The Ability Center directly supports a variety of programs that enable children and adults to experience social, recreational and educational opportunities that they never imagined possible. The joys of being active and involved should not be a privilege but a part of daily life.

See our Frequently Asked Questions.

Our goal is to offer opportunities in sports, arts and humanities and social activities in an all-inclusive environment that focuses on the spirit, mind and body of everyone. We strive to be the epicenter of education and recreation for special needs families in our community.

Our goal is to offer opportunities in sports, arts and humanities and social activities in an all-inclusive environment that focuses on the spirit, mind and body of everyone.

Here’s a list of some of the programs being developed:

• Resource Group for parents of children of special needs.
• Share information and resources
• Provide support and camaraderie
• Assist new parents whose child was just diagnosed.
• Become an advocate to identify and establish the needs of our special needs population
• Respite Care
• Nature and Science classes
• Aquatic classes
• Life Learning– Provides independence and self-confidence by acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to take care of themselves
• Cooking Lessons prepare and cook nutritional meals for themselves
• Swimming Lessons
• Nutrition, Health & Wellness
• Inclusive programs / camps
• Family Events / Outings
• Training Staff - properly working with Special needs individual(s)

Programs being Expanded:

• Open Doors – Social outings– Movies, Golfing, Pizza Parties, Concerts, bowling, and day trips to local area attractions.
• Shore Trip to Wildwood, NJ

Jennifer Whalen, a veteran of special needs advocacy, joins the YMCA as the Director for the new Ability Center. Whalen and her staff strive to make the YMCA the epicenter of education and recreation for our special needs families.

For more information about the Ability Center or the Open Doors program, contact Jennifer at 610/647-9622, x2401.