The Arc Westchester receives $197,688 in grants from NYSARC Trust Services

Hawthorne, NY The Arc Westchester, a not-for-profit organization supporting people with developmental disabilities in Westchester County, has been awarded $197,688 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. In 2024, NYSARC Trust Services fulfilled its commitment to enhance the lives of people with disabilities by awarding a total of $2,697,508 to The Arc New York Chapters statewide.

In 2024, The Arc Westchester’s corporate guardianship program received $183,650 from NYSARC Trust Services. The funding is used for program operations including dedicated staffing and training opportunities for staff and members of the guardianship committee. The program is currently assisting 60 individuals in the role of guardian and successor guardian. They returned to in-person events and celebrated together for an annual BBQ held at Macy Park last June. In December, they hosted a holiday party with dancing and a photo booth to capture memories. Individualized gifts were purchased for all in attendance. 

The guardianship staff continue to be a resource to local school personnel, care coordinators and families seeking assistance with future planning including guardianship and supported decision-making. Periodic seminars are offered to assist with the completion of guardianship petitions for the Surrogate Court. 

NYSARC Trust Services also awarded The Arc Westchester $14,038 to support new recreational opportunities and enrich the lives of the 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. The popular “daycation” program including aquarium visits, art centers, paint classes, bowling, baseball, football, basketball games and pizza nights are just some of the activities that support a full and happy life.