AHRC New York City

ACCESS Community Health Center, formerly known as AHRC Health Care Inc., is dedicated to serving the acute and chronic health care needs of all community members. ACCESS provides a wide range of health care services including Primary Care and Specialty Care. One of their specialties is health care and dental care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
To find out more about the services provided by ACCESS Community Health Center or make an appointment go to www.accessCHC.org

Access provides health care to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Service sites located in the Bronx and Manhattan.

The focus of Adult Day Services is to support people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, traumatic brain injury, and autism spectrum disorders in overcoming the challenges they face in an effort to live a self determined and meaningful life in the community.

AHRC offers adult with disabilities a variety of day services and opportunities using a person centered framework. AHRC supports people in contributing, participating, and becoming valued community members. Download the full Adult Day Services Brochure.

Adult Day Services provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in all five boroughs. Service sites located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx.

A program that provides services to adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders, and those classified with emotional disturbances, multiple disabilities, or other health impairments.more info

Prevention, Education, Information and Referral (PEIR)   
The Prevention, Education, Information and Referral Program (PEIR) aims to increase community awareness of intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and co-existing alcohol and/or other drug abuse by individuals with these disabilities. For further information, please call 212-780-2658.

Treatment
AHRC New York City was a pioneer in the field or person-centered outpatient chemical dependency treatment for individuals with intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injury.
Currently available at ACCESS Community Health Centers (formerly AHRC Health Care Inc.) a team of qualified professionals combine best practice cognitive strategies with a 12 Step Recovery program, making lasting recovery possible. Personalized and holistic treatment plans emphasize case coordination, harm reduction, relapse prevention, education and skill building in an intimate and supportive environment. The program integrates medical, mental health and rehabilitation services to meet the complex needs of individuals with disabilities. For information visit www.accessCHC.org

ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES
Provides care to adult individuals with developmental disabilities residing in all five boroughs.
Service sites located in the Bronx and Manhattan.

Evaluation and Testing

Psychological Testing makes it possible to determine the nature and extent of an individual’s developmental disability. Testing is often necessary to determine whether a person qualifies for services or for admission to a specific program.

Psychosocial Evaluations are performed in order to develop a better understanding of a person in context of his or her family and the social environment. It usually involves the professionals meeting with the individual and his or her family in order to obtain information about the individual’s development, family, medical and vocational history. This evaluation is required for determination of whether an individual qualifies for services.

Unless a borough is specified, these services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

Mental Health Services

Individual, Group & Family Counseling
Individual counseling, family therapy, group counseling and marital counseling are available to individuals with developmental disabilities (children, adolescents, and adults) their caretakers, and other family members, as are a variety of support groups.

Intensive Behavioral Services
Intensive Behavioral Services is a program for individuals who live in the Bronx in non certified settings and who present with challenging behaviors which put them at risk for placement in a more restrictive setting.  AHRC provides a team of psychologists who work with the individual and family to establish and carry out a behavior plan to resolve the challenging behaviors and enable the individual to remain in a least restrictive setting. Referrals to this program are made directly to the Bronx DDSO.

Bronx In-Home Behavior Management Team
Known as the “Crisis Team”, this program provides in home behavior management to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Bronx who live at home with their family. The team also provides access to emergency respite as well as referrals to, and/ or consultation with, various agencies, hospitals, and schools. 

Unless a borough is specified, Mental Health Services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

Other Therapies

Occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language therapy, nursing, nutrition and weight management counseling are available.

ADEPT – The Assessment Diagnosis Evaluaton Planning and Treatment Team

The ADEPT team consisting of a neuropsychologist, psychologist, social worker and physician provides comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluations to aging individuals with developmental disabilities for the purpose of clarifying reasons for functional decline.  The team provides trainings to the community, family members and providers about the aging processes of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Queens In-Home Parenting Program

The Queens in Home Parenting programs serves parents who are intellectually and developmentally disabled.  Services are provided in the home and include case management, advocacy, linkage and referral. 

Available to parents with developmental disabilities in Queens.

Family Reimbursement, the Francesca Nicosia Fund

The Nicosia Family Reimbursement Fund makes the possibility of purchasing services and goods that are not funded through any other sources a reality. The goods and services have been deemed appropriate to meet the needs of the person being served

Family Reimbursement funds are limited and competitive but upon application may be available to families of individuals with developmental disabilities residing in all five boroughs.

ISS – Individual Support Services

Individual Support Services (ISS) provide financial assistance to people with developmental disabilities in locating and leasing individualized living arrangements that are alternatives to traditional group living. Residential options include home sharing, independent living, and other leasing opportunities.

CLINICAL SERVICES
Unless a borough is specified, services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

AHRC Learning Centers are built upon the belief that children with developmental delays have the same needs as all children; and that parents and families are the most important people in the lives of their children.
website

The Bronx Early Childhood Direction Center offers information and referral services to professionals and families of Bronx children (age birth to five) who have or are suspected of having developmental delays. The Bronx Early Childhood Direction Center is a free service funded by the New York State Education Department through its Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) with sponsorship from AHRC New York City. There are sixteen such centers statewide providing information and referral to diagnostic and evaluation services, early intervention services, preschool special education, respite, therapies, family support services, and transportation to list a few.

http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/techassist/ecdc/home.html
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/techassist/ecdc/locations.htm

The Bronx Early Childhood Direction Center provides services to Bronx families with children between ages 0 – 5 who are exhibiting delayed development. Service is located in the Bronx. For more information, please call 718 584-0658 or email ecdcbronx@yahoo.com.

The Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School accepts children between 5 and 12 years of age who reside in all New York City boroughs. Children must exhibit behavioral characteristics associated with autism and must have an educational classification of autism. Students must be recommended for a Non-Public School (NPS) placement. The ultimate goal is to help children achieve the level of functioning that will allow them to transition to less restrictive environments. more info

Two summer camps – Harriman Lodge and
Camp Anne - that offer vacation opportunities to
adults and children with developmental disabilities.
Both sites are fully wheelchair accessible and
ADA compliant.
website

Prevention, Education, Information and Referral (PEIR)   
The Prevention, Education, Information and Referral Program (PEIR) aims to increase community awareness of intellectual disabilities, traumatic brain injury, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and co-existing alcohol and/or other drug abuse by individuals with these disabilities. For further information, please call 212-780-2658.

Treatment
AHRC New York City was a pioneer in the field or person-centered outpatient chemical dependency treatment for individuals with intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injury.
Currently available at ACCESS Community Health Centers (formerly AHRC Health Care Inc.) a team of qualified professionals combine best practice cognitive strategies with a 12 Step Recovery program, making lasting recovery possible. Personalized and holistic treatment plans emphasize case coordination, harm reduction, relapse prevention, education and skill building in an intimate and supportive environment. The program integrates medical, mental health and rehabilitation services to meet the complex needs of individuals with disabilities. For information visit www.accessCHC.org

Evaluation and Testing

Psychological Testing makes it possible to determine the nature and extent of an individual’s developmental disability. Testing is often necessary to determine whether a person qualifies for services or for admission to a specific program.

Psychosocial Evaluations are performed in order to develop a better understanding of a person in context of his or her family and the social environment. It usually involves the professionals meeting with the individual and his or her family in order to obtain information about the individual’s development, family, medical and vocational history. This evaluation is required for determination of whether an individual qualifies for services.

Unless a borough is specified, these services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

Mental Health Services

Individual, Group & Family Counseling
Individual counseling, family therapy, group counseling and marital counseling are available to individuals with developmental disabilities (children, adolescents, and adults) their caretakers, and other family members, as are a variety of support groups.

Intensive Behavioral Services
Intensive Behavioral Services is a program for individuals who live in the Bronx in non certified settings and who present with challenging behaviors which put them at risk for placement in a more restrictive setting.  AHRC provides a team of psychologists who work with the individual and family to establish and carry out a behavior plan to resolve the challenging behaviors and enable the individual to remain in a least restrictive setting. Referrals to this program are made directly to the Bronx DDSO.

Bronx In-Home Behavior Management Team
Known as the “Crisis Team”, this program provides in home behavior management to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Bronx who live at home with their family. The team also provides access to emergency respite as well as referrals to, and/ or consultation with, various agencies, hospitals, and schools. 

Unless a borough is specified, Mental Health Services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

Other Therapies

Occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language therapy, nursing, nutrition and weight management counseling are available.

ADEPT – The Assessment Diagnosis Evaluaton Planning and Treatment Team

The ADEPT team consisting of a neuropsychologist, psychologist, social worker and physician provides comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluations to aging individuals with developmental disabilities for the purpose of clarifying reasons for functional decline.  The team provides trainings to the community, family members and providers about the aging processes of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Queens In-Home Parenting Program

The Queens in Home Parenting programs serves parents who are intellectually and developmentally disabled.  Services are provided in the home and include case management, advocacy, linkage and referral. 

Available to parents with developmental disabilities in Queens.

Family Reimbursement, the Francesca Nicosia Fund

The Nicosia Family Reimbursement Fund makes the possibility of purchasing services and goods that are not funded through any other sources a reality. The goods and services have been deemed appropriate to meet the needs of the person being served

Family Reimbursement funds are limited and competitive but upon application may be available to families of individuals with developmental disabilities residing in all five boroughs.

ISS – Individual Support Services

Individual Support Services (ISS) provide financial assistance to people with developmental disabilities in locating and leasing individualized living arrangements that are alternatives to traditional group living. Residential options include home sharing, independent living, and other leasing opportunities.

CLINICAL SERVICES
Unless a borough is specified, services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

The Melissa Riggio Higher Education Programs at Kingsborough Community College (KCC) and The College of Staten Island (CSI) are college based programs designed to prepare people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities for adult life through higher education coursework, career exploration and preparation, self awareness and socialization. Both programs engage students in supporting individual academic, vocational, community and social experiences. These students have the same opportunities for social and personal growth as other young adults who attend college.

Individuals with intellectual disabilities over the age of 21 who reside on Staten Island may be eligible to attend the Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at the College of Staten Island. Individuals with intellectual disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in Brooklyn may be eligible to attend the Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at Kingsborough Community College.

All activities and opportunities offered in our programs are designed to develop or maintain skills in the following areas:

-Communication and language development
-Social relationships
-Health and safety skills
-Personal care
-Money management

People served in Adult Day Service Day Habilitation share the same places at the same time as their neighbors in the community. They shop at local supermarkets, patronize local restaurants, make purchases in neighborhood shops, visit museums and use local libraries, attend spectator events, buy memberships in local gyms and pools, join community advocacy organizations, join hands with neighbors in keeping the neighborhood safe, clean and accessible to everyone.

Individualized service follows a person centered plan as developed with the individual as the primary participant, the family and a team of professionals.  Activities and services emphasize those outcomes a person has chosen. Service begins from the person’s home and continues through the day. The individuality of each experience is supported by a staff member who is dedicated to the path which leads to the attainment of each outcome.

Day Habilitation Without Walls provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in all five boroughs.

Service sites located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx.

The ESCAPE project is a collaborative effort between AHRC and the Center for Opportunities and Outcomes for People with Disabilities at Teachers College, Columbia University. The project focuses on the evaluation and dissemination of a systematic educational curriculum, the Effective Strategy Based Curriculum for Abuse Prevention and Empowerment (ESCAPE) to empower individuals with developmental disabilities to recognize abuse and remove themselves from an abusive situation.

Domestic Violence Prevention (Escape) provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in all five boroughs. Service sites located in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and the Bronx

The Bronx Early Childhood Direction Center offers information and referral services to professionals and families of Bronx children (age birth to five) who have or are suspected of having developmental delays. The Bronx Early Childhood Direction Center is a free service funded by the New York State Education Department through its Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) with sponsorship from AHRC New York City. There are sixteen such centers statewide providing information and referral to diagnostic and evaluation services, early intervention services, preschool special education, respite, therapies, family support services, and transportation to list a few.

http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/techassist/ecdc/home.html
http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/techassist/ecdc/locations.htm

The Bronx Early Childhood Direction Center provides services to Bronx families with children between ages 0 – 5 who are exhibiting delayed development. Service is located in the Bronx. For more information, please call 718 584-0658 or email ecdcbronx@yahoo.com.

Early Intervention Programs are publicly funded and regulated by the New York State Department of Health and by the New York City Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services. Services are provided at no out-of-pocket cost to parents, although health insurance will be accessed for reimbursement. more info

Early Intervention Programs are publicly funded and regulated by the New York State Department of Health and by the New York City Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism Services. Services are provided at no out-of-pocket cost to parents, although health insurance will be accessed for reimbursement. more info

AHRC offers educational advocacy services to individuals of school age with developmental disabilities who are experiencing difficulty accessing services or have problems with the services being provided. The Educational Advocate will provide assistance with reviewing evaluations, securing additional evaluations, developing strategies to utilize when accessing needed services, explaining rights and negotiating systems.  The Advocacy Office conducts trainings for parents and professionals.  Where necessary, the Advocate will also attend CPSE & CSE meetings and Impartial Hearings with city and state agencies.  Although the primary focus of the Advocate is education, assistance with accessing other needed services available through city, state, and federal agencies is also provided.  Download Education Advocacy Brochure

This service can be provided to any school-age individual (3-21) with a developmental disability residing in any of the five boroughs. The office of the Educational Advocate is located in Manhattan

All children between three and five years of age who are showing signs of delayed development are eligible to be evaluated. Evaluations are conducted to help parents determine the type and extent of delays and are used in planning appropriate educational interventions. Evaluations are conducted at convenient locations throughout New York City. more info

AHRC’s Education Department believes that children and adolescents grow and thrive in a nurturing, loving, and developmentally appropriate learning environment. High quality developmentally appropriate instruction provides the foundation for independence, autonomy, and a sense of individual worth. Parents are viewed as the primary educators of their children and partners in the educational endeavor. Children are encouraged to respect and cooperate with others. Programs foster a sense of community and develop each child’s ability to contribute as a responsible community member. AHRC is committed to serve ALL students by embracing maximum integration of children with special needs and typically developing peers, and respecting cultural diversity.
website

Supported Employment

Supported employment offers individuals who are developmentally disabled and some disadvantaged youth ages 16-24 without disabilities the opportunity to enter the workforce.  Individuals are provided multiple avenues to prepare for and become successful in the workforce.  These include: paid and unpaid internship programs; occupational training programs in specialized fields; school to work programs and daily job readiness programs to help enhance social skills and prepare individuals with developmental disabilities for supported work, as well as competitive employment.

Employment services are available to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 and older, and some specified services are available to individuals without disabilities who meet income guidelines from all five boroughs.

School to Work Programs:
In collaboration with the New York City Department of Education, AHRC helps individuals in special education classes to smoothly transition from school into AHRC employment programs.  An AHRC staff member helps student’s qualify for State funding with VESID or OPWDD so they can enter into AHRC employment services immediately after graduation.  Students have the choice of entering any AHRC training or internship programs or being directly placed in an employment opportunity.

Daily Job Readiness
AHRC specializes in preparing individuals for employment by ensuring that the necessary clinical and support linkages are established and maintained. Job preparation programs utilize a person centered approach to create a weekly schedule of activities, trainings and volunteer opportunities that best meet the needs of the individual. Program participants are provided with trainings to enhance their ability to obtain, and maintain, employment.

Direct Placement Programs
These programs are for individuals who are interested in direct employment opportunities not in an internship program or a training program. AHRC will foster their natural abilities, and utilize their past and current skills to create employment opportunities. Some individuals may choose to attend AHRC’s weekly job club that helps to prepare them for the workforce and builds on currents skills. Individuals with a developmental disability will be provided with a job coach once they secure a position. 

E-SEMP – Enhanced Supported Employment
Enhanced supported employment services are designed to allow individuals to work toward work goals. Unlike regular supported employment, enhanced supported employment is designed to allow flexibility in development of the individual employment outcomes and affords individuals with significant barriers the opportunity to work in the community. Time and duration of staff support is flexible. The goal of the program is to assist in identifying and securing customized work opportunities for each person that match his or her skill set, interests, dreams and desires.

E-SEMP provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in all five boroughs.

Job Connection Center for Dually Diagnosed Individuals
A small innovative program with highly trained and experienced staff, specializing in preparing individuals emotionally, socially, and vocationally for the demands of employment. The program ensures that necessary clinical and support linkages are established and maintained.  Individuals are provided with training to enhance their ability to obtain employment. This is a flexible program where participants can come as often they like.

The Job Connection Center offers services to dually diagnosed individuals over the age of 18  from all boroughs. The service is located in Brooklyn.

Internships

AHRC runs several training programs.  These programs help youth with a development disability ages 16 to 24 and some youth without a disability, to find the career direction they want to pursue.  Internships provide valuable entry-level work experience in a planned, supervised setting within a desired field. Additionally, individuals gain valuable career related experience, expand their professional knowledge, develop contacts and networking skills. In addition, they may develop self-confidence and start to recognize their abilities.

Internships are available to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 18 and some youth without disabilities in locations throughout the city.

Young Adult Internship Program (YAIP)
The YAIP program consists of in-house training seminars to prepare individuals ages 16-24, those with disabilities and those without, for employment and an internship to build skills and enhance their resumes. While participating in the program individuals will earn an hourly wage. After the completion of the program AHRC will continue to work with individuals to help secure regular employment or educational opportunities

Job Training Programs

AHRC offers training programs in specific fields. The training programs begin with work readiness and focus on resume building, time management and team work followed by an externship which will provide hands-on experience in a chosen field.  At the end of the program AHRC will assist individuals in finding a job.

Careers in Foodservice Training Program
This training program will prepare individuals (ages 18-21 with a developmental disability and those without a disability who meet income guidelines) for a career in food service through classroom training and hands-on experience in a professional food service environment.

Careers in Hotel Housekeeping Training Program
AHRC offers a program for individuals with developmental disabilities in the hotel housekeeping industry.  Individuals work towards improving their math, reading and writing abilities, while being taught the profession of hotel housekeeping by experienced professionals and gaining hands on experience at major New York City Hotels. Upon graduation students receive certificates of completion signed by the New York State Tourism and Hospitality Association. 

Careers in Janitorial Service Training Program
This training program prepares individuals (ages 18-21 with a developmental disability and those without a disability who meet income guidelines) for a career in janitorial service through classroom training and hands-on experience in a professional janitorial environment.

Employment services are available to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 and older, and some specified services are available to individuals who meet income guidelines from all five boroughs. Services are provided in all five boroughs as specified.

Your On-Call Workforce!

AHRC offers people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to work and take their place in the community. Individuals work in the following businesses:

AHRC NYC 'ShredAbility' Services
AHRC NYC's 'ShredAbility' provides professional and customized shredding services with full service and pick up schedules from any location. With a secure location and excellent customer service, Shredability takes the hassle out of shredding. www.ShredAbility.org

Hudson River Services provides general office and building services including office cleaning, snow removal, landscaping, trash removal and comprehensive floor care. Hudson River can provide one-time or ongoing cleaning work to commercial establishments throughout the five boroughs. Hudson River Services employs people with or without disabilities. Free estimates are furnished.

Hudson River Messengers
Hudson River Messengers is a messenger service makes messengers from AHRC available to major New York City agencies.

Packaging & Assembly Services
AHRC provides an array of skilled labor and production services to companies throughout the metropolitan area. These production services include: packaging (picking and sorting, carding, bagging, labeling and wrapping), mailing and fulfillment (collating, addressing, gift packaging, shipping and printing), assembly (fabrication, repairs, inspection), and finishing (preparation, hand and mechanical finishing). Free price quotes are available.

AHRC NYC Cartridge King
AHRC Cartridge King remanufactures toner cartridges for resale. These toner cartridges are university tested and approved for use in all major printer types (Hewlett Packard, Brother, Canon, Lexmark, among many others). NY Cartridge King cartridges are sold both internally through AHRC facilities and to commercial customers in New York City, such as Barnes & Noble. Each cartridge is 100% guaranteed and AHRC’s not-for-profit status enables them to be sold at the most competitive prices available. Free price quotes are available.

Employment services are available to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 and older, and some specified services are available to individuals who meet income guidelines from all five boroughs.

Enhanced supported employment services are designed to allow individuals to work toward work goals. Unlike regular supported employment, enhanced supported employment is designed to allow flexibility in development of the individual employment outcomes and affords individuals with significant barriers the opportunity to work in the community. Time and duration of staff support is flexible. The goal of the program is to assist in identifying and securing customized work opportunities for each person that match his or her skill set, interests, dreams and desires.

E-SEMP provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in all five boroughs.

Psychological Testing makes it possible to determine the nature and extent of an individual’s developmental disability. Testing is often necessary to determine whether a person qualifies for services or for admission to a specific program.

Psychosocial Evaluations are performed in order to develop a better understanding of a person in context of his or her family and the social environment. It usually involves the professionals meeting with the individual and his or her family in order to obtain information about the individual’s development, family, medical and vocational history. This evaluation is required for determination of whether an individual qualifies for services.

Unless a borough is specified, these services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

AHRC offers educational advocacy services to individuals of school age with developmental disabilities who are experiencing difficulty accessing services or have problems with the services being provided. The Educational Advocate will provide assistance with reviewing evaluations, securing additional evaluations, developing strategies to utilize when accessing needed services, explaining rights and negotiating systems.  The Advocacy Office conducts trainings for parents and professionals.  Where necessary, the Advocate will also attend CPSE & CSE meetings and Impartial Hearings with city and state agencies.  Although the primary focus of the Advocate is education, assistance with accessing other needed services available through city, state, and federal agencies is also provided.  Download Education Advocacy Brochure

This service can be provided to any school-age individual (3-21) with a developmental disability residing in any of the five boroughs. The office of the Educational Advocate is located in Manhattan

AHRC provides twice a month family education sessions on a variety of topics of great interest to families of individuals with developmental disabilities. Topics range from information on how to obtain Waiver services to stress management for caretakers. See the News and Events page of this website for a listing of upcoming sessions.  

Family Education sessions are available to families of individuals with developmental disabilities residing in all five boroughs. Sessions are offered in Manhattan and less frequently, in Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Staten Island.

The Nicosia Family Reimbursement Fund makes the possibility of purchasing services and goods that are not funded through any other sources a reality. The goods and services have been deemed appropriate to meet the needs of the person being served

Family Reimbursement funds are limited and competitive but upon application may be available to families of individuals with developmental disabilities residing in all five boroughs.

Assistance with obtaining Guardianship for a family member with a developmental disability who is 18 years and older is available to individuals from all five boroughs, as is assistance with future care planning. Assistance with legal issues that may arise related to a family member with a developmental disability is also available on a limited basis.

Please see the attached AHRC Guardianship Brochure. Download Guardianship Brochure

Guardianship & Legal Services may be provided to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 years and older and their families from all five boroughs.

The Nicosia Family Reimbursement Fund makes the possibility of purchasing services and goods that are not funded through any other sources a reality. The goods and services have been deemed appropriate to meet the needs of the person being served

Family Reimbursement funds are limited and competitive but upon application may be available to families of individuals with developmental disabilities residing in all five boroughs.

The Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School accepts children between 5 and 12 years of age who reside in all New York City boroughs. Children must exhibit behavioral characteristics associated with autism and must have an educational classification of autism. Students must be recommended for a Non-Public School (NPS) placement. The ultimate goal is to help children achieve the level of functioning that will allow them to transition to less restrictive environments. more info

The Melissa Riggio Higher Education Programs at Kingsborough Community College (KCC) and The College of Staten Island (CSI) are college based programs designed to prepare people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities for adult life through higher education coursework, career exploration and preparation, self awareness and socialization. Both programs engage students in supporting individual academic, vocational, community and social experiences. These students have the same opportunities for social and personal growth as other young adults who attend college.

Individuals with intellectual disabilities over the age of 21 who reside on Staten Island may be eligible to attend the Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at the College of Staten Island. Individuals with intellectual disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in Brooklyn may be eligible to attend the Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at Kingsborough Community College.

AHRC Home Care Services Inc., an affiliate of AHRC New York City, can offer eligible persons with and without disabilities, home health care services which include: home health or personal care aides, nursing, physical, occupational and speech therapies, respiratory therapy and social work services.   

Home Health Care is available to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages and to individuals without disabilitie from all five boroughs. Services are provided in the home.

AHRC Learning Centers are built upon the belief that children with developmental delays have the same needs as all children; and that parents and families are the most important people in the lives of their children. more info

AHRC is devoted to expanding the array of individualized supports available to AHRC individuals and their families. Person Centered Planning, the cornerstone of this approach, is utilized by staff to create desirable lifestyle changes, experiences and new possibilities for the people served by AHRC throughout the organization.

Individualized service design and delivery ensures that services and supports are customized and designed around the interest and needs of the person who will be supported.

Individualized supports are created around the person rather then the program. They are defined as an array of supports, services and resources that are based on the distinctive interests and needs of the person, afford the person as much control over their supports as possible, and are adaptable as the person’s life changes. 

Advancing a culture of person-centered service and individualized support at AHRC New York City is different from replicating a service model or implementing a new program.  The possibilities for support are as different from one another as the circumstances of the individuals involved, the changing opportunities in a person’ communities, and the changing policies of the service system.  AHRC is commited to this practice. For example:

AHRC's Department of Individualized Supports is responsible for both creating new programs based on a vision, and working with others to change existing programs and forge the development of a community of person-centered practice.

Using person centered design AHRC focusing on small groups who want something different.

Some of the innovative  projects that have received funding thus far are: HomeBuilders-NYC (individualized and self directed housing), Building Futures (Middle/High School curriculum and practice for transition based on person centered design and implementation), college programs at The Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at the College of Staten Island and Kingsborough Community College (for students graduating high school with an IEP who want to go to college) and an after-school program and weekend cultural exploration, for students from Brooklyn with ASD.

Individualized Services and supports are available to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages. Services are provided in all five boroughs in any variety of settings and locations.

For more information on these opportunities, fill out an online referral form or call our Referral and Information Center.

AHRC Referral and Information Center
83 Maiden Lane
New York, NY 10038
212-780-4491, 4493
online referral

For families of individuals with developmental disabilities, individuals and professionals referring individuals -- individuals with developmental disabilities who have not been involved in AHRC services before or those currently receiving AHRC services who are interested in additional services -- AHRC’s Referral and Information Center will make referrals to AHRC programs, services, and supports. If needed services are not available at AHRC, the unit will refer individuals to services provided outside the organization.

For more information, contact:

AHRC Referral and Information Center
83 Maiden Lane
New York, NY 10038
212-780-4491, 4493
online referral

With the assistance of a Service Coordinator, families determine the actual services they need to help them at home. For instance, an individual with a developmental disability may be assisted in becoming more independent with daily living skills such as dressing or preparing meals. The frequency of service provision is dependent upon the need and the availability of in-home opportunities. Families may be eligible to receive from 4-8 hours a week to 20 hours a week, depending on availability.

In-Home Residential or Community Habilitation is available to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages. Services are provided in the home.

AHRC runs several training programs.  These programs help youth with a development disability ages 16 to 24 and some youth without a disability, to find the career direction they want to pursue.  Internships provide valuable entry-level work experience in a planned, supervised setting within a desired field. Additionally, individuals gain valuable career related experience, expand their professional knowledge, develop contacts and networking skills. In addition, they may develop self-confidence and start to recognize their abilities.

Internships are available to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 18 and some youth without disabilities in locations throughout the city.

AHRC offers training programs in specific fields. The training programs begin with work readiness and focus on resume building, time management and team work followed by an externship which will provide hands-on experience in a chosen field.  At the end of the program AHRC will assist individuals in finding a job.

Careers in Foodservice Training Program
This training program will prepare individuals (ages 18-21 with a developmental disability and those without a disability who meet income guidelines) for a career in food service through classroom training and hands-on experience in a professional food service environment.

Careers in Hotel Housekeeping Training Program
AHRC offers a program for individuals with developmental disabilities in the hotel housekeeping industry.  Individuals work towards improving their math, reading and writing abilities, while being taught the profession of hotel housekeeping by experienced professionals and gaining hands on experience at major New York City Hotels. Upon graduation students receive certificates of completion signed by the New York State Tourism and Hospitality Association. 

Careers in Janitorial Service Training Program
This training program prepares individuals (ages 18-21 with a developmental disability and those without a disability who meet income guidelines) for a career in janitorial service through classroom training and hands-on experience in a professional janitorial environment.

Employment services are available to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 and older, and some specified services are available to individuals who meet income guidelines from all five boroughs. Services are provided in all five boroughs as specified.

Assistance with obtaining Guardianship for a family member with a developmental disability who is 18 years and older is available to individuals from all five boroughs, as is assistance with future care planning. Assistance with legal issues that may arise related to a family member with a developmental disability is also available on a limited basis.

Please see the attached AHRC Guardianship Brochure. Download Guardianship Brochure

Guardianship & Legal Services may be provided to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 years and older and their families from all five boroughs.

An MSC or Medicaid Service Coordinator helps link individuals and their families with the services and supports they want and need. In addition they provide advocacy, resources and information to help solve problems and improve quality of life. If you are looking for assistance in transferring your Medicaid Service Coordination provider, please contact us at 212-780-4491 or 93 or email referrals@ahrcnyc.org. Eligible families may choose an AHRC service coordinator who will assist them in navigating the system, write and maintain a written plan describing all services that are needed and in place, and advocate for an individual.

Medicaid Service Coordination is offered to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages residing in all five boroughs.

Non-Medicaid Case Management Services are also available for OPWDD eligible individuals who reside in Brooklyn and do not have Medicaid.

Working with his or her MSC, under the Home and Community Bases Services Medicaid Waiver AHRC can provide the following services to eligible individuals:

Day Habilitation
Vocational Services
Supported Employment
Residential Habilitation
Environmental Modification
Adaptive Technology

Medicaid Waiver Services are offered to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages residing in all five boroughs.

ACCESS Community Health Center, formerly known as AHRC Health Care Inc., is dedicated to serving the acute and chronic health care needs of all community members. ACCESS provides a wide range of health care services including Primary Care and Specialty Care. One of their specialties is health care and dental care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
To find out more about the services provided by ACCESS Community Health Center or make an appointment go to www.accessCHC.org

Access provides health care to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Service sites located in the Bronx and Manhattan.

The Melissa Riggio Higher Education Programs at Kingsborough Community College (KCC) and The College of Staten Island (CSI) are college based programs designed to prepare people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities for adult life through higher education coursework, career exploration and preparation, self awareness and socialization. Both programs engage students in supporting individual academic, vocational, community and social experiences. These students have the same opportunities for social and personal growth as other young adults who attend college.

Individuals with intellectual disabilities over the age of 21 who reside on Staten Island may be eligible to attend the Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at the College of Staten Island. Individuals with intellectual disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in Brooklyn may be eligible to attend the Melissa Riggio Higher Education Program at Kingsborough Community College.

Individual, Group & Family Counseling
Individual counseling, family therapy, group counseling and marital counseling are available to individuals with developmental disabilities (children, adolescents, and adults) their caretakers, and other family members, as are a variety of support groups.

Intensive Behavioral Services
Intensive Behavioral Services is a program for individuals who live in the Bronx in non certified settings and who present with challenging behaviors which put them at risk for placement in a more restrictive setting.  AHRC provides a team of psychologists who work with the individual and family to establish and carry out a behavior plan to resolve the challenging behaviors and enable the individual to remain in a least restrictive setting. Referrals to this program are made directly to the Bronx DDSO.

Bronx In-Home Behavior Management Team
Known as the “Crisis Team”, this program provides in home behavior management to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Bronx who live at home with their family. The team also provides access to emergency respite as well as referrals to, and/ or consultation with, various agencies, hospitals, and schools. 

Unless a borough is specified, Mental Health Services can be provided to individuals of all ages residing in all five boroughs. Clinics located in Manhattan and the Bronx. Specified services provided in the Bronx or Queens as noted.

The Queens in Home Parenting programs serves parents who are intellectually and developmentally disabled.  Services are provided in the home and include case management, advocacy, linkage and referral. 

Available to parents with developmental disabilities in Queens.

Recreational Activitiesare available to individuals in all age groups and requiring different levels of support.  These activities take place in the five boroughs of New York City on an ongoing basis and include age-appropriate recreation groups for children, participation in theater, photography, arts and crafts, and sports, as well as planned vacations to resorts and tourist attractions for adults.

Available to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages in all five boroughs at service sites throughout the city.

AHRC currently provides a variety of residential options in group homes, supervised apartments, and independent settings for 369 individuals in 53 group homes, as well as 89 supported apartments. Although there is currently a long waiting list for residential placement, referrals are still being readily accepted and new options are in development. AHRC operates IRA’s, Supervised Apartments, Independent Settings, and two residential settings for Individuals who are Medically Fragile and in need of 24/7 nursing care. Download the full Residential Services Brochure

Available to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 18 (with the exception of one home for adolescents with autism) from all five boroughs at service sites throughout the city.

With the assistance of a Service Coordinator, families determine the actual services they need to help them at home. For instance, an individual with a developmental disability may be assisted in becoming more independent with daily living skills such as dressing or preparing meals. The frequency of service provision is dependent upon the need and the availability of in-home opportunities. Families may be eligible to receive from 4-8 hours a week to 20 hours a week, depending on availability.

In-Home Residential Habilitation is available to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages. Services are provided in the home.

AHRC provides out-of-home and in-home respite opportunities, ranging from a period of a few hours to a few weeks, to individuals with developmental disabilities who reside at home with their families.

School Holiday Respite is offered during the weeks that twelve month school programs are closed, for a total of 5 weeks (2 weeks in August, 1 in December, 1 in February and 1 in April). The respite is for children with special needs, between the ages of 5 and 21 years of age. Children are picked up at their homes in the morning and brought back in the afternoon.

Weekend Hotel Respite offers recreational weekends at hotels, staffed by AHRC personnel.

Free Standing Respite is available at AHRC staffed houses and apartments, for up to 14 consecutive days.

Download Full Brochure

Respite opportunities are available to individuals with developmental disabilities of all ages from all five boroughs at sites throughout the city. Free Standing Respite is available only in the borough in which an individual resides.

AHRC offers individual, group and family counseling for child, adolescent, and adult siblings of persons with developmental disabilities. In addition, Sibshops (recreational groups for children ages 5-13) and an Adult Sibling Support Group are offered. Counseling and support groups provide the opportunity for typical siblings to meet other siblings from families with developmentally disabled members. Download the Siblings Brochure

Services are available to siblings from all five boroughs at the AHRC Main Headquarters located at 83 Maiden Lane, Manhattan.

All children between three and five years of age who are showing signs of delayed development are eligible to be evaluated. Evaluations are conducted to help parents determine the type and extent of delays and are used in planning appropriate educational interventions. Evaluations are conducted at convenient locations throughout New York City. more info

The Brooklyn Blue Feather Elementary School accepts children between 5 and 12 years of age who reside in all New York City boroughs. Children must exhibit behavioral characteristics associated with autism and must have an educational classification of autism. Students must be recommended for a Non-Public School (NPS) placement. The ultimate goal is to help children achieve the level of functioning that will allow them to transition to less restrictive environments. more info

Supported employment offers individuals who are developmentally disabled and some disadvantaged youth ages 16-24 without disabilities the opportunity to enter the workforce.  Individuals are provided multiple avenues to prepare for and become successful in the workforce.  These include: paid and unpaid internship programs; occupational training programs in specialized fields; school to work programs and daily job readiness programs to help enhance social skills and prepare individuals with developmental disabilities for supported work, as well as competitive employment.

Employment services are available to individuals with developmental disabilities 18 and older, and some specified services are available to individuals without disabilities who meet income guidelines from all five boroughs.

School to Work Programs:
In collaboration with the New York City Department of Education, AHRC helps individuals in special education classes to smoothly transition from school into AHRC employment programs.  An AHRC staff member helps student’s qualify for State funding with VESID or OPWDD so they can enter into AHRC employment services immediately after graduation.  Students have the choice of entering any AHRC training or internship programs or being directly placed in an employment opportunity.

Daily Job Readiness
AHRC specializes in preparing individuals for employment by ensuring that the necessary clinical and support linkages are established and maintained. Job preparation programs utilize a person centered approach to create a weekly schedule of activities, trainings and volunteer opportunities that best meet the needs of the individual. Program participants are provided with trainings to enhance their ability to obtain, and maintain, employment.

Direct Placement Programs
These programs are for individuals who are interested in direct employment opportunities not in an internship program or a training program. AHRC will foster their natural abilities, and utilize their past and current skills to create employment opportunities. Some individuals may choose to attend AHRC’s weekly job club that helps to prepare them for the workforce and builds on currents skills. Individuals with a developmental disability will be provided with a job coach once they secure a position. 

E-SEMP – Enhanced Supported Employment
Enhanced supported employment services are designed to allow individuals to work toward work goals. Unlike regular supported employment, enhanced supported employment is designed to allow flexibility in development of the individual employment outcomes and affords individuals with significant barriers the opportunity to work in the community. Time and duration of staff support is flexible. The goal of the program is to assist in identifying and securing customized work opportunities for each person that match his or her skill set, interests, dreams and desires.

E-SEMP provides services to individuals with developmental disabilities over the age of 21 who reside in all five boroughs.

Job Connection Center for Dually Diagnosed Individuals
A small innovative program with highly trained and experienced staff, specializing in preparing individuals emotionally, socially, and vocationally for the demands of employment. The program ensures that necessary clinical and support linkages are established and maintained.  Individuals are provided with training to enhance their ability to obtain employment. This is a flexible program where participants can come as often they like.

The Job Connection Center offers services to dually diagnosed individuals over the age of 18  from all boroughs. The service is located in Brooklyn.