HeartShare dedicated its residences for 10 individuals diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities in memory of David Gregory Healy, the brother of HeartShare supporter, Mark C. Healy, on Monday, May 11, 2015.

Mark C. Healy and his family, as well as HeartShare Chairman of the Board, Paul Torre and his wife, in front of the residence in Woodhaven, Queens prior to the dedication ceremony on Monday, May 11, 2015.

The Healy family, neighbors and friends were invited to tour the Woodhaven homes, followed by a ceremony at Bruno Ristorante, which included an unveiling of the dedication plaque honoring David that will hang inside the HeartShare home.

In his prepared remarks, Mark C. Healy, CEO and President of American Stock Transfer Company, LLC, reminisced about his brother. “David was a runway model, world traveler and photographer, who died too soon. He didn’t live long, but he lived larger than all of us. Whenever he was needed, David would stop what he was doing to help others. To connect this house, which means so much to the people who live there, with David is a perfect match. Thank you HeartShare for providing this great service to these individuals and for honoring my family.”

David Gregory Healy sadly and unexpectedly passed away in September 2012 at the age of 43, but is remembered for his caring nature and zest for life. The dedication plaque, which was unveiled at the ceremony and will hang at the residences, read, “Dedicated with boundless love for a young man who loved without bounds.”

The David Gregory Healy Residences group adults diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities based on their physical and support needs. Those living on the first floor (Healy I) require a fully accessible environment and receive 24/7 care from Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Those living on the second floor (Healy II), while also receiving 24/7 supports, are more independent in their self-care skills. Both residences are adapted to access and promote community inclusion.

“It is our privilege to have you living in this home. We hope that you learn new things, become more independent and take advantage of all the community has to offer,” said Linda Tempel, HeartShare Executive Director of Developmental Disabilities Services, to residents who were in attendance at the dedication ceremony.

The opening of the residences was made possible by the dedication of HeartShare staff, as well as the high involvement of the community, including the support of the Woodhaven Block Association, Community Board 9 and the Community Assistance Unit of the 102nd Precinct. Dorie Figlioa presented an honorary citation on behalf of New York State Assemblymember Mike Miller to Joyce Levin, HeartShare Senior Vice President for Developmental Disabilities Services, at the ceremony.

“This home was developed through the involvement of people from all different walks of the community. It’s a testament to how HeartShare is well received wherever it opens its programs,” said Donna Limiti, Region 4 Director of the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Healy I & II Residences are funded and regulated by OPWDD, which provided the resources for the development of these beautiful new homes.

HeartShare currently has forty 24/7 residential settings, along with 43 supportive and independent living apartments, for approximately 350 adults and 15 children diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The naming of its residences in honor of individuals and families supportive of the agency has been a long-standing HeartShare tradition. For more information on HeartShare programs, visit heartshare.org.