Overview

We offer three different 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.

SYVP (Summer Youth Vocational Program)

Session I: June 3, 2024 – July 12, 2024 | Session II: July 15, 2024 – August 23, 2024

(Application deadline: May 3, 2024)

This six-week program will give you a taste of the world of work. You’ll start out shadowing an HKNC participant at a worksite and then you’ll have the chance to complete your own paid work experience. Your vocational trainer will work with you to find a worksite that matches your interests and will provide on-site support when you’re on the job.

Group of young men and women sitting and standing in front of the Statue of Liberty

Our participants have worked in a variety of industries and settings, ranging from technology, education, retail and food services, hospitality, health care and local government.

During the six-week session, you’ll receive basic training in orientation and mobility, adaptive technology, independent living and communication strategies specific to the workplace, and you’ll develop the skills you need to compete in the job market. You will also engage with other participants in the program to discuss your workday and learn from each other’s experiences.

SYVP offers a curriculum that includes Pre- Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) to prepare you for employment and give you the confidence for starting life after high school.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Get real-world experience in a paid position.
  • Explore your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Develop interviewing skills.
  • Learn how to write a resume and a cover letter.
  • Find out how to be your own advocate.
  • Try out assistive aids and devices.
  • Make new friends and visit New York City.
Man wearing black signing with group of people

M~POWER (My Pursuit of Work, Empowerment & Resources)

Applications for Summer 2024: July 22, 2024 – August 2, 2024

(Application deadline: May 10, 2024)

Making good choices requires information and introspection. Is college right for me? Can I live in a dorm? What kinds of careers would be a good fit for me? Where can I go for help? At HKNC, a team of experts including facilitators and mentors who are DeafBlind will help you to examine your strengths and challenges. You will receive the latest information about assistive technology and other available resources. Armed with new insights about yourself and the opportunities that are out there waiting for you, you’ll be ready to plan your next move.

HKNC’s M~POWER Program offers Pre- Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and introduces job exploration counseling, work-based learning experiences, counseling on post-secondary educational opportunities, workplace readiness training and self-advocacy.

During this two-week program you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Explore college options and learn from college graduates who are DeafBlind who will share their experiences and answer questions.
  • Explore vocational interests and observe participants who are DeafBlind working in the community.
  • Define your goals and create an action plan to achieve them.
  • Learn how to make the most of your Individualized Education Program (IEP) and transition planning.
  • Interact with — and learn from — people who know firsthand the challenges you face.
  • Find out how to be your own advocate and get the resources you need in school and beyond.
  • Learn about apartment living.
  • Try out the latest in assistive technology.
  • Identify college and community supports and services.
  • Make new friends and visit New York City.
Young girl smiling in art studio while kneading clay with her elbows

Summer Assessment

Assessments are offered for four, six & eight weeks in June, July and August, 2024

Use your summer vacation to get a handle on the basic skills you need to enjoy a full and independent life. Your program will be tailored to your individual goals, and everything you learn will have practical, real-world applications. HKNC’s Summer Assessment Program offers a comprehensive assessment designed to offer information and practical experience to expand each participant’s awareness, knowledge, skills and confidence.

The Summer Assessment Program offers opportunities to gain knowledge and experience in the following areas:

  • Career and job exploration
  • Worksite tours
  • Workplace readiness skills
  • Counseling on post-secondary education
  • Adaptive technology
  • Self-advocacy – Facilitate IEP
  • Orientation & mobility
  • Low vision and audiology
  • Communication

Use your summer vacation to get a handle on the basic skills you need to enjoy a full and independent life. Your program will be tailored to your individual goals, and everything you learn will have practical, real-world applications. HKNC’s Summer Assessment Program offers a comprehensive assessment designed to offer information and practical experience to expand each participant’s awareness, knowledge, skills and confidence.

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.