Today at Living Resources

When Brian got behind the wheel of his brand-new Kia Seltos last week, it wasn’t just about driving, it was about reclaiming a piece of independence he’d worked toward for nearly five years. Brian had been driving for 32 years before his life changed in an instant. In 2020, just as the world was preparing to shut down for COVID, Brian suffered a stroke. He spent the early days of the pandemic in the hospital, fighting not only for his health but for the everyday freedoms so many of us take for granted. After his initial recovery, Brian joined Living [...]

A new chapter has opened for almost a dozen students with disabilities who are starting their college experience away from home. In the spring, they were thrilled to be accepted into the Living Resources’ College Experience Program, a two-year residential program on campus at Russell Sage College. This program has a 20-year history of success, and with its support, these students will gain the skills and confidence they need to live independently. Pinch Me, This Can’t be real! Gabe, who traveled to Albany with his parents from Long Island, is ready for an adventure. He's known as "The Cookie Gabe" [...]

On Friday, August 22, the main pavilion at Tawasentha Park became a place of profound hope, fierce determination, and incredible strength for Living Resources’ Acquired Brain Injury Program Brain Injury Acceptance Day. The day brought together brain injury survivors, their families, and the community to share a powerful and simple message: “Don’t tell me I can’t. I can. I will!” This message wasn't just on a banner or a T-shirt; it was in the air, a shared belief that resonated with everyone. The morning began with heartfelt words from Representative Paul Tonko, who spoke of his dedication to organizations like [...]

The individuals in our Community Living program have been living it up this summer! For the past few weeks, they’ve been exploring the region in their very own America the Beautiful series, experiences that go far beyond just a day out, helping each of them to grow, connect, and thrive. The series kicked off with a trip to Million Dollar Beach in Lake George. Though it was a chilly day, individuals searched for seashells to add to their collection, and a few even braved the cooler temps and waded into water, showing their independence and confidence in trying new things. [...]

This summer was a blast for the students in the Living Resources After School Program! We hosted the program at the Albany School of Humanities, and every day was filled with energy, laughter, and learning. The summer session wrapped up on August 15, and while we’re sad to see it end, we’re so proud of everything our students did. They built castles in the sand, teamed up to solve tricky puzzles, and played their favorite games on the playground. On hot or rainy days, the fun didn’t stop, they bounced and laughed on the trampoline indoors. But the very best [...]

Living Resources' Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Program recently hosted its annual talent show, and it was an unforgettable evening! The entire ABI department, including staff, came together to celebrate the incredible talents and resilience of the individuals in the program. The show was a vibrant display of diverse acts. Michelle and Brandon had the audience roaring with laughter during their stand-up comedy routines. Victoria delivered a moving rendition of "Journey to the Past" from the movie Anastasia, beautifully accompanied on piano by Matteo. Laura captivated everyone with her ballet routine, showcasing incredible strength and determination. And Alan kept the audience [...]

Laughter, music, and joy filled the halls as a colorful parade marched through the Living Resources office. People waved handmade pom-poms, shook tambourines, and clanged cowbells. It was loud, cheerful, and full of pride. Every sound and every smile showed just how strong, joyful, and important the disability community is. This parade wasn’t just for fun, it was a way to celebrate people for exactly who they are. It was a moment to shine, to be seen, and to feel proud. The idea for the parade began last year. Living Resources' DEI Committee wanted to mark the 35th anniversary of [...]

A beautiful Saturday morning dawned in Schenectady's Historic Stockade District, filling its streets with vibrant energy. Vendors stretched along N. Church Street, welcoming visitors to the Stockade Art and Nature Garden Tour, a special biennial event organized by the Stockade Association. This year's tour promised something truly extraordinary. Indeed, the tour delivered, featuring stunning gardens that served as galleries for incredible art from the Living Resources Art Program. Attendees were captivated by the diverse array of pieces, from serene landscapes and colorful floral designs to celestial themes and detailed pencil portraits. Many of the artists whose work graced the gardens [...]

The energy was electric. Everyone came prepared for a great time and that’s just how we do it at the Day Services Award Ceremonies. One by one, the names of program participants were called, and their achievements were met with thunderous applause. The awards were as varied as the individuals who received them, from writing their name or improving communication skills to showing respect, resilience in tough situations, saving money, being a great helper, or showing the paramount qualities of being caring and kind. One person was recognized for mastering interviewing skills and landing their first job, while another [...]

What a truly special day it was for the students of the Living Resources After School Program! On Thursday, June 5, we gathered for our much-anticipated annual end-of-year celebration, and this year's party was infused with an extra layer of joy and excitement. Instead of our usual gathering at the main office in Albany, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Kingpins Alley in Latham, transforming our celebration into an afternoon filled with strikes, spares, and endless smiles. The energy at Kingpins Alley was absolutely infectious. Our students, brimming with enthusiasm, each bowled two exhilarating games, showcasing their skills [...]