our world in change embracing change
TRANSCRIPT
EMBRACING CHANGE
2020
OUR WORLD IN CHANGE
REPORTTO THE COMMUNITY
VISIONWellLife Network will increase
its scale and capabilities to thrive
and grow in a changing health care
environment.
Our vision is to be a leading fiscally
responsible and pioneering health
and human services organization
that provides integrated, high-quality,
and outcome-based services that
are mission-driven and responsive
to the diverse needs of individuals,
families, communities, business,
and society.
MISSIONWellLife Network embraces its
commitment to the complex
challenges faced by individuals
and families throughout New York
and Long Island communities.
Our goal is to empower individuals
and families, with diverse needs,
to realize their full potential and live
a well life by achieving meaningful
life goals, guided by the principles
of independence, health, wellness,
safety and recovery.
VALUESTo our mission of assisting people
to heal, recover and become more
independent in the community,
WellLife Network brings a core
set of values – compassion and
caring, combined with innovation,
quality, integrity, charity, hope,
efficiency, accountability, and
transparency.
These values drive us to create a
person-centered, employee-centric
environment that fosters diversity,
equity, and inclusion for our staff
and the people we serve.
NONPROF
IT
GREA
TNONPROFITS
2019 TOP-RATED
OUR INSPIRING PURPOSE
EMPOWERMENT
BE WELL FOR LIFE2020 was a year of revelations and one of the most
challenging that has faced WellLife Network. In this Report
to the Community, we will share our experience with COVID
and our strategies to overcome this adversity. The WellLife
family of the Board, management, and an amazing staff
developed creative strategies to provide the same level of
outstanding services to the 25,000 individuals and families
who depend on us each and every day.
In the final analysis, it is our steadfast belief in the mission,
vision, and values of WellLife that helps us to triumph over
COVID-19. These guideposts shape and influence
everything we do and serve as our beacon for providing
a safe and secure network of services.
WellLife Network instituted strict CDC approved infectioncontrol methods for all of our locations. We carefully screenall team members who work in our residences. We haveemphasized enhanced training in infection control methodsand quarantining residents if they exhibit any COVID-19symptoms.
We also implemented expanded in-service training for allstaff of COVID-19 related protocols on patient safety,proper use of personal protective equipment, safe foodhandling, identifying COVID symptoms, social distancing,and communicating effectively with families and guardians.
Protecting Our Residencesand Program FacilitiesWellLife has incorporated the use of telehealth services(either by telephone or video) so that patients and programparticipants can receive the same high level of care withoutcoming to our clinic or programs. The ability to conductmeetings, training, and seminars online through Zoom©expands our communication and reach with Board, staffand colleagues in the community. This past winter we alsoprovided the COVID vaccination to our most vulnerablepopulations and our frontline staff.
Expanded In-Service Sessions for StaffThe agency has implemented a more flexible workingroutine for non-residential staff. They can now workremotely with strict accountability guidelines.
Sea Changes in Health and Human ServicesIn these trying times, we are so proud of the extraordinaryeffort our team is exerting. They embody resilience and a determination that is unique to the WellLife mission.Our agency leadership also learned that social distancingdoes not mean that we work in isolation. Instead, our focusedefforts of working together as a nurturing community –the WellLife community – helps to keep us all safe,productive, and resilient.
Our management team has weathered this storm andcontinues to do an outstanding job attending to the needsof our team members and the people who rely on us toprovide support, care, and compassion – now more than ever.
Jeffrey FinkleChairperson
Sherry TuckerCEO
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 3
During the COVID crisis WellLife Network continues
its commitment to provide vital programming to
the individuals and families we serve. We thank our
amazing, dedicated staff who helped ensure that
this was accomplished with safety and compassion.
““
NONPROF
IT
GREA
TNONPROFITS
2019 TOP-RATED
ADAPTING TO ADVERSITY
RESILIENCE
2020
OUR WORLDHAS CHANGEDDuring 2020 WellLife Network has faced anunprecedented challenge to the people weserve and our staff who supports them –COVID-19. Our professional and personallives have been upended. The way wework, study, socialize, worship, and carefor our community’s most vulnerable has fundamentally changed. Unlike crises ofthe past, this pandemic affects the entireWellLife family.
Despite threats of “across the board” stateand federal budget cuts, WellLife maintained its viability by creative programming effortsand enhancing its grants developmentportfolio.
At the same time, WellLife continued itscommitment to the individuals and familieswe serve and our dedicated staff whohelped to ensure their safety.
2 | ANNUAL REPORT
INTENSIFIED COMMUNITY NEEDSThe COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected thevulnerable populations that WellLife Network assists.Our program participants’ life challenges have intensified.They now face the loss of employment, increased foodinsecurity, and heightened anxiety leading to a rise insubstance use, suicide attempts, domestic violence,and depression.
FUNDING CUTS THREATEN STABILITYWellLife Network faces a critical and unique role inmitigating the economic consequences of COVID-19 in helping individuals and families cope with the direconsequences of this pandemic. In this time of deepeconomic hardship and physical and mental distress— when social services are most needed — healthand human services agencies face threatened cutsup to – 20% across the board. Many of theinfrastructure costs for PPE supplies, and increasedsalary costs have added millions of dollars tostretched budgets. These new costs result in chronicunderfunding. Nonprofits are now reaching intominimal cash reserves, making them particularlyvulnerable in a crisis like COVID-19.
The CARES Act provided loans to aid small businesses,which includes nonprofits. But it lacked niche supportsspecifically for nonprofits. Nonprofits have uniquebusiness models, and it is crucial for policymakers toconsider their financial and operational needs.
EXPANDING FUNDING TO ENHANCEINFRASTRUCTURE CAPABILITIES Funders are recognizing that their aid must helporganizations pay rent and establish technologycapabilities and infrastructure. Funders shouldconsider awarding less-restrictive funds in thefuture to better position nonprofits in the event ofanother crisis.
Future stimulus packages should consider a specificcarve-out that understands and supports a nonprofits’structure and needs. Tailored stimulus programs andlonger-term changes to funding policies would allowmore nonprofits to effectively connect to governmentcontracts and deliver the critical services now in highdemand across New York and Long Island. State andFederal funding sources should actively supportnonprofits during and after the crisis. This supportwill ensure the survival and viability of health andhuman services organizations in New York.
FUNDING MANDATES
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 5
NEW CHALLENGESLONG RANGE CONSEQUENCES
Preserving Financial Stabilityand Enhancing Infrastructure
4 | ANNUAL REPORT
OUR ROSTER OF SUPERHEROESWe want to thank the following individuals who presentedtheir unique leadership skills during the COVID-19 crisis.Nominations for WellLife Superheroes came from New YorkCity and Long Island and represent many staff from operationsas well as infrastructure. Our heroes in alphabetical order are -Michael Aiken, Agnes Alexis, Nancy Alston, Danielle Angotta,Stella Aoko, Max Banilivy, Hilda Banner, Sophia Barnes, VanessaBarnum, James Bennett, Isaiah Bonny, Roxanne Brown, AliciaBurton, Marcella Cahill, Dana Callendar, Meryl Camer, RobertCameron, Albert Carcaterra, Steven Cherkes, David Chermak,Shareese Chesson, Sean Coke, Elissa Columbo, Jasmine Crawford,Jennifer Creary, Romina Cuko, Champawattie Dhanasar, CarolynDornstauder, Claudia Dounelis, Andre Dujoy, Harry Duncan,Jahvon Durden, Maura Durkin, Osasu Egharevba-Ederiri,Rolane Elie, Sherman Elliott, Jose Encarnacion, Godfrey Evelyn,Raffie Farray, Caitlyn Figoraski, Shanese Flemings, DeniseFlorencio, Hoda Forde, Donovan Foy, Caroline Francis, MichelleFriere, Darryl Geddie, Claudette Golding, Sylvia Gonzalez,
Jaye Gooberdhan, Deloris Gordon, Ana Goris, Michael Green,Arthur Griffin, Nichola Griffith, Dana Guess, Jamie Guzman, AdrienneHargrave, Jennifer Hartfield, Christina Hauptman, Ismary Hernandez,Wendell Jack, Tawanna Jackson, Francisco Jaquez, Tiani Jay,Edward Johnson, Everton Johnson, Chyna Jones, Chris Julian,Jason Kanable, RayShawn Kennedy, Cortez King, CharisaKirkpatrick, Rob Kooma, Chris Krosche, Vijay Lal, Edith Lamberth,Pearson Lavine, Willie Leary, Mary Lee, Elizabeth Lewis, BruceLindsay, Terry Little, Ryan Logan, Jermaine Lovell, WinstonLyons, Kasey Madigan, Yogani Mangroo, Jennifer Marino, ShaikMasode, Jessica McGinn, Danny Medina, Saverio Mele, RobertMorton, Renee Munro, Robert Munson, Carmelo Ocasio, IanOdom, Sidi Okunola, Veronika Omole, Thomas Padavano, GobinPersaud, Williamson Pierre, Jacqueline Pineda, Amy Platt, AsariPounder, Talliah Prince, Marshall Prince, Nancy Pugo, SelwynRamdhanie, Sasha Razhba, Kevin Richardson, Sherwyn Richmond,Durpatee Roopnarine, Rene Rosa, Eric Rosin, Bernard Salvant,Gisselle Sanchez, Fauset Sanni, Ernest Smith, Oluwaseun Sonde,Marie St. Juliette Pierre, Vincent Stewart, Lance Tabakman,Jennifer Tadlock, Tyra Thomas, Sylvia Trotman, Hans Turenne,Maria Ulloa, Luis Vanegas, Jeannette Vernon, Lourdes Villagaran,John Washington, Tamica Wilson, Shernevelyn Wilson, DonnaWilson, Jacqueline Wright, Daniela Yovino, and Jodie Zeltmann.
The ultimate measure of a person is not
where they stand in moments of convenience
and comfort, but where they stand in times
of challenge and controversy.
“
Martin Luther King, Jr.
“
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 7
SUPERHEROESOF WELLLIFE NETWORK
WELLLIFE’S SUPERHEROESThe Superheroes of WellLife Network don't wear capesor carry laser swords, but they do wear masks, glovesand engage in social distancing for everyone's healthand safety. COVID has changed the way our staff works –and it is for the better. The perfect theme song to describeour heroes is, “I'll be there for you.”
Every day, WellLife Network staff come to work, engageand motivate the individuals we serve, help ease theiranxieties, and care for them with compassion and respect.Our infrastructure staff worked remotely and in the fieldto ensure our connection with one another, and the worldwas always intact.
UNMATCHED PROFESSIONALISMOur team of professionals rolls up their sleeves to work.Their support and dedication come in many forms.No task is too small or menial for them to perform.
Our management staff assists by covering shifts dueto staffing shortages, participating with the team tocomplete a 14-day quarantine within a residence, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, or organizing theredeployment of day program employees to residences.Their innovation, persistence, and comaraderie inprotecting our program participants create amoresafe, secure, and welcoming environment.
6 | ANNUAL REPORT
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 9BE WELL FOR LIFE | 9
These highly regarded recognitionsvalidateWellLife Network’s steadfastcommitment to staff developmentand improved program performance.
“ “
AGENCYACCOMPLISHMENTS2020
NATIONAL NEWSDAY AWARD2020 proved to be a year of change and recognition.Most notably, Newsday named WellLife one of theTop Workplaces on Long Island, a testament to ourcommitment to staff development and creating arelevant and caring workplace culture. The award isbased solely on employee feedback.
GUIDESTAR PLATINUM RECOGNITIONFor the fourth year in a row, GuideStar awardedWellLife Network its Platinum GuideStar NonprofitProfile Seal of Transparency. This award is thehighest level of recognition offered by GuideStar,the world’s largest source of nonprofit information.We can now easily share a wealth of up-to-dateorganizational metrics with our supporters as wellas GuideStar's immense online audience.
GREAT NONPROFITS AWARDFor a second year in a row GreatNonprofits honoredWellLife Network with its prestigious 2020 Top-RatedAward, the leading provider of user reviews aboutnonprofit organizations. This award is based onpositive reviews written by volunteers, donors,and program participants.
GRANTSWellLife Network was awarded more than twomillion in grants from private foundations forimprovements in the Agency’s infrastructureand for program enhancement and development.
WellLife Network is a proud community partner ofthe United Way of Long Island and is grateful fortheir continued support of our mission.
8 | ANNUAL REPORT
AWARDS GRANTS
2 0 2 0
PERFORMANCE RECOGNITION
SATISFYING A NEEDINTENSIFIED COMMUNITY NEEDSIn a study released in October 2020 by ColumbiaUniversity’s Center on Poverty and Social Policy,poverty has been on the rise in the United States formost of the year. Some 60 million families across theUnited States are struggling to put food on the table.This sad finding echoes throughout Long Island asone in seven families on Long Island depend on foodbanks to feed their families.
To assist Long Islanders in need, WellLife Networkestablished special Drive-Up Food Giveaway programsas an adjunct to our regular pantry hours. We discoveredthat the need was great, as lines for our four pantryDrive-Up Food Giveaways appeared endless. TheseGiveaways were conducted four times each monthfrom August through December at our Food Pantrylocations in Smithtown, Huntington, Coram, andWyandanch. Through a generous grant from theMother Cabrini Foundation and our Long Island partnersIsland Harvest Food Bank and Long Island Cares, WellLifeNetwork created amazing opportunities for SuffolkCounty residents to receive weekly care packagescontaining, food, household, and personal care items.
WellLife Network assisted more than 10,181 familiesduring 2020 and distributed some 240,000 pounds offood and personal supplies to Suffolk County residents.
ENRICHING LIVES WITHWHOLESOME FOODSWellLife is committed to providing nutritious foodduring the COVID-19 pandemic to our friends andneighbors in need. We offer frozen entreés, cereal,milk, canned and fresh fruits and vegetables,condiments, rice, pasta, snacks for school lunches,baby items, personal items, and even pet food.
.
New York State Senator James Gaughran, 5th District visitsWellLife’s Huntington food pantry and learns from Sherry Tucker,CEO, about our outreach efforts to feed Suffolk County’s families.
(L-R) Chad Lupinacci, Town Supervisor of Huntington and AllisonPuglia, Vice President, Programs and Agency Relations, IslandHarvest Food Bank help to distribute food at WellLife Network’sweekly Drive-Up Food Giveaway.
(L-R) Assemblyman Joe DeStefano, District 3 visits with WellLifestaff at its Coram Food Pantry to assist with distributing foodboxes to Suffolk County families.
REACHING OUT
FEEDINGOUR NEIGHBORS
Breanna Hardy, a WellLife Network intern from Farmingdale State College, lends a hand in helping distribute some 3,500 pounds of food basics,in October to more than 250 families affected by COVID in Suffolk County. Her efforts are joined by WellLife staff and are supported by our partners -Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, Long Island Cares and Island Harvest Food. (Inset) Dalas Taddeo, LPN, of WellLife’s ACT program distributeshousehold and personal supplies to drive-up Suffolk County residents.
12 | ANNUAL REPORT
VOCATIONAL TRAININGOPPORTUNITIES FOR INDEPENDENCE
Expanding Our Reach withNew Lines of Business
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 13
VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND PLACEMENTCreating viable employment opportunities for ourparticipants embodies the WellLife mission to fostergreater independence in the community. Our jobtraining and supported work programs prepareindividuals to enter the competitive workforceand support their goal of independence.
In 2020, WellLife Clean Corp. expanded its reachby providing a new range of services to thecorporate sector. With a new marketing campaign,WellLife refocused its cleaning offerings to includemore contemporary concerns to businesses in thefor-profit sector. It now offers cleaning, sanitizing,and disinfecting treatments for protection fromthe spread of COVID-19 and the influenza virus.
WellLife Network’s Vocational and Job Placementprograms focus on real-world work skills and livingwage needs of low-income, multicultural individualsin our communities.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SERVICESAnother initiative — Supported Employment Services(SES)— helps individuals with a diagnosis of mentalillness or other significant disabilities sustain stableemployment in integrated settings. In 2020, weassisted 43 SES participants in finding full or part-timeemployment opportunities.
WELLLIFE CLEAN CORP. OBSERVES75TH ANNIVERSARY OF NDEAMThis year is the 75th observance of the NationalDisability Employment Awareness Month, (NDEAM),administered by the Department’s Office of DisabilityEmployment Policy (ODEP). The observance culminatesthe Department’s commemoration of the 30th anniversaryof the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). WellLifesupports U.S. Department of Labor and ACCES-VR,New York State Education Department in its efforts toinclude and accommodate all Americans with disabilities.Their active participation in the workforce will be animportant part of our economic rebound while increasingaccess and opportunity for Americans with disabilities.
CLEAN CORP. IN A COVIDENVIRONMENT
The cleaning staff from WellLifeClean Corp. does a terrific job.They go above and beyond tomake certain that our buildingis professionally cleaned!
Sal CappuzzoWeinstein Enterprises, Inc.
“
“
IMPACTBEHAVIORALHEALTH SERVICES
1,175New Yorkers who participate inWellLife Network BehavioralHealth Residential Serviceshave a warm, nurturingenvironment to call home.
75Number of new beds WellLifeNetwork developed for children,adults, and families with mentalhealth challenges.
FOOD PANTRYSERVICES
10,181With a grant from the MotherCabrini Foundation, WellLife Network distributed more than5,500 packages of food to 10,181individuals and families in SuffolkCounty severely affected byCOVID.
240,000Pounds of food and personaltoiletries distributed toindividuals and families onLong Island.
CHILDREN& FAMILY SERVICES
532Families coping with childrenwith serious mental healthissues were strengthened andmoved from crisis to stability.
AWARDS
GUIDESTARPLATINUM RATINGFor the fourth year in a rowWellLife Network has earnedthe Platinum GuideStarNonprofit Profile Seal ofTransparency, awarded to thetop 3% of charities nationwide.
NEWSDAY NAMESWELLLIFE ONE OFTOP WORKPLACESON LONG ISLANDNewsday named WellLife oneof the Top Workplaces on LongIsland, a testament to ourcommitment to staff developmentand in creating a relevant andcaring workplace culture.
TOP-RATEDAWARD BYGREAT NONPROFITS As a Great Non Profit WellLifeNetwork’s Award is based onpositive reviews by volunteers,donors and program participants.
2020INFRASTRUCTURE
11Multidisciplinary and committedmembers of the WellLifeNetwork Board of Directors
1,550Staff, volunteers and interns help25,000 individuals and familiescope with life’s challenges.
103Unique programs were offered in2020 at WellLife Network.
347Federal, state, local, foundation,voluntary, colleges & universitiesand corporate partners who helpto enhance the good work ofWellLife Network.
703,419PPE supplies purchased from March1, 2020 - March 1, 2021, includingmasks, gloves, gowns, visors, handsanitizers, disinfectant wipes, COVIDcleaning supplies, thermometers,and pulse oxymenters.
99%Percentage of staff maintained atWellLife Network, at all levels,despite the of funding cutbacksdue to COVID-19.
DEVELOPMENT
$227,891Private fundraising eventsand foundation grants.
FINANCE
90¢of every dollar spent by WellLifeNetwork goes directly towardclient services and programs.
INTELLECTUAL/DEVELOPMENTALDISABILITIES
707Individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities received residential, familysupport, day and communityhabilitation, and entitlementand eligibility services.
43Group homes and supportedapartments, throughout New York City,offer adults with I/DD an array ofresidential services. These residentialservices offer 24-hour supervisedresidences to apartment living forthose who can live with greaterindependence in the community.
14 | ANNUAL REPORT BE WELL FOR LIFE |15
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 17
VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND PLACEMENTCreating viable employment opportunities for ourparticipants embodies the WellLife mission to fostergreater independence in the community. Our jobtraining and supported work programs prepareindividuals to enter the competitive workforceand support their goal of independence.
In 2020, WellLife Clean Corp. expanded its reachby providing a new range of services to thecorporate sector. With a new marketing campaign,WellLife refocused its cleaning offerings to includemore contemporary concerns to businesses in thefor-profit sector. It now offers cleaning, sanitizing,and disinfecting treatments for protection fromthe spread of COVID-19 and the influenza virus.
WellLife Network’s Vocational and Job Placementprograms focus on real-world work skills and livingwage needs of low-income, multicultural individualsin our communities.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT SERVICESAnother initiative — Supported Employment Services(SES)— helps individuals with a diagnosis of mentalillness or other significant disabilities sustain stableemployment in integrated settings. In 2020, weassisted 43 SES participants in finding full or part-timeemployment opportunities.
WELLLIFE CLEAN CORP. OBSERVES75TH ANNIVERSARY OF NDEAMThis year is the 75th observance of the NationalDisability Employment Awareness Month, (NDEAM),administered by the Department’s Office of DisabilityEmployment Policy (ODEP). The observance culminatesthe Department’s commemoration of the 30th anniversaryof the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). WellLifesupports U.S. Department of Labor and ACCES-VR,New York State Education Department in its efforts toinclude and accommodate all Americans with disabilities.Their active participation in the workforce will be animportant part of our economic rebound while increasingaccess and opportunity for Americans with disabilities.
CLEAN CORP. IN A COVIDENVIRONMENT
The cleaning staff from WellLifeClean Corp. does a terrific job.They go above and beyond tomake certain that our buildingis professionally cleaned!
Sal CappuzzoWeinstein Enterprises, Inc.
“
“
16 | ANNUAL REPORT
DEVELOPMENTALDISABILITIES
SELF-RELIANCE – FREEDOM OF CHOICE
NEW CHALLENGESFACING A VULNERABLE POPULATIONAt WellLife Network Day Habilitation Program,we are committed to helping adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities realize their greatestpotential within a culture of encouragement,compassion and integrity. Utilizing a team approach,with each individual at its center, measurableobjectives are established and services are tailoredto ensure the best possible results.
COVID-19 brought new challenges to WellLife Network’sDay and Community Habilitation programming. As asafety precaution we closed our Day Habilitationprograms during the height of the pandemic.
In the fall of 2020 WellLife selectively reopened itsStation Road program with strict safety guidelines andprotocols. We also conducted our day programs atmany of our residences offering training in the areas ofpersonal health, self-help, sensorimotor development,communication, social, and vocational skills. WellLifealso implemented remote day habilitation programming
via Zoom. These Zoom meetings, offered at all dayhabilitation programs, engaged participants so theycould continue to participate in traditional and home-based day activities while gaining the much neededsocial interaction with their peers.
OFFERING A RICH ARRAY OF SERVICES WellLife Network’s caring staff worked diligently ateach residence to offer a rich array of activities,including arts and crafts, therapeutic cooking,games, exercise, self-improvement, yoga, and tai chiclasses for mind and body wellness and more.
TELEHEALTHWellLife is at the forefront in bringing technology toimprove its quality of care. We partnered withStationMD who conducted remote medical visits byboard-certified emergency medicine physicians withconsiderable expertise in caring for I/DD populations.These virtual appointments helped WellLife tosignificantly reduce emergency room and urgentcare visits.
Residents of the Brown residence enjoy a summer Hawaiian, “COVID-safeluau. This luau featured Hawaiian grass skirts, leis, and delicious, healthfulfresh fruits.
I/DD SERVICESINTEGRATED RESIDENTIAL, DAYAND HEALTH SERVICES WellLife Network offers safe, stable, and securehomes for the long-term health and wellbeing ofindividuals with intellectual/developmentaldisabilities. We offer a broad range of housing,day habilitation, and prevocational services.Each day, more than 400 people live with dignityand pride as they develop greater independencein WellLife Network’s housing and day habilitationprograms throughout New York City and Long Island.
Our homes integrate care into the community andcelebrate residents’ unique cultures and traditions.Using a person-centered approach, WellLife Network’shousing and residential programs cover a broad arrayof alternatives, from 24-hour staff supervisedresidences to serve those with the greatest needs,to apartment living with ongoing supports for thoseable to live more independently in the community.
RESIDENTIAL RENOVATIONIn 2020 WellLife Network renovated more than 10of its residences. With major modernizations andupdated interior furnishings, enhanced outdoorgardens and recreation areas, each home reflectsthe vibrant community that lives within the wallsof each residence.
To accommodate OPWDD state guidelines, WellLifeoffered community habilitation services on-site atthe residences. This alternative gave structureand continuity to daily programming.
Our kitchens incorporate beautifully engineered surfaces, glamorous, energy efficient and durable stainless steel appliances. The “heart” of the house,WellLife kitchens create special memories of healthy and delicious foodpreparation and gatherings.
Our homes have beautifully appointed bedrooms with polished hardwood floors.Each bedroom is personalized to reflect the interests of each resident. Actionheroes is this resident’s favorite theme.
This backyard provides residents with a beautiful retreat to enjoy – lots of freshair, sunshine, and a healthy fire-grilled meal on the weekends and special occasions.
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 19
CREATING
H MESWITHHEART
Each home is thoughtfully designed and decorated. We create sun-drenched rooms that are bright, cheerful, and welcoming. Our attentionto detail in providing quality, yet durable, furnishings is evident in every room of the home. Colorful gardens and well maintained lawns arehallmark features of our residences.
18 | ANNUAL REPORT
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 21
It’s official, on September 15, 2020 WellLife Network broke ground on it’s 66 apartment Cypress Avenue mixed-use apartment complex. Participating in the groundbreakingceremony – (L-R) Representing L. Riso & Sons, Co. Inc - Craig Elka, Field Superintendent and Manny Papadopoulos, Project Manager; Monica Lopez, Monica LopezArchitect, LLC; James Riso, Vice President, L. Riso & Sons, Co., Inc; representing CSD Housing, LLC – Mike Dehmler, Managing Member, and Michael Newman, Directorof Program Development; representing WellLife Network – Sherry Tucker, CEO; Alan M. Weinstock, former CEO; Steve Bernstein, WellLife Network Board Member;Dianne Camelo, Esq., Partner, Levy, Stopol & Camelo, LLC; from WellLife Network – Andrew Carbonara, VP, General Services; Ray Morell, Director, Facilities Management.;Ken Cummings, Facilities Manager; Karen Gorman, VP, Property Management and New Program Development; Crystal John, VP, Behavioral Health Residential Services;Lori Alameda, CFO; Willie Scott, VP, Public Affairs and Diversity Officer; and Jianwei Chen, Sr. Controller.
NEW HOUSING OPPORTUNITIESFOR COMMUNITY RESIDENCESIn the fall of 2020, WellLife Network broke groundon its Cypress Avenue mixed-use housing apartmentcomplex in Queens, New York. This site will feature66 apartments, 40 of which will offer safe andsecure housing for community members withspecial needs. Twenty-six apartments will providehousing for low-income individuals or families. Thislife-changing initiative will target New York’s mostvulnerable citizens in need of supportive housing.
The complex will feature a rooftop garden, forest-likelandscaping, a communal event room, an exercisefacility, and a high-tech laundromat. The scheduledcompletion date for this project is fall 2022.
PARTNERSHIPS MAKE IT HAPPENThis building will become a reality through a jointpartnership among state and city supporters.Funding for this project was made possible throughNew York City and The Richman Group. WellLifeNetwork is proud to partner with CSD Housing, LLC, a leader in building affordable housing communities.Urban Architectural Initiatives (UAI) created thiscontemporary structure in conjunction with MonicaLopez Architect, LLC, and contracted by L. Riso& Sons Co., Inc.
GROUNDBREAKINGSAFE ANDAFFORDABLE HOUSING
20 | ANNUAL REPORT
Above: Rendering of Cypress Avenue housing complex. The timeless design ofthe structure will fit seamlessly into the site and become an integral part ofthe fabric of the neighborhood.
Architectural rendering courtesy - Urban Architectural Initiatives, RA, PC
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES
ASSERTIVE COMMUNITY TREATMENT - ACTAs hospitals and emergency departments mobilized toconvert beds to treat individuals with COVID-19, theoften-used services for psychiatric challenges becameoverwhelmed. As a result, the New York State Office ofMental Health (NYSOMH) launched a project to assistwith rapid movement for the psychiatric populationwithin the hospitals using CTI – Critical Time Interventionmethodology.
WellLife Network ACT (NYC) was one of the first teamschosen to participate in this pilot. Working collaborativelywith NYSOMH, WellLife helped to develop the workflowfor this much-needed service. Throughout the pandemic,all ACT Teams have continued providing face-to-faceservices to their clients, who are often the most complexand challenging. The introduction of the principles of CTIto our ACT Teams demonstrates and reinforces severalgoals. These include rapidly addressing clients’ acuteneeds, building a rapport with compassion and action,and providing a bridge to help individuals move quicklyfrom the intensity of a hospital/ED setting tocommunity services with compassionate support.
BRIDGER EXPANDS ITS SCOPEWellLife Network Bridger Program offers ‘bridging’services to individuals leaving the Kingsboro PsychiatricCenter and returning to their communities. This year theNew York City Department of Mental Hygiene grantedthe Bridger Program the opportunity to expand its scopeto provide training to community members, agencies,and professional groups about the challenges experiencedwith reintegration into the community. The training fostersbetter engagement with clients during those periods oftransition.
PATHWAY HOME™ INCREASES ENROLLMENTThe Pathway Home™ Adult Home is a community-basedcare transition/management intervention that offersintensive, mobile, time-limited services to individualstransitioning from an institutional setting such as anAdult Home back to the community.
In 2020, WellLife Network Pathway Home™ Adult Home+has increased its member enrollment by 25%, despite theimpact of COVID-19. The team was able to successfullygraduate six members back into the community.
MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
22 | ANNUAL REPORT BE WELL FOR LIFE | 23
SUBSTANCE USEDISORDERS
SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS AFFECTED BY
ENHANCING ADDICTION RECOVERYSERVICES (ARS) THROUGH TELEHEALTH The COVID-19 brought new challenges to WellLifeNetwork’s Substance Use Disorders programming.Many patients were fearful of attending our clinicservices. But WellLife came to their home throughour telehealth visits.
Using a team approach, WellLife establishes measurableobjectives with tailored services for each participant toensure the best possible results. Our goal is to helpeach person develop and strengthen their ability tocope with life's challenges.
ARS quickly mobilized to use telehealth services atthe onset of the pandemic. ARS clients pose manychallenges for treatment adherence, and the pandemiccompounded the rationale for missing appointments.In a short time after the start of telehealth, mostclients enrolled were making use of the modality,despite the absence of mandates that are oftenmotivators for completion of treatment.
This year WellLife addiction recovery services are alsooffered to the Spanish speaking communities.
TREATMENT FOR GAMBLING ISSUESIn 2020 WellLife Network received certification toprovide gambling treatment. Referrals have begunfor this much-needed service in Suffolk County.
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG)estimates that there are approximately 5 millionAmericans who are compulsive gamblers. However,only 8% receive counseling for this problem. Onceidentified, gambling addiction is very treatable.
Professional rehabilitation programs can address thisdestructive process and help individuals regaincontrol over their lives. WellLife dedicates itself tothe positive transformation of lives harmed by acompulsive gambling problem, assisting boththe individual as well as their family.
Helping our patients gettheir healthy life back.
BE WELL FOR LIFE | 25
A FOCUS ON PREVENTIONAND EARLY INTERVENTIONWellLife’s Children and Family Support Servicesexperienced a year of transition that resulted fromthe NYS Children’s Medicaid Redesign. This redesignaims to broaden eligibility and enable a greater focuson prevention and early intervention for children withmental health challenges. The COVID pandemiccreated additional challenges in providing servicesto the children and families we serve.
WellLife Network offers a broad cadre of servicesthat have the goals of identifying the child’s needswith early intervention, maintaining youth in thecommunity in the least restrictive settings, and afocus on recovery and building resilience.
OTHER LICENSED PRACTITIONER THERAPYOne exceptional service offered is our Other LicensedPractitioner (OLP) Therapy. Families can now navigatesome of the previous obstacles to treatment by havingthe therapy provided to family members directly in theirhomes. This new at-home therapy modality is gainingapproval and recognition because of its flexibility.A critical element of this strength-based treatmentmodality is assesment for mental health or substanceuse and the family’s ability to receive individual or familycounseling services.
OPENING OF NEW COMMUNITYRESIDENCE PROGRAM IN MANORVILLEIn the fall of 2021, WellLife will open a new communityresidence program located in Manorville, Long Island.This residence will provide 24/7 care for youth facingserious mental health challenges. It joins WellLife’sSetauket and Dix Hills residences with the goal ofhelping youth and their families to recover, reunite,and transition youth back into their homes.
A YEAR OF TRANSITIONAND CHANGE
The WellLife difference is in our
standard of care that provides
customized services offered
with passion and compassion
every step of the way.
WellLife NetworkStrategic Plan Statement
“
“
24 | ANNUAL REPORT
CHILDREN& FAMILY SERVICESA HIGHER STANDARD OF CARE
Redesigned services focusing onprevention and early intervention.
Where the Money Comes From
Medicaid/Medicare/Other Insurance $93,140,266
Federal/State/Local Grants 20,592,252
Grants/Foundations/Private 277,891
Other 1,960,479
Total $115,920,888
How It Helps
Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities $49,793,899
Behavioral Health 45,574,927
Addiction Recovery 8,716,201
Children & Family 691,459
Management/Administration and Other 11,873,594
Total $116,650,080*
*For the fiscal year ending 2020. Based on the fiscal year 2020audited financial statements by BDO USA, LLP
of every dollar spent byWellLife Network goesdirectly toward clientservices and programs.
90¢
INTELLECTUAL/DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES$49,793,899
CHILDREN & FAMILY$691,459
ADDICTION RECOVERY$8,716,201
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH$45,574,927
MANAGEMENT/ADMINISTRATIONAND OTHER$11,873,594
43%39%
7% 10%1%
PROGRAMEXPENSES
MEDICAID/MEDICARE/OTHER INSURANCE$93,140,266
FEDERAL/STATE/LOCAL GRANTS$20,592,252
GRANTS/FOUNDATIONS/PRIVATE$227,891OTHER
$1,960,479
In fiscal year 2020, WellLife Networkmade significant progress in the financialtransformation work it began last year.Despite state budget cuts and suspensionof certain programs due to COVID andincreased expenditures for PPE suppliesand staffing needs, WellLife was able to sustain programming without interruption.
The operating budget grew by $2 million toreach $115,920,888 in revenues at the endof the fiscal year. This increase was drivenprimarily by expansion of our residentialhousing services and improved ratestructures in our developmental disabilitiesservices division.
This year 90 cents of every dollar spentwent directly toward client services andprograms. This reflects an improved indirect charge of 5%.
While we are pleased with this year’s accomplishments, we are also lookingfor other opportunities for improvement. We are committed to achieving fiscalresponsibility, including the delivery ofquality value-based services, whilepromoting and safeguarding the healthand wellness of the people we serve.
FiscalResponsibility
%PROGRAMREVENUE
80%
17%
2% 1%
Program Revenue
26 | ANNUAL REPORT
Alliance Care Network– ACNAlliance of Long Island Agencies, Inc.Association for Community LivingBrooklyn Council of Developmental DisabilitiesThe Coalition of Behavioral Health AgenciesCoordinated Behavioral Care – CBC Health & Welfare Council of Long IslandInterAgency Council of DevelopmentalDisabilities Agencies, Inc. - IACLong Island CaresNational Council of Behavioral HealthNew York Association of PsychiatricRehabilitation Services
New York Disability AdvocatesNew York State Association of Community
and Residential Agencies – NYSACRANew York State Associationof Day Service Providers – NYSADSP
New York State Council for CommunityBehavioral Healthcare
Queens Council on DevelopmentalDisabilities –QCDD
Suffolk Coalition of Mental HealthService Providers
Supportive Housing Network of New YorkUnited Way of Long Island
College/UniversityAdelphi UniversityAlfred UniversityBriarcliff CollegeCapella UniversityColumbia UniversityFarmingdale State CollegeFordham UniversityHofstra UniversityIona CollegeJohn Jay College of Criminal JusticeLehman CollegeLong Island UniversityMercy CollegeMetropolitan College of New YorkMolloy CollegeNew York Institute of TechnologyNew York UniversityQueens CollegeRutgers UniversitySimmons School of Social WorkSt. Johns UniversityStony Brook UniversityThe City University of New YorkWalden UniversityYeshiva University, Wurtzweiler Schoolof Social Work
Corporate/IndividualABT Appliance Brokers & TradersAce Endico – S&P Food Distributors Ltd.Lori AlamedaMarc AronsteinB&R Plumbing & Heating of L.I. IncBarclay Damon LLPBay Carpet & FlooringBDO, USA, LLCBellmore PharmacyBenevity Community Impact FundBradley BernsteinSteven BernsteinBK Fire Suppression & Security SystemsDeborah BoatrightBullfrog Pest ControlDianne CameloAndrew CarbonaraCarr Business SystemsCharles & Rose Marie Walsh Charitable FundJianwei ChenVictoria ContinoRebecca CostaCSD Housing, LLCJames L. Curtis, M.D.Adrian DeenDriscoll FoodsEconomy Fuel Oil, Inc.Ethel & Alexander Nicholson FoundationEmerald Lawn Care Services, Inc.Patrick ErkkilaFirst Nonprofit FoundationPamela Flash & Jeffrey FinkleFour Seasons RoofingGallagherGeorge GarciaGenoa HealthcareGoldman Sachs & Co.Surujdai GopaulKaren GormanJohn Greed Guardian Life Insurance CompanyJulie Haar-PattonDr. Jesse & Rachel HalpernRobert HopkinsNadia HrvatinHSBC Charitable FoundationImperial DadeIrwin Contracting Inc.Jackson Lewis, P.C.Crystal JohnJorich Construction Co, Inc.Abraham Kassin
Kathleen KellyMichael KerrBense J. KopramLamb Insurance ServicesLevy Stopol & Camelo, LLPReychu LiuMitch MartinezElizabeth K. & Edward MatthewsMorgan StanleyMother Cabrini Health Foundation Mutual of AmericaMLZ 40 FoundationNates Corp.Thomas PadovanoPaycomPayroll, LLCMarya PiotrowskiDavid PortnowitzAngela Ranieri and Anthony RinellaBrian ReganRiggs ConstructionJustin RobertsBrian T. RooneyJoseph RumoreSachs ConsultingKelly SavageSav-Mor Mechanical, Inc.Howell Schrage, M.D. Patrick SolbergMarvin SperlingJoseph Stein, Jr. Sterling Sanitary Supply Corp.Altagracia SurielTD BankSamuel TejadaTGI Office AutomationThe Ray-Block Stationery Co., Inc.The Richman GroupThomas A. & Elaine L. Blumberg FundTristate Apartment Furnishers, LLCSherry and Dirk TuckerUnited Way of Long IslandUrban Architectural Initiatives, RA, PCUtopia AJ Market, Inc.Vassalotti Associates Architects, LLPVincent J. DiCalogero, CPA LLCW.B. MasonRob & Julie WeaverLou H. WeinbergAlan WeinstockRichard Wisz
We are enormously grateful to the generosity of the WellLife Network Board of Directors, government, business,foundations, the voluntary community and the many individuals, families, and friends whose support is so vital toWellLife Network in its delivery of health and human services.
FederalU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesCenters for Medicareand Medicaid Services
U.S. Department of Housingand Urban Development
U.S. Social Security Administration
StateNew York State Department of HealthNew York State Department of LaborNew York State Office of Alcoholismand Substance Abuse Services –OASAS
New York State Office of Childrenand Family Services
New York State Office of Mental Health –OMH
New York State Office for People withDevelopmental Disabilities– OPWDD
New York State Office of Temporaryand Disability Assistance
LocalNew York City CouncilThe New York City Department of Health andMental HygieneNew York City Human Services CouncilNassau County Departmentof Social Services
Nassau County Office of Mental Health,Chemical Dependency andDevelopmental Disabilities Services
Office of the Bronx Borough PresidentOffice of the Brooklyn Borough PresidentOffice of the Queens Borough PresidentOffice of the Manhattan Borough PresidentOffice of the Staten IslandBorough President
Queens Chamber of CommerceSuffolk County Departmentof Health Services
Suffolk Department of Social Services
Foundation/VoluntaryACLAIMHAdvance Care Alliance– ACAAdvanced Health Network & Recovery Health Solutions - AHN-RHS
SupportingPartners
Board of DirectorsExecutive StaffBoard of Directors
Jeffrey E. FinkleChairperson
Marya PiotrowskiVice Chairperson
Brian K. Regan, Ph.D.Treasurer
Kathleen KellySecretary
Marc Aronstein
Elijah Bach
David Barr
Steve Bernstein
Thomas A. Blumberg
Deborah Boatright
David E. Lurie, Esq.
Executive Staff
Sherry TuckerChief Executive Officer
Lori AlamedaSenior Vice PresidentChief Financial Officer
Howell Schrage, M.D.Senior Vice PresidentMedical Director
Blaine AtkinsVice PresidentInformation Technology
Meryl CamerDeputy Vice PresidentClinical Services
Andrew CarbonaraVice PresidentFacilities Management
Jianwei ChenSenior Controller
Rebecca CostaVice PresidentBehavioral Health Operations
Karen GormanVice PresidentProperty Management/New Program Development
Nadia HrvatinVice PresidentIntellectual/DevelopmentalDisabilities Services
Crystal JohnVice PresidentBehavioral HealthResidential Services
Aldkida Jones-PhilbertVice PresidentHuman Resources
Willie ScottVice PresidentPublic Affairs & Diversity Officer
Marvin SperlingVice PresidentCommunications/Development
General CounselLevy Stopol & Camelo, LLP
28 | ANNUAL REPORT
WellLife NetworkExecutive Offices142-02 20th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11351TEL: 718.559.0516 WWW.WellLifeNetwork.org
Long Island Services Administrative OfficesTEL: 631.920.8028 E-MAIL: [email protected]
©WellLife Network 03.21 - 250 PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER