Press release
BATAVIA — Arc GLOW will hold its fourth Annual Awards Dinner and Meeting. Taking place at 4:30 p.m., Oct. 14 at Batavia Downs, Rebecca LeClair, a former Rochester local news anchor, will be the emcee.
Arc GLOW’s entertainment will be provided by some of the talented people supported. In August, Arc GLOW invited nominations of staff members, people supported and community members for a variety of different awards.
The 2026 award winners are the following:
Self-Advocate of the Year
Recognizes an individual who uses their voice to advocate for themselves and others, promote inclusion, and inspire positive change in their community.
Casey Reynolds, Batavia
Supported Employment Person of the Year
Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who has demonstrated a strong work ethic, dedication to their job, the ability to learn and apply new employment skills, and sustained success in community-based employment.
Adam Wapniewski, Yancey’s Fancy, Genesee
Pre-Vocational Person of the Year
Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates a commitment to learning new job skills, producing quality work, maintaining attention to tasks, and preparing for success in future employment opportunities.
Tyler Heiman, Leicester
Residential Person of the Year
Residential Person of the Year – Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who lives in an Arc GLOW IRA and has shown growth in independence, developed important life skills, and made meaningful progress toward achieving personal goals and greater self-sufficiency.
Sabrina Leschander, Sanford IRA in Perry
Day Habilitation Person of the Year
Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates enthusiasm for learning, consistent effort in Day Habilitation activities, and a commitment to building skills and meaningful connections within their community.
Adam Russell, Uptown Day Habilitation in Mt. Morris
Community Services Person of the Year
Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who embrace new experiences, contribute positively to their communities, and promote inclusion through their actions and engagement.
Kimberly Wallace, Wyoming County
Self-Direction Person of the Year
Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates initiative, leadership, and active community involvement.
Sienna Garcia Mathewson, Orleans County
Outstanding Citizenship Award
Honors a person supported by Arc GLOW who demonstrates kindness, respect, responsibility, and a commitment to making a positive difference in their community through their actions, relationships, and involvement.
Joe Barchet, Orleans County
KidStart Employee of the Year
Honors a KidStart employee who demonstrates outstanding support for children and families, a commitment to early childhood education, and a dedication to nurturing growth, learning, and success in all areas of development.
Stephanie Metz, vice president of Children’s Services
Direct Support Professional Person of the Year (DSP)
Honors a Direct Support Professional who provides outstanding support to individuals with developmental disabilities through person-centered services, skill-building opportunities, community inclusion, and a commitment to helping people achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives.
Dan Crofts, direct support professional at IGNITE program in SUNY Genesee Community College
Employee of the Year
To recognize an employee of Arc GLOW who is committed to the mission and vision. They demonstrate the values of diversity, respect, integrity, visionary, equality, empowerment and excellence.
Ashely Coe, residential manager at Garibaldi IRA
Exceptional Leadership Award
Honors an employee who exemplifies exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to Arc GLOW’s mission. This award recognizes a person who inspires others, promotes teamwork, and consistently demonstrates integrity, vision, and excellence in their work.
Cathy Sullivan, program quality assurance coordinator
Friend of the Year
Honors a community friend and supporter who demonstrates a strong commitment to Arc GLOW’s mission and vision through advocacy, partnership, volunteerism, or philanthropic support that positively impacts those we serve.
Livingston County Office for the Aging
Business Partner of the Year
Honors a business partner that supports Arc GLOW’s mission and vision through exemplary customer service, strong community partnership, and the creation of meaningful employment opportunities for the individuals we serve.
Bob Johnson Auto Group
Volunteer of the Year
Honors a volunteer who exemplifies Arc GLOW’s mission through dedicated service, compassion, and a commitment to helping individuals and communities thrive. This award recognizes a person whose contributions create positive and lasting impacts on those we serve.
Marlene Hill, Arc GLOW’s board of director
Reservations are open until Oct. 2. at 4th Annual Awards Dinner and Meeting | Arc Glow
For any questions, contact Tracey Jones at (585) 343-1123 ext. 1735 or TJones@ArcGLOW.org