Lifestyles for the Disabled

Lifestyles for the Disabled Since 1994, LFD has remained steadfast in its mission to showcase the genuine capabilities of individuals with developmental disabilities.

We strive to redefine perceptions & foster inclusivity on a global scale. Lifestyles was founded in 1994 as a collaborative initiative between parents, community organizations, local business owners, and developmentally disabled adults (program participants). This partnership emerged from a shared understanding of the significant gap in services and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities in Staten Island. The primary goal of Lifestyles was to create programs that could provide individuals with real-world work experiences in actual, integrated community settings. This was in response to the recognition that many individuals with developmental disabilities were not receiving sufficient opportunities to interact with the broader community or engage in meaningful employment. By leveraging the resources and expertise of various stakeholders—parents who understood the specific needs of their loved ones, local business owners who saw the value of inclusive practices, and community organizations that were familiar with support systems—the program was designed to provide participants with realistic, hands-on job experiences. The collaborative efforts of these groups helped to develop a range of programs that placed participants in work environments where they could gain skills, build confidence, and become active contributors to the local economy. These settings were carefully chosen to ensure that the individuals could practice vocational skills while being supported by mentors or job coaches who helped them navigate the challenges of the workplace. Lifestyles also recognized the importance of expanding beyond the immediate community, ensuring that individuals had access to opportunities outside Staten Island as well. This expanded their exposure and allowed for even greater integration into society at large, helping to break down stereotypes and promote inclusivity. Overall, the creation of Lifestyles was a forward-thinking response to the challenges faced by people with developmental disabilities, emphasizing empowerment through work and community involvement. The program not only offered valuable vocational experiences but also fostered a sense of belonging and independence for its participants.

With so many families facing Medicaid issues right now — renewals, surplus/spenddown, loss of services, and confusing pa...
03/02/2026

With so many families facing Medicaid issues right now — renewals, surplus/spenddown, loss of services, and confusing paperwork. Fidaije Nesimi, the 2nd Vice-Chair of SIDDC and Self-Direction Broker, will discuss what’s really happening on the ground and offer guidance on how families can safeguard their Medicaid and waiver services. If recent Medicaid changes have caused you stress, confusion, or impacted your benefits, this session is for you. Please come ask questions, share your experiences, and receive practical information you can use. Please join the FSSAC on MONDAY, March 9, 2026, at 9:30 am via Zoom:
Please use the Zoom link below to join: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82698057021?pwd=Qc4vHzSinapRNKcVwOWhHqkm7Bom2m.1

03/02/2026

February brought the love & so many amazing moments! From festive Valentine’s Day celebrations in our Respite & Day Habilitation programs to a special P37R Senior Class of 2026 breakfast at the Café at Staten Island Zoo, the month was filled with connection and joy. We took an unforgettable trip to The Kartrite Resort in the scenic Catskill Mountains, celebrated the Lunar New Year, and joined the SIDDC Town Hall at College of Staten Island. It was another great month!

It was our privilege to take part in today's Town Hall: Real Life, Real Challenges, The Truth About Services and the Cha...
02/27/2026

It was our privilege to take part in today's Town Hall: Real Life, Real Challenges, The Truth About Services and the Change We Deserve, presented by the SIDDC Advocacy Committee. Information is power, and we strive, along with SIDDC, to ensure our community has access to information and assistance needed to advocate for supports and services, Medicaid, and so much more. For more information, visit SIDDC at www.siddc.org, and for more information about Lifestyles, visit us at www.lfdsi.org

We had a fantastic time recently celebrating the Lunar New Year! We enjoyed vibrant lion dances, festive activities, and...
02/26/2026

We had a fantastic time recently celebrating the Lunar New Year! We enjoyed vibrant lion dances, festive activities, and delicious treats, making it a day full of joy, fun, and fresh beginnings.

Lifestyles will be open on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026. Please be patient and expect delays as we navigate the roads...
02/24/2026

Lifestyles will be open on Wednesday, February 25th, 2026. Please be patient and expect delays as we navigate the roads. The safety of our individuals and staff is our top priority.

Due to hazardous weather conditions, Lifestyles will be closed on Tuesday, February 24th. Please stay safe, exercise cau...
02/23/2026

Due to hazardous weather conditions, Lifestyles will be closed on Tuesday, February 24th. Please stay safe, exercise caution, and travel only if necessary.
www.lfdsi.org

Due to the expected severe storm, Lifestyles will be closed on Monday, February 23rd. Please stay safe, exercise caution...
02/22/2026

Due to the expected severe storm, Lifestyles will be closed on Monday, February 23rd. Please stay safe, exercise caution, and travel only if necessary.

We had so much fun at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark that one post just wasn’t enough! Our weekend getaway was p...
02/20/2026

We had so much fun at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark that one post just wasn’t enough! Our weekend getaway was packed with non-stop fun! !

It’s always a great time at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark! Our Presidents’ Day trip to the Catskill Mountains w...
02/19/2026

It’s always a great time at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark! Our Presidents’ Day trip to the Catskill Mountains was filled with nonstop fun, big splashes, lots of dancing, and memories that will last a lifetime!

02/18/2026

Lifestyles was honored to host the 2026 seniors of P37R, The David Marquis School of the Arts, for a Graduation Breakfast celebration at the Staten Island Zoo Café. Congratulations to this truly amazing group of seniors on this incredible achievement! A special thank you to Principal Dr. Cori Regan, Assistant Principal Dennis Kogan, and the entire P37R faculty for making this celebration so meaningful.

☘️St. Patrick’s Day is on the way! ☘️Leave the cooking to us and let the Lifestyles Caffé cater your St. Patrick’s Day f...
02/17/2026

☘️St. Patrick’s Day is on the way! ☘️
Leave the cooking to us and let the Lifestyles Caffé cater your St. Patrick’s Day festivities. Great food, festive flavors, and more!
Order today at www.lfdsi.org

Sending love, kindness, and smiles your way this Valentine’s Day! 💕Happy Valentine’s Day from everyone at Lifestyles! ...
02/14/2026

Sending love, kindness, and smiles your way this Valentine’s Day! 💕Happy Valentine’s Day from everyone at Lifestyles!

Address

930 Willowbrook Road # 12G
Staten Island, NY
10314

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

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About Us

Lifestyles for the Disabled began operating in 1994 through the collaboration of parents, community organizations, local business people and a group of developmentally disabled adults (program participants). Each group recognized the need to develop programs that provide participants with realistic work settings and experiences within the Staten Island community and beyond.