Casey Karry tells her story about her family and RISE Life Services (Aid to the Developmentally Disabled).
My older brother was born with severe developmental disabilities and spent roughly half of his childhood in Queens Children’s Psychiatric Center.
At the age of 18 he was transferred to Creedmoor Psychiatric Center where he was often subjected to unspeakable abuse. I desperately wanted to take him back home but at 6’2″ and close to 200 pounds that was not a realistic solution
In 1980, with the help of Senator Frank Padavan, my parents were able to establish Aid to the Developmentally Disabled (ADD) . Unfortunately my father died before the first house was opened in March of 1984 in Riverhead, Long Island. My brother was the first resident at the age of 26 and lives there to this day – 36 years later. I cannot say enough about the love and support my brother has received in this environment. I am convinced that without this organization he would have died a miserable death many years ago.
After the initial success of the first location, ADD rapidly grew into a multi-service organization, with 30 locations providing residential programs, supported apartments, clinical supports and case management services, serving the mentally retarded, mentally ill and dual diagnosed adults on Long Island’s East End.
ADD rebranded to RISE Life Services, the new name more accurately describing how they raise the quality of life for those they serve.
To learn more about RISE Life Services, our organization, residential housing, job opportunities and our programs, browse our website at www.riselifeservices.org or call 631-727-6220 ext. 203 with any questions.
