Project HAPPY's mission is to promote the well-being of New York City's children, youth and young adults with disabilities by providing them with individual and team sports and recreational activities. In doing so, we aim to impart improved physical health, social skills, and self-confidence in those who are often marginalized as a result of their impairments.

Description and/or History:
Since 1981, Project HAPPY (Hunter Activity Program for Parents and Youth) has been providing sorely needed athletic and recreational services to New York City's children, youth and young adults who have disabilities.

We aim to promote skill development in a variety of athletic and recreational activities.

Presently we serve about 150 participants between the ages 6 and 30 who have disabilities such as, Spina bifida, Cerebral palsy and other orthopedic disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD),Mental Retardation, and other developmental delays.

We aim to involve people from the community in HAPPY activities and educational projects for people with disabilities. Currently our volunteer population represents a diverse group of high school and college students, young professionals and senior citizens. Our goal is to maintain an enrollment of 75 volunteers.

Contact people:

Penny Shaw, Project Director, (212) 772-4613, (email) Leticia Monteiro, Assistant Director, (212) 772-4613, (email)

Address:

425 East 25th Street Manhattan, NY 10010 (See a map)

Directions:

The Brookdale Campus of Hunter College is located on East 25th Street between 1st Avenue and the FDR Drive.   Nearest Metro/Subway Stop: 6 train at 23rd Street,   Walk distance (in minutes): 10-15   Nearest Bus Stop: M15 on 1st Avenue or M23 on 23rd Street and 1st Avenue, 1 minute walk