Club JCC Newsletter 2014-2015 by JCC MetroWest

JCC MetroWest Special Needs Services Club JCC Annual Newsletter Issue 12 | 2014–2015

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760 Northfield Avenue West Orange, NJ 07052 973-530-3400 www.jccmetrowest.org

A Community of Opportunity

MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR Dear Participants, Caregivers, Families and Professionals, My fourth year as Director of Special Needs Services has been truly exciting and rewarding. Our accomplishments have been monumental, including the establishment of Ari & Zach’s Place, a dedicated space for our groups! This beautiful, brandnew state-of-the-art facility boasts three computer stations, a refrigerator/microwave, a multitude of cabinet storage and comfortable, welcoming furnishings. Additionally, our Assistant Director position is now full-time due to increased programs and services. Robin Cohen, our diligent and efficient Program Administrator, joined the team in January 2014 as a 25-hour per week employee. All great news! Our Department strives to accommodate persons with special needs wherever possible within the JCC’s mainstream offerings. Many of our participants enjoy time at the fitness center, swim lessons with our Aquatics Department, voice and piano lessons with our Cultural Arts Department and so much more. When these mainstream options are not ideal, there are a myriad of offerings within the scope of our Special Needs Department. Club JCC offers a wide range of activities, including summer programs for children, teens and adults, extended day trips, sports and recreation programs for children, teens and adults and preschool programs with or without a parent. In the pages that follow, we are confident you will find something for every individual’s interest. The Department’s fifth annual Dance-A-Thon, The Greatest Carnival on Earth, was hugely successful, raising over $18,000! This meaningful (and fun!) event provides a committed group of teenagers, individuals with special needs, family members and professionals the opportunity to work together to create an awesome evening for all involved. In addition, we thank our local businesses and individuals who continue to support this event generously. Take a look inside for a preview of our 2015 event and be sure to save the date! The following pages include listings of most Club JCC programs for the year; however, e-mail updates, along with announcements of new activities and events, are available to you on a regular basis. If you would like your name added to our e-mail list, please let us know by contacting us directly. The Club JCC newsletter is supported by our advertisers, whom we would like to acknowledge for their continuous sponsorship of the Special Needs Department. Your perspectives, thoughts and suggestions are always welcome and encouraged. Thank you for your continued support of the important work we do here at Club JCC!

Rebecca Gallanter, MSW, LSW Director, Special Needs Services 973-530-3478 | rgallanter@jccmetrowest.org

Amelia Perlstein

Chairperson, Special Needs Committee, JCC MetroWest

Larry Rein

Chairperson, Board of Trustees, JCC MetroWest

Alan Feldman

Chief Executive Officer, JCC MetroWest

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ARI+ZACH’S PLACE “I didn’t have friends but now I do.” Perhaps these words from a member of the JCC’s special needs community best sum up the warm and friendly environment at Club JCC. Until the dedication of Ari & Zach’s Place in June 2014, our participants traveled throughout the building in constant motion, coats and personal effects in tow. Now, our participants have a new home—a hugely important development for a population that craves consistency and stability. A dedicated space in the JCC lower lobby has become the permanent headquarters of JCC MetroWest’s Special Needs Services, created by sub-dividing existing space right under the newly renovated Gaelen Gallery. Two generous donor families, Richard & Diane Ross (representing The Francis Davis Fund) and Randee & Ken Rubenstein, pledged their support of this very special project. There is now a meeting place for social skills activities and conversational groups, a computer skills section, a refreshments area (with refrigerator and microwave), and secure storage for belongings. Ari & Zach’s Place is a launching point for all the special needs programs, activities, trips, workshops, and resources at the JCC. Individuals with disabilities have many opportunities to participate in JCC life to the fullest. The JCC strives to offer inclusion opportunities in all programming throughout the building. Most programs have the capacity to be very individualized and tailored to those with differing abilities. Special Needs Services has grown to offer programming seven days a week for all age groups, including evenings and weekends. The Adult Day Program is in operation five days a week and many adults with disabilities consider the JCC a second home.

For further information on this state of the art facility or to schedule a tour/intake interview, contact us at 973-530-3998.

Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability—to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It’s like this… When you’re going to have a baby, it’s like planning a fabulous vacation trip—to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo’s David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It’s all very exciting. After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, “Welcome to Holland.” “Holland?!?” you say. “What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I’m supposed to be in Italy. All my life I’ve dreamed of going to Italy.” But there’s been a change in the flight plan. They’ve landed in Holland and there you must stay. The important thing is that they haven’t taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It’s just a different place. So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met. It’s just a different place. It’s slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you’ve been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around … and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills … and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts. But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they’re all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say “Yes, that’s where I was supposed to go. That’s what I had planned.” And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away… because the loss of that dream is a very, very significant loss. But… if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn’t get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things …about Holland.

Club JCC

MINI

ALL ABILITY ATHLETES Ages 3-5

Enjoy 6 weeks of parent/child classes which serve as an introduction to the wonderful world of sports! Skills and drills will be incorporated to introduce your child to a variety of sports. Sports include, but are not limited to, soccer, basketball, and t-ball. Children and parents will also enjoy playing classic games and some new ones too! Emphasis will be placed on following directions, cooperation, gross motor coordination & skills, and having fun. This inclusive class is appropriate for children ages 3-5 with a parent/guardian. Parents and children are encouraged to enjoy free play and socialization for 15 minutes prior to class. Contact 973-530-3423 for more information.

CLUB SPLASH Ages 3-5

Grab your bathing suit and head to the JCC for this 60-minute parent/ child swim program for children with special needs and their parents/ caregivers. This weekly program features a 10-minute free swim warmup, 40 minutes of instruction with a Certified Water Safety Instructor (WSI), and a 10-minute free swim cool down. Children will learn to enjoy the water through fun activities, learn water safety, learn basic kicking and arm movements, and develop basic swimming skills such as bobbing, floating, and gliding. Contact 973-530-3515 for more information.

GLOBETROTTERS Ages 3-5

Come travel with Crystal Martucci, art enrichment specialist, as we paint, sculpt, build, cook and taste our way around the world! We will hike, fly, and sail to exotic lands each week, where the children will have the opportunity to delve into a rich cultural exploration of art, stories, food and music native to each place we visit. Children will be exposed to new and exciting art and cooking projects each week and gain valuable insight to the world around them. All delicious and nutritious ingredients are provided by Whole Foods, Vauxhall branch. Guaranteed to be fingerlicking fun! This inclusive parent/child class is sure to excite everyone. Contact 973-530-3479 for more information.

MUSIC Nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MORE Ages 3-5

Get moving and grooving with our certified music therapist in this inclusive music class for children and their parents/caregivers. Enjoy singing, listening, and dancing while reducing stress and improving motor skills. Children enjoy the benefits of music and will have the opportunity to increase their social awareness and skills. Contact 973-530-3479 for more information.

School-to-Career Transition Services for Students with Special Needs & Career Center for Teens & Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders For information, please contact: Lauren A. Klein, 973-674-6330 x237 lklein@jvsnj.org â&#x20AC;˘ www.jvsnj.org

JCC MetroWest | Special Needs Services

Club JCC

junior

JUNIOR SUNDAY Ages 5-18

Sunday social recreation program including arts & crafts, structured games, music therapy, Jewish education, and recreational swim. Participants are provided one to one support by our highly qualified staff and volunteers. Sundays, 12:30pm-3:00pm SUMMER 2014 7/13, 7/20, 7/27, 8/3, 8/10, 8/17 Member: $270/Guest: $300 (6 sessions) FALL 2014 10/5, 10/19, 11/2, 12/7, 12/21, 1/4 WINTER/SPRING 2015 2/22, 3/8, 3/22, 4/12, 4/26, 5/3 Member: $270/Guest: $300 (6 sessions) Optional supervised bus transportation for AM Friendship Circle program on coordinating program dates: Member: $60/Guest: $65 (per term for transportation) Program generously funded in part by Randee and Ken Rubenstein.

JUNIOR YOGA Ages 8-12

SPLASH & SWIM Ages 8-12

Our highly qualified staff will facilitate a weekly recreational swim for children with special needs. Children will be encouraged to interact with peers during games, competitions, and challenges. Thursdays, 5:00pm-6:00pm WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26 Member: $135/Guest: $180 (9 sessions)

www.jccmetrowest.org | 973-530-3998

Club JCC

junior (cont’d) SPORTS & GAMES Ages 5-12

Wednesday evening sports and recreation program for our school-aged participants! Participants will learn basic skills and rules of popular games such as basketball, soccer, baseball, and tennis. Children will focus on appropriate social behaviors in a recreational setting while improving their gross and fine motor skills. Throughout the sessions participants will also enjoy recreational games such as freeze tag, running bases, and relay races. This program will emphasize following directions and completing multi-step tasks. Staff to participant ratio is approximately 3:1. Wednesdays, 5:00pm-6:00pm

EC+ME Grades K-6

Approved as a Provider through the Department of Children & Families Division of Children’s System of Care (PerformCare). Join Club JCC and the popular, JCC-based Exploration Camp for four weeks of fun at the JCC! Campers will be provided with the summer camp experience they have been dreaming of while receiving the supports and modifications they need to make each day a success. Campers will be included in the day to day themed activities of Exploration Camp to the greatest extent he/she is able to participate successfully. Campers will also be provided with supplemental activities as a substitute when appropriate. The program is supervised by highly qualified staff with extensive background in special needs. Each child’s schedule will be individualized to the greatest extent possible. Monday-Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm Week 1: July 28-August 1 Week 2: August 4-August 8 Week 3: August 11-August 15 Week 4: August 18-August 22

FALL 2014 10/22, 10/29, 11/12, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10 Member: $180/Guest: $210 (6 sessions)

CREATIVE KIDS Ages 7-14

Get the creative juices flowing with Club JCC! This program will provide a sampling of the different creative avenues available to our participants. Painting, collage, creative construction projects, drawing, print making, and more. Get a little messy while having a lot of fun! Program fee includes all materials; all you need to bring is your creativity and imagination. Taught by a professional artist. Mondays, 5:30pm-7:00pm FALL 2014 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24 Member: $320/Guest: $360 (8 sessions)

Member: $525/Guest: $575 per week

JCC MetroWest | Special Needs Services

Club JCC

teen

ALL ABOUT YOGA FOR TEENS Ages 13-18

Grab your yoga mat and join Club JCC for an hour of breathing, stretching, relaxation, and meditation. Participants will increase body awareness as they work to improve concentration and reduce anxiety while having fun doing simple yoga poses and techniques. Thursdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm FALL 2014 10/2, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22 Member: $300/Guest: $360 (12 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18 Member: $500/Guest: $600 (20 sessions)

SWIM STATION FOR TEENS Ages 13-18

Our highly qualified staff will facilitate a weekly recreational swim for individuals with special needs. Participants will be encouraged to interact with peers during games, competitions, and challenges. Thursdays, 7:00pm-8:00pm FALL 2014 10/2, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22 Member: $180/Guest: $240 (12 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18 Member: $300/Guest: $400 (20 sessions)

TEEN SUNDAY TRIPS Ages 13-18

An offsite social recreation program that provides teens with special needs the opportunity to learn and practice life skills in the community. Activities take place at local restaurants, theaters, bowling lanes, entertainment centers, etc. Lunch and admissions included in fee. Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Sundays, approximately 1:00pm-4:00pm (times may vary) FALL 2014 10/26, 11/16, 12/7, 1/11 WINTER/SPRING 2015 2/15, 3/15, 4/19, 5/17 Member: $50/Guest: $55 per trip (4 sessions) Please check our website for updated information.

TEEN TRACKS TRAVEL CAMP Ages 13-21

Approved as a Provider through the Department of Children & Families Division of Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s System of Care (PerformCare). Daily summer travel program for teens and young adults ages 13â&#x20AC;&#x201C;21. Our participants spend their day in the local community as well as many interesting locations in the NJ/NY metropolitan area. Trips include New York City museums and attractions, the Jersey shore, summer fairs, and more. Supervised by certified teachers and special education professionals. 4:1 camper to staff ratio. Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm Week 1: July 28-August 1 Week 2: August 4-August 8 Week 3: August 11-August 15 Week 4: August 18-August 22 Week 5: August 25-August 29 Member/Guest 5 weeks $3225/$3725 4 weeks $2850/$3250 3 weeks $2375/$2675 2 weeks $1700/$1900 1 week $970/$1070

TEEN SATURDAY NIGHTS Ages 13-18

Saturdays, approximately 6:30pm-9:30pm (times will vary) An offsite recreation program that provides teens with special needs the opportunity to learn and practice life skills in the community while having a great time. Activities take place at local theaters and entertainment centers throughout the tri-state area. Admissions and transportation to/ from JCC and venue included. Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Dates: TBA Member: $70/Guest: $80 per trip Please check our website for updated information.

www.jccmetrowest.org | 973-530-3998

Club JCC

1530

A DAY AWAY FROM THE J Ages 15-30

Be part of the fun as Club JCC goes off and away for a day of full of fun and adventure. Participants will take transportation from the JCC to an exciting location in the tri-state area. Venues include indoor water parks and amusement parks, art studios, and various other attractions. Our group will enjoy lunch and an afternoon of excitement with their peers. Price of trip includes admission, lunch and transportation. Participants may bring additional money for snacks and souvenirs. Sundays, 12:00pm-5:00pm SUMMER 2014 7/20, 8/17 (2 sessions)

GET CREATIVE WITH CLUB JCC Ages 15-30

DDD Approved

Get the creative juices flowing with Club JCC! A sampling of the different creative avenues available to our participants. This program will feature painting, sculpture, illustration, collage, and creative construction projects. Emphasis on hand-eye coordination, gross and fine motor skills, and organization. This program will engage our participants individually while also encouraging collaboration and social interaction to complete some projects. The program fee will include all materials; all you need to bring is your creativity and imagination. Taught by a professional artist. FALL 2014 Wednesdays, 3:30pm-5:30pm

FALL 2014 11/2 (1 session)

10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17 Member: $360/Guest: $400 (8 sessions)

WINTER/SPRING 2015 5/3 (1 session) Member: $130/Guest: $145 per trip

WINTER/SPRING 2015 Sundays, 1:00pm-3:00pm

Please check our website for updated information.

1/18, 1/25, 2/1, 2/8, 3/1, 3/22 Member: $270/Guest: $300 (6 sessions)

CLUB JCC IN THE KITCHEN Ages 15-30

DDD Approved

GIRLS NIGHT OUT Ages 15-30

Get cooking with Club JCC as we whip up a six week cooking series focusing on nutrition, hygiene, and delicious food with “Cuisine by Christine!” Our participants will enjoy preparing meals and snacks with Christine’s professional guidance. This program will focus on allowing participants to appropriately engage during their leisure and recreation time. Participants will learn about food preparation, a critical skill to maintain and develop independence, budgeting, nutrition, safety, health. basic mathematic skills such as measuring. Also emphasized will be following multi-step directions, collaboration, and improving inter-personal skills. We will learn the ins and outs of making a delicious and nutritious meal in a safe and budget friendly manner! Price of class includes cost of food.

DDD Approved

Tuesdays, 6:00pm-8:00pm FALL 2014 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25

WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/23, 3/2, 3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 3/30, 4/13 (10 sessions)

Member: $320/Guest: $360 (8 sessions)

Member: $350/Guest: $400

Have you been wondering what the latest fashion and makeup trends are? Are you missing watching those “chic flicks?” Well, Girls Night Out is just the program for you! Join us on Monday evenings for a night with the women of Club JCC. Learn about makeup, fashion, cooking, what’s new in entertainment, arts & crafts, and other fun activities while improving social skills and life skills! Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Mondays, 5:30pm-7:30pm FALL 2014 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1

SPORTS & RECREATION Ages 15-30

A sports and recreation program for individuals with disabilities who are looking to “step up their game.” Participants will learn basic skills and rules of popular games such as basketball, soccer, baseball, and tennis. As levels of physical fitness increase as new activities are learned, the group will also be learning to engage in appropriate social behaviors. Focus on learn turn-taking skills, how to be a gracious winner and loser, and teambuilding. This program will emphasize following directions, completing multi-step tasks, and health & fitness while improving coordination and motor skills. Tuesdays: 5:30pm-6:30pm WINTER/SPRING 2015 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/2, 6/9, 6/16 Member: $240/Guest: $280 (8 sessions)

JCC MetroWest | Special Needs Services

Club JCC

adult

ADULT DAY PROGRAM* Ages 21+

DDD Approved

This five-day-per-week program for adults 21+ focuses on life skills activities both onsite at the JCC and in the community. Activities include but are not limited to music, yoga, aerobics/strength/cardiovascular training, swimming/swim instruction, nutrition/calorie awareness, health awareness, social skills, food preparation, pre-vocational skills training/ volunteerism, money management, community navigation, current events discussions, and communication. *Approved Self-Directed Day Services/Real Life Choices provider through NJ Developmental Disabilities Division (DDD). Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Chris Sokolewicz, Certified Teacher of the Handicapped Coordinator, Adult Day Program Member: $80/Participant: $85 per day

MONDAY Summer 2014 6/30, 7/7, 7/14, 7/21, 7/28, 8/4, 8/11, 8/18, 9/8, 9/15, 9/22 (11 sessions) Fall 2014 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15, 12/22, 12/29, 1/5, 1/12, (16 sessions) Winter/Spring 2015 1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/23, 3/2, 3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 3/30, 4/6, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 6/1, 6/8, 6/15, 6/22 (20 sessions) TUESDAY Summer 2014 7/1, 7/8, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29, 8/5, 8/12, 8/19, 9/2, 9/9, 9/16, 9/23 (12 sessions) Fall 2014 9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/11, 11/18, 11/25, 12/2, 12/9, 12/16, 12/23, 12/30, 1/6, 1/13, 1/20 (17 sessions) Winter/Spring 2015 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24, 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31, 4/7, 4/14, 4/21, 4/28, 5/5, 5/12, 5/19, 5/26, 6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23, 6/30 (23 sessions) WEDNESDAY Summer 2014 7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30, 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 9/3, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24 (12 sessions) Fall 2014 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17, 1/7, 1/14, 1/21 (15 sessions) Winter/Spring 2015 1/28, 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8, 4/15, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, 5/13, 5/20, 5/27, 6/3, 6/10, 6/17, 6/24 (22 sessions) THURSDAY Summer 2014 7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 9/4, 9/11, 9/18 (11 sessions) Fall 2014 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22 (14 sessions) Winter/Spring 2015 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/9, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18, 6/25 (22 sessions) FRIDAY Summer 2014 7/11, 7/18, 7/25, 8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22, 9/5, 9/12, 9/19 (10 sessions) Fall 2014 10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31, 11/7, 11/14, 11/21, 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26, 1/2, 1/9, 1/16, 1/23 (16 sessions) Winter/Spring 2015 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/20, 2/27, 3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27, 4/3, 4/10, 4/17, 4/24, 5/1, 5/8, 5/15, 5/22, 5/29, 6/5, 6/12, 6/19, 6/26 (22 sessions)

www.jccmetrowest.org | 973-530-3998

Adult Day Program Daily Schedule *Subject to change MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

9:00am–9:30am Meet and Greet/ Daily Schedule Review

9:30am–10:00am Current Events Discussion

10:00am-10:30am Aerobics & Track

10:00am–10:30am Social Skills

10:00am–10:30am Aerobics & Track

10:00am–11:00am Free Swim & Swim instruction with Doris

10:30am–11:15am Yoga with Tami

10:30am–11:00am Social Skills

10:30am–11:00am Aerobics & Track

10:15am–10:45am Aerobics & Cardio class with Andi

11:00am–11:30am Nutrition Round-Up

11:15am–12:00pm Social Skills

11:00am–12:30pm Into the community: Shopping/Lunch out

11:00am–12:00pm Organized Sports in the Gym with Dave

11:00am–12:30pm Into the community: Shopping/Lunch out

11:30am–12:30pm Meal Preparation/ Lunch/Clean-Up

12:00pm–1:00pm Lunch at Café or bring your own/ Group Electives

12:30pm–1:30pm Free Swim & Swim instruction with Doris

12:00pm–1:00pm Lunch at Café or bring your own/ Group Electives

12:00pm–1:00pm Recreation & Leisure Skills

12:30pm–1:30pm Music

1:00pm–2:00pm Book Club

1:30pm–2:00pm Daily Living & Life Skills

1:00pm–2:00pm Music

10:30am–11:15am Yoga with Tami

1:30pm–2:00pm Weekly Wrap-Up

JCC MetroWest | Special Needs Services

Club JCC

adult (contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d)

GUYS NIGHT OUT Men ages 18+

SWIM STATION FOR ADULTS Ages 18+

DDD Approved

Monday nights filled with fun just for guys! Participants engage in activities that focus on life skills development and include daily living skills, current events, communication, and interpersonal skills. The group works together to create a weekly snack. Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Mondays, 6:00pm-8:00pm FALL 2014 9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17, 11/24, 12/1, 12/8, 12/15, 1/5, 1/12 Member: $490/Participant: $560 (14 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/23, 3/2, 3/9, 3/16, 3/23, 3/30, 4/13, 4/20, 4/27, 5/4, 5/11, 5/18, 6/1, 6/8, 6/15 Member: $630/Participant: $720 (18 sessions)

DDD Approved

Our highly qualified staff will facilitate a weekly swim for individuals with special needs. Participants will be encouraged to interact with peers during games, competitions, and challenges. Thursdays, 7:00pm-8:00pm FALL 2014 10/2, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22 Member: $180/Participant: $240 (12 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18 Member: $300/Participant: $400 (20 sessions)

ADULT SUNDAY TRIPS Ages 18+

WEDNESDAY BLEND Ages 18+

DDD Approved

Socially appropriate behaviors and interpersonal skills are taught during leisure time. Each week participants enjoy playing games (board games, air hockey, video/card games) which focuses on turn-taking, frustration, tolerance, and communication skills. Other activities include book/ literacy exploration, current events, and social skills. Supervised by professional with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Wednesdays, 6:00pm-8:00pm FALL 2014 10/22, 10/29, 11/5, 11/12, 11/19, 12/3, 12/10, 12/17, 1/7, 1/14, 1/21 Member: $385/Participant: $440 (11 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/28, 2/4, 2/11, 2/18, 2/25, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/15, 4/22, 4/29, 5/6, 5/13, 5/20, 5/27, 6/3, 6/10, 6/17

An offsite social recreation program that provides adults with special needs the opportunity to learn and practice life skills in the community. Activities take place at local restaurants, theaters, bowling lanes, entertainment centers, etc. Lunch and admissions included in fee. Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Sundays, approximately 1:00pm-4:00pm (times may vary) SUMMER 2014 6/29, 7/13, 8/3, 8/24 (4 sessions) FALL 2014 10/26, 11/9, 11/16, 12/7, 12/14, 1/4, 1/11 (7 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 2/15, 2/22, 3/8, 3/15, 4/12, 4/19, 5/17 (7 sessions) Member: $50/Participant: $55 per trip Please check our website for updated information.

Member: $700/Participant: $800 (20 sessions)

ALL ABOUT YOGA FOR ADULTS Ages 18+

DDD Approved

Grab your yoga mat and join Club JCC for an hour of breathing, stretching, relaxation, and meditation. Participants will increase body awareness as they work to improve concentration and reduce anxiety while having fun doing simple yoga poses and techniques. Thursdays, 6:00pm-7:00pm FALL 2014 10/2, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20, 12/4, 12/11, 12/18, 1/8, 1/15, 1/22 Member: $300/Participant: $360 (12 sessions) WINTER/SPRING 2015 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26, 4/2, 4/16, 4/23, 4/30, 5/7, 5/14, 5/21, 5/28, 6/4, 6/11, 6/18 Member: $500/Participant: $600 (20 sessions)

www.jccmetrowest.org | 973-530-3998

Club JCC

adult (cont’d)

ADULT SATURDAY NIGHTS Ages 18+

TUESDAY NIGHT JAM Ages 18+

An offsite recreation program that provides adults with special needs the opportunity to learn and practice life skills in the community while having a great time. Activities take place at local theaters and entertainment centers throughout the tri-state area. Admissions and transportation to/ from JCC and venue included. Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs.

DDD Approved

Saturdays, approximately 6:30pm-9:30pm (times will vary)

Tuesdays, 6:00pm–8:00pm

DATES: TBA Member: $70/Participant: $80 per trip

WINTER/SPRING 2015 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31 Member: $150/Participant: $175 (5 sessions)

Please check our website for updated information.

SUPPER CLUB Ages 18+

Supper Club participants will venture out to local restaurants in the community. At the restaurant they will work on skills such as using a menu, budgeting, learning to order, turn-taking, and appropriate social interaction between peers and wait staff. Participants will practice appropriate social skills and etiquette in a natural environment, learn and practice manners for meal time, make nutritious choices, and to manage money. Cost of food included in the program. Participants will meet/be picked up at the venue. Tuesdays, 6:00pm-8:00pm FALL 2014 12/2, 12/9 WINTER/SPRING 2015 4/14, 4/21 Member: $40/Participant: $45 per evening (2 sessions)

Grab your favorite paperback, song, or poem as you head to the JCC for a 5-week session of Tuesday Night Jam. Participants will have the opportunity to write, read, and interact with a variety of media. We welcome participants of all reading and writing abilities to join us for this coffeehouse style class.

SUMMER SELECT Ages 18+

DDD Approved

Six weeks of great activities for adults with special needs (ages 18+). Participants will enjoy conversation groups, swimming, gym activities, games, music and a great end of session BBQ. Choose a few sessions or join us for all six! Tuesdays, 6:00pm–8:00pm June 24: Game Night July 1: Splash & Swim July 8: Musical Mix-Up July 15: Fitness Fun July 22: Creative Cooking July 29: End of Session BBQ Member: $40 per evening/$210 for all six sessions Participant: $45 per evening/$240 for all six sessions SAVE $30 WHEN YOU REGISTER FOR ALL SIX SESSIONS!

ADULT SUNDAY DANCES Ages 18+

Enjoy an evening of dancing, games, and social time. A live DJ, pizza, snacks and beverages make this a night not to be missed! Supervised by professionals with extensive experience with individuals with special needs. Sundays, 6:00pm–8:00pm 10/19: Fall Festival 12/14: Hanukkah Party 1/31: Dance-A-Thon 3/22: Spring Soiree 6/7: Hawaiian Luau $15 admission per dance at the door Program generously funded in part by the Drench Family.

CLUB JCC AFTER HOURS Ages 18+

At Club JCC we understand that parents and caregivers need a safe and enriching environment for their children. Club JCC After Hours will provide an opportunity for participants to engage in physical fitness activities, social skills, daily living skills, academic enrichment, arts & crafts, and community experiences. Monday–Friday, 2:30pm–6:00pm Monday–Friday, 3:30pm–6:00pm Member: $55/Participant: $60 per day for 2:30pm–6:00pm Member: $40/Participant: $45 per day for 3:30pm–6:00pm

JCC MetroWest | Special Needs Services

What people are saying about Club JCCâ&#x20AC;Ś I feel my daughter is

in good hands.

My son HAD A GREAT TIME and

enjoyed making new friends and HAVING MORE INDEPENDENCE. He felt like he

belonged in society,

where he could have a good time and not be constantly babysat.

A GREAT PROGRAM for teenagers and young adults for socializing and improving social skills through community interaction.

NEW RELATIONSHIPS and old relationships BLOSSOM in this program. www.jccmetrowest.org | 973-530-3998

MetroWest ABLE Programs For more information about MetroWest ABLE programs, please contact Rebecca Wanatick at (973) 929-3129 or rwanatick@jfedgmw.org.

MOM’S SUPPORT GROUP

Find support and guidance as well as services and resources available in the community, network with other moms and learn how to advocate. Typically the second Wednesday of each month, 7:30–9:00pm JCC MetroWest Parent Place 8/12, 9/10, 10/1, 11/12, 12/10, 1/14, 2/11, 3/11, 4/15, 5/13, 6/10, 7/8

DADS ONLY PLEASE

Find support and guidance as well as local resources, network with other dads, share common experiences and learn how to advocate. Sessions will be topic specific. 7:30pm, JFS MetroWest, Livingston November 19, February 18, May 20

METROWEST MADRICHIM SHADOW TRAINING WORKSHOPS

CONTINUING THE JOURNEY WORKSHOPS

During this 3 week course, teens will be trained by special needs professionals to engage with and support children with special needs in an inclusive setting, either in a religious school class or recreational program. Teens will have the support of the professional consulting with them throughout the year. 4:00–5:30pm, JCC MetroWest September 7, 21; October 19

LEARNING TO BABYSIT FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

During this 6 week course, teens will be trained by special needs professionals through workshops, videos, hands on experience and meetings. Students will also become certified in CPR and First Aid. 4:00–5:30pm, JCC of Central NJ October 12, 19, 26; November 2, 16, 23 (final session 9:00am–4:00pm) 4:00–5:30pm, JCC MetroWest, Schwartz Conference Room January 25; February 1, 8, 22; March 1, 8 (final session 9:00am–4:00pm)

On Caring for Your Family Member with Special Needs… More details to follow as workshop topics are determined. JCC METROWEST October 23, 7:30–9:30pm January 22, 7:30–9:30pm February 19, 10:00am–12:00pm JCC OF CENTRAL NJ December 11, 7:00–9:00pm February 5, 10:00am–12:00pm March 19, 7:00–9:00pm

SIBLING SUPPORT NETWORK

Siblings of children with special needs join together for discussion, activities and games, engaging them to learn more about themselves and each other. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss the challenges, feelings, and joys of being a sibling with peers, build coping skills, make friends, and have fun! More details to follow with dates, times and locations.

NOURISHING THE SOUL FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS & RESOURCE FAIR

Join us and take some time to nurture your soul. Together we will explore how humor, music, writing and meditation are used as venues to care for ourselves. Community resources will be available to share their programs and resources for families to explore and connect. Look for more details as the event gets closer. 12:00–4:00pm, JCC MetroWest November 23

JCC MetroWest | Special Needs Services

We’re here to help! Rebecca Gallanter, MSW, LSW Director, Special Needs Services 973-530-3478 rgallanter@jccmetrowest.org

Chris Sokolewicz, Certified TOH Coordinator, Adult Day Program 973-530-3489 csokolewicz@jccmetrowest.org

Chrystal Henion, BA

Assistant Director, Special Needs Services 973-530-3507 chenion@jccmetrowest.org

Robin Cohen

Program Administrator, Special Needs Services 973-530-3422 rcohen@jccmetrowest.org

Meet our Assistant Director…

Meet our Program Administrator…

Chrystal Henion

Robin Cohen

We are excited to welcome Chrystal Henion to our staff! Chrystal brings with her an extensive background, including work with CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Children of Bergen County and Americorps VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America). Chrystal is a graduate of Montclair State University where she majored in Justice Studies. She is a dedicated Big Brothers Big Sisters volunteer and has worked extensively in the areas of fundraising, grants, volunteerism and non-profit Boards of Directors. Chrystal’s work with CASA involved work with all types of families including those with special needs. Her guidance provided the volunteers the support they needed to function in their roles as advocates for children and their families.

Club JCC Special Needs Services proudly introduces our Program Administrator, Robin Cohen. Before joining us at Club JCC, Robin served as the Wellness Coordinator at NYU and earned a Masters Degree in Education from Fordham University. Robin’s primary responsibilities include participant registration and paperwork, logistics for internal and external programs, overall administrative oversight of the Special Needs Department, and outreach to families. We are certain that Robin’s upbeat and friendly personality will be a huge asset to our department and families. Please feel free to stop by to meet Robin or give her a call to introduce yourself. Robin, welcome to Club JCC!

Chrystal is greatly looking forward to working with our community. She enjoys cooking, gardening and thrift shopping. Chrystal is an avid New Jersey Devils fan and loves watching hockey games. We are fortunate to have Chrystal on our team!

www.jccmetrowest.org | 973-530-3998

JCC MetroWest

760 Northfield Avenue West Orange, NJ 07052 www.jccmetrowest.org

Special Needs Services Club JCC Annual Newsletter

Issue 12 | 2014–2015

Dance-A-Thon 2015

Saturday, January 31 (SNOW DATE: FEBRUARY 7)

Pajama-Jam Raise awareness and funds for Club JCC Special Needs Services

Please call 973-530-3998 for more information