A Message from Our President
Samaritan Daytop Village would not be here today without an act of compassion.
In 1960, a minister, concerned about the growing number of teens struggling with addiction, opened a drug and alcohol counseling center at the back of his church.
That humble beginning in Astoria, Queens marked the first step in a journey that has lasted more than six decades – and continues today. Samaritan Daytop Village is now one of New York State’s largest and most trusted health and human services organizations, improving lives by helping generations of New Yorkers help themselves.
Evolving to Meet Clients’ Needs
While our roots are in addiction treatment, we have expanded our portfolio to provide a range of integrated programs, including mental health treatment, educational and employment services, and primary healthcare, in addition to transitional and permanent housing. This evolution reflects our longstanding commitment to responding to the needs of our clients.
Over the years, no matter the crisis, we have been there for New Yorkers. We have grown organically in response to the real-world challenges faced by the individuals and families we serve. Each new program has been a natural extension of the last, beginning with addiction treatment and, most recently, affordable housing.
There is continuity in what we do because each new service is a response to the needs of the time.
Meeting People Where They Are
Everyone walks their own path. We believe in meeting people where they are, both literally and figuratively. There is no one-size-fits-all approach — and for good reason. Individualized care improves and saves lives.
People Helping People Help Themselves
On top of our exemplary programs, it is our staff that makes Samaritan Daytop Village truly extraordinary. Our employees are deeply passionate about their work. Every day, they create what can only be described as miracles. As an agency, we are proud to be part of something that changes lives not only for our clients, but for our staff as well.
According to internal surveys, employees say they come to work each day – energized and ready – because “my clients need me.” They bring passion, dedication, and compassion to their roles every single day.
An Inspiration for Generations
We also continually evaluate and refine our services based on client feedback. Meeting the needs of our clients has been our guiding principle for more than 60 years. We listen to their challenges and offer multiple pathways to help them achieve their goals. We have done this for generations – and will continue to do so for generations more.
Mitchell Netburn
President & CEO
