As we look back on all that we’ve accomplished together in 2025, we are reminded of our mission—to empower people to live full, meaningful lives. Join us in celebrating the last year and welcoming the possibilities that await in 2026.

AHRC Nassau was redesignated a Compass agency by New York State’s Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) and maintains Person-Centered Excellence Accreditation With Distinction from CQL | The Council on Quality and Leadership. Read more. 

OPWDD awarded AHRC Nassau and seven NYS nonprofit providers assistive technology awards to provide home-based supports. Read more. 

CEO Stanfort Perry joined Congressman Tom Suozzi and Congresswoman Laura Gillen and 700+ Long Islanders at a budget briefing addressing Medicaid’s impact on the community. Read more.

AHRC Nassau launched an innovative high school pipeline program to grow the next generation of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), thanks to an $80,000 work-based learning grant from Bellmore-Merrick School District and designated OPWDD funding. Read more.

AHRC Nassau opened the Meditation Garden at Wheatley Farms & Arts Center, this spring, thanks to the generous support of Assemblymember Charles Lavine, further connecting our community with nature and each other. Read more.

Top Blog Posts

The Gift of Life: Kidney Donation Connects AHRC Friends Krystie Damsker and Jerri Walker

Krystie Damsker, an Assistant Manager in Day Services, overcame kidney failure after a kidney donation from her longtime friend and co-worker Jerri Walker, Volunteer and Project Coordinator. What started as a heartfelt bond over the shared joy of empowering people with disabilities led to a lifesaving act of friendship. Read more.

Coleen Mackin Brings “Rockin’ Fun” to Brookville Mansion With Halloween Concert

Coleen Mackin, self-advocate and Quality Assurance Trainer, showcased her singing skills alongside local heavy metal bands ILLMONSTRO and Carve a Path during a lively concert and costume contest at the Brookville mansion ballroom. Read more.

Where Love Took Root: Opening Nanette’s Garden in Celebration of a Life That Helped Others Grow

The family, friends, and colleagues of Nanette Muzante gathered at Wheatley Farms over the summer to unveil a gorgeous garden space dedicated to her memory. During the celebration, loved ones reflected on her life, her love for nature and gardening, as well as her commitment to sharing that love with people supported. Read more.

Mental Health Awareness Month: How Nijah White Builds Resilience and Strength in a Supportive Environment

Nijah White, Residential Council President, shared her journey living with disabilities and supporting her mental health. Nijah shared how she builds resilience through advocating for herself, building strong support systems, and staying focused on her goals toward greater independence. Read more.

Facebook – Birthday Twins!

Birthdays are special around here, and so was Debra and Linda’s. The twins turned 70 this year, a milestone they have been looking forward to all year. They celebrated with their roommates and outstanding support staff. Read more | Follow us

Instagram – Rallying For More Funding

Self-advocates take every opportunity to make their voices heard and rally for sustained investments in disability services. In the spring, people in Day Services joined advocates across Long Island to call out for increased funding for essential services. Read more | Follow us

LinkedIn – Adam Levine Takes the Field

Over the summer, Adam Levine, delighted a crowd of Mets fans by taking center stage to open the ceremony with the Star-Spangled Banner. Cheering along with the fans were his roommates and AHRC Nassau community members. Read more | Follow us

It’s Not Too Late – There's Still Time to Give an End-of-the-Year Gift and Become an AHRC Foundation Angel

Every day, more than 4,000 children and adults with IDD across Long Island take part in programs that support learning, connection, and personal growth. When you become an AHRC Foundation Angel, you help make these opportunities possible.

Stay Connected in 2026 and Save These Dates!

Big Tree Greenhouse & Gifts Hours

Deck your home with holiday plants and décor! Shop today.

Every purchase supports vocational training and employment for people with developmental disabilities.

Hours:
Tuesday - Friday 10am - 2pm
Or by appointment - call (516) 423-5329

Wheatley Farms Catering

Wheatley Farms Catering offers delicious weekly specials! Local to Long Island? Give us a try!

Catering options also available. The Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers high-quality, personalized services for all your catering needs. Situated on a beautiful and pristine 20-acre estate in Brookville, NY, the Mansion at Wheatley Farms offers a timeless setting with modern dishes for any celebration, big or small!

At Wheatley Farms, we are dedicated to inclusivity. We take pride in providing employment opportunities for people of all abilities. We empower people to gain valuable skills in the culinary arts, fostering independence and self-confidence.

Stay Connected in 2026 and Save These Dates!

January 10 - In-Person Advocacy Workshop
“Let’s Talk: The Nuts and Bolts of Advocacy and Government”

Want to learn how to become a stronger advocate for children and adults with developmental disabilities? Join us for a practical session on Saturday, January 10, 10 a.m.- Noon, at the Brookville mansion, that will help you navigate government processes, take action, and connect with others to strengthen bipartisan support for disability services. Seating is limited. RSVP by Jan. 5. 

Saturday, January 10, 2026 | Brookville Mansion, Brookville, NY

January 19 – Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service

Every year, we partner with the Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission, the City of Glen Cove, and the Glen Cove City School District to collect food for the community and share messages of hope and inclusion. Stay tuned for more information.

Interested in volunteering? Contact Jerri Walker, Volunteer Coordinator, at jwalker@ahrc.org.

OUR BEST WISHES TO YOU AND YOURS FOR A VERY HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON AND NEW YEAR