Archived News

We’re excited to announce that our annual walk has been rescheduled for Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the Suffolk Credit Union Arena on Suffolk County Community College’s Brentwood campus! This state-of-the-art facility will be a fantastic venue.

The new date gives us all more time to support our teams and make this a record-breaking event. Just days before Thanksgiving, we'll come together to walk with a purpose and turn gratitude into action. We can't wait to see you there!

Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), a leading Long Island care provider for children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities, celebrated the extraordinary dedication and achievements of 190 employees at its annual Service Awards Ceremony, held on October 21, 2025.

Town of Smithtown officials got the VIP Tour at Smithtown's Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) earlier this month. Supervisor Ed Wehrheim and Councilman Tom Lohmann toured Smithtown’s Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) residence and facility on Wednesday, October 15th, alongside Kim M. Kubasek, Chief Executive Officer of DDI and Michelle Sciara, Director of the Children's Day Program.

This year’s Annual Walk is seeing incredible support from families, friends, and the community, but one team stands out for their extraordinary dedication. Team Schwegler Hero’s has raised nearly $17,000, making them DDI’s top fundraising team for 2025.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Michael Romas talks with DDI job development coordinator Wendy Elsen about what supported employment really looks like for autistic adults—vocational profiles, task analysis, job tryouts, employer partnerships, and the critical role of job coaches. Hear real success stories, strategies for reducing anxiety, and why hiring neurodiverse talent makes strong business sense. For families, educators, employers, and self-advocates.

DDI Self-Direction program artist showcases her work at local library.

On November 15, just six days after celebrating his 60th birthday, Kevin Long—dedicated parent and former #DDI Board member—is taking on the Richmond Marathon! He’s running in honor of his son, Timmy, and raising funds for an outdoor classroom for preschoolers in our Ronkonkoma Early Childhood Services program.

Hosted by Developmental Disabilities Institute's Training Coordinator, Dr. Michael Romas, clinical psychologist and former radio host of "DDI on Autism," this monthly series will feature in-depth conversations with experts and thought leaders in developmental disabilities.

Due to inclement weather, we regretfully must cancel tomorrow’s Walk in the Park to ensure the safety and well-being of our attendees and staff.

“Unseen: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters” takes an honest look at the challenges and barriers faced by the parents and caregivers of children and adults living with developmental disabilities and complex medical needs.