Jerseys from all of New York’s sports teams were on display at Leonard’s Palazzo on Sunday, September 15, where nearly 100 guests enjoyed a sports-themed guardianship luncheon.

The annual event was first organized thirteen years ago, by Guardianship Manager Eileen Stewart-Rooney and Guardianship Coordinator Stephanie Hodelin to create an environment where people supported with guardianship services, families and support staff could enjoy a fun time together.

“It’s a good opportunity for guardianship committee members to see everyone in person and get to know them better,” said Eileen. “As guardians we ensure people’s health care needs are met and that they are living the best life possible.”

During the party, guests played arcade games including axe toss, basketball toss, and air hockey. There was also a DJ to keep the crowd dancing, along with fun props like streamers, party hats and inflatable sports balls.

At the luncheon, people supported with guardianship services were able to catch up with their guardianship team and build deeper connections in a relaxed environment.

Bernice Price, who lives in AHRC’s Elmwood Lane Residence, was happy to attend and catch up with everyone at the luncheon.

“I remember the party last year too, and my guardian Eileen got me a gift for my birthday next week,” said Bernice.

Guardians foster meaningful connections through regular meetings and interactions throughout the year.

“We know Bernice,” shared Eileen. For Bernice, remembering her birthday with a gift is more than just a thoughtful gesture—it’s a meaningful way of staying connected. Her birthday gift included items in her preferred colors, favorite scents, and personal style, featuring makeup, jewelry, and perfumes.

“Bernice loves dressing to impress,” smiled Eileen.  The Arc New York provides corporate guardianship through AHRC Nassau. A committee of twelve volunteers lead the board’s guardianship committee  which is comprised of  board members, parents, siblings  and others who have interest in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Harriet Traversa, former committee chair who stepped down this past June, gained valuable experience in her role and will be mentoring her successor, Dawn Tortora-Morici, through the transition.

“There is a great deal to learn because the role involves many responsibilities,” said Harriet. “Each person is unique, and it takes informed research to oversee someone’s medical needs.”

The most difficult part of her role was the decision to issue a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order.

“I remember my first DNR over ten years ago. It was very difficult because there was no other family,” said Harriet. “The committee met. We talked about it and The Arc NY’s  legal team also joined the discussion. It was very overwhelming to see everything that was involved. That’s why you must have compassion for what the families and people we support face.”

Harriet’s son, Sal Traversa, receives several supports from AHRC including guardianship services. For Sal, AHRC Nassau is a guardian of last resort which means they are last in the line of decisionmakers. Harriet enlisted AHRC Nassau as a guardian over 20 years ago when Sal was twenty-one. She has become Sal’s primary guardian since her husband passed, with Sal’s sister, Mollie, set to take over after her.

At 18, individuals are legally considered adults, regardless of any developmental disability. However, families can explore guardianship if it’s determined that their loved one is unable to manage their own daily living, healthcare, or financial decisions. Harriet advises families to visit agencies, ask questions, and gather as much information as possible to navigate this complex process. Assistance with guardianship and future care planning is available, and in cases of last resort, The Arc New York can act as a corporate guardian.

For more information on family support services including guardianship, you can visit ahrc.org/familysupports or email info@ahrc.org.