Smithtown town officials got the VIP tour at Smithtown’s Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) earlier this month. Supervisor Ed Wehrheim and Councilman Tom Lohmann toured Smithtown’s Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI) residence and facility on October 15th, alongside DDI’s CEO, Kim M. Kubasek, and Michelle Sciara, director of the Children’s Day Program.
The visit included a stop at the new Sensory Gym at the Children’s Day Program — a project made possible through a successful community fundraiser. The state-of-the-art sensory space will benefit more than 100 students up to the age of 22, including 41 children who reside in DDI’s on-campus residences. Designed to promote physical, emotional, and sensory development, the gym is a testament to DDI’s ongoing commitment to innovation, therapy, and inclusion.
Kubasek, whose three-decade career in healthcare administration includes leadership roles at Staten Island University Hospital and St. Charles Hospital in Port Jefferson, guided officials through DDI’s gymnasium, sensory room, life-skills training center, and children’s residences. Wehrheim and Lohmann met several students during the visit and admired the vibrant artwork displayed throughout the halls.
During the visit, town officials and DDI leadership discussed exploring grant opportunities to further support employment initiatives for individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as ways to encourage local businesses to create inclusive job opportunities.
“The work DDI does for individuals and families in our community is extraordinary,” Wehrheim said. “Their programs not only empower residents with essential life and vocational skills but also enrich our entire town. We’re proud to collaborate with organizations like DDI that are truly making a difference.”
“It was an honor to welcome Supervisor Wehrheim and Councilman Lohmann to see firsthand the impact of our programs and the dedication of our staff,” Kubasek said. “We’re continuously evolving to provide innovative, person-centered supports that help the children and adults we serve to live fulfilling lives. Partnerships with local leaders and our community are essential to advancing that mission.”