Senate Resolution No. 893

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 75th Anniversary of Upstate
Caring Partners on October 17, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those organizations within the State of New York which
have demonstrated an enduring commitment to improving the lives of
others and strengthening the fabric of our communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Upstate Caring Partners, recognizing
its unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive services and
support to individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health
needs, and behavioral health challenges in Central New York and beyond;
this momentous occasion will be celebrated with a Gala on Friday,
October 17, 2025, at Munson in Utica, New York; and

WHEREAS, Upstate Caring Partners, originally founded in 1950 to
support an underserved group of children with developmental
disabilities, has evolved into a leader in Special Education,
Residential and Community Services, as well as Behavioral Health,
serving individuals across Central New York and beyond; and

WHEREAS, Through decades of tireless service, Upstate Caring
Partners has remained steadfast in its mission to empower people of all
ages and abilities by offering a broad range of programs grounded in
respect, compassion, and innovation; and

WHEREAS, In recent years, Upstate Caring Partners has implemented a
robust clinical model emphasizing evidence-based practices rooted in
Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), enabling individuals to develop
essential life skills and thrive in environments that foster a "Happy.
Relaxed. Engaged." (HRE) lifestyle; and

WHEREAS, Upstate Caring Partners has invested significantly in
applied clinical research, bridging the gap between traditional
laboratory settings and real-world applications, thereby advancing
effective interventions for individuals with profound autism and other
intellectual and developmental disabilities; and

WHEREAS, Since 1977, Upstate Caring Partners has provided vital
mental health services and was among the first in its region to
highlight the integral role mental health plays in overall wellness;
today, its Office of Mental Health-certified Article 31 clinics deliver
over 45,000 mental health service appointments annually, while Article
32 substance use services offer crucial support in addressing
co-occurring conditions and the opioid crisis; and

WHEREAS, The agency's community-based programs, including
residential services, school-based behavioral health, and individualized
supports such as Community Habilitation, respite, and Self-Direction,
reflect its person-centered approach and commitment to independence,
choice, and dignity; and


WHEREAS, The Employment Services program, currently serving over 180
individuals, includes partnerships with socially conscious enterprises
such as Generous Brands in Lee, New York, showcasing a model for
inclusive employment and meaningful vocational experiences; and

WHEREAS, Upstate Caring Partners fosters personal growth and
community engagement through innovative programming such as Day
Habilitation, partnerships with SUNY Poly, and the "Pieces of HeArt"
arts initiative, which empowers individuals to express themselves and
share their talents with the community; and

WHEREAS, The dedicated and diverse staff of Upstate Caring Partners
continue to enrich the lives of the individuals they serve, embodying
the values of excellence, equity, and empathy in every facet of care and
support; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting that this Legislative Body pause in its
deliberations to honor Upstate Caring Partners upon the occasion of its
75th Anniversary, commending its remarkable legacy of service and
reaffirming the importance of its ongoing mission; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Upstate Caring Partners, recognizing
its outstanding contributions to the people of New York State; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Upstate Caring Partners.