The Beginning
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.
Project HAPPY aims to address the needs of those with disabilities by providing opportunities for structured physical activities, sports, and community building within a supportive and enriching environment.
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)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Mental Retardation and other developmental delays
Our Community
Program Goals
- To promote skills development in a variety of athletic and recreational activities with a low teacher-student ratio.
- To provide a high degree of peer interaction.
- To encourage college and high school students to pursue careers in health-related fields.
- To provide a community service to populations with special needs.
The program operates at the Brookdale campus of Hunter College between 1st Avenue and 25th Street.
Program participants have access to a large space for activities.
Dedication
Program Activities
Project HAPPY’s activities are conducted by specialists in adapted physical education and include swimming, bowling, dance, aerobics, frisbee, basketball, softball, tennis, yoga, weight training, table tennis, and arts and crafts.
The instructors are assisted by a group of approximately 40 volunteers from Hunter College, local high schools, and the community.