News from the Noteworthy from Springbrook

Medicaid, I/DD-related Services are Essential

With March fading into April, we find ourselves at the turning point of the seasons. The final traces of winter melt away, making room for the warmth and renewal of spring. This time of year is a reminder of the beauty of change—longer days, budding flowers and the promise of new opportunities.

We believe in the power of community, generosity, and shared purpose—and our inaugural “Day of Giving” was a testament to that belief. I am thrilled to share that, thanks to the overwhelming support of our donors, families, staff, and friends, we not only met our fundraising goal but exceeded it, raising over $100,000.00! In addition to such generous donors, Springbrook Board Director Bill Mirabito, and his wife, Karen, matched the funds raised, which doubled the impact. This incredible achievement will directly impact the lives of the people we serve, strengthening our programs and expanding opportunities. A key part of this support system is ensuring access to essential services, many of which are made possible through Medicaid funding.

Nonprofit organizations like Springbrook provide essential services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and Medicaid is the foundation of these supports. However, proposed federal cuts to Medicaid funding threaten these services, putting individuals at risk of losing critical care. I am thankful for the funds raised by the Springbrook Foundation, as they help make a good life even better; however, we should not have to rely on fundraising for everyday necessities. Cuts could force that reality.

Medicaid funds residential programs, day services, employment support and therapies. New York State proposed investing $35.5 billion in Medicaid to support New York’s Health Care System, in the 2025 budget proposal. This means cuts would reduce services and opportunities for people to thrive. With New York facing a possible $9 billion loss in education and Medicaid funding, it is critical that we remain vigilant, advocate for continued support, and ensure that the people we serve do not lose access to the resources they rely on. Additionally, executive actions targeting the Department of Education could limit resources for inclusive education and transition services, creating further challenges for people striving for independence. We currently support more than 235 students at The School at Springbrook, the Kids Unlimited Preschool, and people through the Capstone Day Habilitation program providing individualized educational services. By reducing funding, this could directly impact the necessary resources that support each student’s accommodations.

New York State has prioritized funding for nonprofit organizations serving the I/DD community, investing in person-centered services and opportunities for community inclusion. For instance, in November 2024, the Office of Faith and Non-Profit Development Services announced approximately $2.3 million in grant funding to improve public access to essential technologies, demonstrating the state’s ongoing investment in community services. However, state support alone cannot offset federal reductions. Nonprofits like Springbrook rely on state and federal funding to sustain essential programs. Without continued federal investment, maintaining high-quality care becomes increasingly difficult.

As policymakers debate funding and policy changes, it is crucial to recognize the impact on the I/DD community. Medicaid is not just a budget item—it is a lifeline. Federal funding must remain stable and accessible to uphold the commitment to each individual with I/DD and their families.

Advocating for Medicaid and related services is essential. By working together—families, providers, advocates and policymakers—we can protect the programs that empower people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. As we move forward into this next season, let us embrace the opportunities to continue advocating and making a difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Patricia Kennedy is the chief executive officer for Springbrook.