Helen Keller Services
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Opening a World
Without Limits.
Envision. Engage. Empower.
Our mission is to enable individuals who are blind, DeafBlind,
have low vision or combined hearing and vision loss to live, work
and thrive in their community of choice.
Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind
Helen Keller Services for the Blind
Upcoming Events
CLC Expansion Fundraiser
May 7, 2026
Info & RSVP
Tech Blitz
May 21, 2026
Registration
HKS Golf Classic
June 29, 2026
Registration
Welcome to Helen Keller Services
Since 1893, we have supported individuals who are blind, DeafBlind, have low vision or combined hearing and vision loss to achieve their full potential.
Two Divisions, One Mission
HKS operates through our two divisions—Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths and Adults (HKNC) and Helen Keller Services for the Blind (HKSB). HKNC serves individuals who are DeafBlind across the United States through our Sands Point campus and 11 regional offices. HKSB provides comprehensive programs throughout the New York metropolitan area. The generosity of donors, partners, and supporters makes this essential work possible.
Accessibility Creates Opportunity
Accessibility is at the heart of everything Helen Keller Services does. We know from daily experience that removing barriers, whether physical, digital, or attitudinal, creates opportunities and is essential for those we serve to thrive. We work to create a world where greater independence is possible for all, advocating for inclusive public spaces, accessible technology, and employment opportunities that recognize the valuable contributions that all individuals bring to the workforce.
A Legacy of Service
For over 130 years, Helen Keller Services has been at the forefront of providing programs and services for individuals with vision loss or combined hearing and vision loss—pioneering new approaches, advancing accessibility standards, and training professionals nationwide. Our work extends beyond direct services to shape how communities, employers, and systems support individuals who are blind, DeafBlind, or have low vision.
Latest News
CSUN 2026 from a DeafBlind User’s Perspective: Exploring New and Revisiting Paths to Access (Part 1)
The Right Fit: Ben’s Pathway to Employment
Connected by Touch: Announcing the 2026 DeafBlind Awareness Week Campaign
Between the Dots: What Designers Miss Without Braille Users
Keeping It Portable In 2026: Choosing A Compact Braille Display For iPhone Part 2
NYS Justice Center Honors Helen Keller National Center Staff with Code of Conduct Award
Helen Keller National Center for DeafBlind Youths & Adults
As the only national program exclusively serving individuals who are DeafBlind, Helen Keller National Center’s Comprehensive Vocational Rehabilitation Program welcomes participants to our Sands Point, New York campus for intensive person-centered training. Through personalized instruction in adaptive technology, communication, orientation and mobility, independent living, and vocational services, we prepare participants for meaningful employment and community independence. Our 11 regional offices extend this mission across all 50 states, providing direct services to individuals in their home communities while also training professionals and advancing the field through technical assistance and research initiatives that shape standards and strengthen capacity nationwide.
Learn more about Helen Keller National Center
Summer Youth Programs at HKNC
HKNC’s
summer programs for DeafBlind youth
ages 16-24 open doors to independence, career exploration, and essential skills development. We offer two youth programs at our headquarters in Sands Point, New York. Choose the one that’s right for you and get ready for an incredible summer. Find the perfect program to make 2026 a transformative summer experience.
Who is HKNC for?
People Who Are DeafBlind or Have Combined Hearing and Vision Loss
Living in the United States and U.S. Territories
Services for Teens & Young Adults
What Does HKNC Offer?
Vocational Rehabilitation
Community-Based Services
National Services for Senior Adults
Technology
Research and Innovation Center
View All HKNC Services
Information, Research and Professional Development
Helen Keller Services for the Blind
Serving the New York metropolitan area, HKSB provides comprehensive programs spanning early childhood through senior years. Our specialized services include early intervention and preschool education at our Children’s Learning Center in Downtown Brooklyn, Camp Helen Keller summer programs on Long Island, assistive technology training, vocational rehabilitation and employment services, day habilitation programs for adults with developmental disabilities, low vision clinical services, and support for seniors experiencing vision loss.
Learn more about HKSB programs
Here is where it starts. Located in Downtown Brooklyn, our Children’s Learning Center offers the only specialized program in NYC for preschool children who are blind or have low vision, multiple disabilities, autism, or other pervasive developmental delays.
Who is HKSB for?
People Who Are Blind, Low Vision or with Developmental Disabilities
New York City/Long Island Area
Transition Age Youth Through Seniors
What Does HKSB Offer?
Vocational Rehabilitation
Services for Children
Services for Adults with Developmental Disabilities
View All HKSB Services
On-site & Online Courses
HKNC Learning Center
We believe in life long learning. That is why we offer a broad range of in-person and online courses and other educational resources for professionals who work with individuals who are DeafBlind, or have combined hearing and vision loss, and/or have additional disabilities. We also offer courses and resources for families and individuals who are DeafBlind.
Visit the HKNC Learning Center
Voices From The Community
View More Success Stories
I was given my life back as well as my self-reliance and autonomy. Thank you – Helen Keller – for caring enough so I don’t need to live my life with bitterness and anger, but rather joy and anticipation for new things that are yet to touch my life.
Barbara Tucker
Go to Barbara’s Story
I feel much more confident in my own abilities. My O&M instructor helped me maneuver myself in the streets and use my cane properly. He was so patient and understanding with me.
Kent Harper
The workers were always professional, listened to me and my ideas, advocated for me, and made me feel like they were a part of my journey.
Margaret Parker
Join Our Mission
Donors
Your support transforms barriers into opportunities, creating pathways to independence for individuals who are blind or DeafBlind at every stage of life.
Partners
Our partner network is doing more, together. Bring us your ideas, projects and initiatives and discover how we can work as a team.
Volunteers
Your time is our greatest resource. Volunteers find fulfillment and make a difference every day at HKS.
We are proud to partner with some of the most innovative and progressive individuals and organizations in the country.
News & Events
We have been busy! Find out what we have been up to, and check out what is coming next.
Upcoming Events
May 21 – May 21, 2026
Helen Keller National Center
141 Middle Neck Road
Sands Point, NY 11050
Tech Blitz 2026
Upcoming Events
Jun 29 – Jun 29, 2026
318 Lakeville Rd., Lake Success, NY 11020
Helen Keller Services 35th Annual Golf Classic
The 35th Annual HKS Golf Classic will raise funds to support the CLC Long Island expansion. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Monica Godfrey-Lehrer for information.
Upcoming Events
May 7 – May 7, 2026
The Stone Goat Restaurant & Brewery
552 North Country Road
Saint James, NY 11787
CLC Long Island Fundraising Event
Recent News
View All News
Articles
CSUN 2026 from a DeafBlind User’s Perspective: Exploring New and Revisiting Paths to Access (Part 1)
Success Story
The Right Fit: Ben’s Pathway to Employment
News
Connected by Touch: Announcing the 2026 DeafBlind Awareness Week Campaign
Articles
Between the Dots: What Designers Miss Without Braille Users
Articles
Keeping It Portable In 2026: Choosing A Compact Braille Display For iPhone Part 2
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