On the evening of Thursday, April 24, 2007, the young men from MercyFirst’s St. Mary’s Campus were honored by AHRC for the carnival they had hosted in December 2006 for the adults living in 7 of AHRC’s adult group homes. AHRC is a Nassau County based organization that provides opportunities and support for children and adults with developmental disabilities, helping them to realize their potential and achieve their goals.

“The boys and Staff, Mr. Colby and Mr. Fritz, were dressed to impress with the color coordinated dress shirts and ties. They were so happy that they were going to a dinner to honor them,” explains MercyFirst Senior VP of Campus Programs, Cathy Menzies. “We arrived at the AHRC mansion – yes, a huge beautiful mansion – and the boys were amazed. They glow on their faces was priceless. They were greeted with warm welcomes and much appreciation for all of their work in the carnival.”

The young men took several group photographs and mingled with other AHRC staff and volunteers. They were each given a volunteer pin which they immediately and proudly pinned on their shirts. The conversation at the dinner table was about how MercyFirst could expand its partnership with AHRC and do more activities with them, which led to a conversation about MercyFirst having a joint "Field Day" at AHRC this summer.

Cathy Menzies sums it up, “Our kids helping others! What an awesome thing!”