ZCO/Dance Project- Financial District

adaptive dance zco/dance project

Adaptive Dance is something ZCO ( Zazel-Chavah O’Garra) has been passionate about for years. In light of suffering a debilitating circumstance in 2003, O’Garra was paralyzed on one side. During that time she learned adaptive dance as a way to help her cope mentally and heal her own body. After experiencing the benefits of dance first-hand in her rehabilitation she knew she must create an All-Inclusive Dance Company.

It was then that the ZCO/Dance Project was born. With her own story in mind, ZCO has made it her mission to serve those with physical and cognitive impairments. Adaptive Dance gives those individuals another way to express themselves through motion and therapeutic movement. Although some students may be wheel-chair bound, there is no stopping them from joining the class. ZCO dance primarily does Contemporary Performance routines. These routines are adjusted with supports so that all participants are engaged.

As a result, dancers at the Project gain self-confidence, independence, and a sense of accomplishment by the end of the semester. Ages 5-18. One on one or group sessions available. Time to step ball change with a click down below.

https://www.zcodanceproject.com/classes-and-workshops.html

Have you seen tuned into these TV programs yet? They all have characters that have disabilities. Check them out here. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/entertainment/tv/

Roaring Epiphany Production Company-Midtown

Inclusive Acting Roaring Epiphany Production Company

Inclusive Acting and Audition opportunities are somewhat lacking in New York City. Honestly, let me be real. They are lacking everywhere. However, NYC is a great place to start breaking through theater barriers.

Through our good fortune, RJ VerChuad decided to take the bull by the horns to try and fill some of the gaps. Back in 2015, he founded The Roaring Epiphany Production Company, (REPC). For the sole purpose of bringing inclusion acting to the forefront, REPC began casting ADULTS with disabilities in theatrical roles.

At the present time, productions of new and old works are performed at The Playroom Theater. REPC members get the chance to work alongside Broadway and off-Broadway actors. Generally, Adults 18+ with disabilities can audition to take the stage as actors, singers, dancers, and poets just to name a few options. Individuals in wheelchairs can easily apply and audition because the Playroom Theater is accessible for ALL.

Due to Roaring Epiphany’s diligence, Inclusive Acting is here to stay in New York City. We certainly hope that other cities take notice and start their own organizations to promote actors of ALL abilities. Your Opening Night awaits. Click Below.

https://www.roaringepiphany.com/about

Hey have you gone to a great restaurant lately ? You might want to check these out.

https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/birthday-parties/restaurants/

CO-LAB Theater Group-Chelsea

drama class co/lab theater

Have you ever been lucky enough to take an adaptive drama class? If you haven’t, now might be the time. In my experience, acting a part can be quite exhilarating. There is just something about being on stage that gives me such a thrill. Also, you usually form a special bond with the other people in the play or performance. Everyone is working together to create the best show possible and that makes it really incredible.

We are fortunate to have the CO/LAB Theater Group for this very purpose. CO/LAB stands for- Creative Opportunities without Limits and Boundaries. Sounds right up our alley, right?

Since 2011, this creative and social group has been teaching adaptive drama classes in Chelsea, Manhattan. Every individual gets a chance to shine by performing on stage/class in a non-judgment zone of acceptance and understanding. As a result, the environment cultivates friendships, confidence, and teamwork by working together as an ensemble. Participation is FREE. Yes, FREE. In addition, family and friends are invited to come and see the finished show performance at the end of the semester. Generally, Ages 9+ are welcome to register for this amazing adaptive drama class. Act now-it’s fun to pretend to be someone else every now and then – click down below.

https://www.colabtheatergroup.com/missionhistory

Do you have a friend that is in a wheelchair? Check out this cool blog that has a list of happening places that are accessible. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/reviews-from-special-needs-nyc-community-etc/travel/

Gigi’s Playhouse NYC-Harlem

support for those with down syndrome gigi's playhouse nyc

Are you one of the lucky few that has an extra chromosome? Let me first just say ” You Are Down Right, Awesome !” ” We love our homies with extra chromies in NYC!” Case and point, a dedicated mom made sure that a Gigi’s Playhouse set up shop here in Manhattan to support you. Gigi’s Playhouse is a Down Syndrome Achievement Center that has locations all over the world. Let me repeat. Achievement Center. That means they know You Can Do Big Things!

Our NYC Playhouse opened in 2012 in lower West Harlem. This clean and well-maintained center serves many purposes. Families can congregate and get to know one another. Ummm, Can we say instant friends? Yes, Please. Gigi’s Playhouse also provides services such as one on one tutoring in math and literacy. The best part is they are tailored to your unique learning style. Caring, and experienced mentors let you have a voice in learning and empower you to succeed. Oh and Get This-once a month they have an Epic Teentastic Dance Party. Request Songs and Get your Groove On with New and Old Friends who also have Down Syndrome. For those that are into taking care of themselves, ( I know I am) there is Gigi Fit, an exercise curriculum done as a group. Remember you are always just one workout away from a good mood.

Acceptance paired with lots of other FREE purposeful programming is one of the many reasons you will turn to this Playhouse for your needs.

https://gigisplayhouse.org/newyork/new-york-programs/

Did you know that Special Needs NYC has a list of some other helpful resources? See them here. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/reviews-from-special-needs-nyc-community-etc/other-helpful-special-needs-nyc-resources/

HEX & CO- Upper East and West Sides

HEX & CO Games

What are you doing for your birthday? Have you thought about having a birthday games party? I’ve got just the spot, HEX & CO. Have you been there yet? For those that haven’t let me explain. It’s really cool.

HEX & CO. is a Game Cafe for families and friends to congregate and have some good old fashioned fun playing board games. Did you see that board game? not i-pad, Nintendo switch, or other technology. Although those can be fun too, here you actually look at the other person while you are playing. This sort of relaxed setting interaction is helpful in developing social skills as well as critical thinking. Beginners are always welcome. Thank Goodness because sometimes we all need a little help learning how to play. Afterschool Coordinators are typically onsite and ready to jump right in with assisting people to learn new and old games alike.

Some Educational Camps and Programs have been designed with Special Needs individuals in mind. Can I get an Amen? Food/Drinks are offered at both locations. Master Gamers easily turn into Party Planners able to customize an area and game to fit with your Birthday Games Party theme. As a side note, HEX & CO’s are on the street level accessible to friends with wheelchairs. Do not pass Go and Collect all the Info down Below!

http://www.hexnyc.com

Hey, have you ever participated in a program at The Met Museum? If you haven’t I highly recommend you check into it. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category-programs-classes-make-the-met-yours-the-metropolitan-museum-of-art/

Girl Scouts of Greater New York-Manhattan

girl scouts of manhattan nyc

The Girl Scouts of Manhattan, NYC have been empowering young girls and teens since 1913! Holy Moly that’s over 100 years. Obviously, there must be something extraordinary about being a Girl Scout. After reading about the Girl Scout Promise and Law, their longevity makes sense. While some may only spell courage, honesty, and respect the Scouts actually Live By Them.

Most importantly, The Girl Scouts of Manhattan and beyond practice an inclusion model. In other words, ALL girls regardless of race, disability, religion, or socioeconomic status are welcome to join a troop near them. Across the USA the scouts help promote confidence, encouragement, leadership, and community service. Furthermore, the Scouts have these outdoor adventure camps that typically about 5000 girls go to every year. Can you imagine that many girls all in one place? It might be the world’s largest slumber party!

Because they know how many of you love Science. They have loads of hands-on activities where you can experiment and learn. Membership can start in Kindergarten and can extend on up to 12th grade. Frequently girls stay in for the long haul and take on leadership roles later on. Without Delay, Claim your badge and make life long friends along the way. Details below.

Save me a box of the thin mint cookies won’t you?

https://www.girlscoutsnyc.org/en/our-council/about-gsgny/diversity-and-inclusion.html

Have you started planning your birthday party yet? What if the party came to you at your house? Check it out. https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/birthday-parties/in-home-services/

High 5 to the Arts! Midtown and around town

high 5 to the arts arts connection nyc

A Teen Social Theater Program called High 5 to the Arts was the brainchild of the Arts Connection. Their mission is simple. Bring liberal arts right to the teens of NYC for BEYOND a reasonable price. Music, Theater, Movies, Dance, and even some Museum Galleries are all available for you to purchase a ticket online for a mere $5 or $10. Say what? Tickets to Theater alone are ordinarily around 59 Bucks. What a Steal!

Now here’s the catch you need to be a middle or high schooler. If you have some sort of ID to prove that, then viola you are in. The beauty is that for every ticket a student purchases an adult is welcome to purchase an additional ticket to go with them at the same price.

By and large, High 5 to the Arts is the coolest Teen Social Theater program out there. When you’re ready, get your gang together. Then sign up and take advantage of all their amazing events. Be sure to check out their FAQ section to review the fine points. Click below to join in on the FUN!

https://teens.artsconnection.org/high5/

Have you figured out where you want to eat for your birthday yet? Check these places out https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/birthday-parties/restaurants/

Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum- Chelsea Piers

intrepid museum

Do you love Science as much as I do? Well, then you are going to love this Special Needs STEM programming I’ve found. Together with a Community of Advisors, the Intrepid Museum has raised the bar with regard to accessibility options. The advisors have continued to demonstrate that they know what works to keep children with disabilities engaged.

If you are like me, you like to be prepared before you go anywhere. Am I right? The Intrepid Team understands. For this reason, everything from Social Narrative Stories to Visual Vocabularies is offered on Intrepid’s website. You can conveniently download and review the information before you even set foot inside the museum. Certainly, these packets cost money? Nope. All free. Boy, they sure know how to put our minds at ease, don’t they?

Another key point to mention is you can go early before this amazing Sea, Air and Space Museum even opens their doors to the crowds. Goodness me, talk about Red Carpet Treatment!

These specialized accommodations are just the tip of the iceberg. Additionally, Special Needs STEM activities include items such as going on a scavenger hunt using their sensory bag. Really? Yes, Really.

Can you imagine how much fun it would be to have a Birthday Party there? The Intrepid has these fantastic themes to choose from such as Spy, Rosie the Riveter, and Pilot. choose a day, choose a theme. Planning is done.

Want to get in on the fun right way? Check out all the interesting details about Intrepid’s access with the first link.

Also, a day camp filled with trained professionals is coming this Summer. I can’t wait! Climb aboard down below!

https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/education/accessibility-resources

https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/birthdayparty

Has Your School or Workplace has a Disability Awareness Day or Month yet? Everything you need is here and downloadable! https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/imagine/disability-awareness/

Culikid Cooking Program -various Manhattan locations

culikid cooking program

Special Needs individuals have a chance to be submerged in fun and taste with the Culikid Cooking Program. They do a pop-up cooking class once a month in a different restaurant or location for kids ages 4-14. All participants in the class have one on one support. Such a nice feature so you don’t need to worry about burning or cutting yourself. Trained chefs are there to teach you Important basic cooking skills making you feel empowered in the kitchen. You’ll be whipping up your own lunch in no time! While you are in there I’ll take a bowl of mac-n-cheese. Too soon? Alright fine. PB and J again, I guess.

I

Older teens and young adults(14-22) can be part of the” Foodie Group” once a week working on things a little more independently such as grocery shopping skills. There is nothing better than bonding over food in my book. Friends that cook and eat together stay together. During the Summer the Culikid Cooking Program will host its first Day Camp offered right here in Midtown. Find out al the details with a click down below. Your table is ready. Bon Appetit!

https://www.culikid.org/what-we-do

Want more ideas of other programs? https://thedisabilityallynyc.com/category/programs-classes/

en_USEnglish