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Community Habilitation Services

Empower your loved one with personalized community habilitation services. Together, we foster independence, build essential life skills, and help them thrive in their community with compassionate one-on-one support.

Life is full of learning opportunities

Every moment in daily life is an oppertunity to learn and grow. With the guidance of a dedicated Direct Support Professional (DSP), your loved one will develop essential skills such as grocery shopping, cooking, personal care, and managing money—all while gaining confidence and independence.

As family roles shift over time, it’s reassuring to know your loved one is prepared for a brighter, more self-sufficient future. Through our community habilitation services, we’ll design a customized plan that maximizes community resources and ensure every hour of habilitation is meaningful, purposeful, and transformative.

Community habilitation services eligibility requirements

Participants must meet these criteria to apply for this service via Hamaspik of Kings County.

  • Live in NYC or Nassau County
  • Be eligible for  OPWDD support
  • Age 3+ (NYC)

       Age 8+ (Nassau County)

True understanding

Practical skills

Through com hab services, your loved one will develop real-world skills like grocery shopping, self-care, and budgeting.

Led by listening

Individualized care

Each service is customized to fit your child’s unique needs, ensuring every com hab hour is meaningful.

Embracing everyone

Brighter future

Com hab services empower people to navigate daily challenges, gearing them towards a fulfilling life within their community.

How our community habilitation services work:

  • You can choose someone your child already knows and loves—like a trusted family member or friend—to provide community habilitation services. This familiar approach can bring comfort and ease to everyone involved.
  • Prefer a provider match? Our expert recruitment team will work tirelessly to find the perfect fit for your family. Using innovative tools, creative outreach, and personal connections, we ensure your child is paired with someone who meets their needs.
  • You can even receive funding for supplies and incentives to help your child achieve their goals. The more progress made, the more resources available to support their success.

Interested in Community
Habilitation services?

If you are already OPWDD-approved, reach out and find out which of our respite care services are available in your location. If you don't yet have an OPWDD approval, let us know — our efficient intake team will help you get started.

Note: You can begin to benefit right away, while you wait for approval! Once you start the intake process, Hamaspik can start you off with specific support programs for temporary relief.

group 26502Interested in using our services as your Fiscal Intermediary?
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Why Pinchas loves his job

Pinchas Yakobov, DSP

“I knew Eli* from around the neighborhood, so when his parents signed up to receive services through Hamaspik two years ago, and they asked me to be his worker — I agreed with the greatest of pleasure!

“I always say that as much as I do for Eli, Eli does for me. He loves construction, fixing, and putting together complicated things like bicycles and motorcycles. Creative handiwork is where he excels, and it keeps me on my toes. I need to be ready and willing to try new things.

“I’ve had the opportunity to communicate with several Hamaspik coordinators since I began working with Hamaspik. It’s incredible how they’re always looking to push the envelope, to do more and give more. You can tell they’re on a mission and that everything they do is truly from the heart.

“Being a DSP is not an easy job — it takes a lot of patience and compassion. Not everyone can do it. But within Hamaspik, anyone I speak to makes it clear they’re in the field out of love for the people they service. No matter who I speak to, I feel the same level of dedication. I’ve never seen another organization like this!

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The hearts behind the service

Hamaspik Team

Joel Lefkovits

Department Director
Director of OPWDD-HCBS Services

“When I speak to the clients, many insist that they have the ‘best, most dedicated’ coordinator. Once, a mother even mentioned that she feels like the only client — that’s how much care and individual attention she receives from her coordinator.”

Hamaspik Team
  • Simon GluckBoro Park Regional Manager
  • Chayala RubinWilliamsburg Regional Manager
  • Sari GottliebCrown Heights Regional Manager
  • Chava LauferFive Towns Regional Manager
  • Moshe BrandsdorferFlatbush Regional Manager

FAQs

Do community habilitation services include activities outside the home?

Yes! Community habilitation services are designed to help your loved one navigate and engage with the world around them. This includes activities like shopping, visiting parks, or attending classes to build independence and confidence.

How is the right DSP chosen for my child?

Our coordinators work closely with you to understand your child’s unique needs, personality, and goals. Whether it’s someone familiar or a DSP selected specifically for your family, we prioritize finding the best fit to ensure your family’s comfort and your child’s success.

Can my child’s plan evolve over time?

Absolutely. Your child’s habilitation plan is designed to adapt as their needs and goals change. Through regular reviews, we ensure the plan remains aligned with their progress, fostering continuous growth and support.

You probably still have questions. Everyone does.

And we're here to provide answers.
Please tell us how we can make things easier for you.

All calls are confidential.

All calls are confidential.