Community Classes and Recreational Programs

Create, Cook, and Perform

Cooking Around Europe

This cooking class celebrates the diverse flavors and culinary traditions of Europe. Participants will explore popular regional dishes while learning practical techniques and culinary insights that bring each recipe to life. This inclusive class will be led by Amy Pane, who has worked in the food industry since 2001.

Inclusive Theater Collective 

This energetic theater class features theater games, improv, singing, and movement as participants build confidence while rehearsing and performing the show. Along the way, they’ll develop acting, vocal, and teamwork skills in a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Theatrical Set Design, Grades 2 and up

Bring the world of the theater to life! Students will explore the basics of set design from sketching ideas to creating props and backdrops. Class will begin by watching the show rehearsal for inspiration (members of set design are welcome to sign up for the musical class as performers).

**This class is inclusive, meaning it is designed to be accessible and welcoming for children grades 2 and up, and young adults of all abilities

Mixed Media Art Class (Ages 18+) 

Explore painting, drawing, and collage in one creative space. Experiment with colors, textures, and materials to make unique artworks while having fun and unleashing your imagination. This inclusive class will be led by Kit Demirdelen, an art therapist who has experience working with individuals with a wide range of emotional, cognitive and physical abilities.

Fashion Lab for Diverse Learners with Future Fashion Stars (Ages 18+)

Welcome to Fashion Lab, where students explore creativity, sustainability and design through hands-on projects inspired by real-world fashion. This class combines art, STEM, design thinking and self-expression in an engaging enrichment experience where students create, collaborate, problem-solve and bring their innovative ideas to life!

Cumbia Colombian Music Class (Ages 18+)

Join Pablo and Anna Mayor of Folklore Urbano NYC for a fun and unique music experience! Participants will move to the beat and sing music inspired by the diverse traditions of Colombia, including the well-known rhythm of “Cumbia!”

Spin Sessions with SpinLab DJ Academy (Ages 18+)

Join DJ Mackie from SpinLab DJ Academy to participate in an engaging, upbeat, hands-on group DJ class that makes music accessible and exciting. Learners of all abilities are welcome!

Get Moving!

Inclusive Yoga and Movement (Ages 18+)

Each session combines movement through accessible poses and sound to help participants connect with their bodies in a gentle, mindful way. All levels and abilities are welcome.

Inclusive Zumba Dance Class (Ages 16+)

Dance, move, and have fun in this upbeat Zumba class designed for adults of all abilities. With easy-to-follow choreography and modifications for every fitness level, everyone is welcome to join the party!

Sensory Swim Night 

Enjoy exclusive access to the pool in a calm, sensory-friendly environment designed for individuals with disabilities and their immediate families. With reduced noise and distractions, participants can relax, have fun, and enjoy a comfortable evening of swimming together.

Basketball Basics

Learn the fundamentals of basketball in this fun, inclusive 5-week class with Robert Jacobson Sports. Participants will build skills in dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork through engaging drills and activities. This class is a great way to get active, build confidence, and have fun on the court.

Make Connections

FriYAY Funday at the J (Ages 16+)

Join us for fun, friends, and laughter at FriYAY at the J! Enjoy pop culture trivia, bingo, and other interactive games in a relaxed, social setting. Best of all, participants vote to choose the featured activity each month.

UP on Sundays: Life skills, creative expression, and social connection (ages 6–25) 

Our UP on Sundays program is a program designed to support a wide range of skill development in a structured, supportive environment. Participants will take part in activity sessions including “life lab” which focuses on the development of life skills and pre-vocational skills and “express yourself”, which focuses on recreation, creative expression, and social-emotional skill building. These sessions are open to individuals of all abilities.

Participants must be able to have success in a 1:4 staff-to-participant ratio. New participants are required to meet with a staff member and complete a trial session before enrolling.

To inquire about program availability, please contact broberts@shamesjcc.org.

Saturday Socials

Every last Saturday of the month, participants meet at a designated location in the community to engage in a planned group activity and are picked up directly from that site. This program promotes social-emotional learning, community navigation, and independent decision-making in a supported environment. Participants build skills in communication, interpersonal interaction, time management, safety awareness, money management (when applicable), and executive functioning.

Giving Retriever Canine-Integrated Social Enrichment 

Build confidence, social skills, and problem-solving abilities alongside the friendly therapy dogs from Giving Retriever! Through fun, interactive activities with the dogs and their peers, participants will strengthen communication, perspective-taking, and executive functioning skills in a welcoming, supportive environment.