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Eileen grew increasingly concerned about her son’s future.
At 22, Robert, who has severe autism, engaged in self-injurious behaviors, had little or no communication, and lacked direction.
When she visited YAI’s Manhattan Day Services program, however, she felt a new sense of hope.
“I felt immediate relief,” she said. “I could see that these are people who really care.”
See NY1 News video coverage of this story.
Eileen’s first visit to YAI’s Manhattan Day Services Program was 10 years ago. Today, as a program participant, Robert gives back to the community by volunteering at food pantries and at a homeless shelter. His self-injurious behaviors have decreased and he is able to communicate his needs to staff.
Teaching Functional Skills
One of the first steps in Robert’s transformation was providing him with functional communication training, according to Karen Abbe, Coordinator of YAI’s Manhattan Day Services program. By using sign or pictures, Robert learned to express his needs.
A behavioral intervention plan provided positive reinforcements for good behavior. Soda, going for walks, and taking breaks provided Robert with a strong incentive. Within a year, staff began seeing a major change in Robert’s behaviors. Soon thereafter, he no longer required a staff member to work with him one-on-one.
“Robert does a great job,” said Aicha Johnson, Direct Service Professional II, who has worked with him for three years.
A New Sense of Pride
Robert unpacks canned goods from boxes and stacks them on shelves at the Salvation Army on 14th Street and at Sacred Heart Food Pantry on 51st Street. He also folds linens for a homeless shelter at Madison Church.
“Sometimes he will come to me with the empty box looking for more work,” Aicha said.
“We just knew he had so much potential,” Karen said. “Just because he had serious behaviors was no reason that we wouldn’t serve him. Our staff were dedicated to bring out that potential.”
Robert’s newfound pride and joy are contagious.
“We love when he smiles and is in a happy mood,” Aicha said.
“YAI turned Robert’s life around,” Eileen said. “They took such an interest in him; they never gave up. Today, he’s a totally different
person I’ll always be eternally grateful to YAI. He never would have had any life if it was not for the staff at Manhattan Day.”