POUGHKEEPSIE- On Thursday, November 2, Matthew G. Bateman, Chief Executive Officer of In Flight, Inc. alongside Ralph LaCasio, In Flight, Inc.’s Board President accepted the Nonprofit of the Year award from the Think Dutchess Alliance for Business.
For 30 years, In Flight has empowered people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Hudson Valley and Capital regions through programs that teach independent living and employment skills. Driven by the purpose of building a more inclusive, supportive world, In Flight has made critical strides in breaking down the barriers and stigmas people with disabilities face. Events like their annual Cornhole for a Cause bring the whole community together, raising awareness of ways businesses can support community members in In Flight’s programs and connecting people through activities everyone can participate in.
“We have changed the lives of a lot of people,” Bateman shared in his acceptance speech, “I don’t think there is anything more special than that.” Bateman also recognized the cooperative and industrious contributions of his fellow team members in attaining such acknowledgment, introducing to the audience the dozen staff members in attendance to commemorate the achievement.
For over two decades, the Business Excellence Awards has recognized those who demonstrate vision, innovation, and achievement in supporting the local economy in Dutchess County. This commendation showcases to the community how In Flight embodies excellence, collaboration, and service, motivating us all to aim for greatness.
The Nonprofit of the Year award not only acknowledges In Fight’s efforts in the Dutchess County community, but in the entirety of New York State. Certificates of Merit were presented to In Flight by New York State Assemblyman Jonathan G. Jacobson, Dutchess County Legislature Don Sagliano, Dutchess County Comptroller Robin Lois, Town of Red Hook Supervisor Robert McKeon, and New York State Senator Rob Rolison.
“Thank you for your positive impact on economic development and your work on improving the quality of life in Dutchess County,” wrote New York Senator Kristen Gillibrand in a letter to In Flight acknowledging this achievement, “Your commitment and wide range of care and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is greatly appreciated.”
Through the power of collaboration and community, this award reflects the collective effort that goes into creating positive change, and thus, the continuous effort that is at the forefront. More motivated than ever to continue their efforts in empowering individuals and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community, In Flight plans to expand upon their innovative efforts.
To do so, In Flight, Inc. has announced plans to merge with Community Based Services, an agency that provides comprehensive and innovative services for people with disabilities in the lower to mid-Hudson Valley of New York. The merger aims to enhance the quality, creativity, and scope of existing and new support services within the Hudson Valley and Capital Regions, while gaining access to a broader pool of talented staff and invaluable resources. The combined leadership teams will work collaboratively to achieve operational efficiencies and enhanced service delivery. Community Based Services will be the surviving entity of the merger and Chief Executive Officer Vicki Sylvester, Ph.D., will continue to lead the organization. CEO of In Flight, Inc., Matt Bateman, will assume the role of Chief Administrator in the newly merged organization. The process of obtaining the necessary New York State governmental approvals for the merger is underway for a completion date of January 1, 2024.
To learn more about the benefits of the merger, visit: www.inflightinc.org
