Save the Date: AHRC NYC’s 75th Anniversary Gala at Tribeca 360°

Join us for an evening of celebration at AHRC New York City’s 75th Anniversary Gala on May 13th at Tribeca 360°, starting at 6 PM. We’ll honor the vision of our founder, Ann Greenberg, whose idea shaped AHRC NYC for 75 years, creating schools, camps, clinics, employment programs, residences, and much more.

Experience the evening with a cocktail reception, dinner program, and be part of recognizing outstanding contributions to the intellectual and developmental disabilities community. More surprises await throughout the night!

Our past is powerful, and so is our future. Secure your tickets now and join us in commemorating 75 years. Let’s make this celebration a night to remember!

Errol Louis to Host AHRC NYC’s 75th Anniversary Gala—A Night of Celebration

Errol Louis, New York City journalist and host of Inside City Hall on Spectrum News NY1, brings decades of distinguished experience in political journalism to serve as the Master of Ceremonies for AHRC New York City’s 75th Anniversary Gala. Recognized for his essential coverage of the early impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Errol is a debater, opinion columnist, and adjunct professor at the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism. He knows New York better than any journalists today and since AHRC NYC is quintessential New York, who better to shepherd us through our evening program.

Experience the Magic of Our Broadway at AHRC NYC’s 75th Anniversary Gala

Join us at AHRC New York City’s 75th Anniversary Gala for a unique glimpse into the talent of Our Broadway—a remarkable performing arts group comprised of people supported by AHRC NYC. Collaborating with Broadway professionals, Our Broadway brings theater, dance, and music to life, showcasing their skills not only at the Jerry Orbach Theatre but also in schools, museums, and community centers across the city. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness their extraordinary talent on this special night of celebration!

AHRC NYC’s Hall of Honor at the 75th Anniversary Gala

AHRC New York City proudly presents the 2024 Hall of Honor at our 75th Anniversary Gala. This prestigious recognition spotlights individuals and groups for their exceptional dedication and contributions to the intellectual and developmental disabilities community, shaping the legacy of AHRC NYC. Join us in celebrating these distinguished trailblazers, whose commitment has made a lasting impact on our organization, the city, and the field. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to acknowledge and highlight even more contributors to our mission.

Maureen E. O’Brien

President and Chief Executive Officer of New York State Industries for the Disabled

Maureen O’Brien, the first female President and CEO of New York State Industries for the Disabled, is honored for her tireless efforts in creating meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities, including over 1,000 people supported by AHRC NYC. Leading NYSID in providing gainful employment to thousands, Maureen’s advocacy for diversity and inclusion has earned her recognition through awards for leadership and community service, aligning closely with AHRC NYC’s goal of increasing workforce inclusion.

Sheryl White-Scott, MD, FACP, FAAIDD

Senior Medical Advisor at AHRC New York City, and a Board of Director of the Human Services Research Institute

Dr. Sheryl White-Scott, beloved Senior Medical Advisor at AHRC NYC, is honored for her lifelong commitment to ensuring the well-being of patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a board-certified internal medicine specialist and assistant clinical professor of medicine at New York Medical College, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership in national organizations, received the 2014 Dybwad Humanitarian Award, and played a vital role in the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities.

Beth Haroules, Esq.

Senior Staff Attorney and Director of Disability Justice Litigation at the American Civil Liberties Union of the New York Affiliate of ACLU

Beth Haroules, Senior Staff Attorney and Director of Disability Justice Litigation at ACLU of New York/NYCLU, is recognized for her lifelong dedication to defending the rights of people with disabilities. Handling a diverse range of cases, including high-impact litigations such as Willowbrook class action, Hirschfeld v. HHC/Kings County, and Kendra’s Law, Beth has been a crucial advocate for constitutional and civil liberties issues, contributing significantly to policy development and public education.

Rebecca A. Seawright

Assembly Member for New York’s 76th Assembly District, and Chair of the People with Disabilities Committee of the New York State Assembly

Assembly Member Seawright is recognized for her legislative work and dedicated advocacy for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, contributing significantly to AHRC NYC’s mission. Known for securing over $17 million in funding for public schools and community initiatives, Rebecca holds leadership positions, including Chair of the People with Disabilities Committee, and is a prominent advocate for Equal Rights Amendment, education, environmental protection, housing reform, and voting rights.

Mitchell Bloomberg

Chairman-Elect of the AHRC NYC Foundation Board, and Principal of International Lights

Mitchell Bloomberg, Founder and Co-Chair of the AHRC NYC Foundation Golf Classic, is honored for over 30 years of dedicated service on both the AHRC NYC Board and Foundation Board. His work on charitable events, including chairing the Annual Golf Classic, has raised millions of dollars for programs supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Actively involved in various charities, Mitchell maintains a deep commitment to family and community.

Our Broadway

Join us as AHRC NYC’s Our Broadway takes center stage at the 2024 Hall of Honors. This inclusive theatrical experience, where performers with disabilities collaborate with Broadway stars, brings magical moments to life. Special recognition is given to three Broadway veterans and performers—Gavin Creel, Thayne Jasperson, and Dale Hensley—whose unwavering support has elevated Our Broadway. Dale, Founder, Director, and Fine Arts Advisor of Our Broadway, brings the spirit of Broadway to those we support. Gavin (Hello, Dolly! and Thoroughly Modern Millie) and Thayne (Hamilton and Newsies) graciously contribute their talents, enriching the lives of Our Broadway performers. Together, they embody inclusivity and the transformative power of the performing arts. Celebrate with us at the 75th Anniversary Gala!

Sharyn Van Reepinghen: The Anne Kraus Award Recipient

Sharyn Van Reepinghen will receive the Anne Kraus Award, named in memory of a formidable AHRC NYC volunteer and staff member. Sharyn has demonstrated exceptional dedication to AHRC NYC’s mission as Former President of the AHRC NYC Board and her ongoing commitment to various board committees. Her professional achievements include successful recruitment for diversity in high-level corporate positions, negotiation for disabled children’s access to educational facilities in Hong Kong, and co-founding the Springboard School for Exceptional Children, highlighting her commitment to inclusivity and advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Kerri E. Neifeld: Agency Champion Recipient of the Leadership in Government Award

AHRC New York City proudly honors Kerri Neifeld, Commissioner of the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities in New York State, for her exemplary leadership and visionary commitment to enhancing services for people with developmental disabilities. Commissioner Neifeld has, since being named Commissioner three years ago, demonstrated a keen understanding of the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities and a strategic prowess in government. She has actively engaged with AHRC NYC programs, advocating for inclusive workspaces, and fostering partnerships, showcasing her passion for creating opportunities and choices for those she serves.

A Special Thank You to Our 75th Anniversary Gala Committee

Heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed Co-Chairs, Laura J. Kennedy and Patricia A. Murphy, along with Board President Raymond Ferrigno, for your dedicated leadership. Special thanks to Board Members Cory Olicker Henkel, Anne Gordon, Meri Krassner, Germaine Laviscount Scott, Anthony Lazanas, Lynda Tonery, Sharyn Van Reeinghen, Philanthropic Ambassador Rachel Chubinsky, and our Staff, Marco Damiani, Shirley Berenstein, Donna Gifford, Jennifer Amendola, and Angela Chan for your invaluable contributions to make AHRC NYC’s 75th Anniversary Gala a resounding success.

Our Past Is Powerful. So Is Our Future. Be a Part of It.

Founded in 1949, AHRC New York City is a family-governed organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As one of the nation’s largest non-profits, our dedicated staff of 4,500 positively impacts over 15,000 individuals annually across 150 locations throughout the city.

Rooted in advocacy and promoting a culture of belonging, we invite you to join us in commemorating our 75th Anniversary Gala—an occasion to reflect on our legacy and embrace a future of growth, championing the rights and opportunities of people with disabilities. Your participation contributes to building a more inclusive and empowered community.

Celebrating 75 Years:
AHRC NYC’s Chronicle of Stories 1949–2024

Embark on a journey through time with AHRC New York City as we gather and chronicle 75 years of impactful stories. Explore the diverse collection of our past, present, and future, each piece representing a momentous chapter in our legacy.