The Gesher Inclusion Program at the JCC
Empowering Adults with Disabilities. Building Community.
The Gesher Inclusion Program is supported in part by the Herman and Rebecca Fineberg Fund for People with Special Needs with additional support from the Edna and Larry Abelson Fund for Special Needs, the Raymond and Elizabeth Bloch Educational and Charitable Foundation, the Ralph Davidson Special Needs Fund, the Zola Hirsch Fund for Special Needs and the Robert Spiegel Memorial Endowment Fund.
About Gesher
The Gesher Program is an afternoon program for adults with disabilities. Grounded in the values of community, dignity and personal growth, Gesher supports participants in exploring the JCC and engaging in meaningful activities they enjoy – at their highest level of independence – with thoughtful staff support.
At Gesher, participants build friendships, develop life skills and become active members of the JCC community. With a balance of routine and variety, the program promotes independence, self-expression and physical wellness through interest-based activities and shared experiences.
Activities
Participants have access to a wide range of engaging activities across the JCC designed to support social and physical development. Activities are structured yet flexible, allowing individuals to make choices and explore personal interests while practicing independence and communication.
Regular offerings include:
- Art Class – Drawing, painting and creative expression
- Music & Movement – Singing, dancing and rhythm-based games
- Neighborhood Walks – Exploring Squirrel Hill and building navigation skills
- Library Visits – Group and independent reading time at the Carnegie Library
- Swimming – Recreational swim time with staff support
- Leisure time – Interest-based activities to explore a variety of puzzles, games, books and guided social interactions
- Yoga & Mindfulness – Stretching, breathing and relaxation led by the JCC’s fitness and wellness coordinator
- Fitness Centered Workouts – Guided access to cardio equipment in Centerfit
- Technology – Engaging with digital tools to build interest and skills
- Community Outings – Trips to local restaurants, businesses and cultural spaces.
Staff and Support
Gesher is led by a team of compassionate, dedicated staff who form strong connections with each participant. They provide consistent encouragement and ensure everyone can participate safely and meaningfully.
Registration
Gesher offers more than just afternoon programming – it’s a welcoming space where adults can grow, connect and thrive. Families are invited to visit and see how Gesher empowers participants to discover what they love and become more independent, engaged members of our JCC community.
For more information, please contact David May-Stein
Violet and Joseph Soffer Foundation: Family Special Olympics
Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Those activities give these individuals continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendships.
Looking for more information? Check out the special olympics programs available in the state of PA, or read the fact sheet linked below.
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