gala e-journal

A Celebration of Unique People | Celebrating 25 Years of Service | Thursday, October 20, 2016

2016 Gala Journal

A Celebration of Unique People

25thANNIVERSARY


“Greatness is not found in possessions, power, position or prestige. It is discovered in goodness, humility, service and character.” – William Ward

My dearest Larry, Congratulations on being the recipient of The Lynn Wonsang Award, the founder of Unique People Services. I know how important Unique People Services has been to you over the years. I’m truly blessed to have you in my life. You have been my loving husband and my very best friend for over 42 years. My heart is filled with so much love, admiration and pride because of everything you are and all you do. When I look at you, I see a very hard-working man, a natural-born leader and an exemplary role model for our sons, Jason and Adam. You are an extremely generous person who makes a big difference in the lives of so many people. As a man of honor and distinction, you have striven for and achieved the dreams you dared to dream. My life and so many others have been brightened by your exuberant personality and incredible sense of humor. It has been and continues to be a wild and wonderful ride; one I wouldn’t have missed for the world, which is exactly what you are to me. I love you with all my heart, always, Linda

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

A Celebrationof

Unique PeopleThursday, October 20, 2016

Marina del Rey Caterers, 1 Marina Drive, Bronx, NY 10465

2016 HonoreesLynn Wonsang Award

Larry Weiss and Adam WeissAtlantic Tomorrow’s Office

Champion AwardThe Honorable Melissa Mark-Viverito

New York City Council Speaker

Business AwardPeter Setaro

Enterprise Fleet Management

Community AwardJosh Lamberg

Lamb Financial Group

Media Award Saundra Thomas

WABC-TV

Individual of the Year AwardChantae Jones

Event Emcee AJ Ross

Reporter, Eyewitness News


Crystal E. JacksonBoard Chair

Dear Friends,

I am delighted to welcome you to Unique People Services’ 25th Anniversary Gala and my first as the Chair of the Board of Directors.

As Board Chair, I am constantly touched by the outstanding work of our agency to deliver crucial services with compas-sion, warmth and trust. The advocacy I witness on a consistent basis fills me with a tremendous sense of pride that can only be matched by the deep gratitude I have for everyone who has supported UPS throughout the years of impactful initiatives.

Many thanks to our Executive Director, Yvette Brissett-Andre, and her outstand-ing team of human services professionals for keeping Lynn Wonsang’s vision alive, and of course, a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you - UPS’ friends, donors, sponsors and supporters -for helping us meet our mission of exemplary care for 25 years.

We are thrilled that you can share this wonderful milestone with us as we celebrate our rich history and pay tribute to our distinguished group of honorees who continue to inspire us with their passion, commitment and generosity. Congratulations to Melissa, Adam, Larry, Josh, Peter, Saundra and Chantae on your remarkable achievements, and to our first-rate Gala Committee for organizing this truly special event: A Celebration of Unique People!

Sincerely,

Crystal E. Jackson

Board Chair

Yvette Brissett-AndreExecutive Director

Dear Friends,

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to Unique People Services’ 25th Anniversary Gala: A Celebration of Unique People.

For nearly three decades, UPS has provided life-changing services to New Yorkers with challenging needs. It started with the incredible vision of our late founder, Lynn Wonsang, cre-ating a ripple effect that continues to-day through the work of our dedicated staff. Together, we are committed to ensuring the highest quality care for the hundreds of individuals we serve.

As we celebrate our agency’s remark-able milestone tonight, I’m thrilled to recognize our 2016 Honorees whose ongoing support has been critical to the continua-tion of vital services that enables our Unique individuals to thrive:

• NYC Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Champion Honoree • Adam and Larry Weiss, Lynn Wonsang Award Honorees• Josh Lamberg, Community Award Honoree• Peter Setaro, Business Award Honoree • Saundra Thomas, Media Award Honoree

I am particularly proud of our 2016 Individual of the Year, Chantae Jones, whose growth and success demonstrate why we are all here: to impact lives and make a difference.

Congratulations to all on your outstanding achievements, and a huge thank you to our Board of Directors, staff, guests, donors, sponsors, committee members and volunteers for making this one of our most memorable celebrations to date.

Cheers to another 25 years!

Sincerely,

Yvette Brissett-Andre

Executive Director

Yvette Brissett-Andre

Crystal E. Jackson


Champion HonoreeMelissa Mark-Viverito Speaker of the New York City CouncilMelissa Mark-Viverito serves as the Speaker of the New York City Council, the first Puerto Rican and Latina to hold citywide office. She represents the 8th District, which includes El Barrio/East Harlem and the South Bronx. Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico and raised in San Juan, she worked for over a decade in local ac-tivism, nonprofit organizations and grassroots labor organizing before being elected to the City Council in 2005.

Melissa Mark-Viverito was unanimously elect-ed to serve as New York City Council Speaker in January 2014. As Speaker, she has focused on transparency in government and policies that generate socioeconomic opportunity and

combat systemic inequality. In 2011, she was one of four Council Members to pioneer the first-ever Participatory Budgeting process in New York City, a grassroots process by which residents can vote directly to fund locally-developed projects in their communities. Since Mark-Viverito’s speakership, Participatory Budgeting has spread to over twenty-four dis-tricts across New York City and funds $32 million in community projects.

In May 2014, Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito implemented sweeping rules reforms that increase streamline the legislative process to better serve New Yorkers. Mark-Viverito also established budget reforms to ensure City Council resources are more equitably distribut-ed across districts based on poverty levels.

Led by Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, New York City has emerged as a national leader in the fight for comprehensive immigration reform. Speaker Mark-Viverito is also an outspo-ken advocate for local and national criminal justice reform. Speaker Mark-Viverito contin-ues to push for the use of summonses instead of arrests for certain low-level, non-violent offenses, a policy shift that would decrease the volume of individuals detained and jailed unnecessarily.

As the first woman of color to serve as Speaker of the City Council, Melissa Mark-Viverito has focused on increasing opportunity and equality for young women across New York City. In 2015, Speaker Mark-Viverito launched the Young Women’s Initiative to address dis-parities faced by women in such areas as education, workforce development, healthcare, and the criminal justice system.

Before becoming Speaker in 2014, Melissa served as founding co-chair of the New York City Council Progressive Caucus. From 2010 -2013, she also chaired the City Council Committee on Parks and Recreation.

Lynn Wonsang HonoreeLarry Weiss President, Atlantic Tomorrow’s OfficeLarry Weiss started Atlantic, Tomorrow’s Office in 1981. Under his leadership the former strug-gling copier and typewriter repair business has grown to a profitable $110 million office technol-ogy company.

With a strong commitment to the community, Mr. Weiss serves on the boards of several chari-table organizations.

Lynn Wonsang HonoreeAdam Weiss General ManagerAtlantic Tomorrow’s OfficeAdam is responsible for the profitability and growth of the Westchester Imaging division and a senior executive for Atlantic. As a member of Atlantic’s Executive Management Team, which meets regularly to determine the strategic direction of the company, Adam is also respon-sible for the development and implementation of Managed Print solutions throughout Atlantic. Committed to our community, Adam serves as a board member of the Bronx House Community Center in Bronx, NY and is a former board mem-ber of the FD NOW. He has his Bachelors’ Degree in Business Administration from the University of Miami and is bilingual, fluent in Spanish.Mr. Weiss serves on the boards of several charitable organizations.


Community Award HonoreeJoshua Lamberg Lamb Financial GroupPrior to starting his successful career in the insur-ance industry, Josh was a professional baseball player with the Cincinnati Reds organization. The values and ethics that created his success as a professional athlete are the foundation of the values that everyone on the Lamb Team follows. Attitude, Effort and Preparation are elements of the success that we control. Hustle, hard work, and success are our best practices.

Prior to founding Lamb Financial Group Josh was a Senior Marketing Representative at Philadelphia Insurance Company and an Account Executive – National Sales at Liberty Mutual Insurance. He is a graduate of the University of Richmond.

Lamb Financial Group provides insurance and financial services to Human Service Organizations throughout the United States. Lamb Financial Group provides specialty property and casualty products as well as Group Health and Benefits. While headquartered in New York City, Lamb Financial Group has two offices in Pennsylvania and an office in Chicago.

Business Award HonoreePeter Setaro Enterprise Fleet ManagementPeter Setaro is currently the Area Sales Manag-er for Enterprise Fleet Management, where he oversees both the New York and Connecticut markets.

Peter received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management from St. John’s Uni-versity and joined the Management Training Program with Enterprise upon graduating in 1998. Peter held various Management positions throughout Brooklyn and Queens, at flagship locations such as JFK Airport, Bay Ridge, and LaGuardia Airport. In 2009 he joined Enterprise’s Fleet Management Division where he has worked closely with organizations in both New York and Connecticut to help them reduce costs and improve efficiencies associat-ed with operating their fleet of vehicles.

Over the last 8 years Peter has personally partnered with over 40 Non Profit Organizations in the New York area, where he continues to help them combat the ongoing challenges resulting from funding cuts and budget restrictions. Peter and his team enjoy implement-ing Enterprise’s Best Practices which come from owning and operating over 1.7 million vehicles, the largest fleet of vehicles in the world today.

One of the most rewarding parts of Peter’s 18 year career has been to deliver on one of Enterprise’s founding values, which is to “Strengthen our Communities, One Neighborhood at a Time.” Peter and his team understand the importance of giving back to those who are less fortunate, and are happy to continue volunteering their time to those that need it most. Peter was born and raised in Brooklyn where he resides today with his wife Nadia and their two children Gabriella and Peter Nicholas.


Media HonoreeSaundra Thomas WABCSaundra Thomas, Vice-President of Community Affairs at WABC-TV since 2001, has made com-munity service the center of her life. Thomas is nearing her 3rd decade at Channel 7.

In her role as community affairs director, Saun-dra Thomas oversees all on-air public service an-nouncements, community outreach and station community projects for the tri-state. As liaison between the public and the station, Thomas recommends news and programming coverage of important local topics, and is responsible for philanthropic endeavors on behalf of the televi-sion station.

Saundra has been instrumental in brokering station community-related partnerships with organizations including BRIC (Celebrate Brooklyn), World Science Festival, and Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. Thomas’ leadership has resulted in among other things, the stations commitment to holding town hall style community forums around the tri-state throughout the year.

A recent candidate for City Council and an active board member, Saundra has served as a mem-ber of Jazz Reach, Global Action Project and Dancewave, is currently a board member of New York Women in Communications, Open House New York, Brooklyn Book Festival and board chair of the Council for Unity. Thomas also sits on the advisory boards of The Grace Institute, Services for the Underserved and the NYC Young Men’s Initiative.

Saundra is a recent recipient of an honorary doctorate in humane letters from St. Francis College (Brooklyn), the Council for Unity as a Champion for Children, Medgar Evers College for her work at WABC-TV on public service awareness in local communities; Thomas has also been a recipient of the Black Achievers in Industry Award from the Harlem YMCA and recently the McDonald’s Legacy in Media Award.

Saundra holds a B.A. in Journalism from Rutgers University and an M.A. in Media Studies from the New School. She is a proud and enthusiastic resident of Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, where she lives with her family.

Individual Award HonoreeChantae Jones August 2015 marked the three-year anniversary when Chantae Jones began attending UPS’ Day Hab Without Walls Program. In that time, our staff has watched Chantae flourish in the com-munity, working closely with her to develop so-cialization skills and enhance her independence.

Participating in Day Hab activities has been a vital part of building Chantae’s confidence and helping her thrive. One of her favorite activities includes delivering mail to the various Bronx programs. She’s developed a warm relationship with many along her route and cherishes the interaction.

Whether Chantae’s assisting with cleaning tasks, performing office work or collecting bottles for

recycling, her enthusiasm has grown significantly. Thanks to Day Hab Without Walls, she has experienced a strong sense of accomplishment, greater structure, and familiarity with routines.

Chantae always remains positive in any situation and encourages everyone around her. Having achieved such incredible growth in a short amount of time is inspirational to many at UPS.”Only a year ago, Chantae was a different person. She wasn’t as outgoing as she is now,” recalls Vanes-sa Pierre, direct support professional at UPS. “She was hesitant about participating in activities. Now, she shows others how it’s done!”

Whatever activity Chantae performs, she does it with pride, especially the pictures she draws during Arts and Crafts, many of which are displayed at UPS. And if there’s an opportunity to dis-play her dance moves, Chantae jumps at the chance.

“When we took individuals to UniverSoul Circus in April, Chantae performed on stage,” Vanessa recalls. “And it wasn’t the first time she danced in front of a crowd!”

Chantae’s spirit is matched by her warmth and compassion. When she enters the room, she’s quick to say hello or pay someone a compliment. If you’re having a tough day, you can always count on her for a hug. “Chantae brightens the day of everyone around her,” Vanessa remarks.

So what’s next for Chantae? She’ll soon be moving out of her father’s home and into one of UPS’ new IRA developments (date to be announced). At Day Hab, her newest goals include telling time and learning money management skills. With her positive attitude and boundless energy, we know she will succeed in everything she does!


A Celebration of Unique PeopleCelebrating 25 Years of Service

Thursday, October 20, 2016

Gala ProgramEmceeAJ Ross

Reporter WABC-TV

WelcomeDesiree Thomas

UPS 25th Anniversary Gala Chair

Star Spangled Banner performed by Ann Concepcion

Acknowledgements and RemarksYvette Brissett-Andre

UPS Executive Director/CEO

Crystal E. JacksonUPS Board Chair

***2016 Honoree Recognition and Awards***

Individual of the Year AwardChantae Jones

Presenters: J. Paul Gregory and Cheryelle Cruickshank

Community AwardJosh Lamberg


Presenters: Jean Jeremie and Rosemarie Gooden

Lynn Wonsang AwardLarry Weiss & Adam WeissAtlantic Tomorrow’s Office

Presenters: Janice Smith and Yvette Brissett-Andre

***25th Anniversary Video Presentation***Cheryelle Cruickshank

UPS Associate Executive Director

***2016 Honoree Recognition and Awards***

Business AwardPeter Setaro


Presenters : Marjorie Parker and Cheryelle Cruickshank

Media AwardSaundra Thomas

WABC-TV

Presenters: Kaylin Whittingham and Rosemarie Gooden

Champion AwardThe Honorable Melissa Mark-Viverito

New York City Council Speaker

Presenters: John Zeltin and Yvette Brissett-Andre

Closing Remarks and AcknowledgementsYvette Brissett-Andre, Cheryelle Cruickshank and Rosemarie Gooden

***Dinner and Dancing***


T H E C I T Y O F N E W Y O R K O F F I C E O F T H E M A Y O R N E W Y O R K , N Y 1 0 0 0 7

October 20, 2016 Dear Friends: I am delighted to join Unique People Services in welcoming everyone to its 25th Anniversary Gala. Only by ensuring the wellbeing of all people can New York truly become one city where everyone rises together, and my team and I are taking steps to provide all our residents with equal access to the treatment and care they need. For over two decades, Unique People Services has provided supportive housing and care to hundreds of our city’s most vulnerable residents. Offering a variety of programs for individuals living with HIV/AIDS and developmental disabilities, UPS has been a tremendous ally to my administration’s ThriveNYC mental health roadmap. Chirlane and I commend everyone here tonight for their dedication to our city, and we look forward to the ways we will work together to build a brighter future for all New Yorkers. On behalf of the City of New York, congratulations to all of tonight’s honorees. Please accept my best wishes for a memorable gala and continued success. Sincerely, Bill de Blasio Mayor

OFFICE OF THE BRONX BOROUGH PRESIDENT The Bronx County Building

851 Grand Concourse, 161st St.Bronx, New York 10451

October 20, 2016

Unique People Services in The Bronx4234 Vireo AvenueBronx, NY 10470

Dear Friends:

Congratulations on the occasion of your 25th Anniversary Gala, a time to reflect and be proud of your organization’s accomplishments in New York City and The Bronx throughout the years.

This wonderful event offers us a chance to recognize your organization’s efforts and commitment to those who have provided homes and services to our most vulnerable communities – particularly individuals and families coping with mental health illnesses, developmental disabilities, and HIV/AIDS in The Bronx, theBronx, Queens, and Westchester County.

I offer my most heartfelt congratulations to your honorees – New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, Vice-President of Community Affairs for WABC-TV Saundra Thomas, Joshua Lamberg of Lamb Financial Group, Peter Setaro of Enterprise Fleet Management, Adam and Larry Weiss of Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office, and Chantae Jones – for devoting countless hours working hard to help those in need as well as helping our borough and our city continue to grow strong.

On behalf of the 1.4 million residents of The Bronx, I congratulate Unique People Services in The Bronx on this wonderful occasion, and I wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.

Sincerely,

Ruben Diaz Jr.

TEL: 718-590-3500FAX: 718-590-3537Ruben Diaz Jr.

BOROUGH PRESIDENT


October 20, 2016

Yvette B. AndreExecutive DirectorUnique People Services4234 Vireo AvenueBronx, NY 10470

Dear Ms. Andre:

Greetings to you and to all the friends and supporters of Unique People Services on the occasion of your 25th Anniversary gala reception.

This evening’s event is a great opportunity to celebrate the success Unique People Services has had in operating supportive housing programs in Queens, the Bronx and Westchester County. Your great work will be enhanced next year with the opening of Lynn’s Place, a 69-unit supportive housing development named in honor of your organization’s founder Ms. Lynn Wonsang.

Tonight we also pay tribute to your distinguished honorees, who are being recognized for their contribu-tions to our community. On behalf of the 2.3 million residents of Queens, “The World’s Borough,” I therefore extend our congratulations to New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito and to Joshua Lamberg, Peter Setaro, Adam and Larry Weiss, Saundra Thomas and Chantae Jones.

I hope all in attendance enjoy tonight’s 25th Anniversary gala reception and I wish you and everyone associated with Unique People Services continued success in all your endeavors.

Sincerely,

Melinda KatzPresidentBorough of Queens

44 Holland Avenue, Albany NY 12229 | omh.ny.gov

September 15, 2016

Yvette Brissett-Andre Executive Director/CEO Unique People Services 4234 Vireo Avenue Bronx, NY 10470 Dear Ms. Brissett-Andre: Congratulations to Unique People Services as you celebrate your 25th year anniversary gala! There is a reason that the Office of Mental Health has contracted with Unique People Services to provide housing and supportive services to some of New York’s most vulnerable citizens for more than twenty years. Unique People Services is blessed with an Executive Director, Board of Directors and staff who are dedicated to serving individuals with mental illness and providing high quality care. Appropriately, the theme for this year’s Gala is “A Celebration of Unique People.” Indeed with your monthly website feature, the “Individual of the Month” you are providing hope and strength to the people you serve as well as celebrating unique people. Also, the individuals sharing their stories of recovery are to be commended for helping others who may not yet have found their recovery path and providing both hope and inspiration. I am confident that Unique People Services will continue to serve New Yorkers for many years to come. Congratulations and best wishes for a successful gala.

Sincerely,

Ann Marie T. Sullivan, M.D. Commissioner


Thank You

Melissa Mark -ViveritoUNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES

EXPRESSES GRATITUDE FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT AND CONTINUOUS BELIEF IN OUR MISSION.

TOGETHER, WE CAN BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY!


Thank You

A.J. RossUNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES

EXPRESSES GRATITUDE AND THANKS TO OUR AMAZING EMCEE

Congratulations

Chantae JonesUNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES

INDIVIDUAL OF THE YEAR!


October 2016 Issue N°12

9NYNmedia.com

MEDIA - REVIEW - DIGITAL - CAREERS - EVENTS

AGENCY OF THE MONTH: UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES

NOTABLES

By MICHELLE ARNOT

Groundbreaking for Lynn's Place with First Lady Chirlane McCray.

In the Bronx, six out of 10 resi-dents earn less than the median household income and struggle

to pay rent. Bronx-based Unique Peo-ple Services (UPS), which has been at the forefront of identifying ways to combat and decrease this statistic, is celebrating it’s 25th anniversary of providing housing and support ser-vices to individuals in critical need of shelter.

With a staff of 240 and a budget of $22 million, every year UPS serves over 1,000 formerly homeless indi-viduals in the Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn and Westchester as it strives to fulfill its mission to serve those who may “have been de-nied compassionate and considerate treatment elsewhere.”

The late Lynn Wonsang founded UPS following a distinguished ca-reer at Brooklyn’s Services for the UnderServed. She sought to carve out a space for New Yorkers who "fell through the cracks of society" and established the organization in the Bronx as a safe haven with a mission of inclusiveness.

UPS provides shelter, food and counseling for formerly homeless individuals often struggling with health challenges. Its Housing Op-portunities for Persons with AIDS program serves over 200 clients, while its day habilitation programs offer a host of activities to those with physical disabilities. It operates 24

housing programs in four boroughs plus Westchester.

“As New York rent has become unaffordable and homelessness has increased, Unique People Services works to provide a beam of light for those in need,” said Yvette Bris-sett-André, who has served as exec-utive director since 2008. She also serves as an alumna of the Nation-al Urban Fellows Program and is a member of the Fortune Society’s ex-ecutive team. Last July SmartCEO honored Brissett-André with its Bra-va award for outstanding nonprofit management.

“Yvette is such an inspiring leader,” said newly appointed Chairwoman Crystal E. Jackson, senior vice presi-dent of Citibank’s Nonprofit Services Group. Jackson, an alumna of the National Urban Fellow program, was selected by The Network Journal as one its “40 Under 40” for 2016. “She brings so much creative energy to the position and leads by example,” Jackson said.

Looking ahead, Brissett-André and her team are focused on the launch of two major housing projects ex-pected to come to fruition in 2017. One development with the working title of New Crown will replace the current Crown Residence, a midtown shelter that was forced to close after the property owner sold the build-ing. “Losing that program was chal-lenging, although not surprising in

light of real estate values nowadays,” Brissett-André said. “We are grateful to be able to reopen in a new location thanks to new funding.”

The next jewel in the UPS crown is Lynn’s Place, the agency’s first af-fordable housing complex, which was co-developed with Robert San-born Development and designed by Urban Architectural Initiatives. Named for the organization’s found-er, the development will include 69 mixed-use units, 42 of which will be allocated to formerly homeless indi-viduals with mental illness, and will include on-site support services, a sunken courtyard and a multipur-pose meeting room.

“Watching this project come to life is fantastic because it’s so true to Lynn’s vision,” said Brissett-André.

Lynn’s Place is funded by the city Department of Housing Preserva-tion and Development, the Commu-nity Preservation Corporation, the state Office of Mental Health, New York City Council Reso “A” funds, the Corporation for Supportive Housing, Hudson Housing, and Capital and Deutsche banks. Groundbreaking took place last December with New York City first lady Chirlane McCray, Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Vi-verito and other city officials in at-tendance.

As agreed, the contractors are hir-ing local workers, and construction is on track. “The timing worked out

so well since Lynn’s Place falls in line with the mayor’s initiative,” said Brissett-André. She is grateful for the deep support for the project espe-cially “from the City Council, Com-munity Board 2, and Dr. Ian S. Am-ritt of Unitas. All these factors were instrumental in making our dream a reality.”

While the forecast for 2017 looks bright thanks to New Crown and Lynn’s Place, Brissett-André is antic-ipating the impact of the upcoming minimum wage increase. Clearly, the increase in costs will present a chal-lenge. But if she had a magic wand, Brissett-André remarked, “I would reward the individuals who work two shifts a day and give so much of themselves to enable our programs.”

She is hopeful that government will step in to cover the increase, but she is also exploring new ways of rais-ing funds to meet the challenge. “Al-ready a newly hired grant writer has made a difference and we are seeing good results,” she said.

As it celebrates its 25th year on Oct. 20, the UPS gala committee chose to honor and celebrate six individ-uals who represent different facets of the organization. Among them is one of the Day Habilitation individ-uals, Chantae Jones, who has blos-somed into a confident person with life goals, according to the dedicated staff who have watched her transfor-mation.

“The success of UPS is due to the quality of service we offer to each individual,” Brissett-André said. “It’s about helping each individual to identify goals and then helping them to achieve them, whether it’s a per-son previously resistant to getting help who goes back to school or an individual with a disability who gets a job and gains more independence.”

Getting to know the individuals in its programs is the agency’s num-ber one priority, according to Bris-sett-André. To remain accessible and make sure all their needs are met, she has posted her cell phone num-ber in all the UPS residences. “It is my duty to know everyone who comes through our doors,” she said. “On holidays I pop into the centers and enjoy a meal with clients.”

And does she receive a lot of calls from clients? “You bet I do,” she said with a smile.

Supporting the disenfranchised

Many thanks to my friend and Associate Executive Director, Cheryelle Cruickshank, for her support and dedication over the last 8 years here at UPS. I wish you the best of luck in your new role as the CEO of Human First.

Best Wishes, Yvette Brisset-Andre Executive Director/CEO Unique People Services

Congratulations!


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We are grateful to have the opportunityto work with you to bring Lynn's Place from an idea to reality, and we look forward to

your continued success.

is proud to partner with

All of us here at Atlantic, Tomorrow’s Office are very proud of you all. Rob, Steven & Ashely Bain, Meg Charney, Erica Chavez, Joe Coler, Jon Cooper, Al & Sue Figalora, George Friedman,

Gregg Furst, Dave Humphreys, Patti Kanner, Dayna Karron, Russel Klein, Bill McLaughlin, Karen Mullin, Judy Murray, Malcolm Needle, Frank Oriente, Frank Scala, Jean Shen, Joel Sherman, Reba Sherman, Frank Uloa, Luis Villa,

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Atlantic, Tomorrow’s Office is the region’s premier provider of Imaging & Document Management Solutions.

Atlantic delivers comprehensive End-to-End Technology Solutions to meet tomorrow’s office challenges.

We commend the employees and volunteers of the Unique People Services for their tireless efforts to serve and support the community and further enhance the lives of

individuals in need.

We would like to congratulate all of the honorees of this year’s Gala. Champion Award Media Award

The Honorable Melissa Mark-Viverito Saundra Thomas New York City Council Speaker WABC-TV

Business Award Individual of the Year Award Peter Setaro Chantae Jones


Community Award Event Emcee Josh Lamberg AJ Ross

Lamb Financial Group Reporter, Eyewitness News

A special congratulations to our very own, Larry Weiss and Adam Weiss

Lynn Wonsang Award


Ricoh Congratulates

Larry Weiss and Adam Weiss

Receiving the

2016 Lynn Wonsang Award

t o m o r r o w s o f f i c e . c o m

TOM

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W’S OFFICE TECHNOLO

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TO D A Y


SIXTY-NINE (69) NEW COMMUNITY AND SUPPORTIVE HOUSING APARTMENTS.BUILDING IS PROJECTED TO RECEIVE LEED GOLD CERTIFICATION.FULLY LANDSCAPED REAR YARD AND SUNKEN COURT YARD.GREEN ROOF ON THE SEVENTH FLOOR ROOF TERRACE AND MAIN ROOF. PHOTO-VOLATIC SOLAR PANELS PROPOSED AT THE MAIN ROOF.

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Enterprise proudly salutes all those who make a difference…

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© 2016 Enterprise Fleet Management, Inc. H01307


I would like to congratulate

as it hosts its annual

Understanding People. Providing Homes. Serving Communities

I would like to thank Unique People Services’ staff for their commitment to serving individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, and those living with mental health and developmental disabilities.

I believe in the work that

Unique People Services is doing, which is why I have served as a board officer in the past. I have been a friend to the organization since its inception and will continue to support its efforts.

I thank Mrs. Yvette Brissett-André for her great leadership and I appreciate her firm commitment to serving the community and people with special needs.

I remain a team player and a sponsor at the $5,000 level.

Janice E. Smith, CLU®, ChSNC, M.Ed.

Insurance and Financial Services Professional Special Care Planner

(516) 391-0317

(516) 241-4691 (cell) [email protected]

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UCPofNYC.8.5x11.AD.UPS.V1.VCTR.pdf 1 9/29/16 3:04 PM

Happy 25th Anniversary Unique People Services &

Congratulations to all of the 2016 Honorees:

The Honorable Melissa Mark ViveritoLarry and Adam Weiss

Joshua LambergPeter Setaro

Saundra ThomasChantae Jones

4377 Bronx Boulevard Bronx, New York 10466

Tel: 718-325-0700


CONGRATULATIONS TO

UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES FOR THEIR MANY YEARS OF DEDICATED

SERVICE TO INDIVIDUALS IN NEED

Barbara Lehrer Beacon Therapy Services, PLLC

A Human Resource Management Company 1441 Old Northern Blvd. Roslyn, New York 11576

516.625.6846


We congratulate our friends at


On the 25th Anniversary Gala

As We Salute 2016 Honorees The Honorable Melissa Mark-Viverito

New York City Council Speaker Larry Weiss and Adam Weiss

Josh Lamberg Peter Setaro

Saundra Thomas

Individual of the Year Award Chantae Jones

We recognize the outstanding achievement and the contribution of all the honorees. Their leadership helped make

life better for those with special needs. Frank Pennucci, Acting CEO

MATTHIJSSEN

COMPUTER SERVICES GROUP

Proudly SupportingUnique People Services

Serving NY & NJ since 1958 1-800-845-2200



CRIMINAL DEFENSE IMMIGRATION FAMILY LAW ACCIDENTS DIVORCE LANDLORD TENANT

WILLS PROBATE & ESTATES OTHER LEGAL MATTERS

3049 Eastchester Road, Bronx MY 10469 Phone: (718) 671-4910 Fax: (718) 671-4912

[email protected]





[email protected]





[email protected]

On Their 25th Anniversary

1B2B

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© 2016 Capital One. All rights reserved.

capitalone.com/investingforgood

facebook.com/capitaloneinvestingforgood

INVESTED IN COMMUNITYCapital One Bank® is committed to helping communities thrive. We’re empowering families through financial literacy and affordable housing, helping individuals bridge the digital skills gap and showing small businesses how to harness technology to grow and compete.

Working together for a

Better Future

JB49868_Generic Community_8.5x11_ad.indd 1 9/22/16 12:25 PM

The Board of Directors; Yvette Brissett-Andre, Executive Director;

and Staff at Unique People Services, Inc.

Honor and Celebrate Our Visionary Founder

Ms. Lynn Wonsang

February 8, 1950 – July 13, 2008 "

Thank you for creating a place that Unique People can call Home!"


The Board of Directors Crystal E. Jackson, Board Chair

Jean E. Jeremie, Vice Chair J. Paul Gregory, Secretary

Desiree A. Thomas, Treasurer Marjorie D. Parker

John D. Zeltin Kaylin L. Whittingham

Congratulates

Unique People Services on its

25th Anniversary Celebration

Special Thanks to

Yvette Brissett-Andre, Executive Director

and

Her Entire Team

We are pleased to celebrate and support this great organization!

THE EXECUTIVE TEAM OF UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES

Would like to thank the UPS STAFF

For their generous commitment in giving of their time and love

to those in need.

Thank You For Your Support!

Yvette Brissett-Andre, Executive DirectorCheryelle Cruickshank, Associate Executive Director

Rosemarie Gooden, Chief Financial Officer


CONGRATULATES

ALL THE HONOREES

FOR ALL THEIR HARD WORK AND DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITY

AT THE

UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES

25TH ANNIVERSARY GALA

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

THOMAS N. DECARO

PRESIDENT

JEAN M. PARTRIDGE

CHIEF COUNSEL

BERNARD T. CARR SENIOR V.P. FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

222 Bloomingdale Road

White Plains NY 10605O: 914-250-2400 F: 914-422-1550

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Congratulations to Larry and Adam Weiss of Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office, the Lynn Wonsang Award Honorees

2016UniquePeopleServices.indd 1 9/27/2016 10:22:53 AM


t: 800.397.7776 interiorresourcesusa.com

We Salute Unique People Services For Their Continued Commitment To Serving Those In Need!

Congratulations To All 2016 Honorees!

Bedroom Lounge Dining Accessories Office Outdoor. .. ..

Congratulations

to the Recipients of the

UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES 25TH ANNUAL

ANNIVERSARY GALA

MELISSA MARK-VIVERITO JOSHUA LAMBERG

PETER SETARO ADAM AND LARRY WEISS

SAUNDRA THOMAS CHANTAE JONES

OUR BEST WISHES TO


For their continued success in the community

James E. Vassalotti II, R.A. James E. Vassalotti III, R.A.

James E. Vassalotti III & Associates, Inc.

629 Fifth Avenue, Suite 212 Pelham, New York 10803

914-712-9670


Congratulationsto all the honorees and to Unique People Services

for another year of success!

Robert Sanborn & Jeff Chu

The Honorable Melissa Mark ViveritoAdam and Larry Weiss

Josh LambergPeter Setaro

Chantae JonesSaundra Thomas


CONGRATULATIONSLarry & Adam Weiss for receiving yet another well-deserved honor.

Father and Son have set the bar high and caused all of us to reflect on what more we should be doing to help others.

Your generosity is only exceeded by your friendship and for that we think of you as family

Carol, Frank & CJ

THECANNATAREPORT

emblemhealth.com

for providing supportive services, and a safe, welcoming home to those with special needs and those who have been denied compassionate and considerate treatment.

We know that care is at the heart of every successful community. We appreciate your care and commitment.

Thank youUnique People Services

FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT

We would like to Congratulate Unique People

Services on 25 Years of dedicated service.

Charles A. Archer, CEO & The THRIVE Network

Congratulationsto Unique People Services

on 25 Years of Service to the Community!

A Salute to the 2016 Honorees:The Honorable Melissa

Mark Viverito

Larry and Adam Weiss

Joshua Lamberg

Peter Setaro

Saundra Thomas

Chantae Jones

Nneka A. Norville

Director Corporate Social Responsibility


166-35 9th Ave.Whitestone, NY 11357718-494-6482FAX 718-494-6485Office SuppliesComputer SuppliesOffice FurnitureComputer Furniture

NEXT DAY FREE DELIVERY

ACEOFFICEONLINE.COM

ACE Office Products, Inc.



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ACEOFFICEONLINE.COM


630 Fifth Avenue, Rockefeller Center, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10111

Tel: 212-218-4488 Fax: 212-218-4467 www.hudsonhousing.com

Hudson Housing Capital congratulates UPS and applauds each awardee on their community development

efforts. We thank and congratulate:

Lynn Wonsang Award Larry Weiss & Adam Weiss, Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office

Business Award

Peter Setaro, Enterprise Fleet Management

Media Award Saundra Thomas, WABC-TV

Champion Award The Honorable Melissa Mark-Viverito,

NYC Council Speaker

Community Award Josh Lamberg,


Individual of the Year Award Chantae Jones


HH

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HHH

HHH

We’re Proud to Support the Vision of

Peter SetaroEnterprise Fleet Management

for receiving the Business Award

For over 40 years, the family-run Bussani Mobility has served people living with disabilities in the New York Metro area. We sell, service and rent a wide range of leading brands of accessible vehicles for personal and commercial use. We like to say…

“If You Can Dream It, We Can Get You There.”

855-249-8989 • www.BussaniMobility.com Bethpage • Smithtown • Mamaroneck

CONGRATULATIONS

w e g e t t h e r ey o u

H HHHH

ShermanLaw [email protected] www.shermanlaw.net

Congratulations

Unique People Services and its honorees

For Understanding People and Serving Our Community

Karen Sherman

Congratulations! To Larry and Adam Weiss on being

honored at this year’s gala!

From Bob & Bobby Loeb

Joe Kanjamala and the

Partners and Principals ofMarks Paneth LLP

are honored to supportUnique People Services


Happy to be your Marketing Firm

marketingworkspr.com

Congratulations on your 25 years of dedicated service!

CONGRATULATIONS

TO

YVETTE BRISSETT-ANDRE, CHERYELLE CRUICKSHANK, ROSEMARIE GOODEN, THE STAFF AND BOARD MEMBERS, AND

THE HONORED GUESTS

AS WE ALL CELEBRATE THIS 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES’

OUTSTANDING AND INVALUABLE WORK ON BEHALF OF THOSE WHO NEED IT THE MOST

ELEANOR MCGEE - MCGEE FUND RAISING COUNSEL

Happy to be your Marketing Firm

marketingworkspr.com

Congratulations on your 25 years of dedicated service!

CONGRATULATIONS

TO

YVETTE BRISSETT-ANDRE, CHERYELLE CRUICKSHANK, ROSEMARIE GOODEN, THE STAFF AND BOARD MEMBERS, AND

THE HONORED GUESTS

AS WE ALL CELEBRATE THIS 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES’

OUTSTANDING AND INVALUABLE WORK ON BEHALF OF THOSE WHO NEED IT THE MOST

ELEANOR MCGEE - MCGEE FUND RAISING COUNSEL


Wishes to extend heartfelt congratulations to our Dear FriendYvette Brissett-Andre, Executive Director

and all of Unique People Services, Inc. on the Occasion of their 25th Anniversary Celebration

Best Wishes to all of tonight’s honorees:The Honorable Melissa Mark Viverito


Joshua Lamberg

Peter Setaro

Saundra Thomas

Chantae Jones

4

24 25


Congratulates Yvette Brisette Andre, Executive Director

The Board and Staff

on

Unique People Services’

25th Anniversary

Richard and Lourdes Donatuti wish to congratulate our Special Friends


Congratulations

PETER SETARO

&

“The New York Team of ENTERPRISE FLEET SERVICES”

On receipt of the

UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES BUSINESS AWARD

From your colleagues at

NAC / Valley Van The Tri state leader in On-site Automotive and Commercial Vehicle Up-fits

590 W Merrick Rd. Valley Stream, NY 11580

516-561-1200 www.valleyvan.com

Congratulations

PETER SETARO

&

“The New York Team of ENTERPRISE FLEET SERVICES”

On receipt of the

UNIQUE PEOPLE SERVICES BUSINESS AWARD

From your colleagues at

NAC / Valley Van The Tri state leader in On-site Automotive and Commercial Vehicle Up-fits

590 W Merrick Rd. Valley Stream, NY 11580

516-561-1200 www.valleyvan.com


CONGRATULATIONS

The Board of Directors and LeadershipTeam of Innovative Resources forIndependence proudly support Unique People Services.

Raymond J. DeNataleExecutive Director, IRI

INNOVATIVE RESOURCES FOR INDEPENDENCE

Empowering Choice, Creating Opportunities

CONGRATULATIONSCONGRATULATIONSCONGRATULATIONS

J U S T L E A D E R S H I P U S A C O N G R AT U L AT E S

Congratulations to ups on another successful year providing essential

services to persons in need.We have been privileged to have

served as attorneys for UPS for 25 years and to have worked on its founding documents and initial

filings in 1991

LESLIE B. MARON, ESQ.MARON & MAZZANTIATTORNEYS AT LAW

5 WESTCHESTER AVENUEPOUND RIDGE, NY 10576

(914) 645-0780

Jerome Florist3724 East Tremont Ave.

Bronx, NY 10465(718) 931-9440


Tim [email protected] www.expensereduction.com

Congratulations!Congratulations to Unique People Serviceson 25 Years of helping others.

Adam and Larry Weiss

ACE Office Products - Ira Einhorn

Administration Office Staff

Antonia Badon

Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office

Beacon Thearpy Services - Barbara Lehrer

BET Network

Brightharp Program Staff

Brooklyn Nets Assist

Burnus McKnight

Cabo Restaurant

Care Coordination Program Staff

Cheryl Hicks

Cold Spring Country Club

Emblem Health

Empire City Casino

Engineers Country Club


Eriq LaSalle

Gala Committee

Haven Program Staff

Interior Resources - Sherelle Hicks

Janet Johnson

Janice Smith-Bynum

Jin Xu

Joshua Lamberg

JP’s Restaurant

Julia Hernandez


Morningside Dental Care

New York Philharmonic

New York Yankee

Nneka Norville

J. Paul Gregory

Pietro “Peter” Setaro

Randy Viverito

Richard Staine

Robert J. Galterio

Sandra Thorney

Scattered Site Housing Staff

Showtime Networks

Supported Housing Staff

The Pearl Theatre Company

Todd Garrison

Unique Furniture

Verizon

Viana Hotel & Spa

Vincente’ Jewelers

Vyse Avenue IRA Staff

WABC TV

Yvette Brissett Andre

As of 10/14/2016

In-Kind Donation List


$ 50,000 Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office $ 25,000 Lamb Financial Group NYC Council - Speaker’s Office $ 15,000 Procida Construction Corp $10,000 to $5,001 Beacon Therapy Services Enterprise Fleet Management Janice Smith RICOH $5,000 to $2,501 ACE Office Products All Med BET Networks Bronx Lebanon Capital One Bank Community Care Rx EIHAB Human Services ESP Metek Human First James Vassalotti III & Associates Konica Minolta Business Solutions Matthijssen Computer Services Group New York Yankees Riggs Construction The Cannata Report TOSHIBA UCP of NYC Urban Architectural Initiatives WABC TV

$2,500 to $1,000 Astoria Bank Benchmark Title Agency Brown Bell Consulting, LLC Cheryelle Cruickshank Christopher W. Edwards, P.C Cosco Enterprise DLL Financial Solutions Partner DKBWAVE Training & Consulting Docuware Corporation FPS Construction Hudson Housing Capital Innovative Resources for Independence Innovolt - Walter R. Crowder Interior Resources Management and Staff at Atlantic Tomorrow’s Office Marketing Works Marks Paneth McGee Fund Raising Counsel Municipal Capital Finance Napach Design Group PWB Management Corp Robert Sanborn Development ShermanLaw THE THRIVE NETWORK Tryax Realty Management Inc Vibrant Creative Wells Fargo Equipment Finance Yvette Brissett Andre

As of 10/14/2016

Unique People ServicesWould like to thank all of their supporters

Our dearest Adam, Congratulations to our wonderful son on this well-deserved honor. As parents we strived to instill in you and Jason the importance of giving, not only financially but also of your time. We are so proud of you and your involvement with Unique People Services. You have been on the Gala committee for four years. The values that Unique People Services stand for; respect, excellence, integrity and teamwork are the same values in which you embody. We watched you grow from an absolutely adorable boy into a very handsome, hard-working and generous young man. You are the epitome of goodness and have a heart of gold. We are truly blessed to have you for our son, and we love you with all our hearts! With all our love, now and forever, Mom and Dad


Unique People Services, Inc.4234 Vireo AvenueBronx, NY 10470(718) 231-7711

www.UniquePeopleServices.org

gala e-journal

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