A Message from Randi Rios-Castro, CEO
Randi Rios-Castro, CEO
Spring is a special time of year. It is the season that represents a time of renewal, growth and optimism. At Jawonio, optimism and positivity are part of our core values that we bring to work each and every day. I am excited about our future at Jawonio because we have such a talented and dedicated staff who inspire the individuals they support on their journey to independence. As you read this first quarter newsletter, I hope that you will share in my enthusiasm as well.
Please know that my door is always open to our staff, individuals, families and supporters. As you will read below, WE have so much to be proud of. I am grateful to our amazing staff who have dedicated themselves to the great work that happens at Jawonio. Without you we could not do what we do!! Wishing everyone a wonderful Spring season!
$5.1 Million Dollars in Grant Awards
February was an incredible month for us. We received a total of $5.1 million dollars in grant awards in the first quarter this year, of which $3.5 million dollars in both a Federal(2022) earmark and a NYS State grant will support the purchase and renovation of a new recovery-based community mental health center in Rockland County (click here). And more good news, that same week, we were awarded a $1.6 million-dollar NYS OPWDD grant to conduct career specific vocational retail training for people with special needs. These resources will give us more opportunities for growth and the ability to help more people reach their goals and dreams.
Brick It Again
Lego® Resale Store
March 28th was a great day! Watch our grand opening clip (click here). More than 100 people attended the event and helped us cut the ribbon at 7 Lake Ridge Plaza Shopping Center in Valley Cottage.
We couldn’t have opened the store without our amazing project team. A big shout out to everyone involved in every aspect of the project.
Click on the links to view more stories: CBS New York, News 12, Patch, RC Business Journal, and Lohud.
To learn more about Brick It Again or to make a donation of used or new Lego® toys (click here).
Autism Awareness
Month
April is Autism Awareness Month, and we are proud to acknowledge those individuals we support with ALL abilities. We provide support services in both our residential and day services programs. As part of our ongoing effort to provide education and expertise throughout all of our programs, please visit our Autism Resource and Training Center YouTube Library.
Tamara Salmon
Employee Spotlight
Employees Are the Heart and Soul of Jawonio Read Tamara’s Story Here
Kaitlyn Rodriguez
LMSW
Jenna Isker
LCSW
Carla Brajkovic
LCSW-R
Mary Hollender
LCSW
“Social Work is the Art of Listening and the Science of Hope”.
Read Four Staff Stories Here
Welcome
Dr. Rochelle Brief
We are delighted to welcome Dr. Rochelle Brief, a renowned rehabilitation expert and clinician to Jawonio. Dr. Brief succeeds Dr. William Greenberg who served Jawonio for more than 40 years.
Read our LinkedIn Post on Dr. Brief (click here)
SAVE THE DATES
World Social Worker Month