Archived News

On December 2nd, we will celebrate Giving Tuesday, a Global Day of Generosity that shows how much good we can create together. This year, your gift to DDI will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $20,000, thanks to the incredible generosity of The Boileroom Group.

Together we raised over $117,000 that will go directly towards enhancing DDI’s educational, residential, vocational and therapeutic services to enrich the lives of the people we support.

During National Family Caregivers Month—and all year—we recognize and honor family caregivers.

We were proud to present this summer the award-winning documentary UNSEEN: How We’re Failing Parent Caregivers & Why It Matters, followed by a panel discussion with caregivers. You can view their experiences by watching this full discussion.

During National Family Caregivers Month—and all year—we recognize and honor family caregivers. We were proud to present this summer the award-winning documentary UNSEEN, followed by a panel discussion with caregivers. You can view their experiences by watching the full discussion, which is provided.

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.