K 573: Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of Upstate Caring Partners on October 17, 2025

 Assembly Resolution No. 573 BY: M. of A. Buttenschon COMMEMORATING the 75th Anniversary of Upstate Caring Partners on October 17, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to those organizations within the State of New York which have demonstrated an enduring commitment to improving the lives of others and strengthening the fabric of our communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Upstate Caring Partners, recognizing its unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive services and support to individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health needs, and behavioral health challenges in Central New York and beyond; this momentous occasion will be celebrated with a Gala on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Munson in Utica, New York; and WHEREAS, Upstate Caring Partners, originally founded in 1950 to support an underserved group of children with developmental disabilities, has evolved into a leader in Special Education, Residential and Community Services, as well as Behavioral Health, serving individuals across Central New York and beyond; and WHEREAS, Through decades of tireless service, Upstate Caring Partners has remained steadfast in its mission to empower people of all ages and abilities by offering a broad range of programs grounded in respect, compassion, and innovation; and WHEREAS, In recent years, Upstate Caring Partners has implemented a robust clinical model emphasizing evidence-based practices rooted in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), enabling individuals to develop essential life skills and thrive in environments that foster a "Happy. Relaxed. Engaged." (HRE) lifestyle; and WHEREAS, Upstate Caring Partners has invested significantly in applied clinical research, bridging the gap between traditional laboratory settings and real-world applications, thereby advancing effective interventions for individuals with profound autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities; and WHEREAS, Since 1977, Upstate Caring Partners has provided vital mental health services and was among the first in its region to highlight the integral role mental health plays in overall wellness; today, its Office of Mental Health-certified Article 31 clinics deliver over 45,000 mental health service appointments annually, while Article 32 substance use services offer crucial support in addressing co-occurring conditions and the opioid crisis; and WHEREAS, The agency's community-based programs, including residential services, school-based behavioral health, and individualized supports such as Community Habilitation, respite, and Self-Direction, reflect its person-centered approach and commitment to independence, choice, and dignity; and WHEREAS, The Employment Services program, currently serving over 180 individuals, includes partnerships with socially conscious enterprises such as Generous Brands in Lee, New York, showcasing a model for inclusive employment and meaningful vocational experiences; and WHEREAS, Upstate Caring Partners fosters personal growth and community engagement through innovative programming such as Day Habilitation, partnerships with SUNY Poly, and the "Pieces of HeArt" arts initiative, which empowers individuals to express themselves and share their talents with the community; and WHEREAS, The dedicated and diverse staff of Upstate Caring Partners continue to enrich the lives of the individuals they serve, embodying the values of excellence, equity, and empathy in every facet of care and support; and WHEREAS, It is fitting that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Upstate Caring Partners upon the occasion of its 75th Anniversary, commending its remarkable legacy of service and reaffirming the importance of its ongoing mission; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Upstate Caring Partners, recognizing its outstanding contributions to the people of New York State; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Upstate Caring Partners.