About
Mercy Home envisions a world of fairness and equality in which people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live more fully integrated within the community. We work to change the world’s view of those we serve as we help them discover their individual gifts and abilities, and we seek to promote greater compassion and understanding of those people who make up our community.
We provide essential services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. Mercy Home’s mission is to ensure the quality of life for persons with developmental disabilities through the recognition of each person’s inherent dignity and right to a life filled with learning and love. Our mission is fulfilled in practice through our core values: respect, trust, teamwork, care, and compassion.
Our History
Mercy Home, founded in 1862, first served homeless children. Five boys orphaned by a fire, appeared on the convent steps seeking safety. In 1883, the children’s wing was completed, providing a safe and loving environment for 600 individuals.
By 1976, we began to focus on the needs of developmentally disabled children, establishing a long-term residential care facility. In 1977, we established the first Developmental Therapy Unit in New York City for children with autism spectrum disorder. In 1978, Mercy Home opened our first residential facility in Red Hook, Brooklyn, followed by 12 more over the next 30 years – each one providing individualized care in a community setting.
Janice M. Aris, MSW, MS
Executive Director
Janice is an experienced leader in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities and has dedicated her career to improving social services for some of New York City’s most vulnerable individuals, displaying deep compassion and creativity in responding to human needs, particularly as a champion for people with special needs.
Tisha Jones, MPA
Executive VP of Program Operations
Tisha has a passion for working in the human services industry and has supported people with intellectual and developmental disabilities for almost 30 years. She began her career as a direct care professional in the 1990’s. Since then, her strong and unwavering commitment to this community and background in management has brought her to Mercy Home as the Executive VP of Program Operation.