Today, we would like to give a special shout out to Ron Ballard for his unwavering dedication to both personal and professional growth during his employment journey. 👏🎉 Ron’s commitment was also recognized during Liberty ARC’s Employment Services Luncheon. “Through his participation in the Employment Training Program (ETP), Ron has demonstrated a strong willingness to develop his work skills and expand his work-based knowledge,” his nomination read. “He has approached mandated trainings with a positive attitude and has embraced opportunities to learn and gain valuable hands-on experience. Throughout his time in the ETP program, Ron has faced challenges and changes with perseverance and adaptability, remaining engaged and committed to moving forward. His continued participation has helped him build confidence, strengthen his professionalism, and develop skills that will support his success in the workplace. Ron’s commitment and positive attitude make him very deserving of this recognition.” Congratulations, Ron! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

At Liberty ARC, we believe an inclusive workforce makes our communities stronger! 💪🏘️ The @tasteny market at the Mohawk Valley Welcome Center, operated by Liberty ARC in partnership with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, benefits from a dedicated team that helps create a welcoming experience for travelers from across New York and beyond. Through outstanding customer service, local product knowledge, and support for regional businesses, our employees help visitors discover all that the Mohawk Valley and New York State have to offer. From showcasing New York-made products to sharing information about local attractions and history, our team makes a meaningful impact every day. Their efforts not only enhance the visitor experience but also support small businesses and promote the region's unique character. This National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we celebrate the skills, dedication, and contributions of our employees with disabilities. Their success demonstrates the value of creating opportunities where people can contribute their talents, build skills, and thrive in meaningful careers. Join us in celebrating the incredible Mohawk Valley Welcome Center team and the impact they make every day! 👏 #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

We, at Liberty ARC, are pleased to announce this year’s winner of the agency’s Employer of the Year award. Please help us in congratulating the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Niskayuna! 👏🎉 Every year during Liberty ARC’s Employment Services Luncheon, the agency recognizes the important role people with disabilities and employers in the community play to ensure there is a diverse and inclusive workforce with the Employer of the Year award. JCC has been an outstanding community partner, providing ongoing and consistent support to Kerry George who has been employed there for several years. “The staff at JCC consistently go above and beyond to create a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive work environment,” JCC’s nomination read. “They have invested in trainings to make sure the people we support are equipped to effectively perform job duties and be successful. JCC has shown through its actions that inclusion, compassion, and community truly matters. The partnership that has developed with JCC has shown the value in team work, and the benefit can be seen in those that work and thrive there. The Jewish Community Center in Niskayuna is more than just a place of employment, it is a place where people are supported, valued, and given the opportunity to thrive.” Thank you, JCC, for providing a welcoming environment for employees to thrive in and being a champion for your staff! Pictured is Kerry accepting the award on behalf of JCC. #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

At Liberty ARC, we are pleased to recognize this year’s nominee for @NYSIDSpeaks William B. Joslin Outstanding Performance Award is Kimberly Rickard! 👏🎉 The William B. Joslin Outstanding Performance Award program recognizes outstanding performers with disabilities who work in service and commodity opportunities throughout New York State. Kim has been employed with Liberty Enterprises, Liberty ARC’s Manufacturing Division since 2006. Throughout her time with Liberty Enterprises, Kim has developed exceptional versatility by successfully performing a wide range of jobs across the department, including operating and packaging products in the soap room, GOJO, Razors, and private fulfillment including TaylorMade fender valves and Taconic Packaging grill release sheets. “Kim has a broad and balanced variety of skills, experiences, and knowledge that make her versatile and adaptable across our work areas. She is courteous, friendly, and a wonderful person to all who are fortunate enough to know her,” said Don Palmer, a Lead Supervisor in Liberty Enterprises, who oversees Kim. Kim shared that her paycheck allows her to enjoy activities she loves, including camping, attending concerts, dining out, and spending time with family and friends. Kim, congratulations on your nomination! Your positive attitude, quick adaptability, and team spirit are what makes you our 2026 Outstanding Performer at Liberty ARC! With her team and colleagues from across New York State, Kim attended NYSID’s Annual Meeting & Awards Presentation last evening. #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Today, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we’d like to recognize Allan Szala for the great pride and dedication he demonstrates each and every day as an employee of the Mohawk Valley Welcome Center! 👏🎉 Allan received a Certificate of Appreciation for outstanding professional achievement and embracing teamwork in employment during Liberty ARC’s Annual Employment Services Luncheon to recognize the positive attributes he brings to work each and every day. “Allan takes great pride in his responsibilities, and his dedication is evident in the exceptional care he gives to the Welcome Center each day,” his nomination reads. “He consistently ensures that the Welcome Center is clean, organized, welcoming, and ready for visitors, earning him compliments from both staff and customers. He is also a dedicated team player who is eager to assist wherever he is needed and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Most recently, when a staff vacancy occurred, Allan stepped up to the plate and worked some of these shifts, so that the Welcome Center continued running smoothly. His positive attitude and willingness to support his coworkers make him a valued member of the team. Allan’s hard work, dedication, and positive impact make him highly deserving of this recognition.” Congratulations, Allan! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Lester Hogabone is recognized for his dedication to his job and outstanding work ethic as a valued member of Liberty ARC’s Facilities Team. Recently, his positive attitude and commitment to employment were celebrated at the agency’s Annual Employment Services Luncheon, where he was recognized for his dedication, positive attitude, and valuable contributions to the workplace each day. 👏🎉 “He takes great pride in his job, which he has held for several years, ensuring that the Liberty campuses are kept in a clean and orderly fashion,” his nomination read. “Lester completes his job tasks without complaint. He is independent, consistently follows rules and procedures, and can always be counted on to step in and assist with other tasks. He works well with both his peers and staff and is always willing to be part of the team. His reliability, positive attitude, willingness to help, and respectful nature make him a wonderful role model for others. Lester truly represents what it means to be a dedicated employee and a great team player.” Congratulations, Lester! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Matt Raponi has quickly gained the respect and trust of both his employer and colleagues at St. Mary’s Healthcare on the Memorial Campus in Amsterdam and because of this we would like to recognize him during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). 👏🎉 Matt was recognized during Liberty ARC’s Annual Employment Services Luncheon, where he received a certificate of appreciation for outstanding professional achievement and exceptional commitment to employment. “He approaches each day with a smile and brings a friendly and welcoming presence to the workplace,” his nomination read. “His dedication and positive attitude have not gone unnoticed by the many regular café customers, who frequently comment on what a wonderful employee Matt is. Some staff and customers have even shared that ‘Matt is the best’ and that ‘this place wouldn’t be the same without him!’ Matt has also been honored with the VIP Award through St. Mary’s Healthcare. This achievement is a wonderful reflection of the respect and appreciation that Matt has earned from those around him. He takes great pride in his work and consistently demonstrates reliability, dedication, and a commitment to providing excellent service. Matt is truly a valued member of the St. Mary’s team, and his contributions make a positive difference each and every day.” Congratulations, Matt! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we are proud to celebrate Anthony Strazza and an incredible milestone: 30 years of employment with Hannaford! 👏🎉 Three decades with one employer is an extraordinary accomplishment. Anthony’s success is a powerful example of what NDEAM is all about: recognizing the talents, contributions, dedication, and value that people with disabilities bring to our workplaces. Long-term employees bring tremendous value to the workplace through their experience, dedication, reliability, and loyalty. Anthony’s remarkable 30-year career with Hannaford reflects these qualities and demonstrates what is possible when inclusive workplaces create opportunities for people of all abilities to contribute, succeed, and build meaningful, lasting careers. Thirty years of showing up, contributing, building relationships, and being a valued member of the workforce is truly something to celebrate. Congratulations, Anthony, on this remarkable achievement and 30 years of employment success! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Thank you to New York State Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara for taking the time to tour our subsidiary, New Dimensions In Health Care, and meet with administration to discuss the clinic's importance to our community and the people we support at Liberty ARC. We are grateful for your unwavering support! 💙

During National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we would like to recognize Marc Leveille for his commitment towards his employment at Market 32! 👏🎉 Marc was recognized during Liberty ARC’s Annual Employment Services Luncheon and received a certificate of appreciation for outstanding professional achievement and exceptional commitment to employment. “I am pleased to nominate Marc Leveille for recognition of his outstanding commitment, flexibility, and dedication to his employer, Market 32,” his nomination read. “Marc consistently maintains a high standard of work and demonstrates unwavering determination in completing his job responsibilities. He has earned the respect and trust of his employer through his dependability, adaptability, and ability to consistently meet expectations. He is willing to adjust to changing needs and demonstrates flexibility whenever additional tasks or responsibilities arise. His strong work ethic and willingness to accept feedback have contributed to his continued growth and success on the job. Marc's dedication is a wonderful example of how commitment, perseverance, and a positive attitude can lead to meaningful success in the workplace.” Congratulations, Marc! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Thank you to New York State Assemblyman John McDonald for once again taking the time to meet with our Careers For Me group. Every year, we look forward to this meaningful connection especially during National Disability Employment Awareness Month! #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

On this Monday, during National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we would like to recognize Angela Rivera. Angela works at First Student and recently received a certificate of appreciation for her outstanding dedication, dependability, and commitment to her employment. 👏🎉 During Liberty ARC’s recent Annual Employment Services Luncheon, Angela was recognized for this achievement. “She consistently arrives at work with a smile on her face ready to tackle the day,” her nomination read. “Angela does not seek attention or recognition for her efforts; instead, she quietly goes about her work and enjoys a job well-done. Angela demonstrates that making a difference does not require being the loudest person in the room, but being the most invested in her job tasks. Her supervisors speak very highly of her and know they can always count on Angela to be dependable, cooperative, and willing to assist wherever she is needed. Angela is truly deserving of recognition for the consistent dedication and positivity she brings to work each day.” Congratulations, Angela! #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Liberty ARC held their 8th Annual Creative Expressions Art Show last night, showcasing and recognizing the talents of 111 artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities from across New York State. 👩‍🎨👨‍🎨 Every year, this inclusive event gives artists the opportunity to showcase their unique artistic talents in a welcoming community setting. Participants included artists from Liberty ARC’s Liberty Through The Arts program, and other agencies from across the state that support people with disabilities, including @ArcofCS, The Arc Columbia-Saratoga, The Arc Lexington in Gloversville, and @The_ArcOLC , 165 pieces of art were featured in the show. Four awards and five honorable mention certificates were given out at the show: 1st Place: “Purple Butterflies” by Liberty Through the Arts artists, Liberty ARC 2nd Place: “Seashells” by Patrick Subik, The Arc Lexington 3rd Place: “Sunset City” by Jovany Nunez, The ARC of Oneida- Lewis People’s Choice Award: “The Rashaundrey Comics – Comic Book” by Rashann Price, The ARC of Chemung-Schuyler 1st Place Honorable Mention: “Fun Faces” by Grace Orsillo, Liberty ARC 2nd Place Honorable Mention: “Windmill” by Frank Rivera, Liberty ARC 3rd Place Honorable Mention: “Horse” by David Woomer, The Arc Columbia-Saratoga 4th Place Honorable Mention: “Choosing an Apple by Monica Lallier, The ARC of Oneida- Lewis 5th Place Honorable Mention: “Sunset Shrine” by DJ Torrellas, The ARC of Oneida- Lewis Thank you to all who come out to see and support our amazing artists, as well as everyone who helped plan and prepare for the show and the artists who submitted their wonderful artwork! ❤🖌🎨 #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is an opportunity to celebrate the talents and contributions of employees with disabilities and the value of inclusive employment. Maggie Rodriguez is a wonderful example of the difference dedicated employees make every day in the workplace. Maggie works as a store clerk at the Mohawk Valley Welcome Center, located on the New York State Thruway and operated by Liberty ARC. Maggie’s dedication to providing exceptional service has made a lasting impression on customers. Customers have described Maggie as helpful, professional, considerate, and great with people. When customers take the time to reach out and recognize an employee, you know that employee is making an impact! Here are just a few of the positive experiences customers have shared about Maggie: “A very lovely lady helped us buy a shirt from the vending machine and swap the large-sized shirt for a small. She was extremely helpful and patiently explained the process to us. Sadly, we didn't get her name, but we wanted to say thank you again and let you know what a great job she did!” “Maggie is doing an excellent job taking care of the cleaning at the Mohawk Valley rest stop. She is enthusiastic, caring, and professional, and takes great pride in her work. Thank you for hiring Maggie. She is an excellent hostess and great with people!” “Maggie overheard our interest in the Erie Canal and offered us an excellent book on the history of the canal. She was very helpful and considerate. We will stop in and say hello whenever we pass the Mohawk Visitor Center.” Way to go, Maggie! Your dedication and commitment to providing exceptional service are a wonderful example of the contributions we are proud to celebrate during NDEAM. Thank you for all you do! 💛 #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Today, at Liberty ARC, we are kicking off our month-long celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)! During the month of October, NDEAM observes the accomplishments of men and women with disabilities whose work helps keep the nation’s economy strong and to inform the nation on disability employment issues, practices, and policies. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” is a nod at America’s 250thbirthday, while recognizing the skills and contributions Americans with disabilities add to workplaces and communities across the country. Throughout the month, we will be spotlighting some of the hard-working employees and the employers Liberty ARC works with to provide meaningful employment. #NDEAM #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether

Were you SEEN at Liberty Foundation's 10th Annual Denim and Diamonds BBQ & Country Concert on Friday? 👀📸🤠💎🪕Check out this year's SEEN Gallery with @timesunion: timesunion.com/seen/article/…

As we near the end of the final day of National Direct Support Professional Recognition Week, we have one final recognition. Wilfred Melendez-Barreto works in the agency’s Residential Department and is a strong advocate for the people he supports. 🎉👏 “Wilfred has proven himself to be an exceptionally valuable direct care staff member here at Liberty ARC,” wrote an Assistant Director of Operations. “Wilfred has been consistent and extremely reliable in both the high-quality, empathic care he provides to the people he supports in their home and also as a crucial staff member and advocate for his team. All one needs to do is take a visit to the home where Wilfred imparts his care and professionalism, and they will readily and clearly see that his skills are based in love, commitment, compassion and a refusal to show up each day providing anything less than excellence in care. Wilfred has also invested a lot of his time and energy collecting data, observing behaviors, and examining work flow, structure, challenges, and the needs of the people we support and the staff who provide care. Wilfred has been a strong self-advocate and a spokesperson for his whole team creating ideas and recommendations for quality improvement and to ensure longevity and growth of the staff. Wilfred's values unwaveringly align with Liberty ARC's mission to provide person-centered care that promotes dignity, growth, respect, and empowerment. Both our staff and the people we support are incredibly blessed to have Wilfred as such a competent, committed, loving soul and member of this team.” “He’s my friend,” said Richard Wilcox, who Wilfred supports. Thank you, Wilfred, for going above and beyond for both the people you support and for your team! 😄💛 #DSPSAreFire #DSPRW2026 #DSPWeek #DSPRecognitionWeek #NationalDirectSupportProfessionalRecognitionWeek #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether @thearcny @TheRealANCOR

To continue having fun with the camping theme and show our support for our Direct Support Professionals, Liberty ARC staff and the people we support were asked to wear flannel yesterday. ⛺🔦🧡 #DSPSAreFire #DSPRW2026 #DSPWeek #DSPRecognitionWeek #NationalDirectSupportProfessionalRecognitionWeek #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether @thearcny @TheRealANCOR

Liberty ARC’s Awake Night staff were in for a special treat this week when Liberty ARC’s administration, directors, and assistant directors stopped in to their shifts to deliver apple cider and cider donuts as a thank you for all that they do! 🍎🍩 #DSPSAreFire #DSPRW2026 #DSPWeek #DSPRecognitionWeek #NationalDirectSupportProfessionalRecognitionWeek #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether @thearcny @TheRealANCOR

Today is the last day of National Direct Support Professional (DSP) Recognition Week, and we still have outstanding DSPs to spotlight based on nominations from their supervisors. Danielle Skinner is an Awake Night DSP at Liberty ARC, who demonstrates Liberty ARC’s values, including teamwork daily. 🎉👏 “Over the past year, Danielle has been the definition of a team player,” wrote Marielle St. Aubin, an Assistant Director of Operation at Liberty ARC. “As a full-time awake night staff, I have seen Danielle assisting at multiple homes in the agency, providing excellent care to many people we support, and always being one to help solve a problem when we find ourselves faced with a challenge. It is not always easy to provide support at multiple locations, but Danielle makes it look easy!” “I love her, and she is the best Awake Night,” said Randy Scorza, who Danielle supports. Thank you, Danielle, for being a team player with the people you support at the forefront of your mind! 😄💛 #DSPSAreFire #DSPRW2026 #DSPWeek #DSPRecognitionWeek #NationalDirectSupportProfessionalRecognitionWeek #IamLiberty #LibertyARC #GrowTogether @TheRealANCOR