ARISE - EFR

Inside ARISE at Doc Marshall Farm: Horses, Healing, and Inclusion

In this episode of the ARISE Exceptional Family Resources Podcast, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Assistant Farm Manager Becky Schaefer to explore the incredible programs and experiences available at ARISE at Doc Marshall Farm. From adaptive riding and groundwork to accessible recreation and volunteer opportunities, Becky shares how the farm creates meaningful connections, builds confidence, and supports individuals of all ages and abilities through the healing power of horses and nature. Learn about the farm’s history, inclusive programs, beloved animals, and the many ways the community can get involved.

Understanding the TBI Waiver: Independence in Action

What is the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver, and how does it help people live independently? In this episode, Bruce Drake sits down with program expert Danielle Durkin to break down eligibility, services, and how this Medicaid-funded program supports individuals in staying in their homes and communities.

Veterans Directed Care: Choice, Independence, and Support

Veterans deserve the freedom to live where and how they choose. In this episode, ARISE-Exceptional Family Resources CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Lauren Canaro, Assistant Director of Consumer Directed Services, to explore the Veterans Directed Care Program.  Lauren shares how the program empowers veterans of all ages to remain in their homes by directing their own care, hiring trusted caregivers, and using a personalized budget to meet daily living needs. The discussion walks through eligibility, the VA referral process, and the wide range of supports available, illustrating how Veterans Directed Care promotes independence, dignity, and quality of life.

ARISE & Ski: Opening the Slopes to Everyone Through Adaptive Sports

In this episode of Exceptional Talk on Disabilities, host Bruce Drake, CEO of ARISE and Exceptional Family Resources, is joined by Mary Schwanke, Senior Community Inclusion Supervisor, for an in-depth conversation about the ARISE & Ski program. Mary shares how ARISE & Ski has been creating access to adaptive skiing and snowboarding since 1996—empowering individuals with disabilities, ages five and up, to experience winter sports in a supportive, instructional environment. The conversation explores how adaptive equipment, skilled instructors, and dedicated volunteers work together to make independence on the slopes possible, from first-time skiers to seasoned participants who eventually become volunteers themselves. Listeners will learn about the program’s partnership with Ski CNY at Labrador Mountain, the vital role volunteers play, and why peer support and lived experience—both professional and personal—are central to ARISE-EFR’s mission. Mary also offers powerful insight into what makes ARISE & Ski special, including her favorite moment each season: seeing empty wheelchairs at the bottom of the hill. This episode highlights how adaptive recreation isn’t just about sports—it’s about confidence, independence, community, and full-circle moments that last a lifetime. Recorded and produced at WCNY Public Broadcasting studios.

Advocacy in Action: Inside the Ombudsman Program at ARISE-EFR

In this episode, ARISE-EFR CEO Bruce Drake is joined by Bill Rose, Program Manager of the Ombudsman Program, for an in-depth conversation about advocacy, dignity, and the rights of older adults living in long-term care settings. Bill shares his journey from professor of gerontology to nonprofit advocate and explains what ombudsmen do, how the program works across Central New York, and why this service is so critical for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. From resolving everyday concerns to addressing serious care issues, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how ombudsmen advocate for residents’ voices to be heard. Listeners will also learn how families can access support, what to expect when calling the Ombudsman hotline, and how community members can get involved as volunteers. 📞 Ombudsman Hotline: 315-671-5108