Senator Martin J. Golden Announces Award to GEC

Martin J. Golden

April 12, 2012

On, Monday, April 16th, Senator Martin J. Golden (R.C. I Brooklyn), will present a grant award of $250,000 from the New York State Economic Development Assistance Program to The

Guild for Exceptional Children (GEC). The award was approved by the New York State Senate Finance Committee and administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York.

The official award presentation will take place on Monday, April 16, 2012 from 1-1:30 p.m. at GEC’s main headquarters located 260 – 68th Street, Brooklyn, NY .

Senator Golden stated, “I am proud to have awarded this funding to The Guild for Exceptional Children so to increase their operations and serve more of our most needy, Since 1958, the Guild

for Exceptional Children has been an integral part of our community and their work must continue."

Paul Cassone, GEC ‘s Executive Director/CEO, indicated, "The GEC is deeply grateful to Senator Golden for his continuing efforts to help improve the quality of life for people living with developmental disabilities. This grant has assisted the GEC in purchasing an additional building that will enable us to better serve our senior citizens with developmental disabilities and dramatically improve the quality of life of 40 other individuals who are currently traveling long distances to attend our Bay Ridge based programs."

For over 53 years the GEC’s mission has been to help children and adults living with developmental disabilities lead dignified and satisfying lives, reaching their fullest potential and assisting families in every step of their journey. Program participants directly depend on the GEC to provide residential care, education, jobs, and a wide range of therapeutic services to ensure their well-being and improve their quality of life.

Members of the media are welcome.