“The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much, it is whether we provide enough for those who have little.”
-Franklin D. Roosevelt
Mission
The Roosevelt Island Disabled Association’s mission is to improve and enhance the quality of life of our disabled population on Roosevelt Island. The disabilities of our members are quite diverse so we try to provide activities and programs geared to their strengths and abilities, including mental, physical, and emotional. We also provide social services to help broaden their knowledge of organizations and facilities that can assist them in activities of daily living so they can live a more independent and socially active life.
Advocate
RIDA has advocated for a number of disability related causes on Roosevelt Island. From subway accessibility, curb cuts for wheelchairs, to ensuring that all activities on the Island are accessible and welcoming for people with disabilities.
Collaborate
RIDA is all about collaborating with the various like-minded non-profit organizations on Roosevelt Island. We love getting behind DoForOne and OPEN DOORS.
Celebrate
RIDA loves to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and any day we are able to to bring a meal and joy to people's lives.
Enabled, Not Disabled
A Message from RIDA President, Wendy Hersh
The Roosevelt Island Disabled Association (RIDA) continues to be the voice of individuals with disabilities living on Roosevelt Island. We are an independent organization whose mission is to improve and enhance the quality of life for Islanders with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Our services include education and outreach to organizations and facilities that can assist our members in living a more independent and socially active life, as well as providing cultural and social programming that encourage members to travel off the Island to attend events and celebrate holidays with others regardless of their ability to pay. Since the disabilities of our members are quite diverse, we try to provide activities and programs geared toward their strengths and abilities.
RIDA’s former president, Jim Bates, who had passed away, fought to create a world where “people with disabilities were welcomed into all areas of life and not seen as a burden or an afterthought, but important, central, and contributing members of society.” I worked with Jim over the last year and a half on that mission and was honored to have been asked to take his place when he stepped down. He was such an asset to our community, as well as a great advocate for our neighbors with disabilities.
As the president of RIDA, my goal is to help make the organization more inclusive to all individuals with disabilities living on Roosevelt Island, including the younger generation. My experience and knowledge as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor have enabled me to work closely with our membership and board recognizing the needs in our community.
In tandem with a fully committed board of directors, we aim to create greater visibility for people with disabilities through increased involvement in Island activities. We encourage community organizations to invite our members to engage and assist in events and meetings. The outcome will be individuals feeling more connected with our community and living happier, more productive lives.
We welcome you to take a look at the Gallery of the various events that RIDA has held.
Wendy L. Hersh
President