Special Needs

The Special Needs Programs at the Summit Area YMCA are thoughtfully designed for children with diverse abilities like communication, social, behavioral and learning differences to thrive in a safe, friendly and supportive environment. Our mission is to encourage, help, build and strengthen healthy physical activity, confidence, social skills and more. From yoga to structured play dates, to swim arts and crafts, participants can enjoy a variety of activities that promote health, wellness, creative enrichment, socialization and more.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

FRIDAYS IN MOTION 
BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA & SUMMIT YMCA
9/16, 10/14, 11/11, 12/9 | FRI | 6:00-7:00 PM
COST: FREE
AGES 7-21

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ADAPTIVE CYCLING
SUMMIT YMCA
COMING SOON
MP: $10 | NMP: $20
AGES 7-21

REGISTER

ADAPTIVE DANCE
BERKELEY HEIGHTS YMCA
COMING SOON
MP: $10 | NMP: $20
AGES 7-21

REGISTER

ADAPTIVE SWIM
SUMMIT YMCA
3/4/2023 - 6/3/2023
COST: Members $120 | Community Members $220
AGES 3+

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2023 EXTRA SPECIAL PROM
Date: Friday, May 5, 2023
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Berkeley Heights YMCA | Add to Calendar

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SPECIAL EVENTS

Thanks to our generous local sponsors, we also host a variety of special events throughout the year, like our annual Extra Special Prom (see past events from 2022, 2019, 2018), open swim days at our outdoor pools, pet therapy sessions, yoga nights and more. Interested in sponsoring an event, want to volunteer or get involved? Please contact us (below).

Read more about the development of Special Needs programs at the Summit Area YMCA. 

LOOKING FOR MORE?

The Summit Area YMCA builds stronger communities with programs and services that help all individuals learn, grow, and thrive in a welcoming, inclusive environment. In fact, the Y offers activities and programs for everyone -- every day! Find the program that’s right for you by browsing our Program Guide or All Programs page.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

The Summit Area YMCA works side-by-side with our neighbors to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, income and background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Each year, we serve more than 15,000 individuals with our free and fee-based programs and services, through the generosity of our members, donors, and partners. Families with low or moderate household income or those who are experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply. Applicants must live or work in the Summit Area YMCA service area which includes Berkeley Heights, Gillette, Millburn, New Providence, Short Hills, Springfield, Stirling and Summit. Financial assistance can be used for membership, child care, summer camp, enrichment and sports programs where additional fees apply, such as soccer and swimming lessons.

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