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ANNUAL REPORT
2014
We ENVISION a World Where All People know they Belong.
Annual Report 2014	 3
Racker was founded in 1948 to support
people with disabilities and their
families. Families wanted their children
with disabilities to participate in their
community, to belong. Sixty-six years
later great progress has been made
on this goal, but we are not there yet.
People with disabilities still do not feel
that they belong. Research indicates
that 60% of people with disabilities do
not have friends. Only 12% of people
with disabilities are working side-by-
side with individuals that do not have
disabilities.
A straightforward way for each of us
to think about the current situation for
people with disabilities is a slightly
modified version of a quote by Orlando
Peterson: “The opposite of separation
is not freedom, it is belonging.”
Have you ever walked into a room
and felt like you were invisible? You
were there, but you didn’t feel like you
belonged. People with disabilities are
now seen in society, at restaurants,
movies, public schools, but the
“separated feeling” for most people
with disabilities still exists. That will
only change when they are in the room
and “visible.”
The importance of the belonging
focus, which comes from our
founders in 1948, was strengthened
by the Strategic Planning that we
did in 2014. The planning process
consisted of meetings with over
400 people, including community
members, business representatives,
partners, people with disabilities and
their families, self-advocates, board
members, and our staff.
from DAN BROWN| executive director
VISION
We envision a world where all people know they belong.
MISSION
We support people with disabilities and their families to lead fulfill-
ing lives by providing opportunities to learn and be connected with
others.
THREE-to-FIVE YEAR OUTCOME
Individuals and families that we support will know they belong to
more communities of their choosing.
The strategic planning work resulted in a new Vision,
Mission and Three-to-Five Year outcome statements:
With your support and the great work of our
staff we will:
• 	 help people with disabilities find things 	
	 they are interested in
• 	 help people with disabilities to have 		
	 the confidence to take risks in
	 community settings of their choice
• 	 make connections that nurture their 		
	interests
• 	 educate the community that people 		
	 with disabilities can and do add value 	
	 to our world
“It will take
people with
disabilities
AND people
without
disabilities
to make our
Vision come
true.”
	 ~Dan Brown
“It will take
people with
disabilities
AND people
without
disabilities
to make our
Vision come
true.”
	 ~Dan Brown
With the exception of our preschool classroom services, the overwhelming majority of our services
happen at offsite locations such as schools, people’s homes and throughout the community. Only about
9% of services happen at Racker Centers locations.
2	 Annual Report 2014
1,298 children were provided universal mental health screenings in 2014 at their doctors’ offices, schools,
and preschools through our Early Recognition project. This program, available to kids in tompkins and
seneca counties is made possible with pass-through funding from the New York State Office of Mental Health.
Olivia was having a hard time with transitions from
classroom to classroom and completely fell apart when
things “went off routine” such as fire drills and special
assemblies. The last straw came when she was “sent to
the principal’s office” because she had a meltdown in the
classroom and could not be consoled. The principal ended
up driving her to our babysitter’s house himself. Who was
this kid who acted completely different at home and at her
caregiver’s house? Finally, a meeting was scheduled with
the school and the county and the process was started
to get her tested. My husband and I also discussed taking
her out of that environment and sending her back to her
favorite caregiver where she did not kick and bite and
scratch others. She continued to have good days and bad
days, and we kept her home a lot of days just to finish out
the semester. Her tests were inconclusive but showed
significant signs of sensory processing issues as well as a
lag in receptive language. She did not talk a lot with us but
we thought that she might just be introverted. Perhaps the
regular school classroom was literally too much for her to
handle?
Luckily for us, we discovered Racker Centers and Olivia
started attending preschool in the spring of 2014. Within
weeks we noticed a difference both in her conversations
with us and in how she interacted with other children.
She had always enjoyed the company of adults but rarely
played with other children unless she had spent significant
time with them. Since starting preschool at Racker Centers,
there were no more incidents of biting, kicking, and
scratching and the principal has yet to drive her home! She
began receiving occupational therapy (don’t lean on other
children) and speech therapy (“receptive speech” is taking
turns in conversation) two times per week. Things were
great throughout the spring semester and we were thrilled
that she was able to continue with the summer program.
Not Every Challenge is Visible by Elizabeth Brando
Last fall, our lively, fun-loving four-year-old daughter Olivia entered
a universal pre-kindergarten (UPK) program in our local public school
system. We had been looking forward to this “step up” in her life - she
would get to ride a school bus, carry a backpack, meet new friends, and
enjoy this new stage of learning with a new teacher. However, shortly
after school began, we started receiving notes from her teacher about our
daughter’s disruptive behavior.
The best “a-ha” moments for
our family that demonstrate
the difference that Racker
Centers is making in Olivia’s
life occur out in public around
other children. Our daughter
has started to play with other
kids on the playground, at
the public pool and/or at the
splash pads. She will now
have conversations with her
peers. My husband took her
to a park and when another
little girl ran up to her and
said “do you want to play
with me?” our daughter
said “yes” and off they ran.
Seemingly simple steps, but
ones that are critical for her
development, and her feeling
of belonging...someone you
want to work with...have on
your team. Best of all for our
daughter, she gets to ride a
big white bus!
An article that Elizabeth recommends that
may help families better understand Sensory
Processing Disorder can be found at:
http://www.childmind.org/en/posts/
articles/2011-10-26-sensory-processing-
issues-explained
R E S O U R C ESincerely,
Dan Brown, Executive Director
Anonymous
Robert B. Allan*
Beverly Baker
Rose Beckwith*
Dan and Eve Brown
William and Anne Chernish
John and Ann Racker Costello
Don and Sylvia Dickinson
Clifford DuBreuil
Jean M. Dunlavey*
Dave and Peggy Dunlop
John* and Martha Ferger
Robert E. Fish*
William F. Fuerst, Jr.*
George V. and Jean A. Smith
Charitable Trust
Doris I. German*
Charles A. Gibson*
Margaret I. Gibson*
Robert and Patricia Haley
Jeanette Hanford*
Lillian Hoffman
Norma Jayne*
The Keilbach and Hardie Families
Dr. and Mrs. Howard Kelley*
Judith K. Leavitt
Thomas Longin and Nancy
Tillinghast
Brick Miscall*
Anna Maria Muenster*
William J.* and Helen B.
Musto*
Kust Polho*
Franziska W. Racker*
Sarah Rich
Tom and Betsy Salm
Howard and Lauren Schler
Jody and Kent Scriber
Henry C. Sibley, Jr.*
Roger and Carole Sibley
Agnes Smith*
Lawrence A. Snyder*
Kevin Stearns*
John C. Stephens
Jean Strout
Sidney L. Tamarin*
Pauline B. Treman*
Jeffrey True and Susan
Schattschneider
Olive L. Wilkinson*
Agnes Gainey Williams*
Fred (Ben) Williams
*Deceased
4 Annual REport 2014
OUR SPECIAL FRIENDS WHO, BY THEIR THOUGHTFUL ACTIONS
AND PLANNED GIVING, HAVE HELPED TO BUILD AND SUSTAIN
RACKER CENTERS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS.
Racker Society
Annual Report 2014	 5
Zack|Success Story by Sally Manning
Zack is a 12-year-old young man, who after several years
of struggling to find his stride in life, has now reached a
“Turning Point.” The Turning Point program is a partnership
program between Racker Centers and Tompkins-Seneca-
Tioga (TST) BOCES.
After learning more about the Program and visiting with
the team of BOCES and Racker staff in April 2014, Zack
attended an official Committee on Special Education
(CSE) meeting in the Dryden School District and shared
his feedback, “I want to go to the Turning Point Program
– they have what I need.” Zack’s keen self-awareness
and insight are two of the characteristics which have
been key components in his success over the past year.
Another key factor in his success has been the support
and commitment of his parents. Zack is the son of Tom
and Dorene Sorensen, who share that they also felt sure
after that initial visit that Turning Point was the right place
for Zack. They noticed that the questions staff asked him
during the meeting indicated right away that they “got
him.” According to Tom, the staff at Turning Point created
an individualized approach for Zack rather than trying to fit
him into a “one-size-fits-all” program.
Tom and Dorene were already familiar with Racker Centers
as Zack received Early Intervention Services from Racker
Centers’ staff in his home as a toddler. As a young child,
Zack needed help with sensory challenges and some
beginning signs of anxiety. He had difficulty with change
and transitions, and the family worked closely with Dryden
schools when he entered elementary school to address
these concerns. Through his first few years of elementary
school, many interventions were tried at school and at
home including therapy, 1:1 aides, modifications to Zack’s
school day, medication, home tutoring, and even probation.
It became clear when Zack was in the 5th grade that it was
time to think outside the box and try something new. This led
to a recommendation from the Dryden CSE for placement
in a Turning Point classroom. Turning Point is an intensive
Day Treatment program, licensed by the Office of Mental
Health. Classrooms are located at TST BOCES in Ithaca and
students referred to the program by their local school district
are in need of comprehensive mental health services that
are integrated into their academic program. Students see a
therapist, have access to a psychiatrist or nurse-practitioner
for consultations, and if needed, are prescribed medication.
Students receive special education services and supports
and benefit from the cohesive team approach of the BOCES
teachers and the Racker Centers’ therapists. The goal is to
offer these supports on a long term basis while working to
transition students back to their home school whenever
possible.
Zack describes what it was like to leave his home school
and develop new relationships at Turning Point. “I didn’t
know any of the kids, but I knew one of the teachers here,
Angie Schmidt, an aide at BOCES and it helped to see a
familiar face.” He shares that it was important to learn
to trust himself and others in order to make some of the
necessary changes in his behavior. According to Zack and his
counselor, Aubrey Munson, LCSW and
day treatment counselor with Racker
Centers, he didn’t always act in a safe
manner before he came here, and
even when he first arrived. As time
wenjt on Zack began to develop many
relationships within the Turning Point
Program; including with his counselor
Aubrey; and his aides James, Gabe,
and Shana; BOCES teachers, Mrs.
Hunt (classroom) and Mr. B. (ELA);
as well as classmates, and Jasper the
therapy dog. All of these relationships
enabled Zack to better use some of
his newly learned coping skills in a
more consistent manner. Zack has
grown to be a great role model for
his peers and has developed skills
in sharing constructive feedback
with his classmates during regular
weekly meetings in the classroom.
He describes himself as having a lot
more friends than before and that he
is learning how to trust them and rely
on them for support when he feels
challenged. Zack now experiences a
sense of belonging at Turning Point. His
ability to connect with others seems
directly related to the strong sense
of belonging that has been cultivated
in his family. Tom and Dorene are
parents to Zack, his brother Will (age
11), Robert (age 16) and to numerous
foster children who have been invited
into their home through the years.
The family has stayed connected.
Zack also belongs to Boy Scouts
and his connection to that group
has also contributed to his sense of
independence and mastery in many
areas.
Zack’s parents describe that there were
many layers to uncover in order to
reach the place they are now, and the
journey was not without some failures
along the way. He has truly started in
a new direction – a “turning point”
for him. Zack seems very aware that
the road doesn’t stop here; he must
continue working on himself. He gives
the following advice for other young
people who may find themselves at
a “turning point”: take breaks, use
your supports, and learn how to trust
yourself and others. This seems like
good advice for all of us!
Racker Centers’ Family Navigator’s Program is a grant funded program which helps to match families
FACING mental health challenges with an individual who has had experience in supporting their own family
member who has also struggled with mental health challenges. This peer support program has identified
three individuals with “lived” experience and has successfully paired them with 30 families in 2014.
Betty Helsper
Marjorie Helsper
Sue Hemsath
Elaine Henry
David Herrick
Robert and Joyce Herrick
David and Joan Herskovits
David Hewlett
Jana Hexter
Felicite Hibbard
Tom Hickcox
Roger and Suzanne Hinderliter
Hines & Allen Law Office
Lillian Hoffman
HOLTArchitects, P.C.
Ed and Sue Hooks
Jean Horigan
Robert and Joan Horn
David Horrocks
Neal and Pat Howard
Thomas Howarth
Allison Howe
Jim and Sue Hranek
Irene Hubbell
Gordon and Margaret Huckle
Heather and Bill Hughes
Barbara Hulbert
Elwood and Janet Hulbert
Kellie Hulbert
Kellie and Chris Hummel
Catherine Husa and Sami Husseini
Mary and Bob Hutchens
IBEW Local 241
David and Amy Iles
Incodema
Harriet Ink
Inlet Glass & Mirror, Inc.
International Food Network
Ithaca Ace Hardware
Ithaca Child
Ithaca College
Ithaca Foreign Car Service
Kathleen Jacklin
Jake and Janet Jacoby
Andre and Jean Jagendorf
Ralph and Rhoda Janis
Jim Ray Homes
JJ’s Cafe
James John
Laurie Johnston
Deborah Jones and Barb DeWall
Kenneth and Joyce Jones
Susan Kaplan
Robert and Kathleen Kemple, Jr.
John Kennedy
William and Mary Kennedy
Robert and Evonne Kern
Ryan and Aubrey Kerwin
Key Bank
Irene Kiely
Joe and Patty Kiely
Thomas and Mary Ann Kiernan
Judson and Suzanne Kilgore
Michael and Chris Kimball
Kindret Construction Ltd.
Gary and Judi King
King’s Daughters Home
Paul Kirk and Liz Keenan
Jeffrey and Diana Kleinwaks
KMT Books
Knights of Columbus Cncl. 277
George Kobas & Linda Grace-Kobas
Robert and Rachel Koll
Sara Komaromi
Judith Komor
Kirit Kottam
Bjoern and Antje Krenz
Anonymous
15 Steps
ABC Services of Ithaca, Inc.
Affiliated Psychological Consultants, P.C.
Pete Akins and Connie Ged
Eric Alani
Christopher and Brigid Allinger
Kiko Alvarez and Susana Mendez
Amazon Smile Foundation
American Legion Post 221
Carmen and Tami Amici
Katherine Anderson and Max Pensky
Anytime Fitness
APRA Florida Chapter
Florencia Ardon and Rodney Chinn
Christine Armao
Robert Aronson
Erin Arras
Neil and Judith Ashcroft
Edward and Gayleen Austen
Elizabeth Bagnardi
Beverly Baker
Cristin Baker
Natalie Baker
Baker-Miller Lumber, Inc.
Caren Baldini
D. G. Bancroft-Gowin
David and Lenore Bandler
Paul and Diane Banfield
Jack Bangs
Kevin and Jacqueline Bangs
Bangs Ambulance
Bangs Funeral Home
Rick and Maryanne Banks
Bob and Melinda Bantle
J. Robert Barlow
Eugenia Barnaba
Chris and Clara Barrett
Bridget Barry
Carolyn and Gene Bartell
Roger Batchelder
Myrtle and Robert Batsford
Richard and Norma Bauer
Marilyn Baurle
Carol and Rosanne Beach
Joan Bechhofer
Roger Beck
John and Randi Beckmann
Vida and Vaughn Behn
Bernard and Linda Beins
Bill and Nancy Bellamy
Louise Bement
Fran Benedict
Martha Benninger
Legrace Benson
Rich and Debra Benson
Arthur Berkey
Anne and Ted Berrien
Rose Bethe
Heather Betz and Susan Hazelton
Robert and Phyllis Betzler
Nelson and Barbara Bills
Kenneth Birman and Anne Neirynck
James and Carole Bisogni, Jr.
Richard and Louann Biviano
Edith Blackman
Paul and Suzy Blanchard
Blessed Trinity Parish
Michael and Kathryn Bohn
Patrick Bohn and Ashley Yates
Tom and Donna Bohn
Coert Bonthius
Joseph and Cheryl Borden
Beverly Bortz
Michael Bovi
Krystal Bowen
Michael and Elizabeth Brando
Rachel Brill
Joel and Susan Brock
Liese Bronfenbrenner
Bethany Brown and Bradley Smith
Crystal Brown
Katie Brown and Eric Trotter
Susannah Brown
Warren Brown
David and Julie Brumsted
Francis and Joyce Budney
Gregory Budney
Michael and Susan Budney
Sue Budney
Karin Burgess
Seth and Carolyn Burgess
Albert and Mary Burkhardt
Lisa Burns
George Butler
Joseph and Nan Bylebyl
Jim and Terry Byrnes
Byron’s Service CAenter
Byron’s Used Autos
Leo and Sandra Cacciotti
Sheila Cafferillo
Cecilia Campbell and Deborah
Gagnon
David Campbell and Thomas
Connors
Michael and Michelle Cannon
The Capozzi Families
Barbara Cappucci
Gary and Rita Carlson
Richard and Linda Carlton
Stanley and Carol Carpenter
Anne Carson
Stephen and Dolores Caruso
Joseph and Jackie Cassaniti
Cataract Hose Company No. 7
Daniel and Patricia Cawley
Kristin Cerione
CFCU Community Credit Union
Larry and Arlene Chase
Stephen Chase
Penelope Chick and Rory Rothman
Roberta Chiesa
Margo Chiuten and Shawna Black
John and Pamela Cincotta
City Club of Ithaca
Andrea and Richard Clark
Leslie and Kay Cleland
Mark Clemente
Nancy Cleveland
John Coccia
Elissa Cogan and Barry Chester
Helen S. Cogan
Constance Colbert
Mary Ann K. and Timothy J. Colbert
Barbara Collyer
Steve and Ann Colt
Communiqué Design & Marketing
Karen Coney Coplin
Margaret Congdon
Gordon and Onalee Conklin
Pamela Conklin
Conley & Son Excavating Company
Peter and Kay Cooke
Bert and Helen Cooley
Ed and Caroline Cope
Brad and Nancy Corbitt
Corks & More
Daphne and Ezra Cornell
Cornell Men’s Ice Hockey
Cornell Pochily Investment Advisors
David and Carolyn Corson
Cortland Eye Center
Anne Costello
Walton and Jean Cottrell
Rick and Jill Cowan
Marilyn Crooker
John Crosby
Katherine Crotty
Sheila Crowley
Steven Croyle
Mary Ellen Cummings
William Currie
William and Gail Cutler
Kim Daghita
Marion DaGrossa
Joseph Daino
Brenda Daniels
Danks Burke Family
Rick and Marlaine Darfler
Marie Anne de Roos
Michelle Delaney
David Delchamps
Dorothy Delisle and Shawn Pompe
Victor and Jean Delisle
Donna Dempster-McClain
Christine Dennis
Ken and Regina Deschere
Susan Detzer
Roy and Fran Dexheimer
Ann Dexter
Bill and Sandy Dhimitri
Don and Sue Dickinson
David Dier
Steve Dippolito
Matthew Dobush
Pamela and Charles Dollaway
Debra Donnelly
Eve Donnelly
Chuck and Cris Donovan
Gretchen Douglas
Doug’s Fish Fry
Dr. James Fey, DMD
Michele Draiss
Nancy Dreier
David and Judy Dresser
David Dubow
Gerard and Sherri Dunham
Horton and Shirley Durfee
Daniel and Debra Dwyer
Jan Dyson
Eagle Envelope
Forrest and Sara Earl
Mildred Earl
Brian and Jody Earle
Corey Earle
Evan Earle
Terry and Jean Earle
Eastern Managed Print Services
Danny and Lynn Eastman
Maralyn Edid and Lawrence Blume
Ron and Randy Ehrenberg
Ehrhart Energy
Sandy and Jeffrey Ehrlich
Eric Eisenhut
Tony and Julie Eisenhut
Terry and Vaughn Eldred
Brian Eldridge
Stephen Ellner & Nancy Saltzman
Harry and Mary Ellsworth
Robert and Lisa Elston
Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft
Arvilla Enck
Katherine Englander
Stephen and Kathy Eschler
Roger and Sue Eslinger
Rodolfo Espino
Matt, Madeline, and Peter Estill
Andrew Evans
Michele Evans
F&T Distributing Company Inc.
Paul and Pam Fairbanks
Jerry Feist and Joyce Marsh
Jonathan Feldman
David Feldshuh and Martha
Frommelt
John and Anita Ferro
Maura Fetsko
John Finnegan
First National Bank of Dryden
Douglas Firth
Frank and Gail Flannery
Burt Flickinger
David and Mary Flinn
James and Judy Fogel
Sam Forcucci
Olan and Katie Forker
Alan and Jeanne Fox
Raymond Fox
Gary Frank
Franziska Racker Centers (PT Dept)
Ed Freeman
Brandon French
Frontenac Designs
John Fuchs
Allen and Gail Fulkerson
Susan Fuller
James and Kathleen Gaffney
John Gaines
Gamba Auto
Kenneth and Vonnie Gardner
Loren and Kristen Gardner
Kathy Garner and Jim Darnieder
Lowell Garner and Susan Lustick
Reeder and Sally Gates
Paul Geisler
Wayne and Regina Genung
Liz and Jon Gesin
Givalike
Ronald and Sandra Gladstone
Rabbi Scott and Sharon Glass
Glenwood Pines Restaurant
Alexandra Goetz
Connie Goldsmith
Merri Goodrow
Rodney Gould
Daniel and Karen Governanti
Bernard and Madeline Graham
Bob and Johanna Granados
Pamela Graves
Lorraine Greenberg
Steve Greenberg
Carolyn Greenwald &Adam Schaye
Mark Grimm and Alexis Zaharis
Helen Grippo
Nancy Grossman and Donald
Swanson
Denise Grout
David and Sally Grubb
Carmen Guidi
George Gull and Nancy Potter
Wilma Habel
Dianna Halevy
David Hall
Heather Hammond
Margaret Hampson
Torrance Hanley
Jeff Hardgrove
Skip and Holly Hardie
Peter Harriott
Harris Beach PLLC
Christopher Hart
Thomas Hartshorne
Joan Hass
The Hawkes Family
Carl and Susan Haynes
Charles and Liz Heath
David and Joyce Heck
Marie and Alan Hedge
FRIENDS of the Centers
We feel fortunate to have so many friends who support us with gifts
to annual operating as well as targeted needs and special projects.
Our FRIENDS of the Centers’ list includes those who made gifts,
pledges, or gifts-in-kind. We owe a special thank you to those on
our Racker Fellows and Business Partners lists for their donations
of $1,000 or more. Gifts to Racker Centers help us fill funding gaps
and address areas of greatest concern. With your help, we can
continue providing innovative services for people with disabilities in
our community, helping them have happy, productive lives. We are
grateful for the ongoing support of our many friends.
Anonymous	
John and Elaine Alexander
W. David and Mary Lee Banfield	
Dan and Eve Brown	
John and Ann Racker Costello	
Bob and Vanne Cowie	
Dora Donovan	
Dave and Peggy Dunlop	
Chuck and Yvonne Everhart	
Stanley and Suri Friedman	
Charles and Linda Garbo	
Amanda Gibson	
Margaret I. Gibson*
Brad and Mary Grainger	
Rip and Pat Haley	
Joan and Dave Hardie*
Greg and Bev Hartz	
Mark and Mickie Jauquet	
Catharine Joyce	
Phyllis and Lanny Joyce	
Kevin and Lindsey Kauffman	
Meg and Eric Keilbach	
Jeffrey and Kristin Lewis	
Stuart and Ruthye Lewis	
Stephen and Kathryn Lipinski	
Glenda Long	
Michael and Iris Long	
Perri and Mick LoPinto	
Josephine McAllister	
Dan and Rose McNeil	
David and Christine McNeil	
Mary McNeil	
Philip and Peggy Meyer	
Jeanette Miller	
Anna Maria Muenster*
Carol Neigh	
Herbert Nowell	
Cal and Joan Organ	
Ed and Mary Ann Oyer	
Dave and Shirley Palmer	
Stephen and Linda Pope	
Frank and Rosa Rhodes	
Sarah M. Rich	
David and Margaret Robertshaw	
Tom and Betsy Salm	
Howard and Lauren Schler	
Fred Schneider and Mimi Bussan	
Topher and Emma Scott	
Jody and Kent Scriber	
Kevin and Lynn Shreve	
Roger and Carole Sibley	
David Stinson and Elizabeth Ashford	
Deborah Streeter and Tom Owens	
Fred Tomvzuk	
Betty Watkins	
Erik and Deborah Whitney	
Jennifer and Sean Whittaker	
Eugene and Jeanne Yarussi
RACKER FELLOWS
* Estate Gift
Benefit Design Services
BorgWarner Morse TEC
Cargill Deicing Technology
Cayuga Landscape
Cayuga Radio Group
Cortland Community Foundation
Dr. Robert Duthie, D.D.S. & Dr.
Gregory Subtelny, D.D.S.
Emerson Power Transmission
George V. and Jean A. Smith
Charitable Trust
Haylor, Freyer & Coon
Innovations Aveda Salon
Intertek ETL, SEMKO Division
Ithaca Journal
Ithaca Plumbing Supply
Ithaca Sertoma Club
John Ben Snow Memorial Trust
LeChase Construction
Lewis G. Schaeneman, Jr. Foundation
Linz Real Estate
M&T Bank
BUSINESS PARTNERS
GIVINGto Racker Centers
Maguire Family of Dealerships
McKinnon Benefits Group
McNeil Development
Mutual of America
New York State Elks
Northwestern Mutual
Panera Bread
Puzzle Solvers
Rauch Foundation
Sciarabba Walker & Co. LLP
Social Service League of Ithaca
Sparrow’s Fine Wines
Tioga United Way
The Ability Experience
The Computing Center
The Mildred Faulkner Truman
Foundation
Tompkins Trust Company
Triad Foundation
United Way for Cortland County
United Way of Tompkins County
Wegmans Food Markets
6	 Annual Report 2014
continued on page 8
*Estate Gift
	7
Edward Thomas and Kathleen
Strickland
John and Betty Thomas
Joe and Margaret Thomas
Thomas L. Shields, DDS
Susan and Mark Thomas
Michael and Marina Todd
Chuck and Ann Tompkins
Tompkins Insurance Agencies
Frank and Melanie Towner
Hilda Townsend
Anne Treichler
Triphammer Wines & Spirits
Trombley Tire & Auto
Vance Trout
Jeff True and Susan Schattschneider
Yohko Tsuji
Thomas and Claudia Tull
James and Janice Turner
Bik Tye
David and Lucia Tyler
Carol Tytler
John and Carol Uber
Curt and Amanda Ufford
Dave Ulrich
George and Diane Valesente
Mary Vallely
Margaret Van Houtte
Elizabeth van Leer
Mara van Loggerenberg
Frank Van Sickle II
Joan Van Vranken
Marcia Vann
Robert and Laurie Vanvleet
Lewis and Barbara Varney
Village Greenhouse, Inc.
John and Carol Vineyard
Charles and Jane Walcott
Maureen Waller
Russell Wanish
Richard Warkentin and Dawn
Kleeschulte
Warren Real Estate of Ithaca
William and Norma Wasmuth
Alexandra Watson
James Watson, Jr.
Todd Webb
Donald Weber and Shira Stern
Harry and Barbara Weber
Kristen Weinberger
Fannie Welch
Chris Wells
Joseph and Betty Weneser
Carol Weston
Mike and Cathy Whalen
Mark and Ellen Wheeler
Ken White
Kevin and Barbara White
Maurice and Steffi White
Tara Wilder
Anthony Williams
David and Katherine Williams
Fred (Ben) Williams
Jay and Vicky Williamson
Lou and Fran Withiam
David and Susan Wohlhueter
Hilary Wong
Sophia Woodhouse
Ken and Marie Woodman
Andrew Yale and Brenda Kuhn
Shijie Yang and Hongnan Ma
Kim Yeoh
Bettie Lee Yerka
Lincoln Young
Robert and Agnes Zavaski
Joel and Cathy Zumoff
John and Cheryl Mitchell
Daniel Mont and Nanette Goodman
Pat and Victor Montanez
Robert Laurence Moore
Moore’s Christmas Tree Farm
Richie and Pat Moran
Sharon Morgan
Morgan Stanley Wealth
Management
Andrew Morpurgo
Florence Mosher
Dale and Patricia Mueller
Arthur and Betty Muka
Susan Murphy
Karlis Musa
Don Nagle and Cindy Stiles
Mike Neely
Mark Nelson
Carolyn Neuman
Elizabeth Newbury
Newfield Lioness Club
Katherine Newton
Sean and Claire Nicholson
Andy and Betsy Noel
Esther Northrup
Jerome and Barbara Nosanchuk
Brendan O’Brien
Kate O’Connell and Robert
D’Addario
Oculus Info Inc.
Brad and Lila Olson
Christine O’Malley
Marne O’Shae and Ira Kamp
Thomas and Kathleen Overbaugh
Kenneth and Catherine Paddock
Greg and Sherry Page
Steve and Ellen Palladino
Glen Palmer and Carol True Palmer
Luke Pamel
Stan Pamel
Sonya Monosoff Pancaldo
Corina Park-Batsford and Mike
Batsford
Larry and Jackie Pataki
Lisa and Chris Pate
Barbara and Robert Patten
Patterson’s Service Station
Mike Pattison
Kerry Pauldine
John and Ann Pavia
Alan and Nancy Pedersen
Marianne M. Pelletier and Laura
Staubes
Alexander and Kristina Perialas
Stephen and Paula Pete
Kristina Petrillose
Debra Phenes
Janice and Arthur Phillips III
Nikolette Phillips
Charlie and Karen Phlegar
Michael Pitcher
Curtis and Shatoya Pittman
Jennifer Podkul and Craig Kullmann
Ted and Joan Podkul, Jr.
Leonard and Christine Pogorzala
Larry and Bonnie Pollow
George Poppensiek
Larry and Pamela Postle
Dakota Potenza
John Potter
Jane Powers
Precision Filters Inc.
Walter Priest
Pritchard Automotive
Project Sunshine
Jim and Wendy Prout
Throughout 2014 Racker Centers benefitted from the support of 697 INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES and 118
businesses to carry out our mission of supporting people with disabilities and their families to lead
fulfilling lives by providing opportunities to learn and be connected to others.
2014FINANCIAL REPORT
Public Support & Revenue
Children’s and Clinical Services					 $7,119,935		22%
Residential Services					$17,362,626		53%
Community Support Services					 $5,095,941 		15%
Counseling for School Success					 $2,534,441		 8%
Fund Raising					 $393,595		 1%
Other Revenue			 $169,814		 1%
	 Investment Gains....................................$96,895
	 Prior Period Adjustments..........................$4,254
	Miscellaneous.........................................$68,665
TOTAL	 	$32,676,352 	 100%
Expenses
Children’s and Clinical Services		 24%
Residential Services		 54%
Community Support Services		 15%
Counseling for School Success		 7%
TOTAL		100%
Children’s and Clinical Services, 24%
Community Support Services, 15%
Counseling for School Success, 8% Residential Services, 54%
E X P E N S E S
Rose Krupas
Alan and Mary Krystal
Kyle Kubick and Marie Garland
Ben Kuo
Stephen Lamb
John Lambert and Robin Rogers
Rachel and David Lampert
Carolyn Lange
Gary Lansdowne
Lansing High School Student Council
Christina Larkin
Patricia Larsen
Wayne and Marcia Larsen
Vivian Laube
Dr. David Leavitt & Dr. Marnie Burkman
Judith K. Leavitt
Noah Samuel Leavitt & Helen Kim
Philip and Lesly Lempert
Dr. G. Peter Lepage and Deborah
O’Connor
Ofer Leshed
Antoinette Levatich
Deborah Levin
Simon and Carole Levin
Diane Levine
Matthew Liberty
Cindy and Tom Lilly
Brian and Laurie Lindberg
David and Nancy Lippert
Jun Liu
Tom and Lisa LiVigne
Howard and Carolyn Longhouse
John and Linda Longhouse
Tom Longin and Nancy Tillinghast
Michael Longo and Gina Amici
Darlene Loope
Audrey Lowe
Jack and Janet Lowe
Yolanda Lucatelli
Mick Lumb
David and Priscilla Lundeen
Richard and Janet MacDonald
Dan Mahoney
Ted and Judy Malley
Mancini-Ferrara & Sons Inc.
Victor and Ellen Marchetti
Glenna Margaris
Barbara and John Marmora
Herbert Marshall
Brenda Marston
Melanie Martin
Roxanne Martin
Marvin and Annette Lee Foundation
Frannie Mason
Anthony and Amelia Massi
Angelo and Connie Mastronardi
Michael and Shelley Matheny
Mary Beth Mathey
Brian McAree and Kris Corda
James McConkey
Marie McCrone
Molly McDowell
Sharon McGee and Jin Soo Kim
Carolyn McGory
Adrienne McNair
Jean and Daniel McPheeters
McPherson Builders, Inc.
Judith Mehravari
Joe and Emily Metz
Edna Z. Michael
Sueann Mikitiuk-Giacalone
David Miller
Nina Miller
Gerald and Janet Miner
Arthur Mintz
Doug Mitarotonda
8	 Annual Report 2014 Annual Report 2014	 9
FRIENDScontinued...
Richard and Donna Prybyl
Beth Putnam
Elaine Quaroni
Thomas and Kathryn Quirk
Radiology Associates of Ithaca, PC
Rauch Foundation
Josephine Reed
Joe and Carrie Regenstein
Keith and Crystal Rehbein
Victor and Joyce Rendano
Ruth and Charles Reniff
Melissa Reynolds
Anne Richards
Mary Richards
Richardson Bros. Electrical
Contractors
James Rider
Virginia K. Rinker
Bryan Roberts
Martha and Steve Robertson
Wendy Robertson & Doug Antczak
Dan and Becky Robinson
Eric and Margaret Robinson
Joseph and Rachel Rocco
Ward Romer
George and Kay Ross
Arthur and Ellen Rosten
Julia Roth
RSVP Knitters
Thomas Ruane and Donna
Augustine
Aurora Rubens Valenti
Elliot and P. A. Rubinstein
John Rudd and Beverly Chin
Stellario and Barbara Ruggiero
Scott and Jan Russell
Matthew Russo
Gillian Ryan
Joseph and Jessica Ryan
Timothy Ryan
Robert and Rita Ryczak
Dolores and Sid Saltzman
Carolyn Sampson
Rose Sanford
Carlos and Margarita Santisteban
Steve and Karen Sass
Frank and Pauline Satterly
Catherine Savage
Esty and Jonathan Schachter
Erich and Cheryl Schaefer
William and Marianne Schaffner
Schickel Construction
Michael and Joan Schler
George and Bobbie Schneider
Dan and Mary Ellen Schreher
Nancy Schrempf
Josie Schug
Arnold and Mary Schwartz
Michael Schwartz
David and Rebecca Schwed
Christine Schweitzer
Beatrice Schwoerer
Andrew and Rosemary Sciarabba
Debra Scott
Donna Scott
Robert Scott
Thomas Scott
Thomas and Jean Seaman
Security Mutual Insurance
Company
Rose Seely
Rose Marie Serignese
Gary and Colleen Sforzo
Carl and Marilyn Sgrecci
Margaret Shackell
Steve Shaff
Quinn Shamlian
Laurie Shaver
Richard Sheffield
Bonita Shelford
Gregory Shenstone
Judy and Richard Sherman
Jerry Shing and Duane Diviney
Michael and Karen Shuler
Arthur and Charlotte Shull
Henry and Sandy Sibley
Rita Sick
Matt and Nancy Siegel
Rachel Siegel
Kirk Sigel
Walter Silbert
Lisa Silverman Hoffberg
Michael and Sandra Simkin
Albert and Jeanette Sinnigen
Ray and Judy Small
Anna Smith
Carlton Smith
Courtney Smith
Robert Smith and Alice Moore
Scott and Lisa Smith
Tom and Elfriede Smith
Donna Smith-O’Connell
Jeffrey and Suzanne Snedeker
Jean Snow
Thomas and Donna Sokol
David and Rebecca Sparrow
Ceil Spero
Robert Sprole
St. Catherine of Siena Church
Melissa Stalica
Michael and Therese Stanley
Kimberly Stanton
Lara Stanton
Erica Stark
Kevin Stearns*
Matthew and Lynn Steenberg
Thomas Steffie
Paul Steiger
Stellar Stereo
Robert and Diane Stites
Wayne Stokes
Janet and James Strait
Violet Street
Robert and Naomi Strichartz
Jean Strout
Peter Strumpf
Carol Sullivan
Susan Sullivan
Mike and Sandy Sweazey
Karen Szembrot
Nichole Szembrot
T.G. Miller, P.C. Engineers &
Surveyors
Victoria Tagarelli
Julie Taibi
Charles and Heather Tallman
Kevin and Helen Talty
Marisue and David Taube
Chuck Tauck
Taughannock Aviation
Hollands Tavelli
Kara Taylor
Robert and Judy Taylor
Louanne Tenkate
The Boatyard Grill
The Frame Shop
The Hair-Loom
The Statler Hotel
The Strebel Fund forCommunity
Enrichmentofthe CommunityFoundation
The William Henry Miller Inn
Therm Incorporated
In Honor of: Ann Racker Costello
Dale and Patricia Mueller
In Honor of: John and Ann
Costello
Anne Costello
Frank and Rosa Rhodes
In Memory of: Rev. Allen Cropf
Charles and Liz Heath
In Memory of: Cassidy D’Addario
Ann Dexter
Thomas and MaryAnn Kiernan
In Honor of: Toby and Larry
Deutchman
Judith K. Leavitt
In Memory of: Robert “Bob”
Diemond
Cataract Hose Company #7
In Memory of: Joleen DiGiacomo
Sara Komaromi
In Honor of: Cris Donovan
Richard and Janet MacDonald
In Honor of: Billy Earl	
Mildred Earl
In Memory of: William Earl, Sr.
Mildred Earl
In Honor of: Sheryl Edwards
Bridget Barry
In Memory of: Eric L. Ehrenberg
Ron and Randy Ehrenberg
In Honor of: Terrie Ellis
Carolyn McGory
In Honor of: Scott Elston
Robert and Lisa Elston
In Honor of: Bev Fitzpatrick and
Meg Gillard
Dolores and Sid Saltzman
In Memory of: Jennifer Foote
Olan and Katie Forker
In Honor of: The Owls Classroom
Michael and Elizabeth Brando
In Memory of: Margaret I. Gibson
Roger Batchelder
Cortland Eye Center
Amanda Gibson
Vivian Laube
Brian and Laurie Lindberg
Joe and Emily Metz
Cal and Joan Organ
Elizabeth van Leer
In Memory of: Richard “Dick” Backer
Charles and Heather Tallman
Lewis and Barbara Varney
In Memory of: William Baldini
Neal and Pat Howard
Robert and Kathleen Kemple, Jr.
In Memory of: Clarence Ball Jr.
Stephen Chase
In Memory of: Christine Alice Bartell
Carolyn and Gene Bartell
In Honor of: Trudy Baum
Stephen and Linda Pope
In Memory of: Richard Blackman
Edith Blackman
In Honor of: Tom and Donna Bohn
Patrick Bohn andAshley Yates
Thomas and Kathryn Quirk
In Memory of: Lolanda M. Bordoni
Joseph Daino
In Memory of: Marilyn S. Bovi
Michael Bovi
In Honor of: Phyllis and Marissa
Bowers
Sharon McGee and Jin Soo Kim
In Memory of: Dudley Briggs	
Ann Dexter
In Honor of: Dan Brown
Katie Brown and Eric Trotter
Victor and Joyce Rendano
In Memory of: Paul Brown Sr.	
Susannah Brown
In Honor of: Peter Burgess
Seth and Carolyn Burgess
In Honor of: Jessica Campbell	
Anonymous
The Danks-Burke Family
In Memory of: Jaime K. Canfield
Sue Budney
Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft
Susan Fuller
Oculus Info Inc.
In Memory of: James M. Cirona
Caren Baldini
In Honor of: Helen S. Cogan
Tom and Donna Bohn
In Honor of: Ezra Cornell
Caren Baldini
In Honor / IN Memory In Honor of: Joshua Griffin
Carlton Smith
In Memory of: Raymond Grippo
Helen Grippo
In Memory of: Drew Halevy
Tom Hickcox
Alan and Mary Krystal
Perri and Mick LoPinto
Roxanne Martin
Rauch Foundation
Josephine Reed
Joe and Carrie Regenstein
The Rauch Foundation
In Memory of: Steven Halevy
Dianna Halevy
Perri LoPinto
In Honor of: Lawrence Hall
David Hall
In Honor of: Bev Hartz
Franziska Racker Centers’ PT Department
In Honor of: Marie Hedge’s
retirement
Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft
In Memory of: the Helsper Family
Stephen and Dolores Caruso
In Memory of: Melvin (Bill) Helsper
Betty Helsper
In Honor of: Bill Hennessy
Louise Bement
In Memory of: Adelaide K. Heppel
Arvilla Enck
In Honor of: Laurie Hubbell
Myrtle and Robert Batsford
In Honor of: Mary Hutchens
Dorothy Delisle and Shawn Pompe
In Memory of: Laurie Hyde-Tull
Thomas and Claudia Tull
In Honor of: Andy Iles	
Joe and Emily Metz
In Memory of: Mary Jones
Harry and Mary Ellsworth
Richard Sheffield
In Honor of: Ruari Jorgensen
Nancy Cleveland
In Honor of: Annie Joyce
Phyllis and Lanny Joyce
Rose Marie Serignese
In Honor of: The Joyce Family
John and Randi Beckmann
In Memory of: Kevin Merrill Kauffman
Kevin and Lindsey Kauffman
In Honor of: Will Keilbach’s 8th
Birthday
Meg and Eric Keilbach
In Honor of: Karen Killgore
Judson and Suzanne Kilgore
In Honor of: Ari Kim-Leavitt
Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim
In Honor of: Talia Kim-Leavitt
Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim
In Memory of: Rose and Joseph Kline
Judith K. Leavitt
In Honor of: Brent Larsen
Wayne and Marcia Larsen
In Honor of: David Leavitt and
Marnie Burkman
Judith K. Leavitt
Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim
In Honor of: Judith K. Leavitt
Dr. David Leavitt and Dr. Marnie Burkman
Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim
In Honor of: Noah, Helen, Ari and
Talia Kim-Leavitt
Anonymous	
Dr. David Leavitt and Dr. Marnie Burkman
Judith K. Leavitt
Helen Kim
In Memory of: Richard M. Leavitt
Joseph and Cheryl Borden
Margaret Congdon
James and Kathleen Gaffney
Judith K. Leavitt
Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim
Jennifer Podkul and Craig Kullmann
In Honor of: Dick Leavitt, Noah
Leavitt, and David Leavitt’s birthdays
Ted and Joan Podkul, Jr.
In Honor of: Jeff and Kristin Lewis
Leo and Sandra Cacciotti
In Honor of: Dr. Jeffrey S. Lewis
Dr. Robert Duthie, DDS
Dr. Gregory Subtelny, DDS
In Honor of: Steve & Kathy Lipinski
David and Joan Herskovits
Diane Levine
In Honor of: Glenda Long
Paul Steiger
In Memory of: Carmella Longo
Carmen and TamiAmici
Elizabeth Bagnardi
Jack Bangs
Bangs Funeral Home
The Capozzi Families
Barbara Cappucci
Bert and Helen Cooley
Felicite Hibbard
Rose Krupas
Patricia Larsen
Michael Longo and GinaAmici
Yolanda Lucatelli
Mancini-Ferrara & Sons Inc.
Marie McCrone
Alexander and Kristina Perialas
Stephen and Paula Pete
RadiologyAssociates of Ithaca, PC
Ruth and Charles Reniff
Arthur and Ellen Rosten
Aurora Rubens Valenti
Josie Schug
Peter Strumpf
In Honor of: Perri LoPinto
Rachel and David Lampert
Carol Tytler
In Memory of: Joseph Marzo
Michele Evans
In Honor of: Dick and Sharon
Matthews
Thomas Howarth
In Honor of: Aelwen McAllister’s
First Year of School
Josephine McAllister
In Memory of: Alia McGurk
Marion DaGrossa
In Honor of: Dr. Philip Meyer
Kenneth Birman andAnne Neirynck
In Honor of: Richie Moran
David and Susan Wohlhueter
In Memory of: Donald Northrup
Esther Northrup
In Honor of: Dustin Pataki
Larry and Jackie Pataki
Rose Seely
In Honor of: Jennifer Podkul, Craig,
Sienna Rose, and Louisa Kullmann
Judith K. Leavitt
In Honor of: Joan and Ted Podkul
Dr. David Leavitt and Dr. Marnie Burkman
Judith K. Leavitt
In Honor of: Deb Wojcik, Tim Podkul
and Benjamin
Judith K. Leavitt
“We were apprehensive at first, BUt
all our fears were laid to rest
within a very short amount of time.”
“We were apprehensive at first, BUt
all our fears were laid to rest
within a very short amount of time.”
Hannah with her CSP (Community Support
Professional) Nancy
10	 Annual Report 2014 Annual Report 2014	 11
HANNAH: a success story
Hannah is a 31-year-old with intellectual and developmental
disabilities who lives in the Coventry house operated by
Racker Centers. After waiting for seven years, Hananh’s
parent’s Jan and Jerry, were delighted to hear that the house
was available and that both Hannah and her sister, Angie,
would be able to move in together.
To help with
this new
transition,
Hannah
and her
family were
able to go into the house while it was being built and were
given the opportunity to see their room that they now share
while it was being built. Today, the room is full of each girl’s
personality; there are John Wayne and Wizard of Oz posters
plastered on the walls and vanity tops covered in a variety of
scented perfumes and beauty products.
Hannah spends her weeks going on outings with her
Community Support Professional (CSP), Nancy Jackson, to
A New Hope Center where she volunteers four days a week
organizing, sorting, and folding clothing donations. Outside of
volunteering, Nancy and Hannah enjoy going to zoos, parks,
and shopping malls.
“She laughs a whole lot more, she stands better, she really
recognizes the people that she works with” remarked Jan
when discussing Hannah’s progress since working with
Racker Centers and volunteering with A New Hope Center.
Hannah’s eye contact has improved and her CSP, Nancy, says
“she will look at me when I am talking to her and most of the
time she’ll look at the objects that I show her.”
Volunteering at A
New Hope Center
has helped Hannah
to belong to her
community. “It
helps her be a part
of the community
that she lives in and
I think that is very
important,” Jan
says. “People look
forward to having
Hannah come,
they miss her if she
doesn’t show up,
and they ask about
her; that means
she’s assimilated
into the community
a great deal,” Jan
concludes.
~ Hannah’s Mother, Jan
In Memory of: Dr. Franziska W. Racker
Dora Donovan
Frannie Mason
Stellario and Barbara Ruggiero
Judy and Richard Sherman
Anne Treichler
William and Norma Wasmuth
In Honor of: Andrew Rice
Lisa and Chris Pate
In Memory of: Paul R. Ridley
Ted and Judy Malley
Sharon Morgan
In Memory of: Ed Roberts
Catherine Savage
In Memory of: Jake Schafer
Anthony andAmelia Massi
In Honor of: Howard and Lauren
Schler
Michael and Joan Schler
In Honor of: Topher Scott
Heather and Bill Hughes
In Honor of: Jody Scriber
Matthew and Lynn Steenberg
In Memory of: Miles Seely
Cindy and Tom Lilly
In Memory of: Laurel Shenstone
Gregory Shenstone
In Honor of: Roger R. Sibley
Marilyn Crooker
Jean Strout
In Memory of: Richard J. Sick	
Rita Sick
In Honor of: Lauren Slebodnick
John Gaines
In Honor of: Danya Snavely
Erich and Cheryl Schaefer
In Honor of: Yoni and Shira Speizer
Stanley and Suri Friedman
In Memory of: Paul Steiger
Albert and Mary Burkhardt
George and Kay Ross
In Honor of: Zachariah Tull
Virginia K. Rinker
In Memory of: Robin Voorheis
Heather and Bill Hughes
In Honor of: Tristan Webster
Edward and GayleenAusten
In Honor of: Kenneth J. Woodman
Ken and Marie Woodman
In Honor of: Marian Yates
Patrick Bohn andAshley Yates
Published by Racker Centers’ Office of Community Relations
Editor | Heather Hughes, Director of Public Relations
Design | Dawn Bricen LaMorte, Sunrise Studios Design | SunriseStudiosDesign@gmail.com
Contributors | Elizabeth Brando, Dan Brown, Heather Hughes, Sally Manning
Photography | Courtesy of Racker Staff
Cortland County Sites
Preschool Program, Community and Residential Services
882 NYS Route 13 | Cortland, NY 13045				 Tel: 607.753.9375
Counseling Programs at OCM BOCES
1710 NYS Route 13 | Cortland, NY 13045				 Tel: 607.758.5100
Tioga County Sites
Preschool Programs and Community Services
1277 Taylor Rd. | Owego, NY 13827				 Tel: 607.687.8929
Tompkins County Sites
Administrative Building, Margaret Gibson Preschool, Community & Residential Services
3226 Wilkins Rd. | Ithaca, NY 14850				 Tel: 607.272.5891
Clinic
1001 W. Seneca St. | Ithaca, NY 14850				 Tel: 607.277.8020
Counseling Programs at TST BOCES, Smith School
555 Warren Rd. | Ithaca, NY 14850					Tel: 607.257.2353
FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.rackercenters.org | info@rackercenters.org | tel: 607-272-5891 | 1-800-336-1660
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2014
President, Steve Lipinski
Vice-President, Cal Organ
Treasurer, Eugene Yarussi
Secretary, Kevin Shreve
Directors
Paul Banfield
David Campbell
John Crosby
Elizabeth Gesin
David Hall
Kristin S. Lewis
David McNeil
David Robertshaw
Kara Taylor
Chuck Tompkins
Emeritus Executive Director
Roger R. Sibley
Emeriti Directors
Bob Bantle
Dave Dunlop
Sam Forcucci
Margaret Gibson
Tom Longin
Dan McNeil
Dave Palmer
Chuck Tompkins
Mark Weidman
F. Ben Williams
Associate Directors
W. David Banfield
Carolyn Bartell
Tom Bohn
Lorry Cole
Daphne Cornell
Rick Cowan
Eugene C. Erickson
Yvonne Moore Everhart
Phyllis Joyce
Jeffrey Lewis, M.D.
Brian McAree
Richie Moran
Sarah Rich, Ph.D.
John Rudd
Howard Schler
George Schneider
Emma Scott
Christine Schweitzer
L. Joseph Thomas
James Turner, Ph.D.
Jen Whittaker

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AR FINAL 2014

  • 1. ANNUAL REPORT 2014 We ENVISION a World Where All People know they Belong.
  • 2. Annual Report 2014 3 Racker was founded in 1948 to support people with disabilities and their families. Families wanted their children with disabilities to participate in their community, to belong. Sixty-six years later great progress has been made on this goal, but we are not there yet. People with disabilities still do not feel that they belong. Research indicates that 60% of people with disabilities do not have friends. Only 12% of people with disabilities are working side-by- side with individuals that do not have disabilities. A straightforward way for each of us to think about the current situation for people with disabilities is a slightly modified version of a quote by Orlando Peterson: “The opposite of separation is not freedom, it is belonging.” Have you ever walked into a room and felt like you were invisible? You were there, but you didn’t feel like you belonged. People with disabilities are now seen in society, at restaurants, movies, public schools, but the “separated feeling” for most people with disabilities still exists. That will only change when they are in the room and “visible.” The importance of the belonging focus, which comes from our founders in 1948, was strengthened by the Strategic Planning that we did in 2014. The planning process consisted of meetings with over 400 people, including community members, business representatives, partners, people with disabilities and their families, self-advocates, board members, and our staff. from DAN BROWN| executive director VISION We envision a world where all people know they belong. MISSION We support people with disabilities and their families to lead fulfill- ing lives by providing opportunities to learn and be connected with others. THREE-to-FIVE YEAR OUTCOME Individuals and families that we support will know they belong to more communities of their choosing. The strategic planning work resulted in a new Vision, Mission and Three-to-Five Year outcome statements: With your support and the great work of our staff we will: • help people with disabilities find things they are interested in • help people with disabilities to have the confidence to take risks in community settings of their choice • make connections that nurture their interests • educate the community that people with disabilities can and do add value to our world “It will take people with disabilities AND people without disabilities to make our Vision come true.” ~Dan Brown “It will take people with disabilities AND people without disabilities to make our Vision come true.” ~Dan Brown With the exception of our preschool classroom services, the overwhelming majority of our services happen at offsite locations such as schools, people’s homes and throughout the community. Only about 9% of services happen at Racker Centers locations. 2 Annual Report 2014 1,298 children were provided universal mental health screenings in 2014 at their doctors’ offices, schools, and preschools through our Early Recognition project. This program, available to kids in tompkins and seneca counties is made possible with pass-through funding from the New York State Office of Mental Health. Olivia was having a hard time with transitions from classroom to classroom and completely fell apart when things “went off routine” such as fire drills and special assemblies. The last straw came when she was “sent to the principal’s office” because she had a meltdown in the classroom and could not be consoled. The principal ended up driving her to our babysitter’s house himself. Who was this kid who acted completely different at home and at her caregiver’s house? Finally, a meeting was scheduled with the school and the county and the process was started to get her tested. My husband and I also discussed taking her out of that environment and sending her back to her favorite caregiver where she did not kick and bite and scratch others. She continued to have good days and bad days, and we kept her home a lot of days just to finish out the semester. Her tests were inconclusive but showed significant signs of sensory processing issues as well as a lag in receptive language. She did not talk a lot with us but we thought that she might just be introverted. Perhaps the regular school classroom was literally too much for her to handle? Luckily for us, we discovered Racker Centers and Olivia started attending preschool in the spring of 2014. Within weeks we noticed a difference both in her conversations with us and in how she interacted with other children. She had always enjoyed the company of adults but rarely played with other children unless she had spent significant time with them. Since starting preschool at Racker Centers, there were no more incidents of biting, kicking, and scratching and the principal has yet to drive her home! She began receiving occupational therapy (don’t lean on other children) and speech therapy (“receptive speech” is taking turns in conversation) two times per week. Things were great throughout the spring semester and we were thrilled that she was able to continue with the summer program. Not Every Challenge is Visible by Elizabeth Brando Last fall, our lively, fun-loving four-year-old daughter Olivia entered a universal pre-kindergarten (UPK) program in our local public school system. We had been looking forward to this “step up” in her life - she would get to ride a school bus, carry a backpack, meet new friends, and enjoy this new stage of learning with a new teacher. However, shortly after school began, we started receiving notes from her teacher about our daughter’s disruptive behavior. The best “a-ha” moments for our family that demonstrate the difference that Racker Centers is making in Olivia’s life occur out in public around other children. Our daughter has started to play with other kids on the playground, at the public pool and/or at the splash pads. She will now have conversations with her peers. My husband took her to a park and when another little girl ran up to her and said “do you want to play with me?” our daughter said “yes” and off they ran. Seemingly simple steps, but ones that are critical for her development, and her feeling of belonging...someone you want to work with...have on your team. Best of all for our daughter, she gets to ride a big white bus! An article that Elizabeth recommends that may help families better understand Sensory Processing Disorder can be found at: http://www.childmind.org/en/posts/ articles/2011-10-26-sensory-processing- issues-explained R E S O U R C ESincerely, Dan Brown, Executive Director
  • 3. Anonymous Robert B. Allan* Beverly Baker Rose Beckwith* Dan and Eve Brown William and Anne Chernish John and Ann Racker Costello Don and Sylvia Dickinson Clifford DuBreuil Jean M. Dunlavey* Dave and Peggy Dunlop John* and Martha Ferger Robert E. Fish* William F. Fuerst, Jr.* George V. and Jean A. Smith Charitable Trust Doris I. German* Charles A. Gibson* Margaret I. Gibson* Robert and Patricia Haley Jeanette Hanford* Lillian Hoffman Norma Jayne* The Keilbach and Hardie Families Dr. and Mrs. Howard Kelley* Judith K. Leavitt Thomas Longin and Nancy Tillinghast Brick Miscall* Anna Maria Muenster* William J.* and Helen B. Musto* Kust Polho* Franziska W. Racker* Sarah Rich Tom and Betsy Salm Howard and Lauren Schler Jody and Kent Scriber Henry C. Sibley, Jr.* Roger and Carole Sibley Agnes Smith* Lawrence A. Snyder* Kevin Stearns* John C. Stephens Jean Strout Sidney L. Tamarin* Pauline B. Treman* Jeffrey True and Susan Schattschneider Olive L. Wilkinson* Agnes Gainey Williams* Fred (Ben) Williams *Deceased 4 Annual REport 2014 OUR SPECIAL FRIENDS WHO, BY THEIR THOUGHTFUL ACTIONS AND PLANNED GIVING, HAVE HELPED TO BUILD AND SUSTAIN RACKER CENTERS FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS. Racker Society Annual Report 2014 5 Zack|Success Story by Sally Manning Zack is a 12-year-old young man, who after several years of struggling to find his stride in life, has now reached a “Turning Point.” The Turning Point program is a partnership program between Racker Centers and Tompkins-Seneca- Tioga (TST) BOCES. After learning more about the Program and visiting with the team of BOCES and Racker staff in April 2014, Zack attended an official Committee on Special Education (CSE) meeting in the Dryden School District and shared his feedback, “I want to go to the Turning Point Program – they have what I need.” Zack’s keen self-awareness and insight are two of the characteristics which have been key components in his success over the past year. Another key factor in his success has been the support and commitment of his parents. Zack is the son of Tom and Dorene Sorensen, who share that they also felt sure after that initial visit that Turning Point was the right place for Zack. They noticed that the questions staff asked him during the meeting indicated right away that they “got him.” According to Tom, the staff at Turning Point created an individualized approach for Zack rather than trying to fit him into a “one-size-fits-all” program. Tom and Dorene were already familiar with Racker Centers as Zack received Early Intervention Services from Racker Centers’ staff in his home as a toddler. As a young child, Zack needed help with sensory challenges and some beginning signs of anxiety. He had difficulty with change and transitions, and the family worked closely with Dryden schools when he entered elementary school to address these concerns. Through his first few years of elementary school, many interventions were tried at school and at home including therapy, 1:1 aides, modifications to Zack’s school day, medication, home tutoring, and even probation. It became clear when Zack was in the 5th grade that it was time to think outside the box and try something new. This led to a recommendation from the Dryden CSE for placement in a Turning Point classroom. Turning Point is an intensive Day Treatment program, licensed by the Office of Mental Health. Classrooms are located at TST BOCES in Ithaca and students referred to the program by their local school district are in need of comprehensive mental health services that are integrated into their academic program. Students see a therapist, have access to a psychiatrist or nurse-practitioner for consultations, and if needed, are prescribed medication. Students receive special education services and supports and benefit from the cohesive team approach of the BOCES teachers and the Racker Centers’ therapists. The goal is to offer these supports on a long term basis while working to transition students back to their home school whenever possible. Zack describes what it was like to leave his home school and develop new relationships at Turning Point. “I didn’t know any of the kids, but I knew one of the teachers here, Angie Schmidt, an aide at BOCES and it helped to see a familiar face.” He shares that it was important to learn to trust himself and others in order to make some of the necessary changes in his behavior. According to Zack and his counselor, Aubrey Munson, LCSW and day treatment counselor with Racker Centers, he didn’t always act in a safe manner before he came here, and even when he first arrived. As time wenjt on Zack began to develop many relationships within the Turning Point Program; including with his counselor Aubrey; and his aides James, Gabe, and Shana; BOCES teachers, Mrs. Hunt (classroom) and Mr. B. (ELA); as well as classmates, and Jasper the therapy dog. All of these relationships enabled Zack to better use some of his newly learned coping skills in a more consistent manner. Zack has grown to be a great role model for his peers and has developed skills in sharing constructive feedback with his classmates during regular weekly meetings in the classroom. He describes himself as having a lot more friends than before and that he is learning how to trust them and rely on them for support when he feels challenged. Zack now experiences a sense of belonging at Turning Point. His ability to connect with others seems directly related to the strong sense of belonging that has been cultivated in his family. Tom and Dorene are parents to Zack, his brother Will (age 11), Robert (age 16) and to numerous foster children who have been invited into their home through the years. The family has stayed connected. Zack also belongs to Boy Scouts and his connection to that group has also contributed to his sense of independence and mastery in many areas. Zack’s parents describe that there were many layers to uncover in order to reach the place they are now, and the journey was not without some failures along the way. He has truly started in a new direction – a “turning point” for him. Zack seems very aware that the road doesn’t stop here; he must continue working on himself. He gives the following advice for other young people who may find themselves at a “turning point”: take breaks, use your supports, and learn how to trust yourself and others. This seems like good advice for all of us! Racker Centers’ Family Navigator’s Program is a grant funded program which helps to match families FACING mental health challenges with an individual who has had experience in supporting their own family member who has also struggled with mental health challenges. This peer support program has identified three individuals with “lived” experience and has successfully paired them with 30 families in 2014.
  • 4. Betty Helsper Marjorie Helsper Sue Hemsath Elaine Henry David Herrick Robert and Joyce Herrick David and Joan Herskovits David Hewlett Jana Hexter Felicite Hibbard Tom Hickcox Roger and Suzanne Hinderliter Hines & Allen Law Office Lillian Hoffman HOLTArchitects, P.C. Ed and Sue Hooks Jean Horigan Robert and Joan Horn David Horrocks Neal and Pat Howard Thomas Howarth Allison Howe Jim and Sue Hranek Irene Hubbell Gordon and Margaret Huckle Heather and Bill Hughes Barbara Hulbert Elwood and Janet Hulbert Kellie Hulbert Kellie and Chris Hummel Catherine Husa and Sami Husseini Mary and Bob Hutchens IBEW Local 241 David and Amy Iles Incodema Harriet Ink Inlet Glass & Mirror, Inc. International Food Network Ithaca Ace Hardware Ithaca Child Ithaca College Ithaca Foreign Car Service Kathleen Jacklin Jake and Janet Jacoby Andre and Jean Jagendorf Ralph and Rhoda Janis Jim Ray Homes JJ’s Cafe James John Laurie Johnston Deborah Jones and Barb DeWall Kenneth and Joyce Jones Susan Kaplan Robert and Kathleen Kemple, Jr. John Kennedy William and Mary Kennedy Robert and Evonne Kern Ryan and Aubrey Kerwin Key Bank Irene Kiely Joe and Patty Kiely Thomas and Mary Ann Kiernan Judson and Suzanne Kilgore Michael and Chris Kimball Kindret Construction Ltd. Gary and Judi King King’s Daughters Home Paul Kirk and Liz Keenan Jeffrey and Diana Kleinwaks KMT Books Knights of Columbus Cncl. 277 George Kobas & Linda Grace-Kobas Robert and Rachel Koll Sara Komaromi Judith Komor Kirit Kottam Bjoern and Antje Krenz Anonymous 15 Steps ABC Services of Ithaca, Inc. Affiliated Psychological Consultants, P.C. Pete Akins and Connie Ged Eric Alani Christopher and Brigid Allinger Kiko Alvarez and Susana Mendez Amazon Smile Foundation American Legion Post 221 Carmen and Tami Amici Katherine Anderson and Max Pensky Anytime Fitness APRA Florida Chapter Florencia Ardon and Rodney Chinn Christine Armao Robert Aronson Erin Arras Neil and Judith Ashcroft Edward and Gayleen Austen Elizabeth Bagnardi Beverly Baker Cristin Baker Natalie Baker Baker-Miller Lumber, Inc. Caren Baldini D. G. Bancroft-Gowin David and Lenore Bandler Paul and Diane Banfield Jack Bangs Kevin and Jacqueline Bangs Bangs Ambulance Bangs Funeral Home Rick and Maryanne Banks Bob and Melinda Bantle J. Robert Barlow Eugenia Barnaba Chris and Clara Barrett Bridget Barry Carolyn and Gene Bartell Roger Batchelder Myrtle and Robert Batsford Richard and Norma Bauer Marilyn Baurle Carol and Rosanne Beach Joan Bechhofer Roger Beck John and Randi Beckmann Vida and Vaughn Behn Bernard and Linda Beins Bill and Nancy Bellamy Louise Bement Fran Benedict Martha Benninger Legrace Benson Rich and Debra Benson Arthur Berkey Anne and Ted Berrien Rose Bethe Heather Betz and Susan Hazelton Robert and Phyllis Betzler Nelson and Barbara Bills Kenneth Birman and Anne Neirynck James and Carole Bisogni, Jr. Richard and Louann Biviano Edith Blackman Paul and Suzy Blanchard Blessed Trinity Parish Michael and Kathryn Bohn Patrick Bohn and Ashley Yates Tom and Donna Bohn Coert Bonthius Joseph and Cheryl Borden Beverly Bortz Michael Bovi Krystal Bowen Michael and Elizabeth Brando Rachel Brill Joel and Susan Brock Liese Bronfenbrenner Bethany Brown and Bradley Smith Crystal Brown Katie Brown and Eric Trotter Susannah Brown Warren Brown David and Julie Brumsted Francis and Joyce Budney Gregory Budney Michael and Susan Budney Sue Budney Karin Burgess Seth and Carolyn Burgess Albert and Mary Burkhardt Lisa Burns George Butler Joseph and Nan Bylebyl Jim and Terry Byrnes Byron’s Service CAenter Byron’s Used Autos Leo and Sandra Cacciotti Sheila Cafferillo Cecilia Campbell and Deborah Gagnon David Campbell and Thomas Connors Michael and Michelle Cannon The Capozzi Families Barbara Cappucci Gary and Rita Carlson Richard and Linda Carlton Stanley and Carol Carpenter Anne Carson Stephen and Dolores Caruso Joseph and Jackie Cassaniti Cataract Hose Company No. 7 Daniel and Patricia Cawley Kristin Cerione CFCU Community Credit Union Larry and Arlene Chase Stephen Chase Penelope Chick and Rory Rothman Roberta Chiesa Margo Chiuten and Shawna Black John and Pamela Cincotta City Club of Ithaca Andrea and Richard Clark Leslie and Kay Cleland Mark Clemente Nancy Cleveland John Coccia Elissa Cogan and Barry Chester Helen S. Cogan Constance Colbert Mary Ann K. and Timothy J. Colbert Barbara Collyer Steve and Ann Colt Communiqué Design & Marketing Karen Coney Coplin Margaret Congdon Gordon and Onalee Conklin Pamela Conklin Conley & Son Excavating Company Peter and Kay Cooke Bert and Helen Cooley Ed and Caroline Cope Brad and Nancy Corbitt Corks & More Daphne and Ezra Cornell Cornell Men’s Ice Hockey Cornell Pochily Investment Advisors David and Carolyn Corson Cortland Eye Center Anne Costello Walton and Jean Cottrell Rick and Jill Cowan Marilyn Crooker John Crosby Katherine Crotty Sheila Crowley Steven Croyle Mary Ellen Cummings William Currie William and Gail Cutler Kim Daghita Marion DaGrossa Joseph Daino Brenda Daniels Danks Burke Family Rick and Marlaine Darfler Marie Anne de Roos Michelle Delaney David Delchamps Dorothy Delisle and Shawn Pompe Victor and Jean Delisle Donna Dempster-McClain Christine Dennis Ken and Regina Deschere Susan Detzer Roy and Fran Dexheimer Ann Dexter Bill and Sandy Dhimitri Don and Sue Dickinson David Dier Steve Dippolito Matthew Dobush Pamela and Charles Dollaway Debra Donnelly Eve Donnelly Chuck and Cris Donovan Gretchen Douglas Doug’s Fish Fry Dr. James Fey, DMD Michele Draiss Nancy Dreier David and Judy Dresser David Dubow Gerard and Sherri Dunham Horton and Shirley Durfee Daniel and Debra Dwyer Jan Dyson Eagle Envelope Forrest and Sara Earl Mildred Earl Brian and Jody Earle Corey Earle Evan Earle Terry and Jean Earle Eastern Managed Print Services Danny and Lynn Eastman Maralyn Edid and Lawrence Blume Ron and Randy Ehrenberg Ehrhart Energy Sandy and Jeffrey Ehrlich Eric Eisenhut Tony and Julie Eisenhut Terry and Vaughn Eldred Brian Eldridge Stephen Ellner & Nancy Saltzman Harry and Mary Ellsworth Robert and Lisa Elston Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft Arvilla Enck Katherine Englander Stephen and Kathy Eschler Roger and Sue Eslinger Rodolfo Espino Matt, Madeline, and Peter Estill Andrew Evans Michele Evans F&T Distributing Company Inc. Paul and Pam Fairbanks Jerry Feist and Joyce Marsh Jonathan Feldman David Feldshuh and Martha Frommelt John and Anita Ferro Maura Fetsko John Finnegan First National Bank of Dryden Douglas Firth Frank and Gail Flannery Burt Flickinger David and Mary Flinn James and Judy Fogel Sam Forcucci Olan and Katie Forker Alan and Jeanne Fox Raymond Fox Gary Frank Franziska Racker Centers (PT Dept) Ed Freeman Brandon French Frontenac Designs John Fuchs Allen and Gail Fulkerson Susan Fuller James and Kathleen Gaffney John Gaines Gamba Auto Kenneth and Vonnie Gardner Loren and Kristen Gardner Kathy Garner and Jim Darnieder Lowell Garner and Susan Lustick Reeder and Sally Gates Paul Geisler Wayne and Regina Genung Liz and Jon Gesin Givalike Ronald and Sandra Gladstone Rabbi Scott and Sharon Glass Glenwood Pines Restaurant Alexandra Goetz Connie Goldsmith Merri Goodrow Rodney Gould Daniel and Karen Governanti Bernard and Madeline Graham Bob and Johanna Granados Pamela Graves Lorraine Greenberg Steve Greenberg Carolyn Greenwald &Adam Schaye Mark Grimm and Alexis Zaharis Helen Grippo Nancy Grossman and Donald Swanson Denise Grout David and Sally Grubb Carmen Guidi George Gull and Nancy Potter Wilma Habel Dianna Halevy David Hall Heather Hammond Margaret Hampson Torrance Hanley Jeff Hardgrove Skip and Holly Hardie Peter Harriott Harris Beach PLLC Christopher Hart Thomas Hartshorne Joan Hass The Hawkes Family Carl and Susan Haynes Charles and Liz Heath David and Joyce Heck Marie and Alan Hedge FRIENDS of the Centers We feel fortunate to have so many friends who support us with gifts to annual operating as well as targeted needs and special projects. Our FRIENDS of the Centers’ list includes those who made gifts, pledges, or gifts-in-kind. We owe a special thank you to those on our Racker Fellows and Business Partners lists for their donations of $1,000 or more. Gifts to Racker Centers help us fill funding gaps and address areas of greatest concern. With your help, we can continue providing innovative services for people with disabilities in our community, helping them have happy, productive lives. We are grateful for the ongoing support of our many friends. Anonymous John and Elaine Alexander W. David and Mary Lee Banfield Dan and Eve Brown John and Ann Racker Costello Bob and Vanne Cowie Dora Donovan Dave and Peggy Dunlop Chuck and Yvonne Everhart Stanley and Suri Friedman Charles and Linda Garbo Amanda Gibson Margaret I. Gibson* Brad and Mary Grainger Rip and Pat Haley Joan and Dave Hardie* Greg and Bev Hartz Mark and Mickie Jauquet Catharine Joyce Phyllis and Lanny Joyce Kevin and Lindsey Kauffman Meg and Eric Keilbach Jeffrey and Kristin Lewis Stuart and Ruthye Lewis Stephen and Kathryn Lipinski Glenda Long Michael and Iris Long Perri and Mick LoPinto Josephine McAllister Dan and Rose McNeil David and Christine McNeil Mary McNeil Philip and Peggy Meyer Jeanette Miller Anna Maria Muenster* Carol Neigh Herbert Nowell Cal and Joan Organ Ed and Mary Ann Oyer Dave and Shirley Palmer Stephen and Linda Pope Frank and Rosa Rhodes Sarah M. Rich David and Margaret Robertshaw Tom and Betsy Salm Howard and Lauren Schler Fred Schneider and Mimi Bussan Topher and Emma Scott Jody and Kent Scriber Kevin and Lynn Shreve Roger and Carole Sibley David Stinson and Elizabeth Ashford Deborah Streeter and Tom Owens Fred Tomvzuk Betty Watkins Erik and Deborah Whitney Jennifer and Sean Whittaker Eugene and Jeanne Yarussi RACKER FELLOWS * Estate Gift Benefit Design Services BorgWarner Morse TEC Cargill Deicing Technology Cayuga Landscape Cayuga Radio Group Cortland Community Foundation Dr. Robert Duthie, D.D.S. & Dr. Gregory Subtelny, D.D.S. Emerson Power Transmission George V. and Jean A. Smith Charitable Trust Haylor, Freyer & Coon Innovations Aveda Salon Intertek ETL, SEMKO Division Ithaca Journal Ithaca Plumbing Supply Ithaca Sertoma Club John Ben Snow Memorial Trust LeChase Construction Lewis G. Schaeneman, Jr. Foundation Linz Real Estate M&T Bank BUSINESS PARTNERS GIVINGto Racker Centers Maguire Family of Dealerships McKinnon Benefits Group McNeil Development Mutual of America New York State Elks Northwestern Mutual Panera Bread Puzzle Solvers Rauch Foundation Sciarabba Walker & Co. LLP Social Service League of Ithaca Sparrow’s Fine Wines Tioga United Way The Ability Experience The Computing Center The Mildred Faulkner Truman Foundation Tompkins Trust Company Triad Foundation United Way for Cortland County United Way of Tompkins County Wegmans Food Markets 6 Annual Report 2014 continued on page 8 *Estate Gift 7
  • 5. Edward Thomas and Kathleen Strickland John and Betty Thomas Joe and Margaret Thomas Thomas L. Shields, DDS Susan and Mark Thomas Michael and Marina Todd Chuck and Ann Tompkins Tompkins Insurance Agencies Frank and Melanie Towner Hilda Townsend Anne Treichler Triphammer Wines & Spirits Trombley Tire & Auto Vance Trout Jeff True and Susan Schattschneider Yohko Tsuji Thomas and Claudia Tull James and Janice Turner Bik Tye David and Lucia Tyler Carol Tytler John and Carol Uber Curt and Amanda Ufford Dave Ulrich George and Diane Valesente Mary Vallely Margaret Van Houtte Elizabeth van Leer Mara van Loggerenberg Frank Van Sickle II Joan Van Vranken Marcia Vann Robert and Laurie Vanvleet Lewis and Barbara Varney Village Greenhouse, Inc. John and Carol Vineyard Charles and Jane Walcott Maureen Waller Russell Wanish Richard Warkentin and Dawn Kleeschulte Warren Real Estate of Ithaca William and Norma Wasmuth Alexandra Watson James Watson, Jr. Todd Webb Donald Weber and Shira Stern Harry and Barbara Weber Kristen Weinberger Fannie Welch Chris Wells Joseph and Betty Weneser Carol Weston Mike and Cathy Whalen Mark and Ellen Wheeler Ken White Kevin and Barbara White Maurice and Steffi White Tara Wilder Anthony Williams David and Katherine Williams Fred (Ben) Williams Jay and Vicky Williamson Lou and Fran Withiam David and Susan Wohlhueter Hilary Wong Sophia Woodhouse Ken and Marie Woodman Andrew Yale and Brenda Kuhn Shijie Yang and Hongnan Ma Kim Yeoh Bettie Lee Yerka Lincoln Young Robert and Agnes Zavaski Joel and Cathy Zumoff John and Cheryl Mitchell Daniel Mont and Nanette Goodman Pat and Victor Montanez Robert Laurence Moore Moore’s Christmas Tree Farm Richie and Pat Moran Sharon Morgan Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Andrew Morpurgo Florence Mosher Dale and Patricia Mueller Arthur and Betty Muka Susan Murphy Karlis Musa Don Nagle and Cindy Stiles Mike Neely Mark Nelson Carolyn Neuman Elizabeth Newbury Newfield Lioness Club Katherine Newton Sean and Claire Nicholson Andy and Betsy Noel Esther Northrup Jerome and Barbara Nosanchuk Brendan O’Brien Kate O’Connell and Robert D’Addario Oculus Info Inc. Brad and Lila Olson Christine O’Malley Marne O’Shae and Ira Kamp Thomas and Kathleen Overbaugh Kenneth and Catherine Paddock Greg and Sherry Page Steve and Ellen Palladino Glen Palmer and Carol True Palmer Luke Pamel Stan Pamel Sonya Monosoff Pancaldo Corina Park-Batsford and Mike Batsford Larry and Jackie Pataki Lisa and Chris Pate Barbara and Robert Patten Patterson’s Service Station Mike Pattison Kerry Pauldine John and Ann Pavia Alan and Nancy Pedersen Marianne M. Pelletier and Laura Staubes Alexander and Kristina Perialas Stephen and Paula Pete Kristina Petrillose Debra Phenes Janice and Arthur Phillips III Nikolette Phillips Charlie and Karen Phlegar Michael Pitcher Curtis and Shatoya Pittman Jennifer Podkul and Craig Kullmann Ted and Joan Podkul, Jr. Leonard and Christine Pogorzala Larry and Bonnie Pollow George Poppensiek Larry and Pamela Postle Dakota Potenza John Potter Jane Powers Precision Filters Inc. Walter Priest Pritchard Automotive Project Sunshine Jim and Wendy Prout Throughout 2014 Racker Centers benefitted from the support of 697 INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES and 118 businesses to carry out our mission of supporting people with disabilities and their families to lead fulfilling lives by providing opportunities to learn and be connected to others. 2014FINANCIAL REPORT Public Support & Revenue Children’s and Clinical Services $7,119,935 22% Residential Services $17,362,626 53% Community Support Services $5,095,941 15% Counseling for School Success $2,534,441 8% Fund Raising $393,595 1% Other Revenue $169,814 1% Investment Gains....................................$96,895 Prior Period Adjustments..........................$4,254 Miscellaneous.........................................$68,665 TOTAL $32,676,352 100% Expenses Children’s and Clinical Services 24% Residential Services 54% Community Support Services 15% Counseling for School Success 7% TOTAL 100% Children’s and Clinical Services, 24% Community Support Services, 15% Counseling for School Success, 8% Residential Services, 54% E X P E N S E S Rose Krupas Alan and Mary Krystal Kyle Kubick and Marie Garland Ben Kuo Stephen Lamb John Lambert and Robin Rogers Rachel and David Lampert Carolyn Lange Gary Lansdowne Lansing High School Student Council Christina Larkin Patricia Larsen Wayne and Marcia Larsen Vivian Laube Dr. David Leavitt & Dr. Marnie Burkman Judith K. Leavitt Noah Samuel Leavitt & Helen Kim Philip and Lesly Lempert Dr. G. Peter Lepage and Deborah O’Connor Ofer Leshed Antoinette Levatich Deborah Levin Simon and Carole Levin Diane Levine Matthew Liberty Cindy and Tom Lilly Brian and Laurie Lindberg David and Nancy Lippert Jun Liu Tom and Lisa LiVigne Howard and Carolyn Longhouse John and Linda Longhouse Tom Longin and Nancy Tillinghast Michael Longo and Gina Amici Darlene Loope Audrey Lowe Jack and Janet Lowe Yolanda Lucatelli Mick Lumb David and Priscilla Lundeen Richard and Janet MacDonald Dan Mahoney Ted and Judy Malley Mancini-Ferrara & Sons Inc. Victor and Ellen Marchetti Glenna Margaris Barbara and John Marmora Herbert Marshall Brenda Marston Melanie Martin Roxanne Martin Marvin and Annette Lee Foundation Frannie Mason Anthony and Amelia Massi Angelo and Connie Mastronardi Michael and Shelley Matheny Mary Beth Mathey Brian McAree and Kris Corda James McConkey Marie McCrone Molly McDowell Sharon McGee and Jin Soo Kim Carolyn McGory Adrienne McNair Jean and Daniel McPheeters McPherson Builders, Inc. Judith Mehravari Joe and Emily Metz Edna Z. Michael Sueann Mikitiuk-Giacalone David Miller Nina Miller Gerald and Janet Miner Arthur Mintz Doug Mitarotonda 8 Annual Report 2014 Annual Report 2014 9 FRIENDScontinued... Richard and Donna Prybyl Beth Putnam Elaine Quaroni Thomas and Kathryn Quirk Radiology Associates of Ithaca, PC Rauch Foundation Josephine Reed Joe and Carrie Regenstein Keith and Crystal Rehbein Victor and Joyce Rendano Ruth and Charles Reniff Melissa Reynolds Anne Richards Mary Richards Richardson Bros. Electrical Contractors James Rider Virginia K. Rinker Bryan Roberts Martha and Steve Robertson Wendy Robertson & Doug Antczak Dan and Becky Robinson Eric and Margaret Robinson Joseph and Rachel Rocco Ward Romer George and Kay Ross Arthur and Ellen Rosten Julia Roth RSVP Knitters Thomas Ruane and Donna Augustine Aurora Rubens Valenti Elliot and P. A. Rubinstein John Rudd and Beverly Chin Stellario and Barbara Ruggiero Scott and Jan Russell Matthew Russo Gillian Ryan Joseph and Jessica Ryan Timothy Ryan Robert and Rita Ryczak Dolores and Sid Saltzman Carolyn Sampson Rose Sanford Carlos and Margarita Santisteban Steve and Karen Sass Frank and Pauline Satterly Catherine Savage Esty and Jonathan Schachter Erich and Cheryl Schaefer William and Marianne Schaffner Schickel Construction Michael and Joan Schler George and Bobbie Schneider Dan and Mary Ellen Schreher Nancy Schrempf Josie Schug Arnold and Mary Schwartz Michael Schwartz David and Rebecca Schwed Christine Schweitzer Beatrice Schwoerer Andrew and Rosemary Sciarabba Debra Scott Donna Scott Robert Scott Thomas Scott Thomas and Jean Seaman Security Mutual Insurance Company Rose Seely Rose Marie Serignese Gary and Colleen Sforzo Carl and Marilyn Sgrecci Margaret Shackell Steve Shaff Quinn Shamlian Laurie Shaver Richard Sheffield Bonita Shelford Gregory Shenstone Judy and Richard Sherman Jerry Shing and Duane Diviney Michael and Karen Shuler Arthur and Charlotte Shull Henry and Sandy Sibley Rita Sick Matt and Nancy Siegel Rachel Siegel Kirk Sigel Walter Silbert Lisa Silverman Hoffberg Michael and Sandra Simkin Albert and Jeanette Sinnigen Ray and Judy Small Anna Smith Carlton Smith Courtney Smith Robert Smith and Alice Moore Scott and Lisa Smith Tom and Elfriede Smith Donna Smith-O’Connell Jeffrey and Suzanne Snedeker Jean Snow Thomas and Donna Sokol David and Rebecca Sparrow Ceil Spero Robert Sprole St. Catherine of Siena Church Melissa Stalica Michael and Therese Stanley Kimberly Stanton Lara Stanton Erica Stark Kevin Stearns* Matthew and Lynn Steenberg Thomas Steffie Paul Steiger Stellar Stereo Robert and Diane Stites Wayne Stokes Janet and James Strait Violet Street Robert and Naomi Strichartz Jean Strout Peter Strumpf Carol Sullivan Susan Sullivan Mike and Sandy Sweazey Karen Szembrot Nichole Szembrot T.G. Miller, P.C. Engineers & Surveyors Victoria Tagarelli Julie Taibi Charles and Heather Tallman Kevin and Helen Talty Marisue and David Taube Chuck Tauck Taughannock Aviation Hollands Tavelli Kara Taylor Robert and Judy Taylor Louanne Tenkate The Boatyard Grill The Frame Shop The Hair-Loom The Statler Hotel The Strebel Fund forCommunity Enrichmentofthe CommunityFoundation The William Henry Miller Inn Therm Incorporated
  • 6. In Honor of: Ann Racker Costello Dale and Patricia Mueller In Honor of: John and Ann Costello Anne Costello Frank and Rosa Rhodes In Memory of: Rev. Allen Cropf Charles and Liz Heath In Memory of: Cassidy D’Addario Ann Dexter Thomas and MaryAnn Kiernan In Honor of: Toby and Larry Deutchman Judith K. Leavitt In Memory of: Robert “Bob” Diemond Cataract Hose Company #7 In Memory of: Joleen DiGiacomo Sara Komaromi In Honor of: Cris Donovan Richard and Janet MacDonald In Honor of: Billy Earl Mildred Earl In Memory of: William Earl, Sr. Mildred Earl In Honor of: Sheryl Edwards Bridget Barry In Memory of: Eric L. Ehrenberg Ron and Randy Ehrenberg In Honor of: Terrie Ellis Carolyn McGory In Honor of: Scott Elston Robert and Lisa Elston In Honor of: Bev Fitzpatrick and Meg Gillard Dolores and Sid Saltzman In Memory of: Jennifer Foote Olan and Katie Forker In Honor of: The Owls Classroom Michael and Elizabeth Brando In Memory of: Margaret I. Gibson Roger Batchelder Cortland Eye Center Amanda Gibson Vivian Laube Brian and Laurie Lindberg Joe and Emily Metz Cal and Joan Organ Elizabeth van Leer In Memory of: Richard “Dick” Backer Charles and Heather Tallman Lewis and Barbara Varney In Memory of: William Baldini Neal and Pat Howard Robert and Kathleen Kemple, Jr. In Memory of: Clarence Ball Jr. Stephen Chase In Memory of: Christine Alice Bartell Carolyn and Gene Bartell In Honor of: Trudy Baum Stephen and Linda Pope In Memory of: Richard Blackman Edith Blackman In Honor of: Tom and Donna Bohn Patrick Bohn andAshley Yates Thomas and Kathryn Quirk In Memory of: Lolanda M. Bordoni Joseph Daino In Memory of: Marilyn S. Bovi Michael Bovi In Honor of: Phyllis and Marissa Bowers Sharon McGee and Jin Soo Kim In Memory of: Dudley Briggs Ann Dexter In Honor of: Dan Brown Katie Brown and Eric Trotter Victor and Joyce Rendano In Memory of: Paul Brown Sr. Susannah Brown In Honor of: Peter Burgess Seth and Carolyn Burgess In Honor of: Jessica Campbell Anonymous The Danks-Burke Family In Memory of: Jaime K. Canfield Sue Budney Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft Susan Fuller Oculus Info Inc. In Memory of: James M. Cirona Caren Baldini In Honor of: Helen S. Cogan Tom and Donna Bohn In Honor of: Ezra Cornell Caren Baldini In Honor / IN Memory In Honor of: Joshua Griffin Carlton Smith In Memory of: Raymond Grippo Helen Grippo In Memory of: Drew Halevy Tom Hickcox Alan and Mary Krystal Perri and Mick LoPinto Roxanne Martin Rauch Foundation Josephine Reed Joe and Carrie Regenstein The Rauch Foundation In Memory of: Steven Halevy Dianna Halevy Perri LoPinto In Honor of: Lawrence Hall David Hall In Honor of: Bev Hartz Franziska Racker Centers’ PT Department In Honor of: Marie Hedge’s retirement Nancy Emerson and Roy Luft In Memory of: the Helsper Family Stephen and Dolores Caruso In Memory of: Melvin (Bill) Helsper Betty Helsper In Honor of: Bill Hennessy Louise Bement In Memory of: Adelaide K. Heppel Arvilla Enck In Honor of: Laurie Hubbell Myrtle and Robert Batsford In Honor of: Mary Hutchens Dorothy Delisle and Shawn Pompe In Memory of: Laurie Hyde-Tull Thomas and Claudia Tull In Honor of: Andy Iles Joe and Emily Metz In Memory of: Mary Jones Harry and Mary Ellsworth Richard Sheffield In Honor of: Ruari Jorgensen Nancy Cleveland In Honor of: Annie Joyce Phyllis and Lanny Joyce Rose Marie Serignese In Honor of: The Joyce Family John and Randi Beckmann In Memory of: Kevin Merrill Kauffman Kevin and Lindsey Kauffman In Honor of: Will Keilbach’s 8th Birthday Meg and Eric Keilbach In Honor of: Karen Killgore Judson and Suzanne Kilgore In Honor of: Ari Kim-Leavitt Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim In Honor of: Talia Kim-Leavitt Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim In Memory of: Rose and Joseph Kline Judith K. Leavitt In Honor of: Brent Larsen Wayne and Marcia Larsen In Honor of: David Leavitt and Marnie Burkman Judith K. Leavitt Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim In Honor of: Judith K. Leavitt Dr. David Leavitt and Dr. Marnie Burkman Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim In Honor of: Noah, Helen, Ari and Talia Kim-Leavitt Anonymous Dr. David Leavitt and Dr. Marnie Burkman Judith K. Leavitt Helen Kim In Memory of: Richard M. Leavitt Joseph and Cheryl Borden Margaret Congdon James and Kathleen Gaffney Judith K. Leavitt Noah Samuel Leavitt and Helen Kim Jennifer Podkul and Craig Kullmann In Honor of: Dick Leavitt, Noah Leavitt, and David Leavitt’s birthdays Ted and Joan Podkul, Jr. In Honor of: Jeff and Kristin Lewis Leo and Sandra Cacciotti In Honor of: Dr. Jeffrey S. Lewis Dr. Robert Duthie, DDS Dr. Gregory Subtelny, DDS In Honor of: Steve & Kathy Lipinski David and Joan Herskovits Diane Levine In Honor of: Glenda Long Paul Steiger In Memory of: Carmella Longo Carmen and TamiAmici Elizabeth Bagnardi Jack Bangs Bangs Funeral Home The Capozzi Families Barbara Cappucci Bert and Helen Cooley Felicite Hibbard Rose Krupas Patricia Larsen Michael Longo and GinaAmici Yolanda Lucatelli Mancini-Ferrara & Sons Inc. Marie McCrone Alexander and Kristina Perialas Stephen and Paula Pete RadiologyAssociates of Ithaca, PC Ruth and Charles Reniff Arthur and Ellen Rosten Aurora Rubens Valenti Josie Schug Peter Strumpf In Honor of: Perri LoPinto Rachel and David Lampert Carol Tytler In Memory of: Joseph Marzo Michele Evans In Honor of: Dick and Sharon Matthews Thomas Howarth In Honor of: Aelwen McAllister’s First Year of School Josephine McAllister In Memory of: Alia McGurk Marion DaGrossa In Honor of: Dr. Philip Meyer Kenneth Birman andAnne Neirynck In Honor of: Richie Moran David and Susan Wohlhueter In Memory of: Donald Northrup Esther Northrup In Honor of: Dustin Pataki Larry and Jackie Pataki Rose Seely In Honor of: Jennifer Podkul, Craig, Sienna Rose, and Louisa Kullmann Judith K. Leavitt In Honor of: Joan and Ted Podkul Dr. David Leavitt and Dr. Marnie Burkman Judith K. Leavitt In Honor of: Deb Wojcik, Tim Podkul and Benjamin Judith K. Leavitt “We were apprehensive at first, BUt all our fears were laid to rest within a very short amount of time.” “We were apprehensive at first, BUt all our fears were laid to rest within a very short amount of time.” Hannah with her CSP (Community Support Professional) Nancy 10 Annual Report 2014 Annual Report 2014 11 HANNAH: a success story Hannah is a 31-year-old with intellectual and developmental disabilities who lives in the Coventry house operated by Racker Centers. After waiting for seven years, Hananh’s parent’s Jan and Jerry, were delighted to hear that the house was available and that both Hannah and her sister, Angie, would be able to move in together. To help with this new transition, Hannah and her family were able to go into the house while it was being built and were given the opportunity to see their room that they now share while it was being built. Today, the room is full of each girl’s personality; there are John Wayne and Wizard of Oz posters plastered on the walls and vanity tops covered in a variety of scented perfumes and beauty products. Hannah spends her weeks going on outings with her Community Support Professional (CSP), Nancy Jackson, to A New Hope Center where she volunteers four days a week organizing, sorting, and folding clothing donations. Outside of volunteering, Nancy and Hannah enjoy going to zoos, parks, and shopping malls. “She laughs a whole lot more, she stands better, she really recognizes the people that she works with” remarked Jan when discussing Hannah’s progress since working with Racker Centers and volunteering with A New Hope Center. Hannah’s eye contact has improved and her CSP, Nancy, says “she will look at me when I am talking to her and most of the time she’ll look at the objects that I show her.” Volunteering at A New Hope Center has helped Hannah to belong to her community. “It helps her be a part of the community that she lives in and I think that is very important,” Jan says. “People look forward to having Hannah come, they miss her if she doesn’t show up, and they ask about her; that means she’s assimilated into the community a great deal,” Jan concludes. ~ Hannah’s Mother, Jan In Memory of: Dr. Franziska W. Racker Dora Donovan Frannie Mason Stellario and Barbara Ruggiero Judy and Richard Sherman Anne Treichler William and Norma Wasmuth In Honor of: Andrew Rice Lisa and Chris Pate In Memory of: Paul R. Ridley Ted and Judy Malley Sharon Morgan In Memory of: Ed Roberts Catherine Savage In Memory of: Jake Schafer Anthony andAmelia Massi In Honor of: Howard and Lauren Schler Michael and Joan Schler In Honor of: Topher Scott Heather and Bill Hughes In Honor of: Jody Scriber Matthew and Lynn Steenberg In Memory of: Miles Seely Cindy and Tom Lilly In Memory of: Laurel Shenstone Gregory Shenstone In Honor of: Roger R. Sibley Marilyn Crooker Jean Strout In Memory of: Richard J. Sick Rita Sick In Honor of: Lauren Slebodnick John Gaines In Honor of: Danya Snavely Erich and Cheryl Schaefer In Honor of: Yoni and Shira Speizer Stanley and Suri Friedman In Memory of: Paul Steiger Albert and Mary Burkhardt George and Kay Ross In Honor of: Zachariah Tull Virginia K. Rinker In Memory of: Robin Voorheis Heather and Bill Hughes In Honor of: Tristan Webster Edward and GayleenAusten In Honor of: Kenneth J. Woodman Ken and Marie Woodman In Honor of: Marian Yates Patrick Bohn andAshley Yates
  • 7. Published by Racker Centers’ Office of Community Relations Editor | Heather Hughes, Director of Public Relations Design | Dawn Bricen LaMorte, Sunrise Studios Design | SunriseStudiosDesign@gmail.com Contributors | Elizabeth Brando, Dan Brown, Heather Hughes, Sally Manning Photography | Courtesy of Racker Staff Cortland County Sites Preschool Program, Community and Residential Services 882 NYS Route 13 | Cortland, NY 13045 Tel: 607.753.9375 Counseling Programs at OCM BOCES 1710 NYS Route 13 | Cortland, NY 13045 Tel: 607.758.5100 Tioga County Sites Preschool Programs and Community Services 1277 Taylor Rd. | Owego, NY 13827 Tel: 607.687.8929 Tompkins County Sites Administrative Building, Margaret Gibson Preschool, Community & Residential Services 3226 Wilkins Rd. | Ithaca, NY 14850 Tel: 607.272.5891 Clinic 1001 W. Seneca St. | Ithaca, NY 14850 Tel: 607.277.8020 Counseling Programs at TST BOCES, Smith School 555 Warren Rd. | Ithaca, NY 14850 Tel: 607.257.2353 FOR MORE INFORMATION www.rackercenters.org | info@rackercenters.org | tel: 607-272-5891 | 1-800-336-1660 BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2014 President, Steve Lipinski Vice-President, Cal Organ Treasurer, Eugene Yarussi Secretary, Kevin Shreve Directors Paul Banfield David Campbell John Crosby Elizabeth Gesin David Hall Kristin S. Lewis David McNeil David Robertshaw Kara Taylor Chuck Tompkins Emeritus Executive Director Roger R. Sibley Emeriti Directors Bob Bantle Dave Dunlop Sam Forcucci Margaret Gibson Tom Longin Dan McNeil Dave Palmer Chuck Tompkins Mark Weidman F. Ben Williams Associate Directors W. David Banfield Carolyn Bartell Tom Bohn Lorry Cole Daphne Cornell Rick Cowan Eugene C. Erickson Yvonne Moore Everhart Phyllis Joyce Jeffrey Lewis, M.D. Brian McAree Richie Moran Sarah Rich, Ph.D. John Rudd Howard Schler George Schneider Emma Scott Christine Schweitzer L. Joseph Thomas James Turner, Ph.D. Jen Whittaker