Youth Programs
Trying to figure out what’s next? HKNC’s summer programs for young adults ages 16-24 can give you new insights into college and career options.
Overview
We offer two youth programs at our headquarters in Sands Point, New York. Choose the one that’s right for you and get ready for an incredible summer. You have a lot of big decisions ahead. Take control of your future at HKNC.
Summer Youth Vocational Program (SYVP) 2026
Empowering Youth Through STEAM, Surfing, and Self-Discovery
Dates: July 6 to July 31, 2026
Application Deadline: May 22, 2026
Location: Helen Keller National Center, New York
Ready to discover what you’re capable of? HKNC’s SYVP will host up to 8 participants (ages 16 – 24) to explore careers through hands-on work experience at multiple job sites. You’ll dive into STEAM projects, experience activities like adaptive surfing, and develop self-advocacy skills, all while discovering your strengths. SYVP is about exploration and possibility, giving you the confidence and skills to shape your own future. Please check with your Regional Representative regarding an optional two-week extension.
At SYVP you will:
- STEAM Activities: Engage in hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math projects
- Adaptive Surfing: Combine physical activity with social-emotional learning, self-determination, and career awareness
- Motivational Speakers: Hear inspiring stories from leaders and changemakers
- Self-Empowerment & Advocacy Workshops: Build confidence, communication, and self-advocacy skills
- Work Experience: Participate in real-world job tasks and workplace readiness training
- Camp-Ability with Lauren Lieberman: learn to set goals by exploring the outdoors through inclusive adventure and nature-based learning
Come to NY and join your peers ages 16-24 from around the country to learn skills that lead to employment success, and to experience what NY can offer you. Enjoy a boat ride, treasure hunt, talent show, swimming, crafts, Dave & Buster’s, mall shopping, bowling, BBQ’s and NYC! It will be 4 memorable weeks over your summer!
Contact your Regional Representative to find out how you can apply.
Summer Assessment
This summer, empower yourself with knowledge, skills and tools to determine your own future.
Come join us at HKNC this summer! Are you 16 years of age or older? Currently attending high school? Would you like to participate in career exploration or in identifying your next steps to college? Interested in meeting and socializing with others who are DeafBlind? Interested in working and learning together with peers? Interested in actual hands-on time with the latest advances in technology for gaining access to information and connecting to others?
The Summer Assessment Program will provide you with opportunities to gain knowledge and experience in the following areas:
- Career and Job Exploration
- Worksite Tours
- Workplace Readiness Skills
- College and Accommodations
- Adaptive Technology and Communication
- Self-advocacy – Facilitating IEP
- Orientation & Mobility
- Low Vision and Audiology
- Peer Learning Groups
You can choose to join group classes such as Emergency Preparedness, ASL, physical fitness, and 3D printing. HKNC offers you a friendly, fun, and unique learning environment. Come learn what Vocational Rehabilitation is all about and what options exist for achieving your definition of success!
Come join your peers ages 16-24 from around the country to identify goals and develop an action plan for your last years of High School. Prepare for college, a trade school or work. Experience NY with your peers during a fun-filled, action-packed program. Enjoy a boat ride, talent show, crafts, swimming, Dave & Buster’s, mall shopping, bowling, BBQ’s and NYC!
Assessments are offered for four, six & eight weeks in May, June, July and August, 2026
Contact your Regional Representative to find out how you can apply:
Admissions
Programs are open to individuals who are DeafBlind as defined in the Helen Keller Act. Government funding often is available. Applications for summer programs must be received by the last Friday in June. Your regional representative can answer questions about admission requirements, transportation, funding sources and more.