YAI

YAI, formerly known as the Young Adult Institute, is a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Established in 1957 by Bert MacLeech and Pearl Maze, YAI has grown to become a leading provider of services for people with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other I/DD conditions.

Operating across New York, New Jersey, and California, YAI offers a comprehensive range of programs and services designed to empower individuals to live, love, work, and learn within their communities.

With a dedicated team of over 4,000 employees, YAI supports more than 20,000 people, emphasizing inclusivity and independence.

Educational Services

YAI provides specialized educational programs through its affiliate schools, including the Manhattan Star Academy and the International Academy of Hope (iHOPE). These institutions cater to students aged 3-21, focusing on communication, technology, and independent living skills to prepare them for successful futures.

Clinical Services

Through Premier HealthCare and the Center for Specialty Therapy, YAI offers a range of clinical services encompassing medical and dental care, as well as various therapeutic interventions. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with I/DD, promoting overall health and well-being.

Crisis and Behavior Supports

YAI employs positive psychology techniques to provide crisis intervention and behavior support services. These programs assist families in managing challenging situations, ensuring that individuals receive the necessary support during critical times.

Employment Services

Committed to enhancing employability, YAI offers job skills training, resume writing assistance, interview preparation, and ongoing job coaching. These services aim to help individuals with I/DD secure and maintain competitive employment, fostering independence and self-sufficiency.

Residential Services

YAI provides various residential options, including group homes and supportive apartments, through its Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs). These living arrangements offer varying levels of staff support and supervision, catering to the diverse needs of individuals seeking independent living solutions.

Social Life, Recreation, Camping, and Travel

To promote social integration and personal growth, YAI organizes a variety of social events, recreational activities, and travel opportunities. These programs are designed to enrich the lives of individuals with I/DD, providing them with experiences that foster community engagement and personal development.

Locations

YAI operates in multiple locations across the United States, including:

• New York, NY, USA: Serving as a central hub, YAI's headquarters are located in New York City, providing a wide array of services to the community.
• Cherry Hill, NJ, USA: YAI extends its services to Cherry Hill, offering support and resources to individuals with I/DD in the New Jersey area.
• Mount Vernon, NY, USA: In Mount Vernon, YAI provides comprehensive programs and services tailored to meet the needs of the local community.

Through its extensive network and diverse range of services, YAI continues to make a significant impact, empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling and independent lives.