Nonprofits EFR, ARISE plan to merge

SALINA, N.Y. — The boards of directors of Exceptional Family Resources (EFR) and ARISE say they are planning to merge the nonprofit organizations to “better serve people with disabilities.” EFR operates at 1820 Lemoyne Ave. in the town of Salina. ARISE’s main office is located at 635 James St. in Syracuse. Both EFR and ARISE say they’re “committed to delivering person-centered services to ensure that people with disabilities are fully included in our community at work, school and home,” per the joint announcement. Upon securing legal approvals, EFR will be the surviving corporation governed by a board combining the contributions of each organization’s current board of directors. “This collaboration will not only maintain but also surpass the highest standards of care for the individuals and families we assist, while also fostering a more robust and secure work environment for our team members,” Bruce Drake, CEO of EFR, said in the announcement. “ARISE and EFR are incredibly well-matched,” Tania Anderson, CEO of ARISE, added. “We both believe in the power of people with disabilities. Together, we will be stronger and better able to serve our community.” In a phone interview with CNYBJ, Anderson says both organizations are targeting mid-2025 to finalize the merger, but it will depend on regulatory approvals. ARISE has about 600 employees, and EFR has about 900 employees, and both employee counts include variable hour staff members, Anderson noted. “We anticipate that with natural attrition that we’ll be able to maintain positions,” she added. Anderson, who is a lawyer, will stay with the organization in a senior leadership role as corporation counsel, she tells CNYBJ. About the organizations Founded in 1974, EFR provides community-based services and supports to people with developmental disabilities. Its programs include the Self-Directed program, in which people with developmental disabilities manage their staff and services. EFR went on to say that its “desire to be an employer of choice is driven by the philosophy that the individuals we support and their families receive timely supports and services in the way that best meets their needs.” Founded in 1979, ARISE is the designated independent living center for Onondaga, Oswego, Madison, and Cayuga counties. It provides more than 50 different programs for people of all ages with all kinds of disabilities, including a mental-health diagnosis. ARISE says it is founded on the “Independent Living Philosophy, which recognizes the power of people with disabilities to direct their services and set their goals and requires full inclusion and access.” ARISE’s affiliate corporation, ARISE at the Farm in Madison County, offers inclusive recreation programs.