The Hoyt Foundation September Newsletter

From the Office of the President

September used to be back to school month when we were kids.  In September of 1975 Rick went to public school at the Fort Meadow School in Westfield, MA.

This was a truly amazing event because of the work and dedication of our mother.  Judy Hoyt was a pioneer in making sure that her son, Rick, and every other child with a disability was given the opportunity to go to school along side their non-disabled peers.  As you can see in the picture Rick had a strong and connected peer group that learned as much by going to school with him as they did from their teacher. 

Judy Hoyt helped write and get a law passed that allowed students with disabilities to be included in public school.  Chapter 766 is a Massachusetts law that guarantees a "free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment" to all school-aged children (ages 3 to 21) regardless of disability. Chapter 766 served as the model for the first federal special education legislation. The Massachusetts Special Education Law can now be found at M.G.L. c. 71 (b). The law is designed to ensure that all children with special needs have access to appropriate, high-quality educational experiences and treatment options.

I hope everyone has a successful and enjoyable return to school. For every child with a disability who is included as well every child without a disability who is learning more because they are in an inclusive setting, I say – Thanks Mom!

Falmouth Road Race

Sunday August 20 - Falmouth MA

The 51st running of the Falmouth Road race took place and Team Hoyt had a charity team in the event for the first time in history!   We were well represented by Bobby Blasche (ran the Boston Marathon for us in 2022), Charlotte Pearce, Anthony DiPerri (his first race ever!), Amanda Hoyt (her first race too!) and Troy Hoyt. Troy and Amanda ran the race on their one-year wedding anniversary. 

Team Hoyt also had a cheer station at mile 2. The runners streamed by a life size cut out of Dick and Rick and many blew kisses and reached out to touch them as they went by.

The Falmouth Road Race organizers were amazingly supportive of our family.  They honored Rick with a moment of silence before the race, a video at the finish and had a photo of Dad and Rick as their badges for the Expo that lead up to the historic race. 

We thank the Falmouth Road Race, Inc. which is committed to supporting and promoting local organizations with specific focus on youth athletics and programming that promotes health and wellness.

These efforts are realized by consistent community involvement and ongoing philanthropic endeavors including donations, scholarships, grants, and sponsorships. Its annual, internationally recognized 7-mile road race features an iconic seaside course enjoyed by elite and recreational runners since 1973.

The Becca Pizzi 5K

Sunday August 27, Belmont MA

Team Hoyt was well represented at the Becca Pizzi 5K.  Cam, Ryan, Troy and Amanda Hoyt All ran. 

Troy Hoyt finished 24 overall and won the male 19 to 29 age group. 

Team Hoyt Ambassador Shawn Hoyt and our good friend Rick Macpherson from the Metrowest YMCA ran and all showed their love and support for Becca Pizzi!

Team Hoyt Ambassador Highlight

Team Hoyt Ambassador Danielle Kizelnik represented the Hoyt Family, Team Hoyt and The Hoyt Foundation as she ran the Be Happy Road race on August 27th.

Grant Opportunity to Advance Inclusion

The Arc of Massachusetts’ Pathways to Friendship, in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS), announces the availability of demonstration mini grants. Check it out here! Deadline to apply is September 20, 2023.

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