ARISE - EFR

In this episode of the ARISE Exceptional Family Resources Podcast, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Assistant Farm Manager Becky Schaefer to explore the incredible programs and experiences available at ARISE at Doc Marshall Farm. From adaptive riding and groundwork to accessible recreation and volunteer opportunities, Becky shares how the farm creates meaningful connections, builds confidence, and supports individuals of all ages and abilities through the healing power of horses and nature. Learn about the farm’s history, inclusive programs, beloved animals, and the many ways the community can get involved. 

 What is the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver, and how does it help people live independently? In this episode, Bruce Drake sits down with program expert Danielle Durkin to break down eligibility, services, and how this Medicaid-funded program supports individuals in staying in their homes and communities. 

 Veterans deserve the freedom to live where and how they choose. In this episode, ARISE-Exceptional Family Resources CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Lauren Canaro, Assistant Director of Consumer Directed Services, to explore the Veterans Directed Care Program. Lauren shares how the program empowers veterans of all ages to remain in their homes by directing their own care, hiring trusted caregivers, and using a personalized budget to meet daily living needs. The discussion walks through eligibility, the VA referral process, and the wide range of supports available, illustrating how Veterans Directed Care promotes independence, dignity, and quality of life. 

In this episode of Exceptional Talk on Disabilities, host Bruce Drake, CEO of ARISE and Exceptional Family Resources, is joined by Mary Schwanke, Senior Community Inclusion Supervisor, for an in-depth conversation about the ARISE & Ski program.Mary shares how ARISE & Ski has been creating access to adaptive skiing and snowboarding since 1996—empowering individuals with disabilities, ages five and up, to experience winter sports in a supportive, instructional environment. The conversation explores how adaptive equipment, skilled instructors, and dedicated volunteers work together to make independence on the slopes possible, from first-time skiers to seasoned participants who eventually become volunteers themselves.Listeners will learn about the program’s partnership with Ski CNY at Labrador Mountain, the vital role volunteers play, and why peer support and lived experience—both professional and personal—are central to ARISE-EFR’s mission. Mary also offers powerful insight into what makes ARISE & Ski special, including her favorite moment each season: seeing empty wheelchairs at the bottom of the hill.This episode highlights how adaptive recreation isn’t just about sports—it’s about confidence, independence, community, and full-circle moments that last a lifetime.Recorded and produced at WCNY Public Broadcasting studios.

In this episode, ARISE-EFR CEO Bruce Drake is joined by Bill Rose, Program Manager of the Ombudsman Program, for an in-depth conversation about advocacy, dignity, and the rights of older adults living in long-term care settings.Bill shares his journey from professor of gerontology to nonprofit advocate and explains what ombudsmen do, how the program works across Central New York, and why this service is so critical for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. From resolving everyday concerns to addressing serious care issues, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how ombudsmen advocate for residents’ voices to be heard.Listeners will also learn how families can access support, what to expect when calling the Ombudsman hotline, and how community members can get involved as volunteers.📞 Ombudsman Hotline: 315-671-5108

In this episode of the ARISE – Exceptional Family Resources Podcast, CEO Bruce Drake speaks with Beth Clark, Lead Education Advocate at ARISE & EFR. Beth shares her journey from classroom teacher and parent of three children with disabilities to advocate, and explains how education advocacy helps families navigate the complex world of special education.They discuss common school challenges, how to communicate effectively with districts, why the right language in meetings and letters matters, and what “success” looks like when schools and families truly collaborate. Beth also highlights that ARISE–EFR’s education advocacy services are grant-funded and free to families, and explains how parents can reach out for support when a child is struggling or has a suspected disability.This episode is a must-listen for any caregiver feeling overwhelmed by IEPs, meetings, or school systems—and looking for a knowledgeable partner in their corner.

In this heartwarming episode, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with 10-year-old Jace Downing, one of ARISE–EFR’s youngest participants, volunteers, and natural advocates. Joined by Jen Barkley, Community Inclusion Supervisor, this conversation shines a light on the experiences of siblings of children with disabilities and the supportive programs that help them thrive.Jace shares his love of farming, volunteering at ARISE at the Farm, helping fellow riders gain confidence, and participating in Sib Shops and Horsemanship Camp. Jen offers insights into Sib Shops, inclusive recreation programs, summer rec, and the unique ways ARISE–EFR supports siblings—giving them space to connect, learn, and simply be kids.Filled with laughter, honesty, and the genuine perspective only a sibling can offer, this episode highlights the strength, compassion, and resilience that grow within families—and the vital role of inclusive programs that support them.

In this powerful and inspiring episode, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Lawton Williamson, Director of Employment Services at ARISE & Exceptional Family Resources, to explore the transformative work behind meaningful employment for people with developmental disabilities.Lawton shares his personal journey from manufacturing to human services, the moment that sparked his passion for mentoring, and the impact of more than three decades spent supporting individuals toward independence. Together, Bruce and Lawton break down what employment services really are, how discovery works, what pre-vocational programs look like in action, and the essential role of volunteer experiences and one-to-one support.With real success stories, candid insights, and Lawton’s trademark energy, this episode highlights how employment changes lives — and how ARISE-EFR is helping individuals find purpose, confidence, and opportunity every day.

Join host Bruce Drake of ARISE – EFR as he sits down with statewide systems advocate Phil Phren to unpack how meaningful systems-change happens in the world of disability rights and independent living. In this episode, we explore:What it really means to be a systems advocate and how that role differs from direct service. Phil’s roots in community organizing, his own connection to disability via his sister, and how that experience shaped his work. The function of independent living centers—what sets them apart and how they empower people with disabilities. Real wins in advocacy: from improvements to accessible voting equipment to protections around source-of-income discrimination. The balance between policy-wonk detail and person-centered organizing, and why trust and credibility matter in this work. Whether you’re a disability-rights advocate, policy-enthused citizen, or simply curious about how grassroots effort connects to institutional change, this episode offers a powerful look at how lasting impact is built—one relationship, one system, one community at a time.Tune in to discover how empowerment, organizing, and policy intersect to move the needle on justice and inclusion.

 Join host Bruce Drake of ARISE – EFR as he sits down with Scott Pecoy, Ramp Coordinator for their community mobility program. Discover how this incredible volunteer-driven initiative designs, builds and installs modular access ramps so individuals with mobility challenges can continue living independently in their homes. Learn about the building process, the partner churches and corporate volunteers, and the impact behind the 500-plus ramps built to date. 

 In this episode of the ARISE-EFR podcast, host Bruce Drake talks with Sue Stalker, a Direct Support Professional (DSP) with 15 years of experience, about her longtime partnership with Lawrence. They discuss how Sue became Lawrence’s DSP, the trust and consistency that have held their relationship together, and her role in supporting his daily life—especially in helping him make healthier choices, participate in community activities, volunteer, and explore new possibilities like independent living. Sue also reflects on life planning, goal-setting, and the deep satisfaction and challenges in her work. 

 In this episode, host Bruce Drake engages with Adaptive Design Coordinator, Connor McGough, to explore how ARISE-EFR forges meaningful collaborations with community organizations to enhance support for individuals with disabilities and their families. They discuss strategies for creating welcoming, accessible programs; the importance of mutual respect and shared goals; lessons learned from past partnerships; and how to sustain momentum over time. If you’re interested in how nonprofits, families, and service agencies can work together to create inclusive, thriving communities—this conversation offers valuable insight, practical tips, and inspiring examples. 

 In this episode of the ARISE-EFR podcast, host Bruce Drake sits down with Karen Adams, Resource & Family Reimbursement Specialist, to discuss her journey as both a parent and advocate in the disability field. Karen shares how she came to work at EFR, her personal connection to services through her son’s diagnosis, and the workings of the Family Directed Supports program — a reimbursement program for disability-related expenses for individuals living at home. They explore how families can navigate allowable vs. non-allowable expenses, the advocacy process, referral services, and the importance of empowering families to self-advocate and trust their instincts. 

In this powerful episode of the ARISE-EFR podcast, we’re proud to spotlight two incredible voices from our community: Laurie Penny-McGee, a passionate advocate and leader at ARISE-EFR, and Sarah Brittenham, a talented artist and person supported through our services.🎨 Sarah shares her journey as an artist, what inspires her work, and how creativity empowers her voice and identity. 💬 Laurie reflects on her advocacy work, her commitment to inclusion, and the joy of seeing individuals like Sarah thrive.Together, their stories shine a light on the impact of meaningful support, self-expression, and community connection.✨ Listen now to be inspired, uplifted, and reminded of the power in every voice we support.

In this episode of the ARISE - Exceptional Family Resources podcast, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Max Smith, the Community Inclusion Senior Supervisor at ARISE. They discuss Max’s unique path—from his early days in theater and education to his current role advocating for individuals with disabilities. Max shares personal stories, including his experiences growing up in Chittenango, his work with his cousin who has spina bifida, and his time teaching theater in Syracuse schools. Listeners will gain insight into how Max’s diverse background fuels his passion for inclusion and community engagement.Tune in to hear how Max’s blend of creativity and compassion makes a meaningful impact in the lives of those he serves.

ARISE/Exceptional Family Resources CEO, Bruce Drake and COO, Dan Kelley talk the agency services for people with disabilities and Dan's role as both an employee and parent of two adult children with developmental disabilities. 

Welcome to another episode of the ARISE Podcast! Today, we have a special holiday message for you as our CEO, Tania Anderson, sits down with Josh Solazzo, Local Systems Advocate and Disability Rights Advocate, and Jim Cronk, Independent Living Advocate.We’ll be diving into the heartwarming details of our 14th annual ARISE Holiday Food Basket giveaway, happening on Friday, December 20th at our Oswego location. Tune in to hear about the impact this event has on our community and how you can get involved. Let’s spread some holiday cheer together! 🎄✨TRANSCRIPTION

Welcome to our podcast! We are coming up on the first anniversary of the Veterans Directed Care program at ARISE. Join us as Tania Anderson, our CEO, chats with Judy Wirt, the wife of Air Force Veteran Karl Wirt, and Gabrielle VanDuser, a Person Centered Counselor in our VDC program. Judy shares how the program has been a lifeline for Karl and herself during some challenging times. TRANSCRIPTIONPodcast Recommendations:Veteran Directed Services

This week on our podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, tackles the issue of voter accessibility in Oswego County. She is joined by Josh Solazzo, a Disability Rights Advocate, and Jim Cronk, an Independent Living Advocate, both from ARISE. Together, they share their experiences with accessible voting at two different polling locations on Election Day.Podcast Transcription

In this ARISE Podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, interviews Joanna Ginnick, the long-term care ombudsman coordinator, about the Ombudsman Program. The program, staffed by certified volunteers, advocates for residents in nursing homes to ensure their quality of life.  Joanna also discusses the challenges of balancing residents' rights with institutional constraints, the importance of resident councils, and the need for non-adversarial communication to foster a supportive community.Transcription

Welcome to this week’s episode! Today, we have a special conversation with Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, and Rory Lawrence, Director of Wellness at David’s Refuge. David’s Refuge is a local agency dedicated to providing respite, resources, and support to parents and guardians of children with special needs or life-threatening medical conditions. Join us as Tania and Rory discuss the programs and services that empower Central New York caregivers.TRANSCRIPTIONThe Nothing About Us Without Us Projectdavidsrefuge.org

In this week's episode, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE talks with Billie Horr, a resident of Senate Meadows in Cayuga County, which is a special housing program supported by ARISE. Anderson also talks with Marie Phillips, Bille’s home health aide. Billie, who has a learning disability, shared her journey from an unsafe living situation to a secure and positive environment at Seneca Meadows with some miraculous outcomes. TRANSCRIPT 

This week's conversation centered on the Joe Family Foundation which aims to help families navigate the complex system of services for youth with disabilities, particularly those transitioning from middle school to college. Tania Anderson ARISE, CEO and her guest LaToya Jones, Founder & President of the Joe Family Foundation for Disability Advocacy Inc. discussed peer-to-peer mentoring, arts therapy and other programs to help individuals and families connect and heal.Website: The Joe Family FoundationTranscription

On the ARISE Podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO and Amy Schiminske, ARISE Mental Health Counselor discuss suicide prevention as suicide rates are at an all-time high. In this informative conversation, Anderson and Schiminske discuss risk factors, protective factors, warning signs and safety planning.Call or Text 988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineTranscription

In this ARISE Podcast episode, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, has a conversation with Bruce Drake, CEO of Exceptional Family Resources (EFR), about the decision to merge the two organizations. Discussion centers on the strengths both ARISE and EFR bring to the partnership and their similar philosophies regarding community-based and person-centered service delivery and recruiting and retaining high-quality employees.Transcription

On this week’s ARISE Podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO talks with Teresa Martinez, a Disability Rights Advocate and NY Connects Coordinator in ARISE’s Cayuga County Office. Martinez, who is a certified Family Peer Advocate helps parents through her own life experience, she is raising two children with disabilities, find the services, skills and voice to advocate for their families. Martinez says many parents who are coping with the stigma and embarrassment of a disability are looking for a person with a similar experience to guide them.Transcription

On this week's podcast Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE talks with Hillary Warner, the Justice Coordinator for the 5th judicial district of the NY State Courts in Onondaga county. Their conversation centers on the program called Access to Justice which is about making the court system more accessible and less intimidating for everyone.For more information: Main page: NYCOURTS.GOV - New York State Unified Court SystemADA Accommodations: Home - ADA | NYCOURTS.GOVCourt Help Website: CourtHelp | New York State Courts | Legal Self-help (nycourts.gov)Transcription 

On this week's ARISE podcast Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE has a conversation with Qiana Williams, program officer for community engagement at the Central New York Community Foundation. Williams discusses her role in fostering trust-based philanthropy and community engagement and highlights a participatory grant program aimed at marginalized communities including those with disabilities. The program involves co-designing projects with community members to address their specific needs.Transcription

On this week’s podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE talks with Courtney Bennett, a 4th grade teacher and mother of two children with disabilities. They discuss the challenges in identifying and seeking support in the education system. Bennett also encourages families to utilize educational advocacy services.TranscriptionRecommended Podcasts:A Journey with 3 Siblings with Disabilities

In this ARISE podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Kate Pollack, a Disability Rights Activist about her experiences with being DEAF, discovering DEAF culture and the DEAF community. Pollack also talks about her September 2024 Syracuse Peacemaking Project presentation about the History of Disability Rights in America.TranscriptionLink to Syracuse Peacemaking Project September 12, 2024 Presentation

Jessica Meicht has been published in ARISE's UNIQUE Art & Literary Magazine for the past 8 years. 2024 marks a milestone in her writing career as she gets ready to publish a poetry collection on mental illness and moods called “Swallowed Whole: By Emotion”. Tania Anderson, ARISE CEO talks with Jessica about her journey as an ARISE Mental Health Clinic client and her achievements with her writing and life.Recommended Podcasts:A Peek Behind the Scenes of UNIQUE MagazineTranscription

This week on the ARISE Podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO talks with Piper Cooper, who is an Excelsior Service Fellow for the New York State Fair. This year the Fair is adding to it's accessibility with a new sensory room. The conversation deals with how the Fair built the room, where it is located and what it offers. Transcription

This week on the ARISE Podcast Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE talks with Chayna Short, Founder of Women Overcoming Obstacles Together (WOOT). This Syracuse-based group focuses on helping mothers of children with autism, access and navigate the resources they need to ensure success in life and education for their families.WOOT WebsiteUpcoming EventsPodcast Transcription

This week on the ARISE Podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO talks with Monu Chhetri, founder and CEO of DEAF New Americans Advocacy Inc. The organization established just two years ago empowers the Deaf New American community in Central New York through education, advocacy, access, and life skills without limitation in a way that honors their culture and traditions.Podcast Transcription

This week, Tania Anderson, ARISE CEO and William Myhill, Director of Disability Access & ADA Coordinator at Syracuse University discuss the importance of ensuring inclusive and accessible experiences for all individuals when visiting public libraries.Transcription of Podcast

This week on the podcast, Tania Anderson, ARISE CEO talks with Jennifer Parker, an ARISE Disability Rights Advocate in Madison County describes what a day on the job is like. Parker does more than just help people find housing, Medicaid benefits or food stamps, she helps them find independence.

This week on the ARISE Podcast Tania Anderson, CEO has a conversation with an Employment program participant Vinny, who works for the Oswego City Department of Public Works. The ARISE Employment program has mentored Vinny since graduating from high school 4 years ago.  He successfully landed a full-time job two years ago with the City of Oswego.Recommended Podcasts:Finding Your Place in the Workforce

In this week's podcast Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks with Edina Osmanovic, Community Engagement Librarian & Volunteer Coordinator at the Liverpool Public Library. Discussion centers on inclusive programs for people of all abilities.

The Sennett Meadows Senior Apartments is designated to facilitate the housing needs of moderate to low income seniors age 55+. ARISE offers its services to a number of residents at the newly built facility. Tania Anderson, ARISE CEO and Lindsay Weller, Care Coordinator discuss how our programming is helping disabled seniors build a more independent life and community at Seneca Meadows.

On this podcast Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks with Sora Kasuga from the local group the FaceOut Project. Their conversation is about the stigma associated with people with facial differences. 

The Open Doors Transition Center assists people in nursing homes to access the services they need to return to the community. Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Holly Aldrich, Regional Transition Manager about how ARISE transition specialists work with people to receive individualized home and community-based services so they can live a more independent life.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and this week on the ARISE podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Christine Wassel, Clinical Supervisor and Crisis Services Program Coordinator at the ARISE Mental Health Clinic. Christine discusses some of the factors that play a role in mental illness such as, brain chemistry, stress, trauma, or life transitions. 

This week on the ARISE podcast Tania Anderson, CEO talks with Sister Barbara Jean Donovan , a volunteer Ombudsman for ARISE. The conversation centers on Barbara Jean’s background and how her experiences resulted in her recognition for being 1 of only 2 people in New York State to be named Long-term Care Ombudsman of the year.Recommended Podcasts:Long Term Ombudsman Program

On this week’s podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Matthew Szwejbka, Customer Experience Manager at Hancock Airport. The conversation focuses on a program that provides support to travelers with disabilities called The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. The initiative allows individuals who self-identify as having a non-visible disability to discreetly indicate this information to airport employees and volunteers. Airport employees and volunteers have been trained to recognize the Hidden Disability Sunflower Lanyards and offer extra support, time, and understanding to the individual. The lanyards may be requested by passengers at their airline’s ticket counter, or by reaching out directly to the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority.

On this week’s podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Tricia Malowney, the Chief Accessibility Advocate for the department of Transport in Victoria, Australia. Malowney is visiting the U.S. on a fact-finding mission to discover innovative transportation systems and devices for people with disabilities.

This week on the podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Gail June, an ARISE client and Cathy Almodovar, an Independent Living Advocate for ARISE.  June came to ARISE seeking help about 2 years ago. She was living in fear, looking for work, an education, and a place to live.  Her story of how she got to where she is today is truly an inspiration. 

This week on the ARISE podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Elisabeth Downing, mother of two boys who benefit from the ARISE SibShops program. It took a long time for the medical community to come up with 6 year old Jax's diagnoses of Angelman. His 8 year old brother Jace has always doted on his baby brother. Protecting him and playing with him.  Elisabeth says the SibShop program for siblings of specials needs children is huge. And, it gives  Jace  a place he can be with other kids with a similar family dynamic that is so important. 

This week on the ARISE podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Judy Aguirre, President of the Syracuse Spinal Association (SSA).  14 years ago, Judy fell down a flight of  stairs resulting in a C5 C6 incomplete quadriplegic disability.  Following the accident, she joined a support group which became the SSA.  The Association provides  resources, knowledge, advocacy, and support to enhance the lives of those living with spinal cord disabilities in CNY.Recommended:Syracuse Spinal AssociationConnor McGough - ARISE Adaptive Design

This week on the ARISE podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Claudia Heritage and Mia DiFrancesco, both medical students at SUNY Upstate Medical University. The soon to be physicians have been volunteering at the ARISE adaptive design workshop. Both were astonished by the impact adaptive design brings to its patients, families and to one day, their own practice.Related Recommended Podcasts:Adaptive Design at ARISEThe Gadgeteer

In this week’s ARISE podcast, Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, talks to Ben Verdi, Regrants Program Officer, CNY Arts, ARISE Foundation Board Member and UNIQUE Art & Literary Magazine judge. Ben tells us about his connection with the disabled community and the extraordinary experience local artists can have by participating in the UNIQUE Magazine program.