Over the last 43 years, Blanche Fierstein devoted her time, spirit and energy to AHRC New York City and NYSARC Inc.  A past President of the New York City Chapter of AHRC, Blanche held various Board Officer positions over the years, and served on and chaired several Board Committees. She was a member of NYSARC Inc., Board of Governors and the President of NYSARC Inc., for thirteen years. Blanche was an eloquent, inspirational and outspoken advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities. She was the parent of a young woman with a developmental disability but she was also a consummate professional in the field, holding the position of Principal of the DOE’s Queens OTC for many years. Her knowledge, her teaching skills and her ability to “tell it like it is” with candor and wit made her a figure that was well respected by Governors, legislators and government officials.