ACHIEVE

ACHIEVE Thankfully not everyone shared this philosophy. The first programs were offered by volunteer teachers in donated space in a church basement.

ACHIEVE, a Chapter of The Arc New York, is the premier provider of services to individuals with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities in Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties and has proudly been a part of this community for 70 years. A Brief History of ACHIEVE
More than sixty years ago it was a common practice for children with intellectual and other developmental disabilities to be placed in state institutions. Those families who chose to keep their children at home were told that their children were not eligible for and could not benefit from an education, something to which every child is entitled. Ten brave families - Walter and Kathryn Baird, Clyde and Elsie Brown, Howard and Esther Hall, Siegfried and Jane Heierman, Harry and Roye Sall, George and Josephine Sheehe, Joseph and Esther Stuckert, Robert and Annette Sturdevant, Floyd and Marian Taylor, and Glenn and Marian Young - who wanted a better life for their children joined with another group of parents in New York State to establish the Broome County Association for Retarded Children so that their children could attend school, receive an education, and lead a productive life. In September of 1952 when this organization was established, ACHIEVE's founding families started out with nothing but a common goal and dream. Parents went door-to-door to collect donations, and in a few years these passionate families were able to establish a school program and summer camp for their children and other children in the community. ACHIEVE continued to grow as we merged with the Chenango ARC in September of 2016. Our organization welcomed 400 new program participants and over 100 new employees to the ACHIEVE family. ACHIEVEโ€™s founding families had a vision for the future. Today ACHIEVE has grown into an twenty-nine-million dollar agency operating an array of services in thirty-one facilities for more than 2,200 individuals. These families were always thinking, planning, and working, and today ACHIEVE continues to live out its mission - As a chapter of NYSARC, Inc. it is the mission of ACHIEVE to advocate for an enhanced quality of life through skill advancement, inclusion, integration, and independence of persons with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities through services provided in Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties.

10/30/2025

๐ŸŒŸ As we wrap up National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) 2025, we continue to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of individuals who remind us that with opportunity, encouragement, and the right supports, everyone can succeed in the workplace. ๐Ÿ’ผ๐Ÿ’™

Throughout October, ACHIEVE has been proud to highlight stories that showcase dedication, growth, and the power of meaningful employment โ€” and today, weโ€™re sharing a few more inspiring journeys!

Meet Mat, who has overcome challenges with perseverance and positivity. After spending 10 years at Tops Markets, he returned to the area and joined the team at Price Chopper in January 2024. From gathering carts and assisting customers with carry-outs (his favorite part!) to keeping the store running smoothly, Matโ€™s enthusiasm and customer service shine every day. His journey reflects ACHIEVEโ€™s mission to help individuals find purpose and pride through employment.

Nate began his employment journey through ACHIEVEโ€™s Employment Training Program (ETP) and now works at the Childrenโ€™s Home of Wyoming Conference in Norwich, NY. His dedication, punctuality, and independence have made him a valued member of the team. Earning his staff badge was a moment of immense pride โ€” a symbol of how far heโ€™s come in building confidence, skills, and self-reliance.

For Mary, her job as a Dry Fold Operator at Bates Troy Laundry has been life-changing. Over the past three years, sheโ€™s flourished with the support of her job coach and teammates. Known for her reliability and positivity, Mary says, โ€œHaving a job where Iโ€™m needed and respected makes me feel proud of what I do every day.โ€ Her story is a powerful reminder that inclusive workplaces lift everyone up โ€” individuals and communities alike.

๐ŸŽฅ Watch the video below to hear more about Mat, Nate, and Mary โ€” and see how ACHIEVEโ€™s Employment Services empower individuals of all abilities to find success, independence, and joy in their work.

โ˜€๏ธ While the weather here may be turning cooler, weโ€™re still feeling the warmth from earlier this month when a group of ...
10/29/2025

โ˜€๏ธ While the weather here may be turning cooler, weโ€™re still feeling the warmth from earlier this month when a group of ACHIEVE individuals took an unforgettable trip to Florida! ๐Ÿ–๏ธ๐Ÿฌ๐ŸŽข

This adventure was the definition of person-centered care โ€” creating meaningful, enriching experiences that foster independence, joy, and community inclusion for those we support.

Across the agency, staff from many departments came together to make this dream trip a reality. From visiting aquariums and petting dolphins, to experiencing the magic of Disneyโ€™s Magic Kingdom, every moment was filled with excitement, smiles, and lifelong memories. ๐Ÿ’™โœจ

Weโ€™re so proud to see the people we support exploring new places, trying new things, and living life to the fullest โ€” together. ๐Ÿ’ซ

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Thank You for Making Our 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle a Spooktacular Success! ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐ŸŽƒWhat an incredible day! ACHIEVE's 2nd ...
10/28/2025

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Thank You for Making Our 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle a Spooktacular Success! ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ๐ŸŽƒ

What an incredible day! ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K plus Treat & Trot Mini Walk and Halloween Carnival, presented by NBT Bank, was a huge success โ€” all thanks to YOU! ๐Ÿงก

We had an amazing turnout for both the run and walk, and it was heartwarming to see so many community members, families, and friends come together in the Halloween spirit to support ACHIEVE. From creative costumes to carnival fun, your enthusiasm and energy made the day truly special.

A big thank you to all of our sponsors, our wonderful volunteers, and everyone who ran, walked, cheered, or joined in on the festivities โ€” your support helps ACHIEVE continue to provide opportunities and celebrate the abilities of all individuals we serve. ๐Ÿ’ช๐ŸŽ‰

We canโ€™t wait to see you all again next year for even more fun, fitness, and frightful festivities! ๐Ÿ‘ป

๐Ÿˆ๐Ÿ’š๐Ÿ’™ What a weekend! A few individuals and staff from ACHIEVEโ€™s On The Pond program had an incredible time attending the ...
10/28/2025

๐Ÿˆ๐Ÿ’š๐Ÿ’™ What a weekend! A few individuals and staff from ACHIEVEโ€™s On The Pond program had an incredible time attending the Eagles vs. Giants game!

Creating opportunities like this is what inclusion is all about โ€” helping the people we support connect with their communities and experience all the excitement that comes with being part of shared events and passions.

Every cheer, every high-five, and every smile reminds us why community inclusion matters. ๐Ÿ’™

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ The wait is almost over โ€”  ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K is TOMORROW! ๐Ÿ•ธ๏ธDid you miss online registration? ...
10/24/2025

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ The wait is almost over โ€” ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K is TOMORROW! ๐Ÿ•ธ๏ธ

Did you miss online registration? No problem! Walk-in registrations are welcome for both the 5K and the Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Halloween Carnival!

๐Ÿ“… Tomorrow โ€“ Saturday, October 25th | 27 Griffin Street, Norwich, NY.
Get ready for a spooktacular day full of fitness, fun, and frightful festivities โ€” all supporting ACHIEVEโ€™s mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities! ๐Ÿ’œ

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Halloween Hustle 5K โ€“ $40
โœ” USATF Certified Course
โœ” Cash prizes & medals for top finishers
โœ” Costume contests ๐ŸŽญ
โœ” T-shirt, food & refreshments included

๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Festival โ€“ $5
โœ” Family-friendly walk with candy stops ๐Ÿฌ
โœ” Games, activities & carnival fun
โœ” Perfect for kids & families (parents walk free!)

๐Ÿ‘ป Costumes are highly encouraged โ€” spooky, silly, or creative, we canโ€™t wait to see them all!

โœจ Whether youโ€™re racing, walking, or just there for the carnival โ€” come join the fun and support a great cause right here in downtown Norwich!

ACHIEVEโ€™s Envisions Open House is happening THIS WEEKEND! ๐Ÿ‘‹Join us Saturday, October 25th from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM at our...
10/23/2025

ACHIEVEโ€™s Envisions Open House is happening THIS WEEKEND! ๐Ÿ‘‹

Join us Saturday, October 25th from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM at our Envisions Day Habilitation in Norwich for an inside look at the programs and supports ACHIEVE offers for individuals of all abilities.

Take a tour of our updated facility, meet our dedicated program leaders, and explore services including Day Habilitation, Employment Services, Therapeutic Recreation, Family Reimbursed Respite, and so much more!

โœจ Plus โ€” itโ€™s all happening alongside our ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K, Trot & Treat Mini Walk, and Halloween Carnival! Whether youโ€™re running, walking, or just joining in the fun, make sure to stop by and see what ACHIEVE is all about!

๐Ÿ“ Envisions Day Hab, 27 Griffin Street, Norwich
๐Ÿ•’ Saturday, October 25th | 9:30 AM โ€“ 1:00 PM

Donโ€™t miss this exciting day of community, connection, and Halloween fun! ๐Ÿ‘ป

Join Us for ACHIEVEโ€™s Envisions Open House!

Weโ€™re opening our doors on Saturday, October 25th from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM at our Envisions Day Habilitation in Norwich!

Stop by to tour our updated facility, meet our program leaders, and learn more about the wide variety of services ACHIEVE offers for individuals of all abilities.

Plus โ€” itโ€™s all happening alongside ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K, Trot & Treat Mini Walk, and Halloween Carnival! ๐Ÿ‘ป

โœจ Come for the fun, stay to discover how ACHIEVE can support you or your loved one!

๐Ÿ“ Envisions Day Hab, 27 Griffin Street, Norwich
๐Ÿ•’ Saturday, October 25th | 9:30 AM โ€“ 1:00 PM

10/23/2025

๐ŸŒŸ October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)! ๐ŸŒŸ

Throughout the month, weโ€™re proud to celebrate the value, talent, and dedication that individuals of all abilities bring to the workforce. At ACHIEVE, we see success stories every day that remind us of whatโ€™s possible when opportunity meets determination โ€” and today, weโ€™re excited to share just a few! ๐Ÿ’ผโœจ

Meet Christopher, who has been a dependable and respected member of Human Technology Corporationโ€™s janitorial team for over 10 years. With the support of his job coach, Christopher has become a trusted leaderโ€”often training new employees and stepping up when supervisors are away. His positive attitude and reliability shine through every day.

Then thereโ€™s Ajmal โ€œHabibโ€, a bright and outgoing young man who joined ACHIEVEโ€™s team as a front desk receptionist through our Supported Employment (SEMP) program. Known for his humor and enthusiasm, Habib takes pride in welcoming visitors and supporting staff with a smileโ€”proving that joy and professionalism go hand in hand.

And Todd, whose dream of working in landscaping became reality this year through an internship with TLC Landscaping! After exploring different jobs through our Employment Training Program, Todd found his true passion โ€œplaying in the dirt.โ€ His commitment and excitement have made him a valued member of the crew, and his story reminds us that finding the right fit can make all the difference. ๐ŸŒฟ

๐ŸŽฅ Check out our video below to hear more about these incredible individuals and how ACHIEVEโ€™s Employment Services are helping people reach their goals and thrive in the workplace!

๐ŸŒŸ ACHIEVE Participates in Disability Mentoring Day at Broome-Tioga BOCES! ๐ŸŒŸAs part of National Disability Employment Awa...
10/22/2025

๐ŸŒŸ ACHIEVE Participates in Disability Mentoring Day at Broome-Tioga BOCES! ๐ŸŒŸ

As part of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), ACHIEVE was proud to participate in Disability Mentoring Day (DMD) โ€” an incredible initiative that gives students with disabilities the opportunity to job-shadow and explore real workplace environments. ๐Ÿ’ผโœจ

The event, hosted by Broome Tioga Boces, began with a breakfast and ceremony on campus, where Amy Howard presented a special gift to Michael in recognition of his hard work and dedication through his efforts with ACCES-VR to gain valuable work experience and meaningful employment. ๐Ÿ‘

Following the ceremony, students were matched with local businesses and job sites to shadow employees and gain firsthand insight into different career paths. ๐Ÿ™Œ

DMD is a wonderful way to build bridges between schools, employers, and communities, raising awareness that people with disabilities are ready, able, and eager to work. ๐Ÿ’ช

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Itโ€™s your LAST CHANCE to register online for ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K PLUS Trot & Treat Mini Walk & H...
10/22/2025

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Itโ€™s your LAST CHANCE to register online for ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K PLUS Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Halloween Carnival presented by NBT Bank! ๐Ÿ•ธ๏ธ

๐Ÿ“… The big day is THIS Saturday, October 25th โ€“ Norwich, NY
Online registration CLOSES TONIGHT (Wednesday, October 22nd)โฐ

Donโ€™t miss your chance to join this spooktacular community celebration packed with fitness, fun, and frightful festivities!

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Halloween Hustle 5K โ€“ $40
โœ” USATF Certified Course
โœ” Cash prizes & medals for top finishers
โœ” Costume contests ๐ŸŽญ
โœ” T-shirt, food & refreshments included
โœ” Team & individual registration available

๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Festival โ€“ $5
โœ” Family-friendly walk with candy stops ๐Ÿฌ
โœ” Halloween games & activities
โœ” Perfect for kids & families (parents walk free!)

๐Ÿ‘ป Costumes are highly encouraged! Spooky, silly, or creative โ€” we canโ€™t wait to see them all!

โœจ Miss the online deadline? Donโ€™t worry โ€” you can still register day-of at the event!
๐Ÿ‘‰ Sign up now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2025halloweenhustle5k/event/achieves2ndannualhalloweenhustle5k/

All proceeds support ACHIEVEโ€™s mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ๐Ÿ’œ

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Just ONE WEEK to go until ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K PLUS Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Halloween Carnival p...
10/17/2025

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ Just ONE WEEK to go until ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K PLUS Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Halloween Carnival presented by NBT Bank! ๐Ÿ•ธ๏ธ

๐Ÿ“… Next Saturday, October 25th โ€“ Norwich, NY

Get ready for a day full of fitness, fun, and frightful festivities! Whether youโ€™re racing for medals, walking for treats, or just here for the carnival, thereโ€™s something for everyone!

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Halloween Hustle 5K โ€“ $40
โœ” USATF Certified Course
โœ” Cash prizes & medals for top finishers
โœ” Costume contests ๐ŸŽญ
โœ” T-shirt, food & refreshments included
โœ” Team & individual registration available

๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Festival โ€“ $5
โœ” Family-friendly walk with candy stops ๐Ÿฌ
โœ” Halloween games & activities
โœ” Perfect for kids & families (parents walk free!)

๐Ÿ‘ป Costumes are highly encouraged! Spooky, silly, or creative โ€” we canโ€™t wait to see them all!

โœจ Online registration closes Wednesday, October 22nd, but you can still register day-of at the event!

๐Ÿ‘‰ Sign up now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2025halloweenhustle5k/event/achieves2ndannualhalloweenhustle5k/

Donโ€™t miss this spooktacular community celebration happening before the Norwich Halloween Parade โ€” all in support of ACHIEVEโ€™s mission to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ๐Ÿ’œ

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ The countdown is ON โ€” and todayโ€™s the FINAL DAY to secure your exclusive Halloween Hustle T-shirt with your registrat...
10/10/2025

๐ŸŽƒ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ The countdown is ON โ€” and todayโ€™s the FINAL DAY to secure your exclusive Halloween Hustle T-shirt with your registration! ๐Ÿ‘•

Donโ€™t miss ACHIEVE's 2nd Annual Halloween Hustle 5K PLUS Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Halloween Carnival presented by NBT Bank! ๐Ÿ•ธ๏ธ
๐Ÿ“… Saturday, October 25th โ€“ Norwich, NY

Join us for a spooktacular day of fitness, fun, and Halloween spirit โ€” whether youโ€™re running for a medal, walking for treats, or enjoying the carnival fun!

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Halloween Hustle 5K โ€“ $40
โœ” USATF Certified Course
โœ” Cash prizes & medals for top finishers
โœ” Costume contests ๐ŸŽญ
โœ” Includes T-shirt, food & refreshments
โœ” Team & individual registration available

๐Ÿšถโ€โ™€๏ธ Trot & Treat Mini Walk & Festival โ€“ $5 (Boo Bundle Upgrade โ€“ $20)
โœ” Family-friendly walk with treats ๐Ÿฌ
โœ” Halloween games & activities
โœ” Perfect for kids & families (parents walk free!)

๐Ÿ‘ป Costumes encouraged! Spooky, silly, or creative โ€” we canโ€™t wait to see them all!

โœจ Register TODAY to guarantee your T-shirt!
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/2025halloweenhustle5k/event/achieves2ndannualhalloweenhustle5k/

All proceeds support ACHIEVEโ€™s mission of empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. ๐Ÿ’œ

โœจ Exciting News! โœจACHIEVE and The Arc Madison Cortland have begun conversations about the possibility of unifying our tw...
10/10/2025

โœจ Exciting News! โœจ

ACHIEVE and The Arc Madison Cortland have begun conversations about the possibility of unifying our two agencies. With a shared mission, values, and goals, we believe coming together could make us stronger, expand services, and better support thousands of families across Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Madison, and Tioga Counties. ๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿ’š

This process will take time, and we are committed to keeping our communities informed every step of the way. Together, weโ€™re excited about the opportunities this may bring for the people we support, our staff, and our future.

The Arc New York

Address

4733 Vestal Parkway East
Vestal, NY
13850

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8am - 4:30pm
Thursday 8am - 4:30pm
Friday 8am - 4:30pm

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Our Story

It all started with a dream - a dream of ten families who wanted a better life for their children with intellectual and other developmental disabilities - who created ACHIEVE. In 1952, the first programs were offered by volunteer teachers in donated space in a church basement. Parents went door-to-door to collect donations, and in a few years these passionate families were able to establish a school program and summer camp for their children and others in the community.

Today, we continue to ACHIEVE our dreams and have grown into an agency that operates a wide array of services across thirty facilities to more than 2,200 individuals. These families were always thinking, planning and working, and today ACHIEVE continues to live out its mission - As a chapter of NYSARC, Inc. it is the mission of ACHIEVE to advocate for an enhanced quality of life through skill advancement, inclusion, integration, and independence of persons with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities through services provided in Broome, Chenango and Tioga Counties.

I welcome you to come learn more about our organization, and thank you for 60+ years of support.

Amy Howard Chief Executive Officer