Dear Friends,

In 1956, six courageous parents joined together to establish AABR. At that time, people with special needs were hidden away in institutions and defined more by their disabilities than abilities. The founders of AABR wanted more for their children—schools, services, a life of opportunities and choices. We are proud to say that their vision, resolve and spirit continue in our agency today. 

AABR is committed to charting new courses in services for the developmentally disabled.  In 1966, we founded one of the first schools in New York City for blind and severely intellectually disabled children. In 1974, we pioneered the first long-term residence in St. Albans, Queens. Since then, we have grown to become an agency with over thirty programs, ranging from residential facilities to thrift stores run for and by individuals with disabilities to the New York Child Learning Institute, a school for children with autism.

Our dedicated staff encourages the people we serve to explore their strengths, talents and abilities, enabling them to achieve their highest potential and to develop social interactions with their peers. Each and every day, we do all that we can to fulfill our mission: “May each life find meaning.”

As we look forward to tomorrow, we continue to build on the principles our founders worked so earnestly to create. AABR promotes independence, inclusion and individuality for people with disabilities. On behalf of our Board of Directors, we applaud those we serve and all who make our work possible.

With great appreciation,

Audrey J. Sachs
Board President

Agency Profile

Historical Overview:

1956-

Parent founded, non-profit, city-wide organization to serve severely disabled and blind children.

1966-

Pioneered New York City's first day school for blind and severely disabled children.

1973-

Pioneered the first community long-term residence in Queens.

1978-

Expanded residential facilities from one to five homes throughout New York City.

1978-

Established the first Day Treatment Center in Queens.

1981-1990-

Expanded residential facilities to include five additional homes. 

1986-

Opened the second Day Treatment Center.

1991-

Family Services Program initiated.

1992-1998-

Expanded residential facilities to include three more additional homes.

1993-

Year-round recreation home opened on Long Island's North Fork.

1994-

New York Child Learning Institute (NYCLI), a school for children with autism, opened.

1996-

Adult Day Treatment Center moves to its permanent home in St. Albans, Queens.

1997-     

Treasure Box, a thrift store run for and by the disabled, opens in Jamaica, Queens.

1999-

Treasure Box II opens in College Point, Queens.

2000-

The opening of Wellington Hall, then a Day Treatment and Rehabilitation Center.

2003-

AABR opens its 19th residence.

2006-

AABR celebrates its 50th Anniversary (1956-2006)