Golisano Foundation awards $200K to support Arc of Monroe initiative

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The Arc of Monroe has received a $200,000 grant from the Golisano Foundation to support the reconstruction of its Homewood residence in Irondequoit, a key project within the organization’s Aging With Grace, Aging In Place initiative. 

The funding will help support the complete rebuild of an existing residential home into a fully accessible, single-story residence designed to meet the changing needs of eight adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The new home will include private bedrooms, universal design features, modern safety enhancements and smart technology intended to promote independence, accessibility and dignity. 

Officials said the existing Homewood residence had been expanded over time and was no longer able to adequately support the long-term accessibility needs of its residents. The new design will allow individuals to continue aging in place while remaining connected to familiar caregivers, trusted relationships and their community. 

Demolition and abatement work on the original structure have already been completed, with interior construction now underway. The project is expected to be completed in the summer. 

“This project is about dignity,” said Tracy Crosby, executive director of The Arc Foundation of Monroe. “We are deeply grateful to the Golisano Foundation for investing in a future where people can age safely in homes designed for their changing needs. Access to privacy, accessibility and the ability to remain in your community should be the standard.” 

Tracy Petrichick, president and CEO of The Arc of Monroe, said the project represents the future of residential services for people with disabilities. 

“As people age, their needs evolve — and our responsibility is to evolve with them,” Petrichick said. “Private bedrooms, accessible design and environments built around dignity and independence help ensure people can continue living lives of meaning in the communities they call home.” 

The Homewood project is part of The Arc of Monroe’s broader effort to modernize residential settings across Monroe County by prioritizing accessibility, privacy and long-term sustainability. The initiative includes transitioning older homes toward single-story living models with private bedrooms to better support aging residents. 

The Arc of Monroe currently operates 29 residential homes and serves some 1,500 people annually through residential services, employment supports, clinical services, recreation, advocacy and family support programs. The organization operates 43 locations and employs more than 800 people across the region. 

The total Homewood project is expected to cost roughly $1.2 million, with additional funding support coming from donors, foundation partners and community supporters. 

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