of business to can work with a success coach to identify COVID-19 pandemic have given the collaborate in bringing this resource to resources that are available in their Employer Recource Network the opportunity Buffalo. community. Not only that, the success to implement video visits with success On-site success coaches try to create coach is available in person or via text, coaches. That makes it easier for employees email or phone on an urgent basis, if to continue to get the support they need. a sense of familiarity and predictability, Durrant says, with regular office hours and needed. If people want to talk about ways In addition, Heritage Christian Services a space where employees know they can find to move up in the organization, a success and its seven partners are bringing their them. Chanel Terrell is the success coach at coach can help them explore that, too, by successful Employer Resource Network to Heritage Christian Services, and employees talking about available opportunities and Buffalo. get frequent reminders that she’s a resource the sorts of things they might need to learn Marianne Durrant, director of network they can talk to confidentially. Success in order to advance. development for the Employer Resource coaches connect people with community An ERN is a great way for businesses Network, says it’s a resource that’s available resources and services that provide fast relief to engage and retain their workforce, to everyone who works at HCS, but it’s a for many issues, such as financial concerns, Durrant says. Companies in Rochester that community resource, too. finding reliable transportation, workplace are working with the Employer Resource Through this program, Durrant says, the conflict, child care, housing barriers and Network now include Catholic Family whole purpose is job retention, through family challenges. Center, Catholic Charities, Jewish Senior coaching and working through personal In addition to being able to call, email or Life, Epilepsy-Pralid, Friendly Senior challenges that affect a person’s ability to text a success coach, there’s also the new Living, MVP Health Care and St. Ann’s work. option for virtual visits. That technological Community, along with Heritage Christian Services. In 2019, HCS took the lead in bringing addition will make it easy for people in the this to the community. Heritage Christian Buffalo area to interact with a success coach, The hope, Durrant says, is to have Services is initiating the process of investing too. the ERN up and running in the Buffalo in and bringing together resources to allow Niagara region by the end of this year. † companies to have access to a success coach and to gather data that shows us the barriers Using the Employer Resource Network that employees may have to employment, especially in entry-level jobs. If you’re an employee of Heritage Christian Services and you would like to connect with a success coach, contact Chanel Terrell at (585) 944-4975 or [email protected].

If you know of an employer who might be interested in offering the benefits of the Employee Resource Network to your workforce, contact Marianne Durrant at (585) 340-2009 or [email protected].

The work of the Employer Resource Network is supported in part by a grant from the Heritage Christian Services Foundation.

SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 5 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION ERT LB O PAUL HANSON EXCELLENCE AWARD T The Paul Hanson Excellence Award winner is TIFFANY TOLBERT, who was RK U awarded for her leadership and dedication to excellence. T EUNICE HANSON EXCELLENCE IN NURSING AWARD CHRISTA TURK was awarded the Eunice Hanson Excellence in Nursing Award for her hard work and compassionate care.

AMARA NEW YORK DIRECT SUPPORT cN M PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR ANDREW McNAMARA, a positive supports specialist, has been selected to receive a 2020 New York Direct Support Professional of the Year Award from the American Network of Community Options & Resources. Andrew was selected for recognition from among hundreds of nominations. This award serves as a testament to Andrew’s work to support individuals in the community and to his leadership at Heritage Christian Services. MAN ER H S AMY MARIE TESSONI AWARD The Amy Marie Tessoni Award winner was TIFFANY SHERMAN, who is an amazing advocate and medical liaison who always goes above and beyond for the people she supports at Plank Road.

LISA DURANT-JONES AGENCY BOARD Associate vice president for Academic Affairs at Nazareth College and a professor of speech-language pathology. Sheled the creation of the college’s Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plan, was named a Diversity Champion in 2009 by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and received the 2016 Cultural Pluralism Award from the Association of Schools in Allied Health Professions.

MARIA JOSE CUBILLOS REED AGENCY BOARD Owner of Cubillos Reed Law, PLLC. She sits on the advisory committee of the Appellate Division, Fourth Department, Attorneys for Children Program as well as the advisory committee for the Monroe County Assigned Counsel Program. She is a recipient of the Empire State Counsel Award for pro bono service.

SANJAY MATHUR AGENCY BOARD Oracle IT Business Analyst at Paychex. He served as president of the executive council at the Hindu Temple of Rochester from 2014 to 2018 and is currently on its Board of Trustees. He is an advisory board member for the Hickey Center of Interfaith Studies and Dialogue at Nazareth College.

DR. SASHA ELOI-EVANS AGENCY BOARD Director of Multicultural Programs and Services at SUNY Geneseo. Previously, she was a lecturer and academic program coordinator at the University of Rochester. Early in her career, she gained direct support experience with Heritage Christian Services.

LISA ARRINGTON FOUNDATION BOARD Partner at Barclay Damon LLP. She helps clients with disabilities and families with children with disabilities access public benefits and maximize the preservation of individual and family assets. She also assists clients with Article 17A guardianships for children or family members with disabilities.

6 SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 Donor Spotlight

RK U T Nine years ago, Heritage Christian Services met Eileen Farlow's son, Bill Farlow, to find a match for a home in Penfield. Eileen had her reservations, since Bill had tried several living arrangements across 33 years. The agency staff worked diligently to understand how a living arrangement could be designed to meet Bill’s needs and they used creativity in their problem-solving to make sure he wouldn’t be left without a chance to live on his own. Eileen says of Heritage Christian, “You know they’re going to do the right thing. It may be difficult, but they’re going to do the right thing.” The collaboration makes it possible for Bill to live in the residence of his choice, for as long as he is able. 7 Heritage Christian Services worked to create an environment that would suit Bill. He has additional areas that offer the space he needs to reset and refresh from day-to-day distractions and perhaps busyness that comes with housemates. Eileen says, “Everything they’ve said they would do [for Bill], they have done in every way." For most of his life, people told Bill how to live and what to do. Now, Bill decides what he wants to do “IF I HAD A MILLION DOLLARS, every day. “Bill wouldn't be Bill if Heritage Christian IT WOULD ALL GO TO HERITAGE Services hadn’t come into the picture,” Eileen said. CHRISTIAN SERVICES.” Heritage Christian’s support of Bill has made all the ­– Eileen Farlow difference for Eileen. When Bill went to the hospital, he had staff with him the entire time he was there. That level of care and compassion is what makes Eileen want to support HCS in return. She said, “If I had a million dollars, it would all go to Heritage Christian Services.” †

Bill Farlow

Volunteer Spotlight

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re inviting anyone who can sew to make face coverings or gowns for us. If you aren’t a person who sews, you can still help by donating essential supplies, like tightly woven cotton fabric or elastic. The face masks will be used to protect frontline staff of both Heritage Christian Services and Expressive Beginnings Child Care and people who choose our services. Volunteers are asked to use the mask patterns and instructions found at HeritageChristianServices.org/Sewing. Masks and gowns must be delivered in a sealed plastic bag that includes a piece of paper with your name, contact information and the number of masks you’ve donated. Heather Geoca, volunteer coordinator, says we're hoping for thousdans of cloth face coverings and gowns in this effort. Donations - materials and completed coverings - can be dropped off at the Pieters Family Life Center in Henrietta, located at 1025 Commons Way, Rochester. The Little Library (pictured) is being re-purposed to accept items. In the Buffalo area, cloth coverings, as well as hand sanitizer and antiviral cleaning supplies, may be dropped off at 170 Main St. in Tonawanda. Under the covered patio, you’ll see a plastic tote for the masks. We are also accepting donations of hand sanitizer and antiviral cleaning supplies in Rochester. Those items may be dropped off at the Life Center front entrance weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 7 FUNDRAISING REPORT The Heritage Christian Services Foundation is grateful for the generous support of the following sponsors for our fundraising events.

HERITAGE CHRISTIAN SERVICES More than $3,000 was raised at the Heritage Christian Services Basketball Classic BASKETBALL CLASSIC to benefit our Employment Alliance. The Feb. 15 doubleheader, held at the Kidera Gymnasium in the Shults Center at Nazareth College, featured the men’s and women’s teams from Nazareth College and The Sage Colleges. Special thanks go to presenting sponsor Tompkins Bank of Castile, as well as media sponsor WYSL radio. We also acknowledge the generous support from the event committee members: Tony Wells, HCS Basketball Classic executive director; Lisa Formicola, assistant vice president and Pittsford branch manager of Tompkins Bank of Castile; Pete Bothner, Nazareth College athletics director; and Joe Seil, Nazareth College sports information director. †

Vinny Russo stands with Aria, the horse he rode at Heritage Christian Stables’ Pony Adventure. NEW DATE!

STABLES – PONY ADVENTURE The Heritage Christian Services Golf Classic at Monroe Thanks in part to our successful fundraisers and volunteer support, Heritage Golf Club, originally scheduled for June 29, is now Christian Stables has been able to expand its horsemanship and riding scheduled for Monday, Aug. 24. experiences. As a matter of fact, it welcomed 23 youth between the ages of 5 and 13 during the February school break before the state mandated PAUSE 7:30 a.m. Morning flight Provision for COVID-10. Students like Vinny Russo enjoyed meeting experts 11:30 a.m. Lunch like Aria, our Norwegian Fjord, and having a chance to ride. To receive future 12:30 p.m. Afternoon flight emails, notify the stables at [email protected]. † (Limited space available. First come, first served.) 5:30 p.m. Cocktails and dinner VIRTUAL SUPPORT FOR HERITAGE CHRISTIAN STABLES Register at Boots & Barrels, the classy hoedown for a cause, has been a great success since its first go-round in 2017. The annual event raises funds for the HeritageChristianServices.org/Golf therapeutic riding program at Heritage Christian Stables, and it’s an exciting way to spread the word about the work being done there. Sponsorship opportunities available. In this time of uncertainty, however, Boots & Barrels has been canceled for 2020. This year, fans of Heritage Christian Stables and riding enthusiasts can support the program through a fundraising appeal that will launch later this spring. Watch for details coming soon! †

8 SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 GIFTS OF SUPPORT Thanks to the generosity of our partners and donors, people touched by HCS have the opportunity to learn and grow and to be respected for their individual gifts and strengths. Thank you for making a difference.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield generously The HCS Club Adventure respite program will The KeyBank Foundation continued its support sponsored the 2020 Heart of Dance continue to grow by adding more staff hours of HCS' workforce development programs performance and provided support to and expanding opportunities, thanks to a and efforts to recruit and retain quality staff. purchase music therapy equipment grant from the Scripps Howard Foundation. for the Pieters Family Life Center. The experience of riding a bicycle will be Thanks to support from the M&T Charitable made possible for many of the people that Foundation, Florence M. Muller Foundation, HCS serves, thanks the purchase of tandem J.M. McDonald Foundation, the Jordan wheelchair bicycles as a result of a gift from Fund and the Rochester Area Community the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. Foundation, adults and students were provided scholarships for therapeutic horseback riding The Employer Resource Network was lessons at the Heritage Christian Stables. launched in Rochester, thanks to a contribution from the ESL Charitable Foundation. Our agency’s Employment Alliance received support from the Niagara Frontier In 2019, the Hoselton Foundation awarded Automobile Dealers Association, the $18,500 to HCS in support of Dale Carnegie John F. Wegman Fund and Paychex to Leadership Training, an invaluable initiative provide employment services to students that strengthens our workforce and as they prepare to leave high school. gives them the tools they need to build meaningful careers with our agency. HCS is grateful for support from the Guido and Ellen Palma Foundation, Gonsenhauser Family Fund, Rochester Press-Radio Club and the Maibaum Foundation for their support, which will allow children from across Rochester to attend field trips and respite camp at Springdale Farm.

An automated external defibrillator was purchased for our new western New York office in Amherst, thanks to a donation from the Firefighters Charitable Foundation.

Thanks to the Rochester Area Community Foundation, the windmill aeration system that maintains the pond at Springdale Farm will be repaired. Handicap accessible doors will be installed at Balcony Point, thanks to support from the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust.

COVID-19 DONATIONS • Iron Smoke Distillery INDIVIDUAL SEWERS We are deeply grateful for funds • JOANN • Joanne Baris donated from the Community Crisis • Monroe County • Jessica Beckel Fund, organized by the United Way • New York State Departement of • Cindy Bukowski of Greater Rochester, the Rochester Homeland Security and • Hannah Elisabeth Butler Area Community Foundation, the ESL Emergency Services • Chris Contrara Charitable Foundation, and the Peter and • New York State Clean • Kara Ellsworth Elizabeth C. Tower Foundation through • Rochester Area Community • Kristen Herkstoeter & Friends the WNY Community Response Fund, Foundation • Lauren Kolb which will allow HCS to purchase urgently • Sew Creative • Linda Luckenbach needed cleaning supplies and personal • United Way of Greater Rochester • Deanne Newcombe protective equipment. • Aaron Newman Special thanks go out to community FACEBOOK GROUPS • Beth Odell friends and partners for their donations WHO HAVE DONATED • Sarah Reddy during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re • Kim Siracusa grateful for the contributions of face CLOTH FACE COVERINGS • Michelle Steves masks, face shields, hand sanitizer and • “Community Sourced PPE: Operation • Jennifer Stone cleaning supplies. Sewing Squad”; Gina Guido-Redden • Bill Sturdevent • Black Button Distilling and Kimberly Hubert, organizers • Michelle Tillapaugh • Century Mold Co. • ROC Maidan; Solmia Laba, organizer • Danielle Yorko • Greater Rochester Chamber of • “We're in this together. Sew away • Plus generous face mask donations Commerce Corona”; Kim Dey, organizer from anonymous individuals

SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 9 Heritage Happenings

WEGMANS LEADERSHIP UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP Springdale Farm was embraced by Wegmans Food Markets and received business mentoring and networking for 15 months. As part of a leadership development program, 10 Wegmans employees shared their professional expertise with our staff and offered ways to raise awareness about the model public-private collaboration between Monroe County and HCS. Additionally, we thank Lowe’s of Brockport for providing materials for a new gazebo at cost, and the Wegmans team for assembling this beautiful structure. The Wegmans team assembles the gazebo at Springdale Farm, and then proudly During a time of PAUSE Provision for COVID-19, shows off the finished product. the farm buildings are closed but visitors walking the Northampton Park grounds can still enjoy the gazebo. †

HERITAGE CHRISTIAN CONNECTION MCCARTHY PROMOTED DEBUTS ON FACEBOOK LIVE TO DIRECTOR OF FINGER Many of us find joy in daily activities like music, exercise or learning LAKES RESIDENTIAL new things. But with the isolation that’s part of social distancing, SERVICES finding ways to be creative has been tricky. In February, Heritage Christian Services With the new Heritage Christian Connection on Facebook Live, announced that Kathy McCarthy is its new Heritage Christan staff are giving those staying at home something to director of Finger Lakes residential services. look forward to. It’s a personal and interactive event that takes place McCarthy is a longtime employee who has weekdays on the HCS Facebook page. served the agency for 25 years in various The Heritage Christian Connection is a half-hour program that lets roles in the residential department, including people connect in a meaningful way with staff who are familiar to them direct support and most recently as the from Heritage Christian programs. Staff members share their expertise associate director of Finger Lakes residential services. and give viewers a chance to engage in exercise, yoga, music and McCarthy has a bachelor’s degree in health science from The College at meditation, as well as learn new things like American Sign Language. Brockport. In addition, McCarthy has expanded her education through a Presenters have included HCS staff like music therapists Lauren number of accredited certifications and leadership trainings from the New Faggiano and Amanda Dimino, wellness assistant Emily Plotzker, York Alliance for Inclusion & Innovation and the National Alliance of speech therapist Stephanie Hawkins, art therapists Sara Corona and Direct Support Professionals. In her new role, McCarthy will oversee the Sharon Scott, and faith inclusion specialist Padraic Collins-Bohrer. operations and continuity of care for people living in 48 homes across the Because it’s Facebook Live, the people watching can make requests, region. † ask questions or just say hello. By creating regular way to offer some normalcy and predictability to the daily routine, it’s just one way our staff is staying in touch with PROJECT SEARCH people. It builds a sense of familiarity and friendship during these Are you a young adult with an intellectual or developmental disability who difficult times. would like to improve your independence and work towards employment To watch previous videos, visit our Facebook page at goals? About the program: facebook.com/HeritageChristianServices. † • Program duration of nine months • Located at Jewish Senior Life, Winton Rd., Rochester • Three, 10-week internships, partnered with a mentor • Learn a variety of job and life skills • Projected start date: Sept. 2020

Informational sessions are via Zoom on Tuesday, May 5 from 10-11 a.m. and on Tuesday, May 11 from 5-6 p.m. RSVP to Shawna Boynton at [email protected] or (585) 405- 1639. †

10 SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 AN EMPHASIS ON INCLUSION AND EDUCATION

Eleversity is all about educating people. Formerly known as the agency’s Center for Human Services Education (CHSE), it’s a community impact program that serves thousands of people every year. Eleversity includes a team that’s focused on improving the workforce. Whether in staff training and curriculum development, webinars or event planning, its efforts are geared toward addressing competencies, enhancing skills and solidifying philosophies. With more than 300 training sessions every year, the impact of Eleversity is felt beyond Heritage Christian and around the state of New York, from Buffalo to Plattsburgh to Long Island. Until recently, Eleversity’s primary mission The 2019 CHSE staff, which is now, Eleversity, from left: Maura Denning, Mike Barry, Amy Scott, Chris Frank, Stacy Waite, Sara Taylor, Michael Edelman (not pictured: Dottie Stenson) was to train human services workers for other providers in addition to those at Heritage effort to establish workplaces that focus on Ultimately, Taylor’s work helps community Christian. The division has reached a level diversity, equity and inclusion. leaders take steps to raise people out of poverty where it can grow beyond human services. “So much of what we have done is working through employment. At the HR level, she helps It has evolved to a place where its staff can with people who perhaps come from a managers look at how hiring happens, who work with for-profit organizations and offer marginalized community,” Frank said. “There is being hired, and ways to make sure hiring training on things like how to make the work are common elements, and if you can take a practices are inclusive. environment more inclusive. broader view, how it all ties together becomes Taylor led the Right Talent Right Now clear.” symposium last fall in Rochester, and she’s In doing that, Eleversity helps other working on webinar and training projects that ELEVERSITY NOW OFFERS companies, nonprofit or for-profit, create will help a company get the conversation started AFFORDABLE ONLINE TRAININGS. a workplace culture that puts people first. around inclusion. Her employment-focused VISIT ELEVERSITY.ORG. Last summer, Eleversity brought Sara work ties in closely with Eleversity’s emphasis on Taylor on board as a community liaison helping others create better workplaces. and training specialist to complement the Through connections, networking and solid “This is a real watershed time for us,” said work that cultural competency expert Michael relationships, Eleversity is helping dozens of Chris Frank, Eleversity director. “We’re re- Edelman had long been doing in collaboration organizations develop plans to become more evaluating and reinventing ourselves to really with many like-minded partners committed culturally competent. It’s reaching more people launch and offer trainings in diversity, equity to justice, equity and inclusion. Taylor brings and having a positive impact on communities and inclusion.” together executives and human resources across the state. That emphasis on inclusion ties in to the leaders to teach them about inclusive ways For information on how businesses can receive principles that HCS was founded on. It’s only to employ more people more effectively. She a free education and consulting assessment, visit logical that HCS would walk hand-in-hand inspires them to participate in conversations Eleversity.org. † with other agencies and companies in an that they might not otherwise have.

SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 11 MEMORIALS & HONORARIUMS

Chambery Colebeck DeSarra Opett Thompson Schneider Often people will make a donation Jim Chambery, one of the founders of Heritage Christian Services, also passed away in November. He was known in memory of a loved one who has for his love of God and his commitment to his community. He was 85. passed away. The agency sends the bereaved family a note of sympathy Mary Catherine “Kate” Colebeck passed away in November. She had a dynamic personality and loved birthday and informs them of the gift, without celebrations. She was 55 years old. disclosing the amount. People also mark joyous occasions - like birthdays, Paul DeSarra, a Heritage Christian Services board member, passed away in November at 45 years old. He was a anniversaries and weddings - by loving husband and father who will remembered for leaving a positive impression on the people he donating in honor of a friend or encountered. family member. Sue Hoh, donor relations manager, Alice Opett passed away in January at 62 years old. She had a loving spirit and could put a smile on can help you through the process. anyone’s face. She can be reached at (585) 340-2045. Angel Thompson passed away in April. She was 39 and loved nature, laughter and making other people happy. If you ever received one of her legendary bear hugs, then you received genuine love. NOVEMBER 2019 - APRIL 2020 Eugene Schneider passed away in April at the age of 73. He was a gentleman and advocate whose sense of humor was unparalleled.

MEMORIALS In Memory of Mary Jane and Arnie Gissin In Memory of Paul DeSarra In Memory of In Memory of Thomas David Bruinsma Anne Leonardo Martin Abel Ronald Drzewiecki Giunta In Memory of Brenda Allen Rose and Ralph Bruinsma Joan and Jim Parker Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Margaret and Dennis McManus Irene Brunelle Sue Corey Christine and Norman Marie and Bob Pieters Mary Jane Bizari Mary and Richard Prinzi Bruinsma Jean Sak Kathy and Paul Bonsignore In Memory of Caryl Favro Patricia Romano In Memory of Bill Aman JoAnne Frelier and Jim Wassenaar Naomi and Timothy Schick Elizabeth Brandkamp Margaret Ilardi Kathleen Aman Marisa Geitner Gregory Carlson In Memory of Dorothy In Memory of Mary Lu Sahil Chaudhrey In Memory of David Flint Hodes In Memory of Carl Dean In Memory of Jobina, Mark and and Gerry Cassin John Culligan Betty and John Baird Virginia and Adolf Irmer Barnett Pete Bruinsma Sandra and John Cassin Nancy Cunliffe Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Betty and Robert Barnett Dr. Winabelle Gritter Dianne Flaherty Rose Marie and Andrew Chastek In Memory of Ruth and Evelyn and Allan Barnett In Memory of Anthony Gerry and Bill Gamble Barbara Georger Frank Huscher Karen and Mark Barnett In Memory of Carter Bunce Cervasio Marisa Geitner Marisa Geitner Sue and Bob DeSarra Dawn and Kenneth Bateman Mr. and Mrs. John Allen Lisa Cantwell Alice and John Gucker Alice and John Gucker Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Carole Ann and Charles Collard Tony Harris Paul Kleinstuber In Memory of Carole Ann and Charles Collard Barbara Delong In Memory of Morgan Coe Ginny Heydens Michelle Labossiere- Jake Hutchinson Patricia Condon Kathy and Thomas Doody Darlene Carroll Joan Jones Hall and Scott Hall Angela Cataldi Donald Daake Nancy Eberhard Kathy Coe Anne Jones and Barbara Ricotta Anna and Scott Mulcahy Freedom Seniors Mr. and Mrs. Tom Enright Annette Paruta Carole Kingston and Dave Onesti Joan and Jim Parker In Memory of Marisa Geitner Friends of Roberta Barnett - Starfish Ministry of WNY Michelle Labossiere- Sara and Richard Vandermeid Patrick Ingram Beth and Rick Harrison Marg, Erma, Jo, Barb and Joan Hall and Scott Hall Ann Wakelee Elaine Tantalo Everett Hunt and the Geraldine Geesler In Memory of Kate Colebeck Rita and Robert Laws Nancy and Mark Zawacki Pharmacy Staff Marisa Geitner Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Leigh and Ron Little June and Zev Zicari In Memory of Alfreda Kreckman Diane and Harry Heitzenrater Angela Cataldi Julia and Robert Monastero Judy Jorgensen Ellen Kreckman Ginny and Ray Hohl Marie and John Czerniawski Anna and Scott Mulcahy In Memory of Fran Allen Sally Kye Charles Howe Bernadette and Mike DePrez Annie Murray Brian Franklin Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Deanne Mahoney Hunters Creek Condominium Mary and Mark DePrez Mary Beth Musto Sandy and Les Walker Marisa Geitner The Eugene Modzelewski Family Association Nancy and Gus DePrez Melissa Mushka Dr. and Mrs. William Limburg Joan and Jim Parker KK Buttons Marisa Geitner Joan and Jim Parker In Memory of Sheri Fuller Joan and Jim Parker Sue and Greg Ring, Nancy Lawndale Community Alice and John Gucker Marie and Bob Pieters Janet Jenkins Marie and Bob Pieters Kane, Joel and Trudy Noreen and Terence McGuire Jane and Kitch Kitchenman Gaye and John Pieters Nancy and Mark Zawacki Kane and Alisa Kane Thomas Van Schoonhoven Betty Kruchinsky Randi and Bill Rhinehart In Memory of Jessica Gaugh Gregory A. and Susan E. Ring Lynn Scalia Michelle Labossiere- Micheline and Ken Rivard Karen and David Stoddard In Memory of Charitable Foundation Barbara and Richard Wedekindt Hall and Scott Hall George-Ann and Carl Schauffele Joseph Klosek Rebecca Scharf Sue and Rick Morman Kathy Sperino In Memory of Paul Gerlach David Miller Nancy and Mark Zawacki In Memory of Sharlene Anna and Scott Mulcahy Sally, Ted, Jean, Michael Linda Gerlach Caiazza-Lehning Joan and Jim Parker and Karen Streppa In Memory of Theresa In Memory of Mary and Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Mary Rinere Nancy and Mark Zawacki In Memory of Carol Giunta Kubasiewicz Wesley Baumbarger Wickliffe and John Blasi Mary Lynn and Art Smart Barbara Buckingham Sharon Pucher Paul Baumbarger Andrea Cotter Nancy and Mark Zawacki In Memory of Marisa Geitner John Donnellan In Memory of Paul Brink Patti and Ron Penepent JoAnne Frelier and Jim Wassenaar Elaine and Nancy Tantalo

12 SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 In Memory of Marge In Honor of Christine and In Honor of Michael Mueller In Memory of Rolf Lehmann In Memory of Alice Opett In Memory of John and Chuck Taylor Norman Bruinsma Eric Mueller Virginia and Adolf Irmer Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Schlafer Marisa Geitner Drew Bielemeier Cherilyn Eckley Judith and Jeff Bruinsma Joanne Case-Green In Honor of Laura Nenno In Memory of Rusty Likly Alice and John Gucker In Memory of In Honor of Barb Cacia's Shirley Meston Jane and Bob Moore Michelle Labossiere- Marilyn Curtis Hall and Scott Hall Leigh and Ron Little Augie Tantalo Retirement Jane and David Loughborough Sarah Goodman Paula Harris In Honor of Alan Nicholas In Memory of Lisa Anne John LaDuca Carol and Bob Markham Deborah and Stephen Nicholas Lucacci Ann Maruke and her family (Debbie, Roxy, Lee, Chris, Eileen, Louise and Joe Summers In Memory of In Honor of Juan Carlos Rivera Dee and Bob Lucacci In Honor of Carrie Nicholson Hunter, Connor and Ryan) Adrian VandenBerg Michele Rivera JoAnne Frelier and Jim Wassenaar Jeanne and Tom Myers In Memory of Anna and Scott Mulcahy In Memory of Justin Schott The Paul Opett Family Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Martha Hansen In Honor of Donna and Ted Ryan Marshall In Honor of Elaine O'Neill Joan and Jim Parker Carole Ann and Charles Collard Grace and Jan Nienhuis Colebeck's Wedding Anniversary Audrey and Bill Marshall Pat and Bill O'Neill Debra Salmon Mary Dietz and Family Shirley VandenBerg Donna and Ted Colebeck Jane Fiedler In Memory of Betty Nancy and Mark Zawacki Patrice, Bill Anne, William, In Memory of In Honor of Susan Cronmiller In Honor of Onni Peck Martin's Birthday Shirley Voight Remy Cholhan Margarita and Francis Abbey June Bushfield In Memory of Bob Otto Rose and Robert Freeman Joyce and Robert Krist Marisa Geitner Dr. Tom Messe Grace Chapel of Lockport In Honor of Mary Kate Curran In Honor of Mr. and Mrs. Tom Pratt In Memory of Betty and Don Guenther In Memory of Jeannette Kathleen and Thomas Curran Cheryl Pratt David McElhaney In Memory of Sarah Oubre Wahl Nancy and Mike Brisbane Judy and James Oubre Suzanne Ioannone Elaine Tantalo In Honor of Peter Devello In Honor of Jenny Reitz Jan and Dave Fleth Carol, Don and Eric Johnson Susanelizabeth Ward Marcia Ann and Bruce Reitz Dr. Lester and Monika Katzel In Memory of Timothy Michelle Labossiere- Pietraszewski Hall and Scott Hall In Memory of Barbara Mazikowski Teresa Weber In Honor of Amanda DiCarlo In Honor of Jamie Rhinehart In Memory of Paul Meosky Rosemary, Art and Jeff Lois and Vincent Alfieri Dawn DiCarlo Risa and Doug Keene Patrice, Bill, Robert, William Pietraszewski Margaret and Dennis McManus Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Denise Reiner and Rose Freeman Margherita and Eugene Nenni In Memory of Joan and Jim Parker Maria Carrone and Gabriella Rood In Honor of Jennifer DiJames Linda and David Schott Angela Cataldi Ann and Norman Francavilla In Honor of Emily Richardson In Memory of Mary Jeremy Ragan Wendy and David Zvijac Colleen Duffy and Mary Patterson Jane and Bob Moore Beth Messe Henry Marian Halperin Nancy and Mark Zawacki Neva French In Honor of Matthew Ford Joanne Case-Green In Honor of Mickey Ritzenthaler In Memory of Marisa Geitner Pauline Fitzpatrick Dr. Tom Messe Margarita and Francis Abbey Nancy Rathke In Memory of Donald Schuler Adelaide Goldman The Heaton-Haight Family In Honor of Anne Freeman In Memory of Abbas Family Fund Sr. Claudia and Joe Campanella Ginny and Bill Hogan Patrice, Bill, Robert, William and In Honor of Vincent Santino Ricky Metherell Rose and Sully Bevacqua Nancy Holzerland and Rose Freeman William Santino Anna and Ralph Metherell Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Boys & Girls Club of Bluffton In Memory of Deborah Kathleen Digiore Jean Ivanuska In Honor of Marisa Geitner In Honor of Maureen and Dick In Memory of William Angela Cataldi Scott Alice and John Gucker Flower and Jim Leo Julianne and Charles Hoffman Schulze Metherell Jane Caughey Joan and Jim Parker Laura and Billy Yandow Anna and Ralph Metherell John Charland Barbara DeMilio In Memory of Christopher Marie and Bob Pieters In Honor of Vicki Hanson RoseAnn and Maria Rosica Vicki Phillis In Honor of Mitchell Spiegel In Memory of Evelyn Elizabeth Galloway Shea Kathryn Cherrington Nancy and Mark Zawacki Nancy and Rich Parker Miller Rita Eygabroad Garretson In Honor of Libbie Hard Eileen and Charles Betz Marisa Geitner In Memory of Fran, Howard and Deborah Hard In Honor of Kyle Stern Jennison and Ruth and Lyle Hageman In Memory of Sandy Wissick Martha Hard-Batzloff Marilyn Hiwiller Drew Bielemeier Carolyn Hoefen Robert Sloane Howard McGinn Beth, Mike & Virginia and Adolf Irmer June and Ed Borkhuis In Honor of Drew Hoselton In Honor of Nancy Tantalo Marcia DesJardin Kelly Hutchins and Jim Kelley Sharon and Richard Sloane In Memory of Lois Wolf Bob Zogas Margarita and Francis Abbey Marisa Geitner John Kralles Douglas Wolf Sarah Goodman Judith and James Knauss Nicholas LaMendola In Memory of In Honor of Kathleen Kaveny's Marcia and Jerald McNeil Robert Linder Gladys Smithers In Memory of Birthday In Honor of Elaine Tantalo's Marisa Geitner Leigh and Ron Little Gail and Tom Smithers Gene Zimmer Karen Collins Birthday Virginia Mossgraber Kate and Doug Lyon Kathryn Cherrington Sarah Goodman Marie and Marie Pieters Judy and Ron Maile In Memory of Marisa Geitner Charles Storrs In Honor of Diane Kroubalkian Joan and Gene Presicci In Honor of Tonka at Heritage Ellyn and Fredric Neary Bette Bond Mary Ellen Britt Nancy and Mark Zawacki Christian Stables Joyce and Richard Pagano Maurine and George Brown HONORARIUMS Carole Ann and Charles Collard In Honor of Jennifer Lacey Barbara Kasulaitis In Memory of Sue Pagano Joan and Jim Parker Norman Grauerholz In Honor of Maxwell Andreas Cheryl Pratt Anni Muschick In Honor of James Walters Carol and Larry Perrin Matthew Hansen Julie Andreas Virginia and Adolf Irmer Megan Meyer Dianne and Phil Piccirilli Jill Milby In Honor of Norma McLernon and Dianne Pearce the South Winton Friendship In Memory of Cynthia Marie and Bob Pieters In Honor of Walt Baur William Peek Group In Honor of Anne and Mike Wolf Musso Florence Portoghese Cheryl Pratt Barbara and David Durfee Dr. and Mrs. Allan Lepine Jennison and Drew Bielemeier Bob Rathke Nancy Repich Patricia Kuhn Bev and Robert Stokes Eric Slack In Honor of Mr. and Mrs. Walt Baur In Honor of Linda and Jim Fiona and Keith Osier Linda Warner Cheryl Pratt Mary Ellen Weber In Memory Of Jean and Merring Elaine Tantalo In Memory of Mary Napoli Janice and Roger Wise Charles Stratton In Honor of Robert Bonferraro Angela Cataldi Mary and Robert Wygal Amelia Stratton-Smith Cara Lynch and Randy Bonferraro Nancy and Mark Zawacki In Honor of Ann Meyer Jane and Bob Moore In Memory of David Nenno In Memory of In Honor of Devon Booker Shirley Meston In Memory of Jimmy Sandra Tambe Donyelle Booker In Honor of Charissa Moll Barrie Nenno Sassenhausen Gail and William Thomann Barbara Stewart Jane and Bob Moore

SPIRIT | SPRING 2020 13 Join today! May 1- 3

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