At the stroke of midnight on March 30, the lives of 10 men with intellectual and developmental disabilities changed. They may not have realized it, but they had officially joined the YAI family.

 

That's when New York State turned over one of 12 homes on the grounds of the former Long Island Developmental Center to YAI. Our Old South Path Residence in Melville had been in the works since early January. Another eight agencies on Long Island assumed ownership of the other homes on a cul-de-sac. Within 18 months, we will develop two smaller homes for the men, where they will have true access to the community.

 

"The staff is very eager to make changes," says Lisa Reinie, Senior Supervisor of the home, who recently transferred from YAI's Brentwood WAVE, part of LI Day/Employment Services. "The energy is very positive. They are just phenomenal!" 

 

Within days of the opening, the men were learning that they have choices and got out into the community—some going to the bank, while others shopped at a grocery store. Their families were encouraged to visit the home.

 

"It's extremely exciting to offer the men new opportunities that come with a YAI group home," said Dan Grant, Assistant Supervisor, who transferred from our Seaford Residence. "When you give them a choice, some of them look at you and are a bit confused. But then you see the excitement when they get to choose what they want to eat or wear."
 

Staff from throughout YAI's Long Island Services are helping with program coverage, according to Mary Brady, Vice President of Long Island Services. YAI's maintenance teams from Long Island and Queens, Central Office support departments have all contributed to home's transition from OPWDD. Pam Wolfe, Assistant Residential Director, is acting as Coordinator of the home, while Denise Dublar, Assistant Regional Coordinator, is and continues to be focused on hiring staff.
 

The men, who have autism, cerebral palsy and challenging behaviors, are growing accustomed to the YAI staff. As they begin to develop a rapport with staff, Lisa said some of the challenging behaviors are decreasing. 
 

"We're excited and can't wait to get them into smaller homes in the community," Dan added. "It will be so worth it!"

 

Many thanks to everyone involved in the transition.