Indera: Independence and Access for All

 For 21 years, Chad Norton and Marissa Hussein have shared a relationship rooted in trust, respect, compassion, and plenty of humor. In this heartfelt episode, Indera CEO Bruce Drake talks with Chad and Marissa about how they met, the vital role personal care support plays in independence, and how their working relationship grew into a lasting friendship that feels more like family. Together, they reflect on navigating life’s joys and challenges, finding the right support, and the meaningful connection that makes long-term care truly successful. 

ARISE and Exceptional Family Resources have come together under a new name: Indera. In this special episode, Director of Advancement Tim Mahar speaks with CEO Bruce Drake about the thoughtful and inclusive process behind the rebrand, what the name Indera represents, and the mission, vision and values guiding the agency forward. They also discuss the power of peer-driven services, opportunities for program growth and what this exciting new chapter means for the people, families and communities Indera supports across New York State.

The name may be new, but the commitment remains the same: advancing independence, removing barriers and ensuring every person has the freedom to pursue the life they choose.

Learn more at indera.org.

In this inspiring episode of the podcast, CEO sits down with Regional Systems Advocate, Nykk Dauzyn for a powerful conversation about accessibility, advocacy, and community empowerment.

Nykk shares his personal journey as a deafblind, neurodivergent trans man, published author, and licensed mental health counselor, while offering insight into the real impact of systems advocacy. From housing support and disability rights to assistive technology and community education, this episode highlights how advocacy can change lives one connection at a time.

Listeners will hear meaningful stories about overcoming barriers, creating inclusive solutions, and ensuring individuals and families have access to the resources and support they deserve. A thoughtful and eye opening conversation about equity, empowerment, and making communities more accessible for all.

 In this episode of the podcast, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Education and Outreach Specialist Carrie Ann Davis to discuss the Open Doors Program and the life changing impact it has across Central New York. Carrie Ann shares how the program helps individuals transition from nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities back into community living with the supports they need to thrive. From housing barriers and peer support to civil rights and independence, this conversation highlights the power of choice, advocacy, and connection. Plus, hear the inspiring success story behind 86 individuals transitioning back into their communities in 2025. 

In this episode of the ARISE Exceptional Family Resources Podcast, CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Assistant Farm Manager Becky Schaefer to explore the incredible programs and experiences available at ARISE at Doc Marshall Farm. From adaptive riding and groundwork to accessible recreation and volunteer opportunities, Becky shares how the farm creates meaningful connections, builds confidence, and supports individuals of all ages and abilities through the healing power of horses and nature. Learn about the farm’s history, inclusive programs, beloved animals, and the many ways the community can get involved. 

 What is the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Waiver, and how does it help people live independently? In this episode, Bruce Drake sits down with program expert Danielle Durkin to break down eligibility, services, and how this Medicaid-funded program supports individuals in staying in their homes and communities. 

 Veterans deserve the freedom to live where and how they choose. In this episode, ARISE-Exceptional Family Resources CEO Bruce Drake sits down with Lauren Canaro, Assistant Director of Consumer Directed Services, to explore the Veterans Directed Care Program.
 Lauren shares how the program empowers veterans of all ages to remain in their homes by directing their own care, hiring trusted caregivers, and using a personalized budget to meet daily living needs. The discussion walks through eligibility, the VA referral process, and the wide range of supports available, illustrating how Veterans Directed Care promotes independence, dignity, and quality of life. 

In this episode of Exceptional Talk on Disabilities, host Bruce Drake, CEO of ARISE and Exceptional Family Resources, is joined by Mary Schwanke, Senior Community Inclusion Supervisor, for an in-depth conversation about the ARISE & Ski program.

Mary shares how ARISE & Ski has been creating access to adaptive skiing and snowboarding since 1996—empowering individuals with disabilities, ages five and up, to experience winter sports in a supportive, instructional environment. The conversation explores how adaptive equipment, skilled instructors, and dedicated volunteers work together to make independence on the slopes possible, from first-time skiers to seasoned participants who eventually become volunteers themselves.

Listeners will learn about the program’s partnership with Ski CNY at Labrador Mountain, the vital role volunteers play, and why peer support and lived experience—both professional and personal—are central to ARISE-EFR’s mission. Mary also offers powerful insight into what makes ARISE & Ski special, including her favorite moment each season: seeing empty wheelchairs at the bottom of the hill.

This episode highlights how adaptive recreation isn’t just about sports—it’s about confidence, independence, community, and full-circle moments that last a lifetime.

Recorded and produced at WCNY Public Broadcasting studios.

In this episode, ARISE-EFR CEO Bruce Drake is joined by Bill Rose, Program Manager of the Ombudsman Program, for an in-depth conversation about advocacy, dignity, and the rights of older adults living in long-term care settings.

Bill shares his journey from professor of gerontology to nonprofit advocate and explains what ombudsmen do, how the program works across Central New York, and why this service is so critical for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities. From resolving everyday concerns to addressing serious care issues, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how ombudsmen advocate for residents’ voices to be heard.

Listeners will also learn how families can access support, what to expect when calling the Ombudsman hotline, and how community members can get involved as volunteers.

📞 Ombudsman Hotline: 315-671-5108

In this episode of the ARISE – Exceptional Family Resources Podcast, CEO Bruce Drake speaks with Beth Clark, Lead Education Advocate at ARISE & EFR. Beth shares her journey from classroom teacher and parent of three children with disabilities to advocate, and explains how education advocacy helps families navigate the complex world of special education.

They discuss common school challenges, how to communicate effectively with districts, why the right language in meetings and letters matters, and what “success” looks like when schools and families truly collaborate. Beth also highlights that ARISE–EFR’s education advocacy services are grant-funded and free to families, and explains how parents can reach out for support when a child is struggling or has a suspected disability.

This episode is a must-listen for any caregiver feeling overwhelmed by IEPs, meetings, or school systems—and looking for a knowledgeable partner in their corner.