There are many different ways for individuals and businesses to support Alternatives - through advocacy, financial contributions, service, and more!  The 2024 Dignity Gala honorees, Richard Skorupski and Risk Strategies, and Catherine Bendall and Withum, have demonstrated unwaivering and truly exceptional support, enabling Alternatives to fulfill its mission each day. 

These honorees have had longstanding and consistent professional relationships with Alternatives, where they have partnered with the agency to perform at the highest levels, all while accomplishing notable achievements and uncompromising service within the community.

Alternatives’ relationship with Rich Skorupski began more than 10 years ago, when he made a presentation regarding the agency’s insurance needs. At that time, Rich represented Meeker Sharkey Insurance, and they handled a portion of Alternatives’ insurance program. Some years later, Meeker Sharkey expanded and merged with the James F. Hurley Insurance Agency. Then, in 2021, Meeker Sharkey & Hurley was acquired by Risk Strategies, a leading national specialty insurance brokerage and risk management and consulting firm. As the company grew, so too did Alternatives’ business with them. Through it all, Rich provided solid advice, helped the agency navigate difficult concepts, and was a champion for Alternatives' mission.

Rich embodies Risk Strategy’s commitment to social responsibility and making a difference in our communities. He serves on Alternatives' Safety Committee and has led several employee volunteer projects to transform the landscape at Alternatives’ properties. Rich also introduced Alternatives to Peter Rosky, who now serves as Co-Chair for Alternatives’ Dignity Dash, and Heidi Kopitar, who serves on the Dignity Gala Committee.

As a member of Alternatives’ Corporate Circle Partnership, Risk Strategies is a shining light. We were pleased to help create a promotional video for the company in 2022. At that time, Carolyn Suero, Alternatives VP of Admissions and Development, best summed up our relationship. “We are grateful for our partnership. Not only is Risk Strategies our insurance broker, but they also invest their human capital to support our mission.”  Alternatives is pleased to honor Rich Skorupski and Risk Strategies, for their commitment to creating value and success in all that they do.

Alternatives' relationship with Withum and Cathy Bendall goes back to a time that is earlier than our institutional memory! Nancy Good has been President of Alternatives for 34 years, and in all that time, Cathy and the Withum team have provided world-class client service, innovative solutions, and industry expertise. They are more than Alternatives’ financial auditors; they are the agency’s consistent, reliable partner in business and trusted advisor.

Alternatives is grateful that giving back to local charities is an important part of the culture at Withum. Not a year has gone by without Withum’s sponsorship of the Dignity Gala. Cathy has personally rejoiced in all the various themes, cheered as we raised funds for our clients, and celebrated the achievements we recognized at the event each year. This commitment grew even stronger with Withum’s participation in the Alternatives’ Corporate Circle Partnership.

For all of our years together, Cathy Bendall and the Withum team have been truly connected to Alternatives and have remained loyal supporters of our community. They have demonstrated a deep commitment to Alternatives' mission, and have been fully invested in our growth and success.

There is something called "The Withum Way", which closely mirrors Alternatives’ ambitions. To summarize, Withum aims to be client centric; have a vision for growth, innovation and change; have a collaborative attitude; demand integrity; cultivate relationships; and value hard work, family, giving back and living life passionately.  Alternatives shares these prized values and is proud to name Cathy Bendall and Withum among our 2024 Dignity Gala Honorees!