Department for People with Disabilities

The Department for People with Disabilities provides recreational, educational, social, and developmental programs that support individuals from childhood to adulthood. Through meaningful experiences, supportive relationships, and personalized programming, participants are encouraged to build confidence, strengthen social connections, and develop greater independence. We are proud to foster and inclusive community where every individual is valued for who they are, and where opportunities for participation extend throughout the broader JCC experience. Because a stronger community is one in which everyone has a place.

Our Programs

Special Events

Mission With a Purpose

A combination of Do Good activities engaging in community together by giving back and brining awareness to a variety of causes throughout the year. The events include but are not limited to: Breast Cancer Awareness, Autism Awareness Acceptance, Spring Cleaning, Cards for the Holidays, Holiday Toy Drive, Holiday Deliveries to the Elderly and homebound, Veterans Day, Suicide Prevention, Down Syndrome Day, Purim Carnival and Deliveries, and Holocaust Survivors Deliveries for Hanukkah

Inclusive Fashion Show

Fashion functions as both a walking art exhibition and a blueprint for stories that highlight the beauty of design. Everyone deserves an opportunity to feel beautiful, chic, and elegant. Our Inclusive Fashion Show allows for people from all walks of life to take part in a beautiful fashion show/fundraiser in support of Sunrise Day Camp. This yearly event helps our models experience many emotions, from confidence and joy to excitement and strength.

Thanksgiving Lunch

Thanksgiving’s importance is the ultimate form of expressing gratitude for blessings, fostering community connections and reflecting on life’s good and important things such as family and friends. During our Thanksgiving Lunch, multiple departments come together to celebrate the positivity, strength and humility.

Holiday Art Show

For individuals with disabilities, creating art can offer a profound sense of agency. When someone is dealing with a recent diagnosis, restoring their sense of self, or simply exploring their creativity, art provides a nonjudgmental space for discovery and empowerment. The people who take part are the artists who get to display they’re for the community at large to view and appreciate. Those who want to can also purchase a piece of art made by our talented participants, all while we celebrate the various holidays that remind us to respect each other’s cultural and religious differences.

DPD Wellness Shop

Our Wellness Shop offers products and services that support physical, mental, and emotional well-being, helping people make healthier choices and foster self-care. Every month, our participants craft handmade organic products using crops from our JCC Avis/South Shore garden and hydroponic garden, all while learning business and vocational skills that support strong independence.