Better Together: Benchmarking Innovation at AHRC in New York City

Many nonprofits like The Arc have national or even global organizations but do most of their work through local affiliated groups, which in the case of The Arc are called chapters. These chapters operate largely independently of each other but face common challenges.  This is the basic idea behind our benchmarking program Better Together – identifying innovative approaches to meeting those challenges and systematically sharing those through our strategy, training and process improvement programs.

I recently had the opportunity to visit with the outstanding team at AHRC New York City the pioneering agency of The Arc in New York City which is celebrating 75 years providing service to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

At every stop on my tour there was a clear sense that leaders at all levels of the agency were pushing the envelope, testing for what new standards could be set, what new approaches could be tried, what new services could be offered – with a clear focus on bettering the lives of people, both those with disabilities and staff. And along with innovation there was execution excellence, commitment to quality and continuous improvement – such as I saw in their Staff Development program, focused on engagement and empowerment.

Great examples of innovation at action at AHRC included :
– A hospital internship program with multiple rotations, learning job skills and discerning best fit for future employment
– Piloting Moxie the interactive AI robot, to generate increased engagement
– Leveraging advanced analytics and BI tools in quality improvement
– NADSP badge training so good other agencies use it for their new hires
– Groundbreaking work in dealing with complex behaviors, helping those that have been difficult to place find safe, supportive environments
– Transition programs providing college experience and skills for employment
– Development and certifications providing upward mobility for DSP’s
– A collaborative space for dozens of artists with disabilities where they can create through a variety of mediums, building up remarkable portfolios

All of this and so much more…representative of the AMAZING work at AHRC.

Thanks to Michael J. Weinberg and Edie Weber for hosting the visit!!

Let us know if you would like to participate in our Better Together benchmarking program, to share your chapter’s best practice or connect with others to capitalize on their innovations. Contact us on LinkedIn or atinfo@globenorth.com.