2026 Summer Appeal
"A society grows great when old men and women plant trees, in whose shade they know they shall never sit." — Greek Proverb
Happy Summer Everybody!
At long last it is finally summer. I hope that the season provides all of us with some time to relax and appreciate all of the incredible beauty that surrounds us…a warm breeze, a visit to the beach, the wonder of nature, the love of family and friends, the kindness of strangers, and life itself! I believe that the proverb on the left may have crossed the mind of the small group of people who founded the Guild for Exceptional Children (GEC) back in 1958. They were looking to build better lives for children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD); providing the care and support they need in a loving environment, while fostering a sense of fulfillment, independence, and self-esteem. I don’t think that the founding members knew at the time the extent of the impact they would be making; the thousands of families GEC would be helping over 68 years and the thousands of staff who would remain with GEC or join other helping professions, having learned perhaps that the meaning of life is a life of meaning.
Here are a few stories about some of the people we support.
CHANEL SHINES AT GEC FISCHETTI CENTER
Chanel Santana is a bright light within the GEC Fischetti Day Program community. With her contagious smile, unforgettable laugh, and loving personality, Chanel brings joy and positivity to everyone around her each and every day. Although Chanel uses a reverse walker for mobility, she doesn't allow anything to slow her down or limit her from enjoying life to the fullest. She approaches every day with determination, confidence, and excitement, showing both staff and peers what true resilience looks like. Whether participating in activities, spending time in the community, or socializing with friends, Chanel is always eager to be involved and have fun. She loves interacting with staff and peers, making people laugh, and creating meaningful connections with everyone around her. Her kindness and joyful spirit make her a wonderful friend and an important part of the program & community. A true “summer baby” at heart, Chanel absolutely loves summertime. She enjoys being outside, attending community outings, and especially loves pool parties at home surrounded by family and friends. Her excitement for life is contagious, and she encourages others to embrace fun experiences right alongside her. Her positivity reminds everyone around her not to focus on limitations, but instead on possibilities, friendship, and enjoying every moment. Chanel’s story is a beautiful reminder that joy, determination, and kindness can leave a lasting impact on an entire community.
Image Left: Chanel singing out!
Image Right: Chanel baking and celebrating with friends
ROY FINDS HIS VOICE AND CONFIDENCE WITH MOM’S HELP AT GEC PRESCHOOL
Roy is a 4-year-old who has been enrolled in one of the GEC’s bilingual Chinese preschool classrooms for the past two years. During his time at the special education preschool, he has made tremendous progress — growing from a baby-like toddler into a confident little boy. He has learned how to play and interact with other children, and he is now able to use language to express his needs and wants. Roy is a very friendly and lovable child who brings joy to the classroom. At the same time, Roy’s mother has been an incredibly supportive and cooperative parent throughout his journey. She consistently attends school trainings and actively participates in classroom events, always showing great enthusiasm and support. She has even helped prepare learning materials and teaching tools for the class. Her dedication and involvement have greatly contributed to Roy’s growth and success. Roy's mom and GEC Preschool staff have been very happy with his progress!
Image: Roy celebrating his birthday at school and working on a school project
LYNNE FINDS A NEW HOME
Lynne Aronsen is our newest resident of the Defelippo Residence. Prior to moving into the residence, she experienced some challenges in the community and some sadness in her life with the loss of many of her close family members. She was hesitant about moving into the Defelippo Residence at first, until one day she called it home and never looked back. With her good friends, the other residents and staff at Defelippo, Lynne has two families now. She is a friendly and gregarious person who enjoys being with people, spending time with her family and socializing with her friends. Lynne has been thoroughly enjoying being part of the community, and spends her time visiting the aquarium, going on vacations, going bowling, getting manicures at the salon, attending recreational activities, Dunkin Donuts coffee trips and so much more. She is always up for anything! Lynne's entire life changed once she came to Defelippo. She is happy, confident and exactly where she belongs.
Lynne is a little bit country and enjoying the Coney Island Aquarium with her friends
GEC RESIDENCE DEDICATED AND NAMED FOR GENEROUS FOUNDATION
GEC recently received a very generous grant from the Callaghan-Pierog Family Foundation, a non-profit philanthropic organization. This couldn’t have come at a better time! GEC is beginning a new round of infrastructure improvements to better support people with IDD who are aging and/or mobility challenged, while at the same time developing interesting alternatives for the younger program participants. GEC and the people we support are primarily dependent on State and Federal funding through Medicaid, and as such are subject to changes in political priorities. Support from organizations like the Callaghan-Pierog Family Foundation is key to ensuring that GEC can continue to provide valuable services to the vulnerable people in our care. Last year, the Foundation also provided a grant to start up a Wellness Center serving all of GEC’s Adult Day Programs. This Wellness Center is now thriving and offers the people supported by GEC physical and occupational therapy to improve balance, stability, mobility, and quality of life. In recognition of the profound generosity of the Foundation, the GEC Board of Directors unanimously decided to dedicate and name our lovely residence at 7001-03 Narrows in honor of the Callaghan-Pierog Family Foundation, as their generosity will enable GEC to continue our legacy of supporting people with IDD for generations to come.
Image 1 & 2: The community supports GEC
Image 3: Sheila Watts expresses her love of her life in the residence
PLANTING TREES...
Now that I’ve shared a few stories with you about the kind of work we do and the sense of community that we foster, I hope that you realize some of the qualities that make GEC unique. With over 450 staff supporting hundreds of families across Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Boro Park, and Mill Basin, we are more like a very large family than a corporate entity. We encourage and support each other, knowing that the vulnerable people in our care, are getting the very best that we can offer. In fact, they bring out the very best in us, as love is a gift that benefits the donor at least as much as it benefits the recipient. If you like what you’ve read here and heard about us, I invite you to join our extended family. Please consider making a recurring donation or bequest, becoming a GEC member, or come and work with us! Help us to plant some trees that will provide future generations with comfort, support, and love!
"To love another person is to see the face of God." —Les Miserables (and Celeste)
I hope that you have a happy summer (and enjoy the shade)! With sincere gratitude,
Joe Riley
CEO/Executive Director
The Guild for Exceptional Children
Donate to the Summer Appeal
There are a few ways to donate:
Mail-in Form
Download a printable version of the form and mail-in with a check.
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