Tips for projects serving people with disabilities

Here's how you can make a difference for individuals with disabilities on a New York Cares project:

• Don't underestimate abilities and talents – allow participants to do the activity at their own pace, and be ready to help as needed without taking over.
   
• Remember that individuals with physical disabilities don't necessarily have developmental disabilities – never make assumptions about what an individual can or cannot do.
   
• Break a task down into small, manageable steps – and present the material in different ways (verbally, physically, give a demonstration).
   
• When working with people who are visually impaired, remember to say hello when you arrive and goodbye when you leave, say your name when you speak, and explain what you are doing.
   
• Be patient, understanding, and positive!
   

To learn more about projects serving children and adults with special needs, contact Felicity Loome at 212-402-1150 or Felicity_Loome@nycares.org.