National Employment Disability Awareness Month

/in /by Erica Amoroso

Each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) recognizes the vital role that individuals with disabilities play in strengthening our workforce and communities. At The Arc Rockland, we’re proud to celebrate nearly 70 individuals employed across more than 30 businesses and industries throughout Rockland County—each bringing skill, dedication, and pride to their work every day.

This year, we’re honored to highlight two outstanding examples of inclusion and achievement: Mike and Jaison, whose stories reflect the spirit of NDEAM and the impact of strong employer partnerships.

We had the pleasure of visiting Jaison at the Rockland County Department of Social Services, where he works in the Mail Room. Jaison proudly shared the details of his role — from sorting and delivering mail to keeping operations running smoothly. His coworkers praise his exceptional attention to detail, and his manager can already see him taking on more responsibility in the future. But for now, Jaison is happy right where he is — thriving in his position and taking pride in his work.

This year, The Arc Rockland proudly nominated the Rockland County Department of Social Services for a National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) Award, recognizing their ongoing commitment to inclusive employment and meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

After nearly two decades with Orange & Rockland Utilities, Mike recently celebrated his retirement surrounded by coworkers who praised his dedication, humor, and strong work ethic. Mike’s employment journey reflects what NDEAM is all about—loyalty, pride, and the value of creating workplaces where individuals of all abilities can succeed.

   

Building Opportunity and Belonging

Employment isn’t just about a paycheck—it’s about independence, confidence, and community connection. The Arc Rockland continues to partner with local businesses to expand inclusive opportunities and to celebrate the contributions of individuals like Jaison and Mike who make Rockland’s workforce stronger.

Josh Self Advocate Award

/in , /by Erica Amoroso

Honoring Josh Cohen of The Arc Rockland, recipient of The Arc New York’s 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year Award for his leadership and advocacy across the disability community

 

 

 

 

The Arc Rockland’s Josh Cohen Named The Arc New York’s 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year

The Arc Rockland is proud to announce that Josh Cohen has been named The Arc New York’s 2025 Self-Advocate of the Year, an award that highlights the achievements and contributions of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) who not only use services of The Arc New York, but also help shape those services for the betterment of others.

The award was presented at The Arc New York’s annual conference in Albany, where Josh was recognized for his outstanding leadership and dedication to advocacy. Over the past three years, Josh has demonstrated remarkable growth—developing the knowledge, courage, and confidence to take on key leadership roles within The Arc Rockland’s Self-Advocacy Board.

In 2024, Josh was elected Mentor, and earlier this year, in May 2025, he was elected Vice President. In these roles, he has empowered his peers to express their voices, embrace their strengths, and take part in shaping the programs and supports that impact their lives.

Josh’s warmth, insight, and advocacy have made him a trusted leader and friend throughout The Arc Rockland community. His work continues to reflect the mission and values of The Arc—to promote inclusion, dignity, and self-determination for all.

Click here to watch Josh accepting his award in Albany