Looking back on 2024, we have so much to celebrate! Across our residences in Nassau and Suffolk Counties, people embraced opportunities to enrich their lives—whether by finding fulfilling work, volunteering in their communities, enjoying memorable vacations and outings, or simply making great memories.

A very special thanks to our generous Camp Loyaltown community who were successful in raising $70,000 in celebration of Camp Loyaltown's 50th anniversary. These funds will drill a new well for Camp ensuring our water source remains reliable in Hunter, NY.

As we welcome the new year, we encourage you to look back on some of our favorite moments from this past year. We’re proud of all we’ve accomplished together and eager to embrace all the opportunities that 2025 will bring.

2024 Highlights

Top Blog Posts: 

A Day in the Life of Camp Loyaltown Campers

Over the summer, Camp Loyaltown campers made incredible memories alongside their counselors. With activity stations fully staffed and open all day, campers could choose how they would spend their day.

Jerry Powers, Director of Residential Services, Celebrated for 26 Years of Service

This past summer, Director of Residential Services Gerald “Jerry” Powers celebrated 26 years of service ahead of his retirement.

Samuel Morales Experiences the Joy of Volunteering

Samuel Morales of the Red Spring Lane residence felt empowered to provide translation for Spanish-speaking families, while volunteering with his housemates at the Trinity Lutheran Church Food Pantry in Glen Cove. Through this volunteer work, Samuel has benefitted immensely by expressing pride in his Honduran heritage and becoming more outgoing.  

Reflecting on a Brother-Sister Bond During Autism Acceptance and Awareness Month

Hallie Klein, Citizens Options Unlimited’s Board President, reflects on the strong bond with her older brother David Greene.

Top Facebook Post:

Recognizing DJ Jumpin’ Johnny G for His Talent and Advocacy

John Ginther, who is supported by Self-Direction Services, is a self-taught DJ who spins pop music from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and today. In addition to providing music for parties as DJ Jumpin’ Johnny G, John is a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, starting and moderating a Facebook group for Long Islanders who are LGBTQIA+ and have intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Top Instagram Post: 

Helen Kaplan Center and Shoreham ICF Welcome Friendly Farm Animals

Men and women who reside at Helen Kaplan Center and Shoreham ICF received some unique visitors this past summer and fall. Long Island Pony Parties & Petting Zoo brought farm animals, including a free-roaming donkey named Daffy, to the parking lot of Helen Kaplan Center on May 28 and to Shoreham’s Sensory Garden on Nov. 3.

Many of the men and women enjoyed close encounters with the animals as the petting zoo staff carried or walked the critters to each person, who decided whether they wanted to closely look or give pets and treats.

Top LinkedIn Post:

Peter Hadfield Applauded for His Work as Maintenance Assistant at the Plainview Office

Peter Hadfield has become an integral member of the team at the Plainview office as a maintenance assistant. During his summers at Camp Loyaltown, Peter volunteers to help in the dining hall, ensuring all campers and counselors get their meals and have everything they need to stay healthy and nourished.

We Remember Paul Cullen

We reflect on the passing of Paul Cullen, who served as the Director of Family Support Services for 40 years and as the Director of Camp Loyaltown for 35 years, retiring in 2015.  As we marked Camp Loyaltown’s 50th anniversary, we honor Paul’s lasting impact on our families and camp community.

Looking Ahead to 2025

We wouldn’t be where we are today if it weren’t for the relentless advocacy of self-advocates, families, and staff. In 2025, there will be many opportunities to make a difference in the lives of people with I/DD.