Best Wishes to Steven Vernikoff
In May of 2023 ABCD staff and friends gathered to wish Steve the best in his retirement in October of this year. Steve has served as the CEO of The Center for Family Supports for over 30 years. Starting in NY, Steve expanded CFS from a 50 person staff providing in-home respite services to one which provides a wide array of residential and community support programs in New York and New Jersey.
The biggest change in the field that Steve has witnessed is that professionals no longer see themselves as knowing more about what is best for the person to a profession whose first task is to listen to the person and to give them what they want and need.
At least once a month for a decade, Steve commuted to NJ to serve on ABCD’s board, 4 years as Board President, and to participate in the state’s rate setting advisory committee for the transition from contract to fee for service.
CFS is and remains an industry leader in our person-centered system. At the gathering Steve was sure to mention with great pride that people refer to ABCD as “the conscience of DDD.” ABCD reflects its members. We thank Steve for his part in creating and maintaining this profound legacy.
All the best in your retirement!
