Life Enrichment Programs
The J is an inclusive agency that welcomes people of all abilities. Persons of all abilities may participate in any agency program where a suitable match exists, pending eligibility and the successful procurement of any needed supports – this includes our fitness, youth, adult and camp programs.
Want to support life enrichment programs like Theatre Unlimited and Sunday Friendship? Donate here!
Sunday Friendship (adults 18 years and older)
In our Sunday Friendship program, Explore St. Louis and make new friends with this social group for adults with disabilities. Game days, Six Flags, bingo, bowling, movies, nature and holiday parties are just a few of the social activities we plan each year. Participants set interpersonal and independence goals to work on at each activity. Trained staff help the participant to work toward and achieve his or her goals. This group runs on a 1:5 ratio and participants should not display aggressive behavior. Participants who need 1:1 assistance must be accompanied by their own staff. Sponsored by the Productive Living Board.
Contact
Sarah Loos, Life Enrichment & Camp Services Manager
314-442-3295
Theatre Unlimited (adults 18 years and older)
Founded in 1987 through the Jewish Community Center’s Inclusion department, Theatre Unlimited is one of the oldest barrier-free theatre programs in St. Louis. Specifically designed to allow adults with disabilities to shine on stage, each Fall and Spring season gives Theatre Unlimited participants the chance to audition, rehearse, and perform an entire production. In rehearsals, participants play ensemble-building games, engage in chorus singing practice, practice their roles, learn basic components of theatre, and socialize with their cast mates. As actors, our participants are working on social, cognitive, emotional, and communicative skills. In addition, participants form lasting friendships and get to express themselves creatively through theatre.
Contact
Dodi Smason, 314.442.3166
IN Program
Ages 18+
Offered via Adult Day at the J
Get IN! A new and innovative program offered through the Adult Day Center at the J for individuals 18+ with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down’s Syndrome or other intellectual/developmental disabilities. IN is a program designed to foster INdependence, INclusion, INgenuity, and to INspire young adults with disabilities to achieve their personal goals and have fun while doing it.
Life Enrichment Fitness Programs
The J offers a variety of classes designed for varying abilities for children and adults age 12 and older including Adaptive Aquatics, Dance Fusion, Zumba, and even personal training! All classes are taught by specially trained fitness instructors. Some classes have been sponsored by the Productive Living Board.
Contact
Sarah Loos, Life Enrichment & Camp Services Manager
314-442-3295
Life Enrichment – Camps & Camper Support
The J offers several options for campers with developmental disabilities! The J Day Camps hire specially trained counselors to give 1:1 support and offer two camps specifically for campers with developmental disabilities. Learn more about our Life Enrichment options below!
Contact:
Sarah Loos, Life Enrichment & Camp Services Manager
314-442-3295
Life Enrichment Services at the J Receive Funding from The Productive Living Board of St. Louis
At its May board meeting, the Productive Living Board of St. Louis County (PLB) approved an investment in The J’s Life Enrichment Services program.
PLB ensures funding for a spectrum of high-quality services that create opportunities for St. Louis County residents with developmental disabilities to thrive in the home, community, and employment settings of their choosing. In the 2023 fiscal year, they have committed to a $25,121,134 investment that will serve nearly 4,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through the 114 programs provided by their 39 funded partners.
Contact
Sarah Loos, Life Enrichment & Camp Services Manager
314-442-3295
sloos@jccstl.org
Carly Smale, Life Enrichment & Adult Day Service Intake Specialist
314-442-3111
csmale@jccstl.org
Click here to file an ADA or Title VI complaint with the Jewish Community Center.