In Flight Awarded 2023 Nonprofit of the Year
Not-for-profit innovator receives commendation from Think Dutchess Alliance for Business
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.
Acknowledgements from Government Officials
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.
The Nonprofit of the Year award not only acknowledges In Fight’s efforts in Dutchess County, but all of New York State. A certificate of Merit was presented to In Flight by New York State Assemblyman Jonathan G. Jacobson at the event. Additionally, certificates from other government leaders followed.
“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.”
Power of Collaboration – What the Future Holds
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. Chief Executive Officer Vicki Sylvester, Ph.D., will continue to lead the organization. Additionally, 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 our Merger Hub.
Nonprofit of the Year Video Highlight
Thank you to everyone who made Nonprofit of the Year possible!
Congratulations fellow winners!
Grand Award: onsemi
onsemi, has not only invested more than $1.3 billion to establish the nations only 12-inch power discrete image sensor fab in East Fishkill, they have also played a critical role in building the region’s workforce. Currently they employ over 1,000 people and has formed a partnership with Dutchess BOCES and Dutchess Community College’s Mechatronics Lab. This partnership prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing, engineering and other high-paying STEM fields.
Large Business of the Year: DocuWare
DocuWare is a cloud-based document management and workflow solutions company. Since opening its new office in Beacon earlier this year, DocuWare has continued to expand worldwide. The company invests in its employees and the community, collaborating with local organizations to fight food insecurity and supporting tech education through sponsored training courses and job placement assistance.
Small Business of the Year: Creature Comforts Animal Hospital, P.C.
Providing life-saving medical and surgical services to a variety of species, Creature Comforts Animal Hospital has earned a reputation for helping owners give their pets the highest quality of life possible. The practice has become a pillar of the region’s veterinary medicine community, offering continuing education and networking opportunities for current veterinarians as well as internship opportunities for students in SUNY Ulster’s veterinary technician program.
Innovator of the Year: River Valley Arts Center
Since 2021, River Valley Arts Center (RVAC) is making the arts more accessible to everybody in the Hudson Valley. RVAC saw a need for a safe space for people of all ages and abilities to come together. By hosting classes, workshops, and other events, RVAC is helping our community to develop new skills and celebrate their creativity.
