Neither rain nor stormy weather could dampen the celebration at the Annual Guardianship Party on September 27 at Leonard’s in Great Neck.
An afternoon filled with music, dancing, games, and plenty of connection brought together about 80 guests, including people supported by primary and alternative guardianship, the guardianship team, committee members, board members, and staff.
“It was a nor’easter party,” Stephanie Hodelin, Guardianship Coordinator, said. “It was a huge success.” Stephanie and Eileen Stewart-Rooney, Guardianship Manager, have organized the yearly event for over a decade, creating an opportunity for the guardianship community to connect and enjoy each other’s company.
This year’s theme was America250, with patriotic music and red, white, and blue on display. An American flag backdrop provided the perfect spot for people supported to capture photos with friends and support staff.
Arcade games, a lively DJ, and an energetic host kept the party moving with karaoke, dance breaks, and trivia questions.
Bernice Price, who has been supported by guardianship for the past ten years, was ready for the spotlight. Bernice enjoys expressing herself through song. She took the microphone to perform upbeat favorites like “You Can’t Hurry Love” by The Supremes and invited friends to join in.
The guardianship party serves to deepen connections among people supported, the volunteer committee members, and the guardianship team. Typically, guardianship supports are lifelong, with team members supporting people through important decisions related to staffing, support needs, and medical decisions.
The annual party offers a different opportunity – a chance for the entire community to reconnect, make memories, and strengthen bonds that can last decades.
With care, expertise, and a deep understanding of the people receiving guardianship services, the team can advocate for decisions that reflect the needs and interests of the people they support.
For more information on guardianship or family support services, visit ahrc.org/familysupports or email info@ahrc.org.