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Inclusion Programs

All Ages

The Milton and Frances Schloss Special Needs and Services Department was created in 2013 to provide programming for children, teens, young adults, and seniors with disabilities.

Adapted Basketball

Overview

Our Inclusion Department strives to work with community members to build a more accessible & inclusive JCC. Team members are here to support & facilitate participation in programming for members of all ability levels. 

We hope to provide a place for community members of all abilities to build lifelong friendships, have new experiences, and be active members in our community. Please reach out with questions regarding accommodations, support needs, and programming!

For more information about inclusion and special needs services at the J, or to let us know what your needs are, please email us at [email protected] or complete the contact form below.

These programs are generously supported by The Mayerson JCC Excellence Fund, The Milton and Frances Schloss Special Needs and Services Fund for Children and Adults, the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, The Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, and other generous donors.

We work with individuals and families with the aim to provide the appropriate accommodations to support full participation in JCC classes for all ages & ability levels. If there is a JCC program not listed below that you want to join with accommodations, please contact [email protected] or fill out the form below.

Inclusion Offerings

FITNESS & FRIENDS 
Ages 16+
Sundays, 1 – 3pm
J Members: FREE | Public: $25
This engaging adaptive class offers low-impact exercise, socializing, and creative crafts. Participants should be able to engage independently or with the help of their own personal care assistant.
ADAPTED BASKETBALL
Ages 18+
Every Other Thursday, 7 – 8pm 
J Members: FREE | Public: $25

In this exciting, team-focused exercise class, participants will work on basketball fundamentals while socializing and being active. Participants should be able to engage independently or with the help of their own personal care assistant.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS POWERLIFTING
Ages 16+ 
Saturdays, 12 – 1pm
J Members: FREE | Public: $25

Join us in partnership with the Special Olympics of Hamilton County (SOHC) for powerlifting courses and training. Spots are limited so sign up quickly!

If you would like to pursue SOHC competition, please reach out to [email protected] and we will connect you appropriately to SOHC. Non-competitive powerlifting training is welcome. 

In partnership with Special Olympics Ohio in Hamilton County. 

ADAPTED TOTAL BODY WORKOUT

Age 16+
Wednesdays, 7 – 8pm
J Members: FREE | Public: $25

This inclusive adapted workout combines cardio and strength training in a circuit format, with stretching and yoga for a total body workout. Participants should be able to engage independently or with the help of their own direct support professional.

Join us in the Spring!

Advocates Program with Camp at the J

Advocates are trained staff assigned to campers with a range of learning, developmental, and/or physical disabilities. Advocates work in a 1:1 or 1:2 ratio with campers to further support camper success at camp. Contact [email protected] to learn more.

Inclusive Youth Sports

JCC Youth Sports strive to be inclusive for children of all abilities. View a list of our Youth Sports offerings HERE.

If your child needs an accommodation to participate, please email [email protected].

Sensory Kits

Sensory kits are designed to help individuals manage their sensory needs while enjoying community programming. Our sensory kits are equipped with noise-reducing headphones, a variety of fidgets, and other sensory items to meet the diverse needs of our guests. Request to borrow a Sensory Kit at the Welcome Desk or email [email protected] for more information. 

Have you used the sensory kits? Provide feedback HERE. 

Social Narratives: Planning your Visit

Please click the links below for specific Social Narratives.

If there are experiences at the J you have questions about, please submit the form below.

Common Accommodations
We strive to host inclusive and accessible events that enable all individuals to fully participate and engage in our programs. If you need an accommodation, please contact us!
Some examples of common accommodations include ASL interpreting or captioning, use of sensory bags, reserved seating, and a social narrative or early access to the event agenda.
Please note, this is not a comprehensive list of accommodations. We encourage you to contact us to discuss your accessibility needs and supports needed to ensure your participation in JCC programs.

Help us get to know you and your family! We want to ensure everyone has the support they need to be successful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What accessibility features can I expect to see at the JCC?

The Mayerson JCC is ADA compliant & accessible for visitors of all abilities. Our building features accessible parking, push button door openers on the entrance and the first-floor bathrooms, and elevator access to all floors. We have a family locker room that allow space to assist with changing (please note we do not currently have adult changing tables) or showering as needed. Sensory bags are available for members and guests to borrow from the front desk for members needing assistance managing their sensory needs while enjoying community programming at the J.

What should I do if I need an accommodation for an event?

The JCC strives to host inclusive and accessible events. If you are attending a program at the JCC and need an accommodation to participate, please email the staff member listed as the contact for that program. You can find their contact information on the JLive registration or website page related to the program. If you do not see contact information or have a more detailed question, please email [email protected] to connect with the Inclusion Coordinator.

What accommodations can I request?

We strive to meet all reasonable accommodation requests to ensure full community engagement & participation. Some examples of common accommodations are: ASL interpreting or captioning, use of sensory bags, reserved seating, and a social narrative or early access to the event agenda. Please note, this is not a comprehensive list of accommodations. We encourage you to contact us to discuss your accessibility needs and supports needed to ensure your participation in JCC programs. Please reach out to the listed program staff or email our Inclusion Coordinator at [email protected] if you have questions or would like to request accommodations.

Are accommodations available for JCC programs that are off-site?

We make every effort to ensure off-site programs are booked in spaces that are ADA compliant and accessible. Registration pages for all JCC events, on or off-site, should include information about any universal accessibility features available at the location such as parking and elevator access. When renting a space, we work within the policies and capabilities of the space and therefore cannot guarantee all accommodation requests will be fulfilled. However, we are dedicated to supporting our participants and encourage you to reach out with any requests or questions so we can address your needs. If you have questions about the accessibility of an event or need to request an accommodation, please reach out to the listed staff or email our Inclusion Coordinator at [email protected].

I have questions about COVID or other health precautions.

Please email [email protected] with your question or concern and the specific program your inquiry is referencing.

I have a question about future events and/or suggestions for a universal accommodation I would like to see the J implement.

Please reach out to our Inclusion department via the web form below, phone at 513.644.0713, or email at [email protected].

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