Stepping Stones Learning Center
The DOF provided a working capital loan to Stepping Stones Learning Center (“SSLC”), a Rochester, New York inclusionary school for children with ASD and other special needs, together with other… READ MORE >
DOF Saves The Games!
Have you heard the news?
This year, New York State eliminated all funding for the Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged. Thankfully, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano stepped up to the plate to help save the games.
In an effort to continue this tradition, Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano and his staff created the Committee to Save the Games which was chaired by DOF President & CEO, Charles D. Hammerman. The Nassau County Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged took place on June 2nd through the 4th, 2011.
History of the Games…
The Empire State Games for the Physically Challenged have taken place in Nassau County for the past 27 years; so naturally, there is no better place to continue the tradition!
Homed at Mitchel Athletic Complex and Nassau Community College, athletes compete in track, field, slalom, swimming, wheelchair basketball and table tennis. Participants range in ages from 5 to 21 who face disabilities of blind, visually impaired, deaf, hearing impaired, spinal cord injured, amputees and those who have cerebral palsy, dwarfism and other physical disabilities.
The cost of participation is free and the numbers of athletes increase each year, boasting up to 1,100!
The dedication brought forth by the parents, families, teachers, coaches and volunteers are crucial to the success of these games. Operating with a small staff, the games are facilitated by those who return year after year to a program they love.