Senator Young, Assemblyman Goodell attend TRC Legislative Breakfast

Assemblyman Andrew Goodell and Senator Catharine Young listen as Executive Director Paul Cesana emphasizes a point.

The Resource Center was pleased to host two of its New York State elected officials for a Legislative Breakfast on October 24.

Senator Catharine Young and Assemblyman Andrew Goodell took time from their busy schedules to meet with key TRC staff and learn about the ongoing challenges the agency faces and State-wide issues that impact TRC and the people it supports.

Dr. Todd Jacobson, Vice President of TRC’s Board of Directors, welcomed Senator Young and Assemblyman Goodell.  Executive Director Paul Cesana and Denise Jones, Associate Executive Director, apprised them on the current state of The Resource Center and the financial challenges the agency faces.

In particular, Paul and Denise focused on the ongoing operating losses experienced by the Transportation, Diagnostic & Treatment Center, and Counseling & Psychiatric Services operations.  Along with Steve Riczker, Director of Health and Health-Related Services, and Michelle Williams, Director of Mental Health Services, Paul and Denise then gave the two lawmakers an overview of TRC’s plans to undertake a capital campaign to raise money to enable TRC to integrate its health, behavioral and psychosocial services.

Paul and Denise also touched on the escalation of State mandates and expectations, in the midst of reduced State funding of TRC’s operations.

Senator Young and Assemblyman Goodell asked insightful questions and indicated their willingness to support TRC’s efforts in a number of areas.  The two lawmakers also praised TRC’s reputation as a quality provider of services and as a strong local employer.

Also attending the Legislative Breakfast were Nancy Ingram, Assistant Executive Director for Service Operations; Randall Lewis, Corporate Counsel; Steve Waterson, Community Relations Director; and Kathy Field, Associate Executive Administrative Assistant.