About Us
As a mother of three young adult children and as a licensed clinical social worker, I have witnessed firsthand the emotional and financial challenges associated with transitioning towards independence.
Consider the additional hurdles faced by individuals who aspire to be independent but require extra hands-on support to thrive on their own. People living with autism and/or developmental and intellectual differences share the same desire for meaningful connections with their peers, the communities in which they live, and days filled with engaging activities. Individuals have benefitted tremendously from actively participating in enriching learning experiences whether that is social, recreational, educational, and/or vocational. Without programs providing these services and a support system that encourages engagement and provides ongoing support many will not be able to fulfill their potential. We aim to provide additional assistance and support as these individuals navigate their path towards independent living and the fulfilment of their dreams.
Giving back has always been a fundamental part of who I am. From an early age, I have been deeply committed to helping those in need. After earning my undergraduate degree, I naturally gravitated to social services and pursued a master’s in social work. Since the late 80’s, I have dedicated myself to working in the community with underserved and marginalized individuals and their families. I have worked hand in hand supporting individuals with challenges related to mental illness, substance use disorders, HIV and AIDs, trauma histories, development and/or intellectual differences and individuals on the autism spectrum disorder.
It is my passion to do what I can to improve the lives of others by walking alongside them and supporting them on their journey, whatever that may be.
In addition to my work, I have personally supported numerous charitable causes and was instrumental in establishing the Foundation for the Children’s Fund for GSD. Furthermore, I have served on its board and held board positions over the years at Temple Beth El in Chappaqua and Achilles International in NYC.
The Helping Hands for Independent Living Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, was established with these young adults in mind, aiming to offer financial aid to help connect them with essential programs and support that may not be covered elsewhere. Working hand in hand, collaborating as they embark on their journey toward a future enriched with friendships, community engagement, educational opportunities, and vocational pursuits is the goal of this foundation. We believe that everyone deserves the chance to lead a vibrant and meaningful life, enriched by connections, a sense of community, a clear purpose, and opportunities for continued growth; all of which are essential for a fulfilling existence.
Valerie Rosen
Founder, Co-President
bob Mensch
co-PRESIDENT
Meet The Co-Presidents
Valerie Rosen, is a dedicated licensed clinical social worker, mother of three young adults, and the founder of the Helping Hands for Independent Living Foundation. With over three decades of experience in social services, Valerie has focused on empowering individuals with autism, developmental, and intellectual differences, helping them build connections, engage in their communities, and pursue meaningful lives. Her commitment to supporting marginalized and underserved individuals spans a career dedicated to mental health, trauma, substance use, and cognitive and developmental challenge. In addition to her professional work, Valerie has actively supported charitable causes and served on boards, including the Foundation for the Children’s Fund for GSD, Temple Beth El, and Achilles International. Driven by a lifelong passion for giving back, she founded Helping Hands to offer financial aid and hands-on support for young adults navigating the path to independent living.
Valerie has always been encouraged and supported in her work and passions by her husband of 34 years, Rob. Together they are the proud parents of Danny, Eliza, and Izzy. Valerie, an avid runner, often finds inspiration during her runs, and the family shares her love of the outdoors by spending time hiking, skiing, and traveling together.
Bob Mensch has served on the WJCS Board since 2010 and is a founding member of the WJCS POINT (Pursuing Our INdependence Together) community, which was created in 2008 to help young adults with developmental and learning disabilities live independently. He and his wife Reggi, along with a small group of other families of kids with learning disabilities, realized that there was no such program, leaving parents with few post-school options. POINT has grown from its original 15 participants to include approximately 60 individuals, with hopes of reaching 100 in the near future. Bob co-chaired POINT for two years and has chaired two POINT golf outings that raised close to $250,000. Bob has also been involved in numerous WJCS committees, including the Compliance and Nominating Committees and helped fund after-school programming in an under-resourced elementary school in Mt. Vernon. Bob was also an original member of the Harrison Education Foundation, which has funded over 100 enrichment programs. In his other life, Bob is the owner of Mensch Millwork Corporation which supplies architectural millwork for residential high- rise buildings in the New York area, with such high-profile projects as the Time Warner building and Bloomberg headquarters.
Bob and his late wife Reggi were inspired to get into this kind of philanthropy work by their son Logan, who has far exceeded any of their expectations, including his marriage to the wonderful Abby Glickman. He is also the proud parent of Carly Mensch and Latif Nasser, and a very beloved and active grandpa to Fivel and Haqq.
