MOMMAS House is a not-for-profit organization that works with Birthright International to serve as a home for young mothers (aged 17-21) and their children. For about two years, mothers who utilize MOMMAS House, which has locations throughout Nassau County, can continue education or vocational services that were interrupted by pregnancy. The Wantagh MOMMAS House opened in 1986 and is located inside the Wantagh Shopping Plaza. The goal of MOMMAS House is to provide guidance and support to young mothers so that they can learn to independently support themselves and their children.
Founded in 1999, the Wolf Conservation Center is one of the preeminent wolf education and conservation centers in the United States. Located just off Route 35 in the woody hills of South Salem, the WCC is easily accessible, which is great considering the amount of daytime and evening events that it holds; pre-registration is required, so plan ahead. Or, for groups too large to bring to the site, arrange a meeting with one of the conservatory's ambassador wolves.
Splashes of Hope is a non-for profit organization which designs and paints murals for hospitals. These murals help to uplift the spirit of patients, many of them children and veterans, who stay at these hospitals. The organization was started in 1996 and its offices are based out of Coindre Hall/West Neck Farm.
An interesting side note is that Splashes of Hope works with the Suffolk Country Park system to offer free tours of Coindre Hall on the grounds of West Neck Farm, in exchange for use of the office and administrative space within Coindre Hall. Additionally, it brings art to many county events throughout the year.
Port Youth Activities (PYA) is a non-profit, charitable organization formed to promote the exemplary development of local youth through participation in sports.
Sports offered as part of the program include baseball, basketball, football, field hockey, lacrosse, roller hockey, softball, tennis and wrestling.
PYA also holds an annual dinner dance that is the major fund-raising initiative for the organization.
Meals On Wheels of East Hampton has an office on the second floor above Dreesen's Catering in the DeSanti building on Newtown Lane in the village. The entrance to the office is in an alleyway between Newtown Lane and Park Place. Started in 1983, this Meals on Wheels chapter is independently funded through donations, with a very small amount coming from grants. Volunteers prepare and deliver the food to those in need.
In the Northwest Woods section of East Hampton is a true hidden gem. LongHouse Reserve is about 16 acres of gardens and art works. Founded by Jack Lenor Larsen, a renowned textile designer, art collector and author. The gardens surround Mr. Larsen's house which double as his private residence and the reserve's offices. Sculptures, plant collections, ornamental borders and decorations make for a magical tour. There is also an educational focus and programs. It never quite looks the same as the last time you were there.
