Timmy’s Team Goes the Distance to Provide a Track for DDI!
While runners gathered for the NYC Marathon, the DDI Little Plains Campus in Huntington, New York held its own mini marathon to celebrate the grand opening of its new track. Students of all ages and abilities navigated the track –independently and with adult support. The children participated in therapeutic games set up along the course and stopped for water or an orange slice at the hydration station, before bursting through the finish line. All were cheered along the way and celebrated as they received medals and trophies at the finish.
The track was built from the proceeds of Timmy’s Team, a fundraiser created in 2014 by the Long family to raise funds for organizations supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Kevin Long, a marathoner and father of Tim, an individual who has received services from DDI, has completed ten marathons for Timmy’s Team, raising more than $150,000 benefiting DDI and other organizations serving the I/DD community.
Kevin and Anne Marie Long’s relationship with DDI began two decades ago when their son Tim who is dually diagnosed with Down's Syndrome and autism received Early Intervention Services. He went on to attend DDI's Early Childhood Program where he was provided a nurturing environment and specialized instruction and therapy during his pre-school years. More recently, DDI played a vital role in ensuring Tim received assistance with his transition from his school-based program to an adult day program.
The Long family began supporting the organization almost immediately after Tim began receiving services. Kevin has served on the DDI Board of Directors for 15 years, Tim’s sister Emily volunteered one summer in the Development Department and his other sister Abigail briefly worked as a teaching assistant in DDI's Children's Day Program in Smithtown.
Abigail shared with her dad how the Smithtown track on the school grounds was an invaluable tool for exercise and as an outlet for those with behavioral issues. When Kevin learned the Little Plains campus lacked such a track, the decision was made to fundraise the $20,000 needed to get one built. The campus serves hundreds of students from pre-school through age 21. It is home to 24 children, who would likely have been placed out of state due to a lack of beds in NY.
“Exercise is a critical component of a healthy lifestyle, especially for students with autism and developmental disabilities who are more likely to have possible health concerns such as elevated BMIs” said Amy Brand, Adaptive Physical Education Teacher at DDI.
“The track is being used by the walking club and Adaptive Physical Education classes to improve cardiovascular fitness. DDI staff walk the track on their breaks. Everyone benefits from the physical, recreational, and therapeutic outlet that the track provides.”
"The track at DDI would not have happened without the generous support of family, friends, colleagues, former classmates, and even a few strangers who heard about Timmy's Team,” said Kevin Long. “DDI relies on fundraising for projects like this track, to sustain and enrich programs that ensure children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities reach their maximum potential and fulfillment."