The Arc Westchester to Honor Local Employers at Tarrytown Breakfast

Tarrytown. The Arc Westchester will hold its annual Employer Recognition Breakfast and Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 23, at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel. The event is scheduled to run from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM. Local businesses that have demonstrated support for employing individuals with developmental disabilities will be recognized during the gathering.

The organization reports that it has more than 100 business partners. Currently, over 150 people supported by the agency are working in the community. Barry Clark, Executive Director of The Arc Westchester Foundation, stated that the organization maintains a 75% employment rate for people with developmental disabilities who are seeking work. He noted that this figure compares to a 38% nationwide average. Clark said the agency offers opportunities for individuals to earn an income and build a meaningful career.

Ellen Bloom, MPH, will deliver the keynote address. She serves as the Director of Community Affairs for New York-Presbyterian Westchester, New York-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health, and New York-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital. The breakfast brings together business leaders, community members, and advocates to discuss these partnerships.

Six organizations and one individual will receive specific awards. The City of Yonkers Office for the Aging will receive the Distinguished Partner Award. Compass Group will receive the Impact Award. Grapes the Wine Company will receive the New Partnership Award. Cintas will receive the Continuing Partnership Award. New York-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health will receive the Employer Excellence Award.

Jack Lambert, an Administrative Assistant at South East Consortium for Special Services, Inc., will receive the Anthony Cannata Memorial Employee Award. Tibi Guzmán, CEO of The Arc Westchester, said the organization is dedicated to identifying opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to work and thrive. Guzmán stated, “We believe that diversity of talents, voices, skills, and personalities makes for a stronger workplace. We are grateful that this belief is shared by over 100 companies who actively employ people we support.”

The event includes presentations on the positive impact of inclusive employment. It also covers the work of The Arc Westchester and the achievements of the people the organization serves. Sponsorship opportunities for the breakfast help the organization educate potential employers about its Career Services. Ticket information and details are available at arcwestchester.org/ERB2026/.