About Us
Empowering Individuals With Disabilities
At Community Mainstreaming (CMA), we believe people are defined by what they can do — not by what they can’t. We’re a Long Island non-profit organization that envisions a world where every person is treated with respect and dignity. We encourage people of all abilities to live meaningful and fulfilling lives through growth as good citizens, neighbors, and friends.
We provide personalized services to help maximize people’s independence in their homes and communities. We offer customized vocational training and supports to assist people in pursuit of employment, and create opportunities to enjoy recreational and social activities.
SUCCESS THROUGH CONNECTING
From a Single Residence to a Leading Advocate
Since our inception, we’ve grown from a single residence in King’s Point into an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities — offering a range of services and helping shape public policy.
Mission Statement
Community Mainstreaming Associates, Inc. (CMA) is committed to helping those with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead fulfilling purposeful lives by providing flexible and innovative services that meet their changing needs.
Our History
Community Mainstreaming was founded in Long Island in 1974 by a group of parents who were inspired by Geraldo Rivera’s report on the deplorable conditions at Willowbrook state institution. After six years of legal battles, they opened a home in Kings Point in 1980. Today, Community Mainstreaming provides support, connections, and structure for individuals with intellectual disabilities to lead ordinary lives, and has contributed to shaping New York State’s Site Selection Law.
Building Brighter Futures
Community Mainstreaming has been meeting the needs of individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, and other Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) for over four decades. We provide professional assistance and solutions to help individuals with IDD live more independently in their home or community after completing their secondary education, enhancing their quality of life. Services include vocational and day programs, community habilitation, residential programs, and self-direction options.
Values Statement
At CMA, we are passionately driven to make a life-long impact on our community through innovation, collaboration, inclusion, and accountablity. We embrace our values of family including love, respect and trust.
Thank You Community Mainstreaming!
“As a family, we thank each and every one of you for always being available to help and to listen and to take a genuine active part in Shawn’s life. His growth and progress has been amazing to watch 💙”
– Nikkeya Bell, mother to Shawn
