For ten years, Life’s WORC has had much more than just a partner in Hudson Regional Long-Term Care Pharmacy. Hudson Regional and its CEO, Angelo Angerame, have become staunch supporters of the agency and fellow advocates for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Originally, Hudson Regional was a non-profit organization created by ARC-Orange, ARC-Rockland, CRVI and New Hope Community.They collaborated to develop pharmacy, medication and medical-equipment policies that focused on the needs of the IDD community, as well as the nursing and support staff.
At that time, other pharmacies did not make those with developmental disabilities and autism a priority, and Hudson Regional recognized this unique specialty, and set a new standard for the attention and diligence due. As a result, Hudson Regional became an official service provider for Life’s WORC.
Angelo and his team have daily contact with the staff at Life’s WORC, ensuring that all insurance and medication issues are addressed in a timely, efficient manner, and that the needs of the people we support are met. “Unfortunately, many times people with developmental disabilities are a forgotten category,” he explains. “Hudson Regional sees how Life’s WORC is dedicated to making sure that everyone meets their full life potential. Together with Life’s WORC, our commitment to the people we serve is unparalleled.”
Of course, that level of commitment is evident on both sides. “The staff at Hudson Regional is very attentive to our needs, and very personable,” says Jessica Colon, Life’s WORC Nurse Administrator. “Any time I call they get us everything we need on schedule. They are in constant communication with me personally in regard to what the houses order to make sure it is approved quickly. They have also helped us manage costs when faced with expensive medications, which is a great value to the agency.”
“At the height the pandemic last spring we needed pulse oximeters and could not find them anywhere,” Jessica continues. “Angelo, Mike (the pharmacist) and the team were able to get some, and get them to me the same day. They even delivered them to my house so that I could be sure they were distributed quickly and properly.” This is just one example of the many times Angelo and his staff have gone above and beyond for our agency.
Hudson Regional and Angelo have been enthusiastic supporters of Life’s WORC and its fundraising efforts, sponsoring tables at our annual gala and participating in our events. Recently, he was the guest of honor at our annual golf outing, which was a major success.
“As long as we are able to help out, we will always say ‘yes’ to Life’s WORC. It is the gold standard for care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.” Angelo says. “Because of how Hudson Regional was launched by four agencies in this field, it makes sense for us to get behind the efforts of the agencies that support people with developmental disabilities.”
“I am privileged to be associated with an agency that for fifty years has shown people how with disabilities can live full lives and reach their full potential,” he continues. “We will always be there to help Life’s WORC.”
In honor of the 50th Anniversary of Life’s WORC, we will be sharing the stories, people and events that have made Life’s WORC the organization it is today, along with our goals and vision for the future. Thank you for celebrating with us!