Helen Keller Services for the Blind Expands Day Habilitation Program to Serve More Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Helen Keller Services for the Blind is expanding its Adult Day Habilitation Program to serve adults with developmental disabilities regardless of vision status, offering person-centered programming that fosters independence and community integration.
HEMPSTEAD, NY (April 28, 2025) — Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB) announces a significant expansion of its Adult Day Habilitation Program, which will now welcome adults with developmental disabilities regardless of vision status. This strategic program expansion, which takes effect immediately, removes the previous requirement that participants have vision loss, opening doors to a broader community of individuals who can benefit from HKSB’s person-centered approach to skill development and community integration.
“For over four decades, we’ve developed expertise in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities who also experience vision loss,” says Jeff Kunkel, Chief of Programs at Helen Keller Services for the Blind. “This expansion allows us to leverage our specialized knowledge, exceptional staff-to-participant ratio, and comprehensive programming to serve more individuals who can benefit from our unique approach.”
The program, which operates both a site-based location in Hempstead and a Program Without Walls in Islandia, maintains small classroom sizes. This enables truly person-centered planning tailored to each individual’s interests, abilities, and goals. Participants engage in skill development activities, creative expression, community integration initiatives, and pre-vocational training—all designed to foster independence and meaningful community participation.
“What makes our program stand out is our holistic approach to supporting the whole person,” Kunkel explains. “We’ve created environments where individuals with developmental disabilities can build independence, explore their interests, and connect with their communities in meaningful ways.”
Recent program initiatives include community service partnerships, adaptive cooking classes, creative arts programming, and community integration activities. The Program Without Walls in Islandia has established a successful partnership with Panera Bread, with participants collecting, packaging, and delivering bread to local food banks three days a week.
HKSB’s Adult Day Habilitation Program continues to serve individuals with vision loss and developmental disabilities while now welcoming adults with developmental disabilities who do not have vision impairments. This expansion reflects Helen Keller Services’ ongoing commitment to creating pathways to independence for diverse communities.
Families, caregivers, and referral partners interested in learning more about the expanded program can contact Sharon McVetty at smcvetty@helenkeller.org or visit www.helenkeller.org/hksb/adults-with-disabilities-day-programs/.
About Helen Keller Services for the Blind
Serving the New York metropolitan area and Long Island, HKSB provides comprehensive services to individuals who are blind or have vision loss. From early intervention and preschool programs to technology education, youth services, vocational training, and specialized services for older adults, HKSB creates opportunities for independence at every life stage. Learn more at www.helenkeller.org/hksb.
