Since 1947, Jawonio has been a cornerstone of the Hudson Valley community — empowering individuals with disabilities, mental health challenges and chronic medical needs to live, learn, work and thrive. As one of the region’s leading nonprofit providers of comprehensive services, Jawonio serves more than 3,500 individuals annually across Rockland and Westchester counties. Led by CEO Randi Rios-Castro, Jawonio has an operating budget of more than $50 million and is the fifth largest employer in Rockland County with close to 900 employees at multiple locations.
Jawonio’s wide-ranging programs address every stage of life and every aspect of personal growth, including
Early Childhood and Special Education – nurturing infants through 5 years of age with inclusive learning, play and a variety of therapeutic interventions.
Day Habilitation – promoting skill-building, social engagement, pre-vocational opportunities, and community integration activities for adults with I/DD and/or behavioral health challenges in Rockland and Westchester counties.
Behavioral Health – providing peer-based recovery programs and support groups, pathways to education and work, volunteer opportunities and wellness services. Music, yoga, meditation and art therapy are core components in recovery programs.
Care Management – person-centered care coordination for people with serious mental health and/or chronic health challenges access community resources to successfully achieve their goals.
Community Living Services – residential services provide a spectrum of clinical, medical and behavioral health supports, with a commitment to compassionate, quality care and uplifting the residents.
Community Employment Services – helping individuals achieve meaningful work through evaluations, skill-building, vocational training and supported employment.
Article 16 Clinic Services – delivering physical, occupational and speech therapies to enhance independence and quality of life.
Jawonio operates innovative social enterprises that provide employment opportunities while serving the community:
Brick-It-Again Lego Resale Store – a recognized social enterprise for innovation and employment opportunities. This venture that began in 2023, promotes creativity, connections and community as well as a destination for Lego enthusiasts.
Jawonio Cleaning Company – a trained and professional workforce of more than 100 employees cleaning both private and governmental sites throughout the Hudson Valley. The Cleaning Company is a for-profit arm of Jawonio with more than $7million dollars in revenue.
Jawonio is a recognized leader in disability advocacy, championing disability rights, equity and inclusion across the Hudson Valley and beyond. From organizing the first Rally in the Valley in 2013 and then again over the past two years, Jawonio continues to lead collaboratively with more than 30 agencies and statewide associations to advocate for staff, programs, services and the individuals who need our services.
Jawonio has gained local, statewide and national press for the Rally in the Valley (RITV) and viral messaging across social media. Jawonio will again host the RITV on March 13, 2026 at Rockland Community College.
With a vision grounded in innovation, compassion and community impact, Jawonio continues to set the standard for nonprofit leadership in the Hudson Valley.
It is more than a service provider; it is a vital part of the Hudson Valley economy and community, shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
