Special Needs Enrichment Programs
A program of the nationally accredited JCC Day Camps
By providing a range of programming options, support and excellent services, our special needs camp gives children and young adults a space to learn, grow and thrive. It offers opportunities for families to connect with others facing similar challenges, share resources and experiences, and build lifelong friendships.
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Our programs
All special needs camps are tailored to accommodate each child’s unique needs and interests – providing plenty of opportunities for socialization, self-exploration, and communication development. From swimming and sports activities to outdoor exploration, and arts and crafts, there is a broad range of activities to keep children and young adults engaged and motivated. See our special needs programs in action.
For children entering kindergarten through 9th grade
KAT is an inclusion support program offered for Camp Kehilla and on-site Specialty Camp programs (KAT is only provided for “on-site” specialty camp programs in order to provide the most comprehensive support from our camp leadership staff).
The KAT program provides the opportunity for campers with disabilities who would benefit from an assigned inclusion counselor to be fully included with their same-aged peers. Counselors are paired with one to three campers depending on each child’s level of support needs. Each inclusion counselor receives specialized training before the camp summer begins!
Inclusion staff supports campers throughout their day in various ways, such as reviewing directions and expectations, modeling and facilitating conversations with peers, and providing breaks from the camp day when a camper is overwhelmed. In addition, Inclusion counselors may provide social stories, sensory tools, emotional regulation strategies, various reminders/prompts and other supports as needed.
The KAT program is an excellent fit for campers with disabilities who enjoy new experiences, being part of a group, and are able to communicate their needs (augmentative communication devices welcomed). Campers in the KAT program should be able to use the bathroom independently; reminders can be provided. Campers in the KAT program should be able to follow safety rules and stay with their assigned staff and group throughout the day. Our campers enjoy 250 beautiful wooded acres on our camp campus; therefore, campers who habitually elope (run away) from their group would pose a safety risk.
All new campers will require approval from the Camp Leadership Team before they are officially registered. The first step in this process is meeting with the Special Needs Department and Camp Leadership Team to discuss your child’s support needs and summer goals. Prospective new campers should apply through the JCC of Metro Detroit Camp website. A Special Needs Department staff member will reach out to each family to set up a new camper interview meeting.
Through our introductory family meetings, teacher recommendation forms, getting to know each camper individually, and partnering with parents and caregivers, the SN
department is dedicated to providing a safe and transformative summer experience for all of our campers.
Please note: KAT campers must commit to registering for four consecutive weeks of camp.
If you have additional questions, please reach out to : Shayne Beasley-Young Assistant Director – Special Needs Enrichment [email protected].
For children and young adults ages 10 to 28
The SNAP program is a field trip-based adventure experience for campers entering middle school through young adults aged 28. The SNAP program provides the opportunity for campers with disabilities who thrive in a small group camp setting with staff supervision that averages 3:1 throughout their day.
The SNAP program will divide participants into two pods based on age. The SNAP participants enjoy off-campus field trips 4 times a week. In past summers, favorites include The Detroit Zoo, Oakland County Fair, and the Detroit River Tour. During the year, our programming staff works hard to book a variety of repeated favorite field trips and new experiences!
While on campus, SNAP campers will take part in workshops and activities that foster independent living skills, healthy eating and food preparation, and other essential life skills. Campers also enjoy traveling programs that come to the JCC to provide entertainment and enrichment.
The SNAP program is an excellent fit for campers with disabilities who enjoy new experiences, being part of a group, and are able to communicate their needs (augmentative communication devices welcomed). Participants in the SNAP program should be able to follow safety rules and stay with their assigned staff and group throughout the day.
The SNAP program provides a full day of engaging programming. Participants who are open to trying new things and are able to transition many times throughout the day, with trained support staff, thrive in the SNAP program.
All new SNAP campers will require approval from the Camp Leadership Team before they are officially registered. The first step in this process is meeting with the Special Needs Department and Camp Leadership Team to discuss your camper’s support needs and summer goals. Prospective new campers should apply through the JCC of Metro Detroit Camp website. A Special Needs Department staff member will reach out to each family to set up a new camper interview meeting.
Through our introductory family meetings, teacher recommendation forms (if applicable), getting to know each camper individually, and partnering with parents and caregivers, the SN department is dedicated to providing a safe and transformative summer experience for all of our campers.
Please note: The SNAP program offers two 4-week sessions. The JCC is unable to break up camp sessions. Many of our young adult participants enjoy participating in one session of SNAP and one session of YAAT!
If you have additional questions, please reach out to : Shayne Beasley-Young Assistant Director – Special Needs Enrichment at [email protected].
For young adults ages 15 to 28
The YAAT program is a summer vocational and life skill camp for young adults ages 15-28. The YAAT program provides the opportunity for young adults with disabilities who thrive in a small group camp setting with staff supervision that averages 3:1 throughout their day to continue their vocational, soft skills, and life skills education in a summer camp environment. This program is created for young adults who already have some experience in a vocational education program.
The main focus of our YAAT program is the opportunity for participants to work at various job sites throughout our local community and departments within the JCC campus, with our camp staff acting as “job coaches.” A favorite tradition among our YAAT participants is running the J’s own “pop-up” coffee cart and car wash throughout the summer.
While on campus, YAAT campers will take part in workshops and activities that foster independent living skills, healthy eating and food preparation, and other essential life skills. Campers also enjoy traveling programs that come to the JCC camps to provide entertainment and enrichment.
The YAAT program is an excellent fit for campers with disabilities who enjoy new experiences, being part of a group, and are able to communicate their needs (augmentative communication devices welcomed).
The YAAT program provides a full day of engaging educational opportunities and programming. Participants who are open to trying new things and can transition many times throughout the day, with trained support staff, thrive in the YAAT program.
All new YAAT campers will require approval from the Camp Leadership Team before they are officially registered. The first step in this process is meeting with the Special Needs Department and Camp Leadership Team to discuss your camper’s support needs and summer goals. Prospective new campers should apply through the JCC of Metro Detroit Camp website. A Special Needs Department staff member will reach out to each family to set up a new camper interview meeting.
Through our introductory family meetings, teacher recommendation forms (if applicable), getting to know each camper individually, and partnering with parents and caregivers, the SN department is dedicated to providing a safe and transformative summer experience for all of our campers.
Participants in the YAAT program may be eligible for Extended School Year (ESY) programs through their home school district. These campers will work on their individual IEP goals with our YAAT staff’s guidance and our ESY coordinator’s support within the framework of the YAAT curriculum. Some school districts will provide funding for one camp session.
Please note: The YAAT program offers two 4-week sessions. The JCC is unable to break up YAAT camp sessions. Many of our young adult participants enjoy participating in one session of SNAP and one session of YAAT!
If you have additional questions, please reach out to : Shayne Beasley-Young Assistant Director – Special Needs Enrichment at [email protected].
Join the fun at our Thursday Night Social Group! Hosted at The J, this vibrant program meets twice a month from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. and is designed for individuals with special needs, ages 16+, to connect, make friends, and enjoy a variety of exciting activities. Enjoy Bingo Nights, Movie Nights, Dance Parties, Cooking Classes, Game Nights, and so much more!
The cost is just $5 per participant, and guardians/caregivers are welcome to attend for free!
RSVP today! Email Shayne Beasley-Young at [email protected] to secure your spot.
Ages 12-28
Looking for an enriching and exciting experience for your camper during school breaks? Our Break Camps are here to make every moment count! Offered three times a year during December, February, and March, these camps are packed with fun, learning, and opportunities to grow.
Upcoming Camp Dates:
– February Break: February 17, 2025 – February 21, 2025
– March Break: March 21, 2025 – March 25, 2025
Campers participate in a variety of dynamic activities designed to promote social connections, creativity, and personal growth. Program highlights include:
Exercise Classes: Stay active with engaging fitness activities tailored to all abilities.
Music Therapy: Discover the joy of music through interactive and therapeutic sessions.
Arts & Crafts: Let imaginations soar with hands-on creative projects.
Independent Living Skills (ILS): Build confidence and independence through fun, practical activities.
Social Activities: Make friends and enjoy group games, themed activities, and more.
Programs run Monday through Friday of each break week, giving you the flexibility to choose the days that work best for your family.
Location: All camps are hosted at The J.
Cost: $100 a day
Financial aid is available for families, and we accept third-party payments, including MORC and CLS.
Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to secure your camper’s spot!
If you have additional questions, please reach out to : Shayne Beasley-Young Assistant Director – Special Needs Enrichment at [email protected].
Coming Soon! For adults ages 26-35 years.
GRADs participate in social activities, independent living skills (ILS) workshops, and exercise classes throughout the week, in addition to other fun activities. Programming runs Tuesday-Thursday and weekly options are available. Third party payments are accepted.
GRAD is a new component to the SNAP program, with similar goals, programming, and logistics. GRADs will be in pods with a 3:1 ratio of participants to staff.
Registration for GRADs will be coming soon and more information will be available in coming months.
“This camp is more than just a camp to me.” — Tyler Gagnon, YAAT camper
For your peace of mind, please know our special needs camp counselors receive extensive training and certifications, including, but not limited to, nonviolent crisis management, CPR/First Aid, epilepsy, behavior management, and an introduction to autism, inclusion and socialization.
Questions? Please call (248) 432-5469 or email the Special Needs Enrichment Department at [email protected].
