New York – September 25, 2026 -- ADAPT Community Network opened its Smart Living Center in the Bronx, a home-like facility built to test and demonstrate accessible technology for people with disabilities across New York City and the Hudson Valley.
ADAPT launches dedicated space linking disability tech vendors, families and regulators
The nonprofit, which operates 100 programs serving more than 20,000 children and adults with disabilities, held an Open House and Resource Expo to mark the launch. The event combined timed tours of the Center with a vendor showcase and a panel discussion titled 'Adaptive Technology Progress and Innovation through Partnership.'
Seven corporate sponsors back the facility's technology showcase
Sponsors for the launch included We Hear You, Prolo, MapHabit, Smart Hygiene, Xander, Noss, and Baketivity, positioning the Center as a commercial touchpoint for adaptive-technology suppliers seeking exposure to the disability services market.
Panel brings together vendors, government and self-advocates
Panelists included Chris Maher, Founder of Samaritan Partners; Brian Hart, CEO of ShiftAbility; James Kaufman, Deputy Commissioner of Policy and Program Development at the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities; and AnnMarie Thomas, a self-advocate with ADAPT Community Network.
Center to operate as ongoing collaboration hub, not a one-time event
ADAPT said the Smart Living Center will remain active beyond the launch, offering routine tours and special events for individuals, families and providers. The organization plans to use the space to create structured collaboration among technology companies, researchers, funders and public-sector partners around access, education and technology evaluation.
Jenna Mandel-Ricci, Chief Executive Officer of ADAPT Community Network, said the Center pairs adaptive technology with support services to expand independence for people with disabilities in a setting designed to feel like a home rather than a clinical demonstration space.
Private tours of the Smart Living Center can be scheduled through ADAPT Community Network contact Ronak Parikh.