For her commitment to the needs of people with disabilities and their families, The Arc of Livingston-Wyoming proudly dedicated the Individualized Residential Alternative (IRA) at 41 Second Street in Geneseo in honor of Audrey Algier, a founding mother of our agency. The Audrey Algier IRA is home to nine community members who have developmental disabilities.

“As our agency grows and changes, it is important to reflect upon how far we have come and to take a moment to thank those dedicated individuals who fought for services and supports for people with disabilities, says Deb Tuckerman, Director of Residential Services. “We truly appreciate the efforts of Audrey and the founding mothers and fathers in bettering our communities and the lives of countless individuals.”

Mrs. Algier and her family gathered at the IRA for the dedication ceremony, held on Saturday, September 19, 2009. They were joined by the residents, Board of Directors and staff members for the celebration. A plaque, engraved with the new Audrey Algier IRA name, was presented to mark the proud moment for all.

As a founding mother of The Arc, Mrs. Algier and her husband, Bob, banded with other parents whose children also had developmental disabilities. The parents started meeting in small groups in garages and at schools all over Livingston and Wyoming counties. They were a dedicated and resourceful group of people and if space wasn’t available, would improvise to make the most out of every situation.

As the parents banded together, they learned about legislation and the workings of county government. Their hard work resulted in the establishment of a community services board, and then a preschool class that was suited to the needs of children with developmental disabilities. It was from these beginnings that The Arc of Livingston-Wyoming was founded.