Our Programs
Programs
Education and Therapeutic services for early childhood and preschool years; recreational and respite programs.
Families
Fundraising
ACDS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that relies primarily on funding from government agencies, such as the Office of Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)
The continuity of service that we offer
The continuity of service that we offer is one of the unique traits of ACDS and has us in the position to help throughout the lifespan of the individuals we serve. A great percentage of our teens and adults started with ACDS in early childhood in classes staffed by teachers, assistants and therapists, many of whom are still with ACDS to this day. These dedicated individuals are committed to our mission in a way that is best appreciated by visiting our facilities and observing the patient, caring, nurturing approach with which our staff and administration conduct themselves. When we refer to the ACDS family, it is more than a cliché – we are in the exceptional position to help complete the ‘Circle of Life’ for our families.
ACDS is Proud to Partner with the following organizations to achieve our mission
Our Impact
ACDS began more than half a century ago and currently provides comprehensive services to more than 1500 children, teens and adults with Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, speech and language delays, intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and rare genetic conditions. Based in Plainview, ACDS provides a lifecycle of services with the goal of helping individuals develop to their fullest potential. The nonprofit organization enjoys a leadership position on Long Island and a growing footprint in Westchester. We are recognized as a center for excellence in serving the developmentally disabled community.
Our Goal
Our goal is to help each individual develop to their fullest potential. We bring a wealth of experience, developed over more than a half century, to the job every day. We are proud to say that our greatest reward is having families share their stories of how ACDS has made a difference in their lives.
Testimonials
Testimonials
The growth in my daughter in all disciplines -Speech, OT, PT and Social Skills – has grown exponentially. There was once a time I didn’t know if my daughter wanted a bottle. Now I’m hearing, ‘More Chicken Nuggets please.’ The collaborative effort with the ACDS staff made that happen.
It is clear, based on their well thought out curriculum, that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Every day I get a backpack full of work that was completed. And the school provides ideas and the tools to continue the work at home. In the beginning of this scary journey, we all wish we never had to meet anyone at ACDS and when we leave, we are crying how much we are going to miss them.
We absolutely love all the teachers, aides and staff members at Kids Connection Daycare. Each and every one of them is caring, patient, and sweet and treats my son as if he were their own. Words cannot express how reassuring it is to drop my child off to the very talented and loving people that are on staff at Kids Connection.
Knowing that he is in good hands gives me peace of mind that I never thought I could have as a working mother. Thank you.
With Much Gratitude.
Words cannot express the gratitude we felt from the first time we met way back at Danny’s 1st Summer Adventure. You have been patient and kind with me. You understand what I’m feeling and always talk me back to reality. This whole process is nothing shy of a miracle.
God has been steering our lives towards this for may year. This is where Danny is meant to be. Too many signs, too many prayers. As hard as this is for me as his mom, I absolutely know this is the right decision.
Ways to Give
Naming Opportunity
ACDS needs your partnership to ensure the longevity of our schools, group homes, services and programs. Take action by adopting a room in one of ACDS’s schools or adult programs to enhance our activities and protect our future. You or your business can honor a loved one and/or leave an impactful message. Please contact us at development@acds.org or 516-933-4700 for more information about naming opportunities.
Commemorative/Tribute Gifts
Celebrate a friend or family member by making an honorary or memorial donation. Commemorative gifts can be donated online, by mail or by phone. If you’d like us to send a personalized letter to the individual or family being commemorated, please include their name and contact information.
Matching Gifts
Many employers sponsor matching gift programs and will match charitable contributions or volunteer hours made by their employees. Some companies also match gifts made by retirees and/or spouses. Ask your employer if they have a matching gift program. The impact of your gift to the ACDS Foundation may be doubled or possibly tripled!
Donor Advised Fund or Family Foundation
If you have a Donor Advised Fund or Family Foundation, kindly consider making a donation in support of a specific program or service or in general support of the ACDS Foundation.
Gifts of Stock and Wire Transfers
The ACDS Foundation welcomes gifts of stock, securities, mutual fund shares, and wire transfers. Kindly contact us at development@acds.org or 516-933-4700 for transfer instructions.
Upcoming Events
St. Patrick's Day Celebration
- Save The Date - March 15, 2025