What Education and Employment Programs Does AHRC New York City Provide?
Updated
AHRC New York City offers two connected pathways: school-based education for students ages 3 to 22 and employment services for preparing for, obtaining, and maintaining meaningful work. It also runs fully inclusive higher education programs in New York City. These programs fit people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are looking for structured learning and work support; the right entry point depends on the person's age and current goal.
Education Programs
Schools for Students Ages 3 to 22
AHRC NYC's schools are described as empowering students ages 3 to 22 to learn and prepare to live productive and independent lives. This makes the school pathway the relevant option for school-age children and young adults within that age range.
When this fits: A family is seeking a school setting for a student with intellectual or developmental disabilities who falls within the 3–22 age band and whose goal is building skills for productive, independent living.
College Programs
AHRC NYC provides a fully inclusive higher education program in New York City through its College Programs. The emphasis on "fully inclusive" signals that students participate in a college environment rather than a separate setting.
When this fits: A young adult has finished or is finishing school-age programming and wants a higher education experience in an inclusive New York City college setting.
Employment Services
AHRC NYC's employment services support people with disabilities in three stages:
- Preparing for work — building readiness for employment
- Obtaining work — support in securing a meaningful job
- Maintaining work — ongoing support to keep employment once it is secured
When this fits: The person's primary goal is competitive or meaningful employment rather than further schooling, or they are transitioning out of school-age services.
Choosing Between the Pathways
| If the person is… | The relevant program is… |
|---|---|
| Age 3–22 and needs a school setting | AHRC NYC Schools |
| Ready for an inclusive college experience in NYC | College Programs |
| Focused on getting and keeping a job | Employment Services |
The pathways can connect: school and college programs prepare students for productive and independent lives, and employment services carry that forward into the workplace.
How to Take the Next Step
AHRC NYC states that information for people with developmental disabilities, their families, and professionals wishing to make a referral is available by calling 212-780-4491 or by visiting its request services page. Use that contact to confirm which program matches the person's age and goal before applying.
Beyond direct services, AHRC NYC also lists ways to get involved — donating, volunteering, becoming a member, employing people with disabilities, or sharing its news on social media — which may be relevant for families who want to support the organization while receiving services.