Members of the Chautauqua County NY Connects team accept the 2026 Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team (E-MDT) Service Award during the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event on June 15 in Mayville. Pictured, from left, are Dana Corwin, Rebecca Byczynski-Bradley, Karie Jurczak, Brenda Rodriguez, Bridgette Paoletta, Mike Lee, and Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. The award recognizes NY Connects' dedication to serving older adults, caregivers, and vulnerable residents throughout Chautauqua County. Not pictured is Jennifer Beal.
MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Chautauqua County leaders and community partners gathered Monday outside the Chautauqua County Courthouse to recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. During the event, the Chautauqua County Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team (E-MDT) presented its 2026 Service Award to the Chautauqua County NY Connects program in recognition of its commitment to serving older adults, caregivers, and vulnerable residents throughout the county.
The NY Connects program is a shared initiative of the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services and the Department of Social Services. Through information, referral, and person-centered assistance, NY Connects helps individuals navigate long-term services and supports while connecting residents with resources that promote independence, safety, and quality of life. The NY Connects team includes Coordinator Bridgette Paoletta, Aging Services Aide Rebecca Byczynski-Bradley, and staff members Jennifer Beal, Karie Jurczak, and Brenda Rodriguez, whose collective efforts support older adults, caregivers, and vulnerable residents throughout Chautauqua County.
"Today's recognition highlights the tremendous impact that collaboration can have in protecting and supporting older adults," said Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. "The NY Connects team works every day to ensure residents and their families can access the services they need, often serving as a critical first point of contact when concerns arise. Their dedication strengthens our community and helps safeguard some of our most vulnerable citizens."
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is observed annually on June 15 to increase public understanding of the abuse, neglect, and exploitation that affect older adults. The event featured remarks from County Executive Wendel, Dana Corwin, Director of the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services; Jeannette Carlin of the Alzheimer's Association, Western New York Chapter; and Mike Lee of the Center for Elder Law & Justice and the Chautauqua County Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team.
"The work of preventing elder abuse requires strong partnerships and trusted community resources," said Mike Lee. "NY Connects exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that makes the Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team successful. Their staff consistently connect individuals and families to critical services, help identify emerging concerns, and play an important role in protecting vulnerable adults."
Dana Corwin, Director of the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services, said the recognition reflects the dedication of staff members who work behind the scenes every day to help residents navigate complex situations.
"We are honored to receive this award on behalf of the entire NY Connects team," Corwin said. "Whether someone is looking for caregiver support, transportation, housing assistance, benefits information, or help addressing a crisis situation, our goal is to ensure they know where to turn. This recognition belongs to every staff member who works tirelessly to support older adults and their families."
The Chautauqua County Enhanced Multidisciplinary Team brings together professionals from aging services, Adult Protective Services, law enforcement, legal services, healthcare, mental health, and other community organizations to address complex cases of elder abuse through coordinated intervention and support.
Officials encouraged residents to learn the warning signs of elder abuse and to report concerns when they arise. Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical abuse, emotional abuse, financial exploitation, neglect, and self-neglect.
Anyone who suspects elder abuse may contact the New York State Adult Services Helpline at 1-844-697-3505, call 9-1-1 in an emergency, or contact local Adult Protective Services for assistance.
For information about local aging services and caregiver support programs, contact Chautauqua County NY Connects at (716) 753-4582 or call 1-800-342-9871.
A video recording of the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event is available on Chautauqua County's YouTube channel.
