The Kennedy Center a private, community-based rehabilitation organization, founded in 1951, has a history of responding to the needs of people with varying abilities and disabilities by offering innovative, value-enhanced community services. Over the past several years, a new need has arisen as people with Down syndrome have experienced Alzheimer's disease at a far younger and greater rate than the rest of the population. No services exist specifically for this population and The Kennedy Center is pioneering the first day program of its type in Connecticut.

Specially designed for people with dementia, we offer individuals the opportunity to maintain or regain feelings of capability, dignity and "belonging" through flexible, personalized care in a safe home-like environment. A rich, creative therapeutic program is designed to both soothe and stimulate and meet the preferences, priorities and ever-changing needs of each participant.

Special people - caring, compassionate, experienced and skilled make up our multi-disciplinary team of staff and volunteers. The program has a very small staff to participant ratio with ongoing training opportunities for staff and volunteers.

People with disabilities who have experienced significant cognitive and behavioral changes due to dementia and, therefore, need intensified services and increased supports candidates.  Our commitment is to continue services in the community for as long as possible.

Being a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer's disease can be all consuming. It can be emotionally fulfilling but draining, too! Education opportunities, support groups, resources, respite, family nights and more will all be available for participants and their caregivers, family and other loved ones.

We're open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. However, we will try our best to meet and accommodate individual needs to provide flexible schedules, extended day care and/or weekend programming. Transportation can be provided by The Kennedy Center. Most people are funded through the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS).