Mary Cariola Center

Founded by Mary Pulvino Cariola, an advocate who began fighting for the rights of vulnerable populations in the 1940s, the organization has grown into a comprehensive provider of personalized, interdisciplinary education and life skill solutions. The center operates school-based educational programs as well as residential services for individuals with severe disabilities. For nurses, Mary Cariola Center offers opportunities within its Residential program, where Registered Nurses work across group home settings (such as the Rush-Scottsville Road and East River Road homes). RN responsibilities include examining residents' health status, monitoring communicable diseases, administering medications, coordinating medical services with external healthcare providers, attending medical appointments and hospital discharges, overseeing AMAPs and DSP II Medical Liaisons, reviewing incident reports, and participating in case reviews. Nurses also adhere to a rotating on-call schedule. The role is unique compared to traditional hospital nursing, requiring close collaboration with direct support professionals, teachers, and habilitation specialists in a long-term care environment for individuals with complex medical and developmental needs.

Mission: To be the regional leader in personalized, interdisciplinary, evidence-based education and life skill solutions that inspire and empower individuals and families of those with complex disabilities. Vision: To set the standard in innovations that unlock lifelong potential for people with complex disabilities. Core Values: Trust, Integrity, Respect, Quality-Focused. The organization also maintains a stated commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) integrated into all aspects of its work.