NYS Justice Center honors The Arc Lexington staff with Code of Conduct Award

State agency charged with protecting 1 million New Yorkers spotlights Schoharie care worker

The New York State Justice Center is pleased to announce that Mina Porter, Direct Support Professional (DSP) at The Arc Lexington, has been selected as a recipient of the Justice Center's Code of Conduct Award for the 2025 program.

For more than five years, Mina Porter has served as a DSP with unmatched integrity, compassion, and leadership. Working overnight in an Individualized Residential Alternative (IRA) supporting individuals with complex medical and physical needs, Mina is the heartbeat of the home. Her responsibilities extend far beyond the night shift.

"The Justice Center's mission is to create an inclusive, safe environment for New Yorkers with disabilities. Throughout the last decade we've learned that mission would be impossible without the commitment and compassion of a dedicated workforce," said Justice Center Acting Executive Director Maria Lisi-Murray. "To see someone like Mina, who not only upholds the Code of Conduct, but finds ways to turn even the smallest activity into something meaningful and memorable-that is how we build trust and respect in the service sector. We are so honored to present Mina with this year's Code of Conduct Award!"

Those honored with a Code of Conduct Award truly embody the Justice Center's founding principles and standards outlined in the Code of Conduct for Custodians of People with Special Needs. The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to ensure people enrolled in programs under Justice Center jurisdiction receive support in a manner that prioritizes their dignity, safety, and rights.

According to her nomination, Mina is a trusted guide in medical care, a steady presence in times of transition, and a tireless advocate for the people she supports. Her impact ripples through the lives of individuals, families, and colleagues alike. She leads with empathy, acts with precision, and uplifts those around her without ever asking for recognition. Yet, her work speaks volumes, changing lives in ways that embody every provision of the Code of Conduct.

"We are so proud of Mina Porter for receiving this meaningful recognition from the Justice Center. As an awake-night staff member in our programs in Schoharie, Mina has built deep, trusting relationships with the people she supports. She knows their routines, their comforts, their worries, and the unique ways they communicate. Because of those connections, she is able to support them during their most vulnerable hours. When a significant transition occurred for several people we support, Mina ensured the change was smooth and personal for each individual, preparing new staff to honor their unique preferences. Mina shows us what true person-centered support looks like. We are grateful for the heart she brings to her work and the meaningful bonds she shares with people at The Arc Lexington," said Shaloni Winston, CEO of The Arc Lexington.

Awards are compiled by the NYS Justice Center each year. Winners are selected by the Justice Center's Advisory Council - a group that provides guidance to the Justice Center in the development of policies, programs, and regulations. The council consists of service providers, people who have or are currently receiving services, their family members, and advocates.

The Justice Center received more than 200 nominations for this year's program. Six winners were selected from a dozen finalists. Each submission highlighted the dedicated members of our State's human services workforce.

For more information on this year's awards, please click here.

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About the Justice Center

The Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs (Justice Center) was established in 2013 by the Protection of People with Special Needs Act. The agency was created to restore public trust in the institutions and individuals charged with caring for vulnerable populations by protecting the health, safety, and dignity of all people with special needs. Through investigation, education, and action, the Justice Center creates a safer environment for more than 1,000,000 individuals receiving services across six State Agencies.