Adaptations

Adaptations photo resized

Adaptations is a dynamic, supportive, social community for adults at the Jack and Shirley Silver Center for Special Needs (CSN) at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. Through structured social/recreational and employment programs, Adaptations provides multiple pathways to fostering independence, finding your passion, and experiencing the richness of community. Adaptations is not a clinical or therapeutic program.

Our work is guided by six principles:

  • Ensure participants experience a sense of belonging
  • Connect and empower participants to build friendships through facilitated social opportunities
  • Encourage engagement through rich and diverse programming that reflects participants’ interests
  • Create adapted experiences that enable participants to expand their sense of self and abilities
  • Offer customized job-readiness programs to help individuals achieve competitive employment
  • Facilitate local community connections and foster inclusive opportunities for participants to enhance their quality of life

Join our community on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date on all of the exciting things Adaptations members are doing.

To find out more about Adaptations, click the FAQ link below.

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Adaptations FAQ
Adaptations landing

​​​Adaptations FAQ

What is Adaptations?

Adaptations is a dynamic, supportive, social community for adults at the Jack and Shirley Silver Center for Special Needs (CSN) at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. Through structured social/recreational and employment programs, Adaptations provides multiple pathways to fostering independence, finding your passion, and experiencing the richness of community. Adaptations is not a clinical or therapeutic program.

Who is in the Adaptations community?

Adaptations is a community of adults with a high level of independence looking to learn, grow, and deepen connections with one another. Adaptations members are:

  • Adults over the age of 22
  • Comfortable in a 12:1 member to staff ratio
  • Able to travel independently throughout the city
  • Have a support system in place such as family, friends, or therapists
  • Able to maintain a respectful and safe environment for others
  • Excited to meet new people and try new activities.

What types of programming does Adaptations provide?

Below is just a sampling of all of the programs Adaptations has to offer. In your discovery call, we will review our monthly calendar with you. To browse the current season's offerings, click here.

  • Social Programming: board game lounge, dine outs, karaoke, speed friending, etc.
  • Support + Skills: men's/women's/neuroqueer/couples' Groups, Relationships + Sexuality, advocacy group, etc.
  • Arts + Culture: art classes, improv, comic book club, museum trips, and Broadway outings
  • Fitness: circuit training and holistic warriors
  • Job Support: social skills in the workplace, working professional dine outs
  • Special Events: holiday parties and programming, community service events, annual events such as prom, Disability Pride Parade, and more

How do I join the program?

Step 1: Please reach out to Adaptations director Michelle Wexler at mwexler@mmjccm.org to complete our online questionnaire.

Step 2: Following completion, Adaptations will reach out to schedule a virtual discovery call. The discovery call is an opportunity to learn more about you, your goals, and to share more about Adaptations. If during the course of the discovery call, you or Adaptations feel like our community isn't the ideal match, we will email you referrals for alternate programming and/or support.

Can I try out Adaptations programs before my discovery call?
You must complete a discovery call prior to registering or attending Adaptations programming. Following your discovery call, you are welcome to trial a program.

Are there fees for programs and do you offer scholarships?
There are fees associated with Adaptations programs, generally $10-$25 each. We never want money to be a barrier to programs and we offer scholarships on an as-needed basis. No JCC or Adaptations membership fees are necessary to join.

I live outside of NYC. Can I still join Adaptations?
Yes! We have participants who travel to us from near and far—New Jersey, Long Island, Westchester, and other locations.

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      Adaptations Program Descriptions
      Adaptations Programs
      • Relationship Support
      • Social Scene
      • Arts + Culture
      • Fitness + Healthy Living

      RELATIONSHIP SUPPORT

      Creative Alternatives to Social Learning

      Licensed drama therapists and trained theater artists lead engaging, interactive activities that inspire confidence and a sense of community.

      NeuroQueer Support Group

      Are you looking to meet other LGBTQ+ or questioning individuals with disabilities to learn from and share your experiences with? Each month, this support group offers a safe space to discuss and share questions and situations around being LGBTQ+ and having a disability.

      This group is for adults 18+ who identify as LGBTQ+ or are questioning their sexual orientation/gender.

      Couples Group

      Are you part of a couple in which both of you are members of Adaptations? Join us in this safe space to talk about the ups and downs of being together.


      SOCIAL SCENE

      Lounge

      Join your friends and other Adaptations participants on Sunday afternoons at one of our most popular programs. Engage in conversation and enjoy light fare in a relaxed, social environment.

      Dine Out

      Interested in catching up with old friends and making new ones over dinner? Spend an evening dining with Adaptations members at a local restaurant.

      End-of-Season Parties

      Join Adaptations for our traditional end-of-season parties! Whether it’s on the rooftop, a dance party, or a dinner party, don’t miss these spectacular events with friends from your favorite programs.

      Jewish Holiday Celebrations

      Join Adaptations for some of the many holiday-themed programs at the JCC. Celebrations such as First Night First Light, Tikkun, Adaptations Sukkot Dinner, Chanukah Lounge, and Purim parties are just some of the Jewish holiday celebrations offered.


      ARTS + CULTURE

      Comic Book Club

      Are you a little angry at DC Comics over the annual universe shake-ups? Did you know who the Red Hulks were before the reveal? Come discuss and learn about the comic book world with this lively group!

      Anime Group

      Are you tired of keeping your inner otaku—your obsession with anime—a secret? Do you want to watch anime beyond Dragon Ball or Bleach? Find others who share your passion at Anime Group.

      Literary Club

      Build a body of creative writing work that ranges from heartfelt to hilarious. Writers hone their craft and express themselves through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.


      FITNESS + HEALTHY LIVING

      Circuit Training

      Come every week to learn how to train your body into the shape you want. Sign up by yourself or with other Adaptations members to work out with Jamar Grimball, a terrific and talented certified trainer at the JCC Fitness Center.

      Teens/Young Adults Special Needs Swim Class

      This swim class is for teens and young adults with special needs (age 15–29). This class focuses on basic swimming skills and strokes, including breathing technique and becoming comfortable in the water. We specialize in small class sizes and dedicated instructors. Intake form required. Please contact Caitlin Boker at aquatics@mmjccm.org for more information.

      For more information, please email Adaptations director, Michelle Wexler.

      Adaptations programs are generously supported by Jack and Shirley Silver and individual donors.

      Adaptations Classes

      Adaptations Comic Book Club Class Pack
      Adaptations Comic Book Club Class Pack

      In Person + Virtual. DC or Marvel? Batman or Superman? Join Comic Book Club to learn about the world of comics. Learn about the famous illustrators and iconic comic series of the past 50 years.

      Buy a class pack and save $5. Dates: 1/7/24, 2/4/24, 3/3/24, 4/7/24, 5/5/24, 6/16/24.

      -
      -
      55.00
      Members
      55.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge Class Pack
      Adaptations Lounge Class Pack

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      -
      165.00
      Members
      165.00
      Public
      Adaptations Couples Group
      Adaptations Couples Group

      Virtual. Are you and your partner looking for a supportive environment to connect with other people who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Couples' Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills. Couples only need to register once. 

      -
      20.00
      Members
      20.00
      Public
      Adaptations Circuit Training
      Adaptations Circuit Training

      In Person + Virtual. Flex new fitness skills at this engaging circuit training program. Each class will teach you skills related to aerobics and body weight training. This program is run by SPIRIT Fitness Club.

      Please Wear:
      - Sneakers
      - Exercise Clothes

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Literary Club
      Adaptations Literary Club

      In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be yours! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations ZOOMba Class
      Adaptations ZOOMba Class

      In Person + Virtual. Immerse yourself in the exciting technique of Zumba each month with instructor Vera Fichtelberg. This lively dance fitness class is sure to get you moving!

      Please Wear:
      - Sneakers
      - Exercise Clothes

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge
      Adaptations Lounge

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL Class Pack
      Adaptations CASL Class Pack

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      Buy a class pack and save $20. Dates: 4/8/24, 4/15/24, 5/6/24, 5/13/24, 5/20/24, 6/3/24, 6/10/24, 6/17/24, 6/24/24.

      -
      -
      250.00
      Members
      250.00
      Public
      Adaptations Chorus
      Adaptations Chorus

      In Person. Learn about pitch, tempo, and beat at Adaptations' very own Chorus. Singers of all levels are invited to join the fun.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Literary Club
      Adaptations Literary Club

      In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be yours! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations Circuit Training
      Adaptations Circuit Training

      In Person + Virtual. Flex new fitness skills at this engaging circuit training program. Each class will teach you skills related to aerobics and body weight training. This program is run by SPIRIT Fitness Club.

      Please Wear:
      - Sneakers
      - Exercise Clothes

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations ZOOMba Class
      Adaptations ZOOMba Class

      In Person + Virtual. Immerse yourself in the exciting technique of Zumba each month with instructor Vera Fichtelberg. This lively dance fitness class is sure to get you moving!

      Please Wear:
      - Sneakers
      - Exercise Clothes

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge
      Adaptations Lounge

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Dine Out
      Adaptations Dine Out

      In Person. Explore the best restaurants on the Upper West Side with Adaptations! Together, we will learn and practice skills related to dining out and money management while enjoying a delicious meal.

      Please Bring:
      - Cash for Meal, Tip, and Dessert

      -
      5.00
      Members
      5.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge
      Adaptations Lounge

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Couples Group
      Adaptations Couples Group

      Virtual. Are you and your partner looking for a supportive environment to connect with other people who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Couples' Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills. Couples only need to register once. 

      -
      20.00
      Members
      20.00
      Public
      Adaptations ZOOMba Class
      Adaptations ZOOMba Class

      In Person + Virtual. Immerse yourself in the exciting technique of Zumba each month with instructor Vera Fichtelberg. This lively dance fitness class is sure to get you moving!

      Please Wear:
      - Sneakers
      - Exercise Clothes

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations 20s + 30s Social
      Adaptations 20s + 30s Social

      In Person. Are you a member of Adaptations in your 20s + 30s? Then this event is for you! Each month, we will participate in exciting events at the JCC and/or around the city as well as plan our following month's program.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge
      Adaptations Lounge

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Neuroqueer Group
      Adaptations Neuroqueer Group

      Virtual. Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community who is looking to learn alongside others who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Neuroqueer Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Literary Club
      Adaptations Literary Club

      In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be yours! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations 40s+ Social
      Adaptations 40s+ Social

      In Person. Are you a member of Adaptations over 40? Then this event is for you! Each month, we will participate in exciting events at the JCC and/or around the city as well as plan our following month's program.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations Circuit Training
      Adaptations Circuit Training

      In Person + Virtual. Flex new fitness skills at this engaging circuit training program. Each class will teach you skills related to aerobics and body weight training. This program is run by SPIRIT Fitness Club.

      Please Wear:
      - Sneakers
      - Exercise Clothes

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Men's Group
      Adaptations Men's Group

      Virtual. Are you a man who is looking to learn alongside others who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Men's Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations Women's Group
      Adaptations Women's Group

      Virtual. Are you a woman who is looking to learn alongside others who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Women's Groups to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge
      Adaptations Lounge

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Sunday Trip: TBD
      Adaptations Sunday Trip: TBD

      In Person. Uptown, downtown, midtown, and more. Join your Adaptations crew each month for an NYC adventure!

      Travel Information:
      The group will meet at the JCC at 2:45 pm. The exact location will be emailed to registered participants.

      -
      20.00
      Members
      20.00
      Public
      Adaptations CASL
      Adaptations CASL

      In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

      -
      30.00
      Members
      30.00
      Public
      Adaptations Literary Club
      Adaptations Literary Club

      In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be yours! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

      -
      10.00
      Members
      10.00
      Public
      Adaptations Lounge
      Adaptations Lounge

      In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

      -
      15.00
      Members
      15.00
      Public

      Help us continue to ensure accessible programming for everyone. Please support special needs at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan.