The Arc Westchester names six employers at Tarrytown breakfast
Nearly 200 attendees gathered to recognize local businesses that have integrated workers with developmental disabilities into their staff.
By Justin Barnes ·
The Arc Westchester recognizes local employers for their work in hiring people with developmental disabilities. Nearly 200 business leaders, elected officials, and family members attended the 2026 Annual Employer Recognition Breakfast on Friday, October 23, at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel in Tarrytown. The event took place during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.
The organization has long partnered with local companies to place workers in the community. It currently works with nearly 100 employers across Westchester County. Together, these partners employ more than 150 people with developmental disabilities. The program recently added internships in county offices through a partnership for inclusive internships.
Ellen Bloom, Director of Community Affairs for NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester, delivered the keynote address. She spoke about the program's impact on employees and employers. Guests also heard from staff members who shared their experiences in inclusive workplaces. Students from The Lagond Music School performed for the arriving crowd.
Six organizations and individuals received awards at the ceremony. The City of Yonkers Office for the Aging received the Distinguished Partner Award. Compass Group received the Impact Award, and Grapes the Wine Company received the New Partnership Award. Cintas received the Continuing Partnership Award, and NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health received the Employer Excellence Award. Jack Lambert, an administrative assistant at South East Consortium for Special Services, Inc., received the Anthony Cannata Memorial Employee Award.
Barry Clark, Executive Director of the Arc Westchester Foundation, cited specific data regarding the program's success. He stated that the organization achieves a 75% employment rate for people seeking work with developmental disabilities. He noted that the nationwide average for this group is 38%. Tibi Guzmán, CEO of The Arc Westchester, said the group believes diverse talents make for a stronger workplace.
The organization supports more than 2,000 individuals and their families throughout the county. It operates as a chapter of The Arc New York, the largest national community-based organization for this cause. Sponsors for the breakfast included NewYork-Presbyterian, Regeneron, The Mines Press, Zaro’s Family Bakery, and By the Way Bakery.
Businesses interested in hiring through the Career Services program can find details at www.arcwestchester.org. The Arc Westchester continues to focus on providing access to inclusive employment and active workforce participation for residents in the county.
