On September 17th, 26 individuals from ACHIEVE (Broome-Tioga Chapter of NYSARC, Inc.) headed to Albany to participate in a celebration walk in recognition of the 60th anniversary of NYSARC, Inc. which culminated at the steps of the NYS Capitol.  The event kicked off at 11:00 AM at the Corning Preserve Riverfront Park as a procession of 1500 people walked over the Hudson River Way Pedestrian Bridge and up State Street to the Capitol Steps lead by Schenectady Pipe and Drum. At the Capitol steps, flags from the 55 NYSARC Chapters (including ACHIEVE) were placed by individuals who use the supports and services of NYSARC Chapters.

Remarks from several important public officials including Albany Mayor Gerald Jennings; Senate Majority Leader, Ron Canestrari; Senate Assistant Majority Leader, Neil Breslin; Asemblyman James Tedisco; Director for Constituent Relations for Senator Roy MacDonald, Jim Church; Director of Mental Hygiene for Governor Paterson, Michael Seereiter; and OMRDD Executive Deputy Commissioner, Max Chmura.

Immediately following the ceremony the group returned to the Riverfront Park at the Corning Preserve for a picnic and entertainment provided by the popular band FLAME.

The 60th Anniversary Celebration walk to the Capitol was symbolic of what NYSARC, Inc. is−  local grassroots energies spreading from community to community to ultimately come together as a statewide, parent driven organization that supports more than 60,000 people with developmental disabilities as they pursue their dreams and personal goals.

Here are some pictures from the day: