Lifespire Hosts ADSP NYC Regional Conference

On May 14, 2008, Lifespire’s John Cook Center hosted the NYC Region of the New York State Association of Day Service Providers (NYSADSP) for their annual regional conference.  The NYC region meets quarterly and holds a mini-conference once a year.  This year they decided to change the conference to a Leadership Awards Luncheon.  The organization wanted to take the opportunity to recognize and show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of ‘front line staff and supervisors’ across the NYC region.

Agencies were asked to submit two nominations.  One was for direct care staff members who provide exemplary services to people with differing abilities.  The second nomination was for staff members who supervise direct care staff and support them in the work that they do.  Lifespire nominated Rolando Galenzoga, from the John Cook Center, who received a Certificate of Appreciation for ‘Outstanding performance and lasting contribution to the field of Developmental Disabilities’. Thelma Rochester, the Activities Manager at the Queens North Center, received the Leadership Award.  In addition, Wendy Schoenfeld and Ivor Ramphal were presented with a certificate for ‘Graciously hosting the NYSADSP 2008 Regional Conference’.    

Kathy Broderick, Associate Commissioner at OMRDD, was the guest speaker who gave an inspiring speech to the people in the room while also challenging the group.  She said, “We are defined by what we do.”  She asked us whether we were doing something of value in our activities and if the consumers felt that they were contributing something as well.  She challenged agencies to double the number of consumers that they employ and also to develop creative services for the aging population.

Other guests included the ADSP President, Kevin Kenney, and executives and direct care staff from many agencies that provide services to individuals with disabilities throughout the 5 boroughs.

Over 80 people attended the conference.  After all speeches and awards were given out, everyone was treated to a tasty buffet lunch.