Arc Westchester Celebrates Inclusive Employers

TARRYTOWN – The Arc Westchester, the largest organization supporting people with developmental disabilities in Westchester County, celebrated its 2025 Employer Recognition Breakfast and Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 31, at the Westchester Marriott in Tarrytown, NY. The annual event brought together local business leaders, elected officials, community members, and advocates to honor companies and individuals who have championed inclusive employment.

“This event is one of the most inspiring days of the year for us,” said Tibi Guzmán, CEO of The Arc Westchester. “The employers we recognize today demonstrate that inclusion is not only possible, it’s powerful. They show that when people with developmental disabilities are given the opportunity to work, they enrich workplaces and strengthen communities.”

The breakfast honored eight outstanding organizations and individuals for their exceptional commitment to creating employment opportunities for people supported by The Arc Westchester. Awards were presented to Applegreen of Hastings-on-Hudson for the Visionary Award; ShopRite of Croton for the Promoting Independence Award; Hawthorne Foundation, Inc. for the New Partnership Award; Wegmans of Harrison for the Continuing Partner Award; Starbucks of Yorktown for the Long Standing Partner Award; Anthony Reda of Uncle Giuseppe’s in Yorktown for the Advocate Award; Craig Sevilla Donnelly of the Sister Mary T. Clark RSCJ Center for Religion and Community Service at Manhattanville University in Purchase for the Community Partner Award; and Kellene McGregor of ShopRite in Croton for the Anthony Cannata Memorial Employee Award.

Keynote speaker Sean Meade, General Manager at Cambria Hotel and Suites White Plains Downtown (a Meyer Jabara Hotel), shared heartfelt reflections on the positive impact of inclusive hiring. Since 2018, his hotel has partnered with The Arc Westchester to employ individuals through the organization’s Career Services program. “What we gain as employers far outweighs what we give,” said Meade. “Our employees supported by The Arc Westchester bring dedication, joy, and an unmatched work ethic that elevates our entire team.”

Barry Clark, Executive Director of The Arc Westchester Foundation, emphasized the organization’s progress in expanding employment opportunities. “We are proud that The Arc Westchester maintains a 60% employment rate for people with developmental disabilities who are seeking work—nearly double the national average,” Clark said. “These partnerships prove that inclusion isn’t just a talking point, and it’s not just charity; it makes good business sense.”

With 100 business partners and nearly 150 people working in the community, The Arc Westchester continues to build bridges between employers and job seekers through its Career Services program. The organization provides training, job placement, and on-site coaching to ensure lasting success for both employees and employers.

Guzmán added, “Every person deserves the chance to experience the pride of meaningful work. Thanks to our business partners, that vision is becoming a reality across Westchester County.”

The Arc Westchester is committed to ensuring that people with developmental disabilities have access to inclusive employment and opportunities to be active members of the workforce. With a wide range of programs and services, The Arc Westchester supports nearly 2,000 individuals and their families throughout the county, fostering independence, self-determination, and community participation.