Disability Inclusion
Early Childhood (0-3), Kindergarten (4-5), Elementary (6-9), Preteen (10-13), Teen (14-17), Adults (18+), Seniors (65+), All Ages JCC in Whitefish Bay
ONE BIG CIRCLE. EVERYBODY IN IT.
Our Disability Inclusion team provides accommodations, resources, and support for individuals and families of all abilities to make full use of the JCC programs and services.
Our services support the societal model of disability, which emphasizes mental, emotional, and physical well-being and societal participation. We strive to help participants of all abilities build lifelong friendships, try new activities, and become active members in our community.
Program Benefits
The JCC is a caring and connected community that embraces individuals of all backgrounds, faiths, and abilities. Many of the children and adults we serve through our disability inclusion programs have deep roots in our education and camp programs and are vital and cherished members of our community.
While you don’t have to be Jewish to become immersed in our JCC community, our disability inclusion programs and services are guided by the following Jewish values:
- B’tzelem Elohim (all are created in the image of God)
- Kavod (respect)
- Kehillah (community)
- Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh Bazeh (all are responsible for one another)
SOCIAL CONNECTIONS
Chaverim (Hebrew word for friends) is an adult social group for individuals of differing abilities to enjoy social, recreational, and educational programs with door-to-door transportation provided. We work with participants to develop their social skills, build peer relationships, and try new things in a safe and inclusive environment. Chaverim meet Tuesdays & Thursdays throughout the month to participate in dinners, cultural events, arts & crafts, movie & dance nights, social & educational opportunities, and wellness events.
adult day program
Wellness 360 is a group wellness day-program designed for adults with disabilities to learn skills & habits that build independence. Offered in partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin (DSAW), participants work on wellness skills like independent exercise, mindfulness, and hygiene, and practical skills like money handling, paying bills, and more.
adaptive wellness
Adaptive Personal Training program is for individuals 12 years and older to learn fundamental fitness skills and increase their gross motor skills. Our qualified personal trainers work with individuals to develop a training plan that meets goals & expectations.
Adaptive Aquatics is designed for individuals ages 4-18 years old who identify as having a disability. Lessons are taught one-on-one with the instructor and focus on building comfort and proficiency in the water. ASL accommodations are also available for JCC youth swim lessons taught in a group setting.
program & Class Support
We work with individuals and families to develop the appropriate accommodations and support to enable participation in JCC classes for all ages.
- Youth Rec
- Aquatics
- Personal Training
- Early Childhood
- After School programs
- Camps
Click HERE to view all our current inclusion programs in the journal.
WORKFORCE READINESS
Bonim Farms is a program hosted at the Albert & Ann Deshur JCC Rainbow Day Camp which employs adults with disabilities to work as Farm Fellows. Participants maintain general garden needs, harvest & package produce and herbs, manage farmer’s markets, and more, all while learning important life skills. Transportation to Fredonia is included for all Bonim Farms participants.
get started
We want everyone to have the support they need which begins with our team getting to know you and your family.
related events
Inclusion and Special Needs
Mon
24
Spin, Strength & Stability
Inclusion and Special Needs
Mon
24
Open Adaptive Swim Lane
Inclusion and Special Needs
Tue
25
Chaverim: Yoga
questions about disability inclusion services?
Aquatics
Adaptive Aquatics
Ages 4-18 JCC North Entrance, Whitefish BayInclusion Services
Chaverim
Adults 18+ Events throughout the communityInclusion Services
Wellness 360
Adults 18+ JCC West Entrance, Whitefish BayJCC+MKE
