The Arc Westchester Foundation, dedicated to enriching the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families, hosted its flagship fundraiser, “A Matter of Taste,” on April 29th at Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle.
Now in its 19th year, this popular annual event brought together over 20 of the area’s top restaurants and 450 guests. The evening raised nearly $575,000 to support The Arc Westchester’s programs and services.
“This evening is always joyful, but it also reminds us why we come together: we all want to build a stronger, more inclusive future for people with developmental disabilities,” said Barry Clark, executive director of The Arc Westchester Foundation. “That future is possible because supporters, like those who attend this event, speak up and give generously to keep things moving forward.”
He added, “With government funding for people with disabilities uncertain, the generosity we saw from our donors and sponsors was truly inspiring. Supporters stepped up in remarkable ways.”
The event celebrated community and partnership, showing how working together can make a real difference for people supported by The Arc Westchester.
This year’s honorees showed that same dedication and impact:
The Majsak family received the Family Partner Award for their decades of steady service, commitment and advocacy for people with developmental disabilities. Their ongoing support has made a lasting difference in the Arc community.
The evening also honored Tibisay A. Guzmán, CEO of The Arc Westchester, with the Distinguished Leadership Award. Guzmán, who recently announced her retirement after 22 years of leadership, was recognized for guiding the organization forward and upholding its tradition of excellence and care.
Guests enjoyed a special culinary experience, with signature dishes from Westchester’s top chefs, along with fine wines, specialty cocktails, and craft beers. The lively atmosphere showed the community’s generosity and the event’s mission.
Actor Kevin Kilner returned for his fourth year as emcee, bringing warmth and energy to the evening.
Proceeds from “A Matter of Taste” go directly to The Arc Westchester’s programs and services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families across Westchester County.
The Arc Westchester Foundation works to increase public awareness and financial support for The Arc Westchester, the largest organization in Westchester County providing lifelong, comprehensive services for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Many of The Arc Westchester’s most innovative programs receive little or no public funding, making private philanthropy essential to creating meaningful, fulfilling lives for those they support.
As a chapter of The Arc New York, The Arc Westchester is part of the largest and oldest national community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
