Assembly Member Aron Wieder Strengthens Community Ties Through Local Outreach and Educational Collaboration

Assembly Member Aron Wieder has been actively engaging with key organizations and educational institutions in Rockland County to address community needs and foster meaningful collaboration. This week, he visited JAWONIO’s New City facility to spotlight their comprehensive lifespan services and innovative workforce development initiatives.

Accompanied by Chief of Staff Shlomo Kertzner, he toured the facility alongside CEO Randi L. Rios-Castro and leaders of the JAWONIO Foundation. The tour showcased the agency’s services, which support over 3,500 children and adults with special needs annually across Rockland and neighboring counties. JAWONIO’s programs include Early Intervention, specialized preschool services, community living supports, and vocational training for adults—all aimed at fostering independence and enhancing quality of life. A standout feature was the Jawonio Cleaning Company, a commercial arm with $4 million in annual cleaning contracts.

This initiative trains individuals with disabilities for meaningful employment while maintaining high service standards. Assemblyman Wieder praised the model, stating, “JAWONIO’s work exemplifies how economic inclusion and quality service can go hand in hand, creating opportunities for individuals with special needs to thrive.”

In a separate but equally significant effort, Assemblyman Wieder held a formal meeting with Dr. William P. Mullaney, PhD, the newly appointed President of Rockland Community College (RCC), at the college’s Suffern campus. Dr. Tinny Cheung, an expert in educational policy and community outreach, joined the discussion, contributing valuable insights to the collaboration between the Assemblyman’s office and RCC leadership. The meeting centered on the SUNY Reconnect initiative, a program providing free tuition, fees, books, and supplies to New York residents aged 25–55 without a college degree. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers for adult learners pursuing associate degrees in high-demand fields. Assemblyman Wieder and Dr. Mullaney also explored RCC’s plans to deepen ties with Rockland County residents, emphasizing the role of local partnerships in making the college a vital community resource.

Through these engagements, Assembly Member Wieder underscores his commitment to addressing the diverse needs of Rockland County’s residents. By partnering with organizations like JAWONIO and RCC, he is championing opportunities for individuals with special needs and adult learners alike. His office remains dedicated to serving every constituent. For assistance or inquiries, contact the district office at 845-624-4601.