The event honored staff members marking milestones ranging from five to forty years of service, each representing an unwavering commitment to DDI’s mission of enriching the lives of children and adults with developmental disabilities. It also recognized two of its four employees who are retiring from the organization with a combined 80 years of service, Employees of the Month and the Employee of the Year.
2025’s Employee of the Year honor was presented to Kelley Fraccalvieri, whose warmth, leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on the people she supports as Cook/Housekeeper in the Adult Residential Services program. Since joining DDI in 2011, Kelley has consistently gone above and beyond to create an environment that is safe, nurturing and full of joy.
“These awards represent more than just years of service, they reflect countless moments of compassion, teamwork and positive impact on the individuals and families we support,” said Kim M. Kubasek, CEO, DDI. “Every one of our honorees has contributed to making DDI the strong, mission-driven organization it is today.”
“As both chair of the board and a parent, I see firsthand the difference our staff make every single day,” said Joseph Schmidt, Board Chairperson. “The people we are honoring are the reason families like mine can trust that our loved ones are cared for, supported and celebrated for who they are. Their dedication is truly life changing.”
The Service Awards are a long-standing DDI tradition, providing an opportunity to celebrate the people whose dedication fuels the organization’s success and ensures high-quality, person-centered support across Long Island.
Among the honorees were:
· 1 employee celebrating 40 years of service
· 7 employees celebrating 35 years
· 12 employees celebrating 30 years
· 14 employees celebrating 25 years
· 22 employees celebrating 15 years
· 37 employees celebrating 10 years
· 74 employees celebrating 5 years
Also remembered with a touching video memorial were two employees who passed away in 2025. James Mariani was a Transporter for 6 years and Diane Goff spent 8 years as a Community Instructor in our Adult Residential Program.