Senator Diane Savino Supports Special Tees Expansion Project

On Monday August 31, 2009 at 11:00 AM, New York State Senator Diane Savino visited Community Resources’ main campus at 3450 Victory Blvd. Last month, the Senator was able to approve a $25,000 grant to the organization in support of a planned expansion of the Special Tees’ screen printing program/business. The expansion project, "Moving Up From Within" will allow current Special Tee’s consumer/employees to be promoted to instructor positions, offer additional people from Special Tees’ waiting list to be enrolled in the program, and the creation of a sub-division of Special Tees, which will offer vocational training and employment to people with developmental disabilities who are currently enrolled in Community Resources’ Pre-Vocational services program.

Established in 1953, Community Resources is a Staten Island based, not for profit, comprehensive service provider for people with special needs. Since its 2003 merger with Special Tees, it also provides services for individuals who have a diagnosis of mental illness.

Senator Savino was accompanied by her staff members, Michael Arvanites, and Ana Tinsly. In addition to viewing the Special Tees operation which her office is supporting, Senator Savino toured the Pre-vocational Services program and met with many of the program participants.

Speaking about the grant from the Senator, Dana T. Magee, Executive Director/CEO, said "in difficult times such as these, we truly appreciate the efforts of Senator Diane Savino. It’s great to know that we can count on our elected officials for the continued support in helping the members of our special needs community."

“I am thrilled to be able to assist one of the most impressive programs in the entire Island.  The Special Tees program gives workers a sense of independence, self-esteem and the opportunity to learn important skills.  On my tour of the shop today, I was very impressed by the enthusiasm and sense of camaraderie that was evident among the consumers. They obviously enjoy their work and the opportunity to be productive members of our local economy.  They also make a great t-shirt and my office is not only a sponsor, but a customer, as well,” said Senator Diane Savino. 　

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