Realizing Human Potential
A UNIQUE COMMITMENT TO INDIVIDUALS OF ALL ABILITIES
FREE is among the largest and longest-established not-for-profit providers of innovative services for children and adults with developmental disabilities and/or mental illness or traumatic brain injury on Long Island. We recognize that every person has a unique set of needs, interests and goals. Our hallmark strength is our ability to create highly personalized services for each individual, drawing from one of the regions most diverse array of services and supports.
Our interdisciplinary team ensures that those we serve can access all of the residential, day, medical, therapeutic, vocational and other services that best meet their goals and preferences. As individuals’ age and progress, we are able to provide a unique continuity of care to meet their evolving needs.
REACHING OUT TO THE UNDERSERVED
FREE proudly reaches out to people who are underserved in our region, such as individuals with dual diagnosis of mental retardation and mental illness, those with autism spectrum disorders, those with chemical abuse or extreme behavioural issues, the medically frail and the homeless. Today we serve over 3,000 people with disabilities.
We embrace individuals whose needs and challenges are such that they simply could not be served to their satisfaction elsewhere, and enable them, over time, to gain a level of independence that they and their families never dared hope they would achieve.
MAXIMIZING GROWTH AND INDEPENDENCE
Providing community living and integration for people with disabilities has been a core mission of FREE since our founding in 1977. We offer individuals of all abilities a world of opportunities to build skills, pursue interests and contribute to the community with their gifts and talents.
Our diverse range of services includes:
- Group homes and community living alternatives
- Residential, treatment and vocational programs for individuals with mental health issues
- Day habilitation, recreational and prevocational programs
- Community and family support services to facilitate access to needed programs
- Therapeutic riding and other day habilitation services at Saddle Rock Ranch in Middle Island
- Medical services through the Family Wellness Center in Hauppauge
- Supported employment programs