POUGHKEEPSIE, NY — On November 2, Matthew Bateman, CEO of In Flight, and board president Ralph LaCasio, 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. 

Events such as the annual Cornhole for a Cause bring the whole community together, the company said, 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 said. “I don’t think there is anything more special than that.”  

He highlighted the cooperative and industrious contributions of his fellow team members.

For over two decades, the Business Excellence Awards have recognized those who demonstrate vision, innovation and achievement in supporting the local economy in Dutchess County, according to a statement.

Certificates of Merit were presented to In Flight by Assemblyman Jonathan Jacobson, Dutchess County Legislature member Don Sagliano, Dutchess County Comptroller Robin Lois, Town of Red Hook Supervisor Robert McKeon and state Sen. Rob Rolison.

“Thank you for your positive impact on economic development and your work on improving the quality of life in Dutchess County,” wrote U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand in a letter to In Flight. “Your commitment and wide range of care and opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities is greatly appreciated.”

In Flight 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. The merger aims to enhance the quality, creativity and scope of existing and new support services within the region while gaining access to a broader pool of talented staff and invaluable resources. 

Community Based Services will be the surviving entity of the merger and Vicki Sylvester, CEO of Community Based Services, will continue to lead the organization. Bateman will become the chief administrator in the new organization. 

The process of obtaining the necessary state approvals for the merger is underway, aiming at a completion date of January 1, 2024. 

To learn more about the benefits of the merger, visit www.inflightinc.org.