Lexington, Chapter of The Arc New York

12/09/2025

🎉 Wrapping Up DSP Week with Gratitude and Style! 👏

All week long, we’ve been celebrating our incredible Direct Support Professionals—people who bring heart, commitment, and compassion to the lives of the individuals we support every single day.

Today, we capped it off with a small token of appreciation: each DSP received a Nike Lexington zip-up hoodie to say thank you for the truly transformational work you do. 💛🧡

Swipe through to see some of our amazing teams rocking their new gear! Your smiles say it all—you are valued, appreciated, and deeply admired.

Thank you for being the reason so many people live fuller, more meaningful lives. 💫

11/09/2025

🌟 DSP Week Spotlight 🌟

Congratulations to Dan Brown, one of Lexington’s 2025 Employees of the Year! 👏

Dan is a dedicated Direct Support Professional in our Fulton County homes who takes the time to understand what truly matters to the people he supports. When he noticed how much Ian was missing family time, Dan planned a special night out that lifted his spirits—an evening Ian was so excited about, he talked about it for weeks!

Dan has also been key in helping Zack build confidence in his community. With Dan’s steady support, Zack now enjoys outings like the movies and grocery shopping. His mom shared it best:
“Dan has such a gentle way with Zack and is so kind to him. He keeps him happy and content, and his calming presence means the world to us.”

Dan truly embodies Lexington’s mission—doing the right thing, treating people with respect, and making every day safe, peaceful, and full of joy.

✨ Thank you, Dan, for the incredible difference you make. We’re honored to celebrate you and all of our amazing DSPs this week!

10/09/2025

🌟 DSP Week Spotlight: Aysha Wade 🌟

Aysha’s dedication makes it possible for others to shine. In our Albany-area homes, she supports her colleagues so they feel confident in their work, and she ensures the people we serve feel valued and cared for.

Because of her willingness to step in wherever she’s needed — whether lending a hand with morning routines, assisting with transportation, or supporting staff — teams grow stronger, homes run smoothly, and the men and women we support can thrive and live their best lives.

Her colleagues describe her as someone who always shows up with kindness and reliability. That spirit of teamwork and compassion is what makes Aysha one of Lexington’s 2025 Employees of the Year.

👏 Thank you, Aysha, for the compassion, reliability, and kindness you bring every day. Because of DSPs like you, people accomplish incredible things!

09/09/2025

🌟 Looking for a career where you can make a real difference?

We're hiring full- and part-time Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in Schoharie County — compassionate individuals who want to empower people with disabilities to live meaningful, independent lives.

Why do so many people ?
✔️ Supportive, inclusive work environment
✔️ Career growth and advancement opportunities
✔️ Flexible schedules for better work-life balance
✔️ Generous benefits — including PTO, health insurance & more

Make a difference close to home. Join a team that cares. 💼✨
Apply today: https://thearclexington.applicantpro.com/jobs/

See current career opportunities that are available at The Arc Lexington

08/09/2025

Have you gotten your tickets yet?! There is still time!

This isn’t your typical gala — Jewels of the Desert is packed with interactive entertainment! ✨🌀

Think hands-on fun, incredible experiences, and a few magical surprises...

Come ready to explore and engage with the night in a whole new way. Get your tickets now at: https://thearclexington.org/2025-lexington-gala/

08/09/2025

🌟 DSP Week Spotlight: Merilyn Besong 🌟

Merilyn Besong is one of our 2025 Employees of the Year, because she truly exemplifies what it means to be a DSP. Known for her reliability and commitment, she helps her team in Albany run smoothly and always steps in when needed. Her professionalism, positivity, and contagious laughter make work feel more like fun, and she sets a shining example for new staff as both a mentor and role model.

Her peers describe her as “welcoming, personable, and bubbly” and say “she always has a smile and a contagious laughter while getting the job done.” Merilyn is also a trusted advocate for the people we support, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met with respect and compassion.

From planning fun outings, to mentoring new employees, to lending a helping hand wherever it’s needed, Merilyn always gives 110%. She inspires others with her dedication, warmth, and leadership, making her a true asset to her team and the entire Lexington family.

Thank you, Merilyn, for everything you do!

07/09/2025

✨ It’s DSP Week! ✨

Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) are the heart of The Arc Lexington, making a difference every single day. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment empower the people we support to live their best lives.

This week, we’re celebrating these incredible individuals across Fulton, Schoharie, and Albany Counties — though their impact is felt all year long.

Join us as we shine a spotlight on some of our phenomenal DSPs and thank them for their unwavering compassion and commitment.

06/09/2025

Last week, Lexington leadership team joined its Albany employees for a fun-filled barbecue at The Crossings in Colonie.

The afternoon included delicious food from Mission BBQ, lots of laughter, some karaoke and even a friendly co****le tournament that brought out everyone’s competitive side.

Most of all, it was a chance to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and say a big thank you to the incredible employees who make Lexington such a special place!

05/09/2025

We are 2 weeks away!

Buy your tickets today for the event of the season - Lexington's Night Out Jewels of the Desert Gala on September 19!

The event will sure to dazzle you with:
🎶 Live music by world renowned sitar player Veena and Devesh Chandra.
🍽️ Delicious Mediterranean fare by Union Hall
🎭 Immersive entertainment including fire performers, dancers, henna and more.
🍸 Signature cocktails

This is all for a great cause - supporting the mission of The Arc Lexington to help people with autism and developmental disabilities live their best lives.

🎟️ Grab your tickets now: https://thearclexington.org/2025-lexington-gala/

05/09/2025

🌟 A Celebration of Possibility at Transitions Albany 🌟

Yesterday, we proudly presented NYSID, Purchasing That Powers Employment with The Arc New York’s 2025 Employer of the Year Award—right here at our Transitions Albany campus.

It was a powerful evening filled with inspiration, partnership, and hope for a future where disability inclusion in the workforce is not the exception — but the norm.
🎓 Student ambassadors Jordan and Damian opened the event with heart.
📽️ Dylan’s journey from student to full-time NYSID employee brought many to tears.
💬 Maureen O’Brien, CEO of NYSID, reminded us:
“I look forward to the day awards like this are no longer needed—because employment for people with disabilities is simply expected. What we have here, a partnership between Transitions and NYSID can become a model that’s replicated across the state and beyond.”

We were honored to be joined by state leaders who are making that future possible:
✅ Senator Patricia A. Fahy
✅ Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara & Assemblymember John McDonald
✅ Kim Hill, NYS Chief Disability Officer OCDO (on behalf of Commissioner Willow Baer, OPWDD)
✅ Erik Geizer, CEO, The Arc New York
👏 Hosted by Shaloni Winston, CEO of The Arc Lexington, who shared:
“This is what success looks like when we all play a role.”

To NYSID: Thank you for believing in our students.
To our students: You show us what’s possible every single day.

📸 Enjoy these moments from an unforgettable night.

02/09/2025

Are you a registered nurse with a heart for making a difference? We’re looking for a dedicated, full-time RN to support homes and programs for people with disabilities in Fulton County. Whether you’re an experienced nurse or a recent graduate, if you’re passionate about delivering personalized care and helping people live their best, most fulfilling lives, we want to hear from you.
Qualifications
• The Registered Nurse (RN) must be licensed and currently registered by the New York State Education Department.
• Two years of acute care or long long-term experience preferred.
• One year of experience with developmentally disabled desirable.
• Must possess excellent assessment skills and be able to work independently.
• Must possess excellent communication skills.
• Must be able to participate in the nursing on-call schedule as assigned.
Benefits: Health, vision, and dental insurance. A very generous PTO plan, along with a 401(k) plan that includes a company match. FREE telemedicine for all employees and family members. AND MORE!
See a complete list of open job positions and apply here: https://thearclexington.applicantpro.com/jobs/

29/08/2025

🌟 Experience the enchanting sounds of the sitar 🌟

Get ready to be transported to another world as soon as you enter the Jewels of the Desert Gala on September 19.

We are honored to welcome internationally acclaimed sitarist Veena and Devesh Chandra, who will be setting the tone for an evening of elegance culture and celebration. Veena’s artistry has inspired audiences across the globe — and now, she will bring her brilliance to Gloversville.

Don’t miss the chance to be swept away by her performance and much more. Reserve your spot by September 5! ➡️ https://thearclexington.org/2025-lexington-gala/



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q8iE1LGNrGw

Crandall Library Thursday March 13th, 2014Kafi Dhun Veena Chandra on SitarDevesh Chandra on Tabla