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Devereux N.Y. holds first ‘Self-Advocate Gala’ for adults with disabilities

“The gala made me reminisce about when I was in school. It brought up a
lot of good memories. I hope we have a gala every year.”

— Harrison M., individual served by Devereux New York

“It was very fun. It was nice to see everybody dressed up.” 

— Tara C., individual served by Devereux New York
  

This summer, Devereux New York held its first “Self-Advocate Gala” for adults served by the nonprofit behavioral healthcare provider. 

The twist: The gala was coordinated entirely by the organization’s “Adult Self-Advocacy Group.” The group helps adults – diagnosed with emotional, behavioral and cognitive differences – feel empowered by their hard work and proud of their accomplishments. Team members meet on a monthly basis and focus on sharing information about living healthier lifestyles and participating in state-wide advocacy events and learning experiences. 

A fun and festive evening

More than 122 adults in Devereux’s care and staff, plus nearly 20 volunteers, participated in the gala, held at the Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Educational Center at the FDR Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, N.Y. With the theme: “Around the World,” decorations (created by the Self-Advocacy Group and staff) included flags from various countries and origami cranes. 

“Guests danced the night away in their gala attire, enjoyed a fantastic buffet dinner and amazing desserts, and clapped and smiled all evening,” said Jane Taylor, a member of the Devereux Board of Trustees and Devereux New York Advisory Board co-chair. “What a wonderful event for the individuals we serve!”  

Devereux New York Community Outreach Coordinator Kailee McIntyre added: “I am overjoyed that the event was such a success and am beyond grateful we were able to make this dream a reality for the individuals in our care. The best part is that we’ve laid the groundwork for the gala to be an annual event, and people are already talking about their excitement for the next gala!” 

Thanks to our community partners!

A huge “thank you!” to our outstanding community partners and friends who helped make this event a rousing success. We couldn’t have done it without you! 

• Carousel Thrift Shop
• Gillette Creamery
• Liberty of Rhinebeck
• Linda Helbling
• Market Street
• Megan and Tom Carder
• Miranda Parry
• Phyllis Palmer
• Rhinebeck Rentals
• Something Fishy Catering
• Stewart’s Shops
• The Henry A. Wallace Center 

Learn about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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