ACLD Opens Unique Autism-Focused Adult Day Program

Adults and Children with Learning and Developmental Disabilities (ACLD) held a ribbon cutting ceremony today for its newest Adult Day Program, B.L.U.E. (Balanced Living Unlimited Exploration), an autism-focused day program for 30 adults on the autism spectrum. This new facility/program is located at 775 Long Island Avenue in Deer Park, NY.

The opening ceremony was led by ACLD Executive Director, Robert Ciatto, New York State Senator Phil Boyle and remarks made by Richard Breuninger, ACLD’s Board of Trustees 1st Vice President. Over forty people were on hand to celebrate the opening of the new program and took part in small group tours of the B.L.U.E. facility.

“We at ACLD pride ourselves on being innovative in meeting the current needs of the community,” Executive Director of ACLD, Robert Ciatto said. “This new B.L.U.E. program offers approaches and programs for adults on the autism spectrum while building on their strengths. From learning skills in the culinary room which potentially translates to future employment, to strengthening translatable skills in the media room, B.L.U.E. offers a unique, personalized experience for the people we support.”

ACLD partnered with Deer Park Holdings to create a state-of-the-art, ground up construction to meet the needs of people with autism spectrum. The newly constructed 5,000 sq. ft. building includes a zen room with sensory exploration, a health and fitness center, multimedia technology room, culinary arts club, art studio and community volunteering and participation opportunities to build social capital. The Long Island Elite, a business mentoring and networking group which raises funds for non-profits, granted ACLD a $100,000 donation for the program.

From concept to completion the Zen Room, a sensory interactive room, has evolved from a partnership between the Durablis paneling company and the ACLD staff. The sensory wall and immersive room were created based on the program’s needs. It’s the only experience of its kind and is meant to showcase the creative work of the ACLD staff by providing new technology experiences. The goal is to reduce the anxiety of the user experience by virtual participation by both staff and users. For more information about the B.L.U.E. program or ACLD, please visit: www.acld.org

About Adults and Children with Learning and Developmental Disabilities, Inc. (ACLD):

Founded in 1957, ACLD is a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit agency whose mission is to provide opportunities to more than 1,300 children and adults with autism, learning and developmental disabilities to pursue enviable lives, promote independence and foster supportive relationships within the community. ACLD employs more than 1,200 people and operates 100 different program sites including community residences and apartment programs across Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Services include early childhood services, day habilitation, residential alternatives, vocational training and job placement, respite, family support services, and occupational, speech and physical therapies. For more information visit: www.acld.org

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