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.
Built in 1784, Clinton Academy was one of the first academies chartered by the Board of Regents in New York State. Reverend Samuel Buell of the East Hampton Presbyterian Church asked locals to donate money to construct the late-Georgian building. Co-educational, boys were schooled for careers, while girls were given classes in etiquette and spiritual reading. It was later a community center and a playhouse, held the town offices and even the local newspaper.
The East Hampton Historical Society oversees the historic site, which now hosts exhibitions and lectures. The Mimi Meehan Native Plant Garden, between the Clinton Academy and its neighbor, The East Hampton Star, is open year-round. The Garden Club of East Hampton tends to the small garden.
With more than 150,000 volumes, the Nanuet Public Library also offers events and programs such as cooking, yoga and mahjongg. The library loans out museum passes, offers online reference/research databases, downloadable eBooks/eMusic/eVideos, a career center, homebound delivery and best sellers club. Children and teen services include homework help, activities, games and community service.
During the summer, the library hosts the Friday Film Series, which features Oscar-nominated movies such as "Avatar" and "The Blind Side," along with refreshments. Visit the library website for a full listing of all events.
Computers are available for public use. Patrons are limited to one hour per day; after that hour, if no one is waiting, the user can extend to another full hour in 15-minute increments.
The library was first housed in the original Nanuet Public School in 1839. The Nanuet Public Library was officially created in 1894 when New York State granted a provisional charter followed by the permanent charter in 1904. After a few moves and another amended charter, the library settled in its present location in 1962. Gretchen Bell is the library director.
The library's vision/mission statement:
"To be the intellectual and cultural center of our community. The place to go for information and cultural resources, in a comfortable and convenient environment, providing services for all generations. The Nanuet Public Library is dedicated to be a civic resource promoting open access to information, materials and services to all residents of the Nanuet School District to advance knowledge, foster creativity, encourage the exchange of ideas, build community and enhance the quality of life."
Our Redeemer Lutheran Church is located on the south side of Route 25 in Aquebogue. The church also runs the Our Redeemer Lutheran School, which educates children in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade. The Rev. Charles R. Byer leads services, which operate on a summer and off-season schedule.
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.
The Hillel Institute, located inside the Suffolk Y Jewish Community Center, provides information and education to those considering converting to the Jewish faith.
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.
