Connect with family members, friends and community partners at our upcoming events.
Inform Me Series
Join us for our series of virtual educational seminars.
End-of-Life Healthcare Decisions for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Presented by Nicole Uterano Ferrar, Vice President of Health Services, AHRC Nassau
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
This presentation on end-of-life healthcare decisions for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) will focus on New York State’s Family Health Care Decisions Act (FHCDA). This law enables a person’s family member or close friend to make healthcare decisions if the person lacks capacity and did not make an advance directive or appoint a healthcare agent.
This seminar will cover:
- Understanding the FHCDA and how it applies to people with IDD
- Legal/ethical considerations in healthcare decision-making
- Best practices for ensuring compassionate, person-centered care
- Guidance for families and caregivers navigating complex medical decisions
This seminar is recommended for caregivers, family members, and professionals seeking guidance on navigating healthcare decisions with dignity and respect.
With over 26 years of experience, Nicole Ferrar is a nursing and clinical leader overseeing healthcare services for AHRC Nassau and its affiliated organizations. AHRC Nassau is the largest provider of supports and services for children and adults with IDD on Long Island. The organization is COMPASS validated and CQL Accredited with Distinction, earning commendations for excellence in “Best Possible Health.”
Pre-registration is required.
Inform Me RSVP 3.12.25
We would like to welcome all siblings to our next Sibling Meeting!
We will follow a light agenda and invite each person to share on how their family member is doing, the challenges and successes!
Registration coming soon!
Inform Me Series
Join us for our series of educational seminars.
Services and Supports for Families
Presented by Sally Anne Burgess, Vice President of Citizens Options Unlimited, and Shaun Weathers, Vice President of Operations, AHRC Nassau
Tuesday, June 3, 2025
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
The presentation is targeted to individuals and family looking to learn more about the supports and services AHRC Nassau and Citizens Options Unlimited provide for adults. The presentation will give an overview of the day, residential, respite, and community habilitation programs that provide person centered supports to people throughout Nassau and Suffolk County on Long Island.
Shaun Weathers is the Vice President of Operations for AHRC Nassau, a Chapter of the ARC New York. AHRC Nassau is one of Long Island’s largest not-for-profit organizations serving individuals and their families with Intellectual and Development disability. Starting his career in the field over 20 years ago as a Direct Support Professional, Shaun has dedicated his service to supporting individuals with I/DD to live enriched and fulfilled lives while promoting disability rights with key stakeholders and policy makers in the state. As Vice President, Shaun leads the organizations Day, Community, & Residential Habilitation programs that provide person centered services and supports to over 1200 adults throughout Nassau County on Long Island.
Inform Me RSVP 6.3.25
We would like to welcome all siblings to our Sibling Barbecue!
Sibling BBQ RSVP 6.26.25
We would like to welcome all siblings to our next Sibling Meeting!
We will follow a light agenda and invite each person to share on how their family member is doing, the challenges and successes!
Registration coming soon!
Inform Me Series
Join us for our series of virtual educational seminars.
The Culture of Language
Presented by Pam Boyle, Quality Improvement Specialist, AHRC Nassau
Thursday, October 9, 2025
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Words have the power to build people up and to bring them down. They can uplift and enlighten or depress and destroy. We have complete control over the words we use, so we really must choose them carefully. Join in a thought provoking discussion about our use of language within our community, as we seek to create a world that is inclusive for all people.
Pamela Boyle has worked for AHRC Nassau for 25 years. Previously part of the clinical department providing counseling and education related to sexuality and socialization, she now works as a Quality Enhancement Specialist, supporting the agency’s COMPASS initiatives.
Inform Me RSVP 10.9.25
We would like to welcome all siblings to our Sibling Holiday Dinner!