Over 1,000 walkers braved the weather and made their way to Eisenhower Park on Sunday, October 29, to take part in the AHRC Foundation Walk. People and families supported by AHRC Nassau joined in raising over $100,000 to benefit more than 4,000 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Long Island.

With great enthusiasm, Tom Moore, AHRC Board Member, emceed the morning event, announcing the year’s top teams and individual fundraisers.

Team Amanda, led by sibling advocate Karen Anci, stood out as the top team securing an impressive $11,500—inspired by Karen’s sister, Amanda, who receives services from AHRC Nassau.

During the award ceremony, Karen and her daughter, Annabeth, delivered heartfelt remarks, surrounded by their supportive family.

Karen expressed her thanks, “This is one of my family’s most ‘looked-forward-to’ days of the year.”

Other leading teams at the AHRC Foundation Walk were Team 189 and Team Plainview Powerhouse, each raising nearly $7,000.

Notable individual fundraisers included AHRC Nassau COO Christopher O’Connor. The event, a 5K walk, embodies community advocacy and celebration.

The event included an advocacy table led by AHRC Nassau Quality Assurance Trainers Coleen Mackin and Michelle Rudoff as well as Self-Advocate Noah Probert. There, people were provided with information on how to affirm their rights, stay up to date with current disability regulations as well as advance current advocacy agendas.

The event also featured activities for the community to enjoy including bounce-houses for children to play skee-ball and basketball, an oversized Connect 4 grid game, face painting and pumpkin decorating. Special thanks were given to the event volunteers, including The Giving Tree Family, the Long Island Enforcers and The Alliance of Youth Leaders in the United States (AYLUS) for their hands-on support and guidance.