2025 Spotlights – Advocates

December 2025: Frank Vair

Date: December 1, 2025

For some people, a career is something they choose; for others, it’s something that seems to choose them. For Frank Vair, his path to the disability field started when he was just thirteen, when family friends asked for assistance at the newly-named ARISE at Doc Marshall Farm – an accessible and inclusive recreation center located on an expansive working horse farm in Chittenango, NY. Frank volunteered in 1999, not knowing that the e...

November 2025: The Yudikaitis Family

Date: November 1, 2025

To ensure that everyone receiving services from Advocates and their families have a holiday meal this season, we invite those in need to sign up for our free Thanksgiving Meal Program by November 21, 2025.

October 2025: Artie Bennett

Date: October 1, 2025

Meet Artie Bennett, one of Advocates’ newest employees. Despite having only been employed since June, Artie is really making a name for himself, due to his personality and the quality job he does. Though new to the team, he tells us that these things are more than just his trying to make a good impression – they are fundamental elements of who he is as a person.

September 2025: Victoria Smith

Date: September 1, 2025

At just eight years old, Victoria Smith already knows who she is and what she wants to be…and she isn’t shy about telling you.

August 2025: Marissa Madrid

Date: August 1, 2025

Marissa Madrid has a lot on her plate these days. Between working full time as a Mentor for Advocates, earning her college degree, acting as the primary orchestrator for various inclusive groups and clubs around town, all on top of being a full-time parent to four children, one might wonder how she’s able to manage it all. But after learning about her beautiful family, the glowing reviews she has received from people within Advocates...

July 2025: Sujit Kurup

Date: July 1, 2025

At 30 years old, Sujit Kurup is a vibrant, thoughtful, and highly expressive person whose life story continues to inspire those around him. Though he communicates primarily through an iPad, Sujit has never let that slow him down. He’s a poet, an artist, an advocate, and a young man brimming with compassion and a great sense of humor. His journey is one of persistence, creativity, and the unwavering support of family and community.

June 2025: Monica Petrus

Date: June 1, 2025

For Monica Petrus, life hasn’t always been easy, but it’s always been filled with purpose. Diagnosed with spina bifida when she was 20 weeks in utero, she’s used a wheelchair since the age of two. That alone would be a significant challenge for many, but Monica has steadily built a life grounded in independence, joy, and quiet strength – qualities that have made her a pillar in her close-knit family and a role model to her four young...

May 2025: Tora Ryder

Date: May 1, 2025

Before our interview with Tora Ryder even began, her face was lit up with joy – not because of the spotlight, but because she had just finished working with someone receiving services from Advocates. “It was a wonderful day, and he (the man she supports) just puts me in the best mood,” she beamed. This moment perfectly captured her passion for the work she does every day, and is indicative of the deep fulfillment she finds in making ...

April 2025: Tina Fitzgerald

Date: April 1, 2025

At 61, Tina Fitzgerald stands as a beacon of resilience, dedication, and love for the people around her. She describes herself as someone who has always spoken her mind, advocating for what she believes in from an early age. Her journey of self-advocacy began in elementary school, where she attended her own IEP meetings as early as fifth grade, a rarity for someone so young. Tina’s mother encouraged her to become independent and advo...

March 2025: Michael Novara

Date: March 1, 2025

Michael Novara is living proof that thriving is possible, even when family isn’t nearby. Living in a group home (IRA) for many years, Michael has built a life filled with purpose and joy, showing that with the right support, people can lead fulfilling lives.

February 2025: Eric Komar

Date: February 1, 2025

If you’ve ever visited Advocates’ Liverpool office, you’ve likely met the friendly face of the helpful Eric Komar, a dedicated member of Advocates’ Reception and Training and Support Services (TSS) Teams. While he is a welcoming presence for visitors, his ambitions extend far beyond helping people navigate the office. Because of his life experiences, Eric is deeply passionate about sports and is dedicated to breaking down...

January 2025: Melvin Ocasio

Date: January 1, 2025

At first glance, the roles of a culinary chef and a Direct Support Professional (Mentor) might not have much in common. But Melvin Ocasio, who has thrived in both positions, is proof of just how many similarities exist between them.