YAI’s Post

"I joined YAI earlier this year after hearing about it from a friend. I love coming here and supporting the people – it's so much fun taking them out. They really motivate me. Even the staff I work with are amazing. Every staff member has a genuine connection with the residents, and you can truly see the compassion in their interactions. I've also learned so much personally from the residents. Things like budgeting! When I talk to them, they share their budgeting experiences and ask me questions. It's taught me so much about how to take care of my own finances. I'm grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives and learn from them in return." - Johnny Rosario, DSP 1 at YAI's Flatbush program Thank you, Johnny, for your dedication and passion. Your work truly makes a difference in the lives of our residents. #DSPRW #DSPRecognitionWeek #Support

Lanasha Devers is from YAI's California programs! Lanasha is a dedicated DSP who is making a positive difference in the lives of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD). Her passion for supporting others is evident in her work, as she shares, "I felt more drawn to the field because I can help people reach their goals and make small changes in their lives. I have a teenage son who is around the same age as the two boys who I support at this home so it’s nice to have that connection." We're incredibly grateful for Lanasha's dedication and commitment. #DSPRW #DSPRecognitionWeek #Community #Support

Spotlight on Jamira Roundtree, a DSP 1 in our NJ program! During DSP Recognition Week, we're celebrating the incredible work of our team members like Jamira. Jamira shares, "I love being around the people I support and seeing them happy and engaged. Whenever they are having a challenging day, I put on music and dance with them. They take well to the energy and pick up on that good energy very quickly. They are some of the smartest people I have ever met in my entire life." Jamira's passion for her work is evident in her words. She's a shining example of how DSPs make a positive impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities! #DSPRW #DSPRecognitionWeek #YAI #Inclusion #Community #Support

Meet Laurie Silver-Lewis, a dedicated DSP who has been an integral part of the YAI family for an incredible 40 years! Her unwavering commitment to her work is inspiring, as she shares, "Working with the people I support...gives me a purpose in my life and provides me with new challenges every day." Laurie's passion for her role is evident in her ability to connect, teach, and empower those in her care. Let's celebrate Laurie and all the DSPs who have made a lasting impact on the lives of others. #DSPRW #DSPRecognitionWeek #IDD #Support

DSP Recognition Week is here! We're kicking off the series by highlighting the incredible Gio Anderson. Gio's journey to becoming a DSP was deeply inspired by his experience caring for his older brother with I/DD. His dedication and compassion shine through in his work, as he strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all. As Gio says, "Seeing their smiles and having your heart warm up after you've made someone feel loved, appreciated, and wanted is enough for me." Let's celebrate Gio and all the amazing DSPs who make a positive impact every day. #DSPRW #DSPRecognitionWeek #IDD #Support

“The guys who live in the house and my coworkers are my first friends in this country and now they are my family,” says Mariia Naberezhna, a dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP) at one of YAI's New York programs. After a harrowing journey, Mariia arrived in the U.S. with just two suitcases and a heart full of hope. Today, she's making a profound impact on the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community. Read our latest More Than story to learn more about Mariia’s journey and the vital role of DSPs - https://lnkd.in/dFdxzm6D. #DSP #YAICareers #RefugeeStories #Community #Inclusion

Happy International Dog Day! 🐾 Throwback to when Heather and her housemates brought joy and healing into their lives with foster dog Nena. #InternationalDogDay #seeingbeyonddisability #cerebralpalsy

Understanding consent is crucial for everyone, especially for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD). In this clip from her training with the New York City Police Department's Special Victims Unit, Consuelo Senior, Assistant Director of YAI Knowledge, shares valuable insights on the importance of consent and how it can be complex for those with I/DD. As Connie says, "We say people with I/DD need two yeses - yes, I want to and yes, I know what I'm saying yes too." This highlights the need for clear communication and understanding. Let's work together to promote awareness and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals with disabilities. Learn more about YAI Knowledge at www.yai.org/knowledge. #Consent #IDD #DisabilityAdvocacy #NYPD #Awareness #Safety

Our team is breaking down stereotypes and showcasing the incredible lives of people with autism, Down syndrome, and other disabilities. Join us for the "Kashan Shuffle" and experience the heart and soul of being a direct support professional. #KashanShuffle #Autism #DownSyndrome #CelebratingAllAbilities Nathaniel Logan Open Future Learning National Down Syndrome Society AHRC New York City The Arc of the United States Global Down Syndrome Foundation Disability:IN

YAI’s travel training team led a session called "Effective Curriculum for Tomorrow's Travelers" at the Association of Travel Instruction (ATI) conference in Charlotte! They explored how to prepare individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) for successful travel, both virtually and in-person. From navigating crowded streets to problem-solving and coping mechanisms, this workshop provided a comprehensive review of three pre-travel training curriculums designed to empower safe and confident travel on public transit, specifically focusing on New York City.   Want to learn more?   Head over to yai.org/travel-training to explore YAI's innovative training programs!   #ATICharlotte #TravelTraining #Inclusion