A Night of Recognition
Unity House Celebrates Exceptional Individuals
On Monday, April 28, Unity House hosted its Annual Board & Award Dinner at the Holiday Inn in Auburn, New York. The evening brought together over 170 community members, supporters, and partners to honor outstanding individuals and celebrate the organization’s mission to empower individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illness, and those in recovery from substance use disorder.
The event featured keynote speaker Amanda Maestro-Scherer, owner and founder of Maestro Music Therapy, who presented “Where Words Fail, Music Speaks: The Impact of Music Therapy at Unity House.” She shared insights into the therapeutic power of music and its role in enhancing the lives of those served by Unity House.
Ithaca Day Hab participants performed an original song alongside Amanda, titled “Becoming the Best I Can Be.”
Two distinguished individuals were honored for their exceptional contributions.
Ashley Moench received the 14th-annual Open Arms Award for her dedication to community collaboration and seamless care in her role as executive director at Nick’s Ride 4 Friends. Ashley was nominated by Grace House staff members Brad Case and Jennifer Smith.
Jim Burlingame was presented with the 15th-annual Fred Atkins Community Service Award in recognition of his over 40 years of volunteer service, including roles with Westminster Presbyterian Church, the American Red Cross, and the Aurelius Volunteer Fire Department. Jim was nominated by Rev. Paul Dungey, Susan Marteney, and other Westminster Presbyterian Church colleagues.
CEO Liz Smith, who will retire at the end of the year, delivered heartfelt remarks and formally acknowledged incoming CEO Darlene Podolak, who will assume the role on January 1, 2026.
Board President Ken Knight introduced newly elected board officers: Jessica Janssen (vice president), Patricia Festa (treasurer), and Chris Sloan (secretary), and recognized the retirement of outgoing treasurer Bradley Chapman, thanking him for his dedicated service.
Unity House extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to the event’s success. A full gallery of images from the evening is available on our Facebook page, @unityhouseofcc.
