Gardner is a key member of the Stitched INK team
From the Arc Allegany Steuben, pictured is Dave with neighbors at Lake View Apartments
Bath, NY — October 24, 2025 — Arc Allegany Steuben proudly recognized David Gardner as its 2025 NYSID Outstanding Performer during a special luncheon held on Friday, October 24, 2025, at Stitched INK, the organization’s social enterprise located at 1 Arc Way in Bath, NY.
Now in its 22nd year, the New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID) Outstanding Performance Awards Program celebrates individuals with disabilities who have overcome personal challenges and achieved meaningful success through employment. Since its inception in 2004, the program has honored more than 1,100 individuals working at NYSID member agencies across New York State.
Over 60 people attended David’s recognition luncheon, including co-workers, his friends and neighbors from Lake View Apartments in Bath, NY, as well as his Special Olympics coach and peers from the SANYS (Self-Advocacy Association of New York State) group, of which David has been a longtime member.
David’s story highlights the remarkable 50-year transformation in how society views and supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). He became involved with the Arc Allegany Steuben in the mid-1990s, working on NYSID Preferred Source cleaning contracts. David thrived in this role, proudly earning a paycheck for the first time. His warm personality and genuine enthusiasm soon made him the unofficial ambassador of the cleaning crew.
In 2018, David joined Stitched INK, where he works in shipping and receiving—folding and labeling completed apparel orders. Rebecca Shutt, Business Manager at Stitched INK, shared, “David is an important part of our team and a key piece of our workplace culture. His positive attitude and sense of humor boost overall team morale.”
Beyond his success at work, David has achieved remarkable personal growth. In 2019, he fulfilled a long-time dream of moving into his own apartment, and in 2021, transitioning to Lake View Apartments, where he is deeply engaged in his community—playing cards, baking cookies, and sharing meals with neighbors. David has proudly competed in Special Olympics for more than 20 years, most recently in bowling, and continues to advocate for disability rights and personal choice through his long-standing involvement with SANYS. He loves to travel and will be heading to Key West next month to swim with the dolphins!
David was among the forty-five honorees of the NYSID Class of 2025 Outstanding Performers, officially announced during NYSID’s Annual Meeting held on October 22, 2025, in Schenectady, NY.
“David exemplifies the spirit of this award through his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence,” said Christopher Koehler, VicePresident of Business Operations at Arc Allegany Steuben. “He is a valued member of our Stitched INK team, and his success reminds us why inclusive employment opportunities matter—they transform lives and strengthen our communities.”
About Arc Allegany Steuben
Arc Allegany Steuben is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and respecting choices for individuals with disabilities on their pathway to independence. Through a range of services and social enterprises—including Stitched INK, Pro Clean Solutions, and PWI—the organization provides career opportunities, skill development, and community inclusion throughout Allegany and Steuben Counties.
About NYSID
New York State Industries for the Disabled, Inc. (NYSID) is a nonprofit organization that creates employment opportunities for people with disabilities through New York State’s Preferred Source Program. NYSID partners with member agencies and corporate partners to advance inclusive employment across the state.
