From Helen Kaplan Center to Farmingdale: Ruth Henderson Is Following Her Interests
It was important to Ruth Henderson, who resides at the Helen Kaplan Center in Plainview, to meet new people and become more involved in the community. She worked with her team and ultimately chose to attend the AHRC Nassau Farmingdale Day Service site, located on Farmingdale’s bustling Main Street.
Ruth started attending Day Services in October, having previously attended at the intermediate care facility where she lives.
Ruth wanted to be in the community more. Helen Kaplan Center and AHRC Nassau Day Service teams worked together to identify locations that would provide morning and afternoons full of time for exploring and spending time with friends and staff.
“We looked at a couple of programs,” said Austin Reinstein, a Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP) at Helen Kaplan Center. “When she saw Farmingdale 1, she said she knew that’s where she wanted to go, and we did everything we could to expedite the progress because she was so excited.”
Ruth attends independently with a ride from Helen Kaplan Center staff.
During her first couple of days, Ruth traveled with Austin, who stayed with her until she felt fully comfortable.
To make a good impression, Ruth brought customized bracelets on her first day and handed one to each person at the Farmingdale site. She shared that it took time to make all those bracelets, which are a central component of her business.
In addition to making new connections, what Ruth likes most about day services is time spent in the community, visiting and volunteering at the library, animal shelter, and other local spots.
“I like it here,” Ruth said. “I help people here.” There are many great events and daytrips for Ruth and her fellow attendees to enjoy together. Soon they plan to visit the Nassau County Fire Museum and the Bricks & Minifigs LEGO store. Karaoke, crafts, and bingo are also on their calendar.
Since joining Farmingdale, Ruth has made many friends, while also becoming close with the staff.
“We’re so happy to have you here,” Carrie Ramacca, Site Manager, told Ruth. “She brings the fun, friendship, and she’s one to volunteer to do any kind of chore. She just fit in from day one here.”