MAX DONATELLI

MAB Member

Max Donatelli is a proud parent who, along with his wife Joyce Donatelli, has two beautiful children, Connie and Craig. Craig is 34, has Down syndrome, and lives semi-independently and works in competitive employment. The family are recognized advocates for people with developmental disabilities, those with mental health challenges, and for inclusion and equity locally and statewide. Max retired from Baker Victory Services (now OLV Human Services) in 2016 after 42 years in roles including direct care worker, therapist, director, and department head, helping high risk youth in foster care and families. He has a BA degree in psychology and sociology, and MS degree in counselor education both from Canisius College. Max is past executive director of the Parent Network of WNY. Currently, he is chair of the Erie County Community Services Board for Mental Hygiene. He is also an active member of the Health Leadership Fellows Action Network (co-chair DEIJ Committee), of the Developmental Disabilities Alliance of WNY Family Committee (Founding Member), of Leadership Buffalo, and other advocacy initiatives, as well as vice chair of the Community Veterans Engagement Board (Max is a Vietnam Veteran). Max regularly writes articles in the media and speaks publicly on advocacy topics. Recent advocacy awards include: NY Alliance for Inclusion and Innovation, Community Advocacy Award, and NFJC Lana Benatovich Lifetime Achievement Award.