The Thomas S. Gulotta Wheatley Farms & Arts Center Opens Its Doors, Welcoming People of All Abilities

BROOKVILLE, N.Y., Aug. 17, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- MaryAnn Dellova knew what her daughter needed, so raised her hand high. During a life-planning meeting with AHRC Nassau staff, Mrs. Dellova advocated for disability supports that Jennifer, who is nonverbal, wanted and needed to thrive—a welcoming space where she could connect with plants and animals, explore her interests, meet new people, and build a community.

"We needed something like this in Nassau County," Dellova recalled. "I never thought that four years later Jennifer and I would be planning how we'll be spending time at the farm together."

Wheatley Farms & Arts Center, located at 211 Wheatley Road in Brookville, NY 11545, will soon welcome people of all abilities to grow their interests in nature-inspired activities, including animal care, horticulture/gardening, art, music, and movement. Located adjacent to AHRC Nassau's Brookville campus, the 3.5-acre community center will offer volunteer opportunities and activities open to all at its clubhouse, stables, and gardens.

AHRC Nassau, the organization that is leading this initiative, will be dedicating the Center on August 25 in honor of former Nassau County Executive Thomas "Tom" Gulotta.

"The AHRC Board of Directors is pleased to dedicate this space to a public servant who supported the full inclusion of people with disabilities within the fabric of Nassau County," said Saundra M. Gumerove, President of AHRC Nassau's Board of Directors. "For 14 years, he was an active member of the AHRC Foundation Board and we expect that this Center will re-set the focus from what people can do to what brings people together."

To maintain this community focus, volunteering will be essential in the care and upkeep of the farm as well as its animal residents. During weekday hours, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) will work side by side community volunteers to build new skills, relationships and self-esteem through nature-based projects and community service. People with I/DD and their families who are interested in including Wheatley Farms within their services/supports are welcome to connect with AHRC's Central Enrollment Department.

"We are ensuring that this Center serves to anchor our mission—empowering people to live fulfilling lives, together with family, friends and community," said Stanfort J. Perry, CEO of AHRC Nassau. "Our first phase focused on the development of a fresh and engaging pilot program for day services at the AHRC Greenhouse, next door to the Center, as well as equine-assisted activities at HorseAbility. Now, we're working with an advisory committee to increase our compelling programming for all to enjoy for many years to come." 

Tune in to AHRC Nassau's Facebook page, Thursday, August 25 at 10:30 a.m. E.T., for a livestreaming of the dedication and ribbon-cutting.

Volunteer opportunities are currently available. For more information, visit ahrc.org/volunteer.

If you or a family member are interested in learning more about AHRC Nassau's Day Services, please call (516) 644-4800 during business hours or email [email protected].  

For press inquiries, please contact [email protected] or 516.626.1075, ext. 1134.

SOURCE AHRC Nassau