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Our Mission & Values

Empowering individuals who are blind, DeafBlind, have vision loss, or have combined hearing and vision loss to live, work and thrive in the communities of their choice.

Our core values guide our work and performance as we deliver our HKS mission. We value diversity and are committed to equality. We embrace an environment where teamwork is paramount, and we promote respect, accountability, transparency and integration. We strive for excellence through innovation and our commitment to accessibility. We are dedicated to working with each person to achieve their desired goals towards independence, employment and quality of life, based on their talents, preferences and aspirations.

Accessibility

We are committed to improving our digital, environmental, and attitudinal accessibility, and we consider accessibility in all of our processes and decisions.

Diversity & Inclusion

HKS is committed to promoting diversity and inclusivity for all communities.

Teamwork & Collaboration

We partner with participants in their training process and collaborate with organizations in our communities.

Person Centered

Your services will reflect your goals and aspirations. Your goals are our mission.

Unlocking doorways to opportunity.

HKS is comprised of Helen Keller Services for the Blind, a regional division serving the New York City/Long Island area, and the Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults, a national division headquartered in Sands Point, New York, with a network of regional offices that extends our reach across the United States.

Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults (HKNC)

HKNC is the only national program providing comprehensive vocational rehabilitation services to youth (16 and older), working-age adults and seniors (55 and better) with combined hearing and vision loss. We work together with people who are DeafBlind to achieve their goals and aspirations.

Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB)

HKSB provides services to individuals of all ages — from early childhood to teens, adults and seniors — who are blind or have low vision or developmental disabilities. Our one-on-one, customized training and support are designed for your unique challenges and goals. Our first-rate instructors help increase your independence and employment opportunities.

Our Leadership Team

Experience, knowledge and a passion for empowering all communities.

With over 100 years of combined experience in the field, the HKS leadership team provides extensive and critical guidance to its teams and community partners.

A smiling woman with dark curly hair shaking hands with a man with a short dark beard using a wheelchair

Partner With Us

Our partnerships are as diverse as the organizations and individuals we team up with.

You can get involved by becoming a corporate partner, funder, volunteer or service provider. Our partners empower participants by providing employment training and opportunities, enhancing accessibility and much more. We are always open to new ideas and opportunities to work together with individuals, businesses and organizations.

News & Events

We have been busy! Find out what we have been up to, and check out what is coming next.