Programs &Scholarships
the POINT community
The individuals in the POINT (Pursuing Our INdependence Together) community follow an innovative model where they reside in their own apartments within walking distance of a Community Center. They receive support from master’s level clinicians, access to a 24/7 emergency phone line, and are part of a community of peers who face similar challenges and triumphs in living independently. Unfortunately, unlike Group Homes or Community Residential programs funded by OPWDD (Office for People with Developmental Disabilities), the POINT community does not receive public funding, limiting access to those with financial resources.
POINT offers individuals who might have otherwise remained isolated at home without social support or community engagement, or in a residential program designed for those requiring continuous assistance, a real opportunity to achieve maximum independence. Participants in this community have demonstrated significant personal growth since its inception in 2008. They strive daily to develop new skills and build upon their current strengths, reducing their reliance on support and becoming more self-sufficient through enriching educational and social activities designed to foster growth and independence. At the same time, they build a supportive peer community that allows for social interaction and meaningful, lifelong friendships. Most POINT participants are employed, volunteering, or pursuing further education.
Scholarship:
UP TO$2500 - $5000 per year
Commitment for up to 4 Years with Annual Renewal
Shelanu
Shelanu is a program for individuals who are on the Autism Spectrum or living with intellectual and/or developmental differences and are transitioning into adulthood. Many services that individuals were once entitled to within their school district are no longer accessible once they reach age 21; they have essentially “aged out.” Shelanu offers experiences where individuals can come together in a safe space, learning hands-on skills, and developing lasting friendships by participating in educational, vocational, and recreational activities. The hope is that through this
supportive and educational program, and with guidance from trained counselors, they build a network of peers they can rely on for support, impactful connections, and camaraderie through the years.
Scholarship:
$250 Annual Membership Fee
Theater for Action
Theater for Action is a comprehensive arts and performance experience for young adults that allows everyone to be a star! Individuals come together to learn about creating a performance through interactive and skill-building theater games, improvisation exercises, physical movement, singing, and acting. Participants are encouraged to step out of their comfort zone, be creative, and take risks in a safe and supportive environment. The season starts in the fall with sessions designed for new participants to build trust and discover their acting voices. Soon after, actors commit to the annual show and audition for a part, with everyone receiving a role. Actors rehearse for several months, and the culmination of their efforts takes place in the Spring with an annual performance. The show is a huge hit year after year, with a packed audience and very proud actors!
This program is included in the POINT fee. Individuals from the community, if eligible, can join for a nominal fee of $300.
Scholarship:
$300 Annual Membership Fee
North East Westchester Special Recreation
North East Westchester Special Recreation, Inc. strives to provide community-based therapeutic recreation programs that enhance the physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning of children, teens and adults with developmental disabilities. North East is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization operating under the auspices of the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities. Nominal activity fees are charged to help cover the gap between state funding and the cost of participating in community recreation activities.
For this reason, we are providing scholarships to eligible individuals who cannot otherwise afford these meaningful and essential programs.
Activities include: Bowling, Team Sports, Fitness Frenzy, Girl’s Night Out, Nite Club, Friday Night Fun, Curling, Saturday Clubhouse, Fantastic Friends, Escapades & Adult Trips, and Summer day camp for children ages 4 through 21 years.
Scholarship:
Amount Based on Cost of Requested Activity
Achilles Westchester
This is a free, healthy activity held at the Kensico Dam in Valhalla. The group meets from May through mid-October, and athletes walk, jog, and run. It is social, fun, and a great way to get your steps in! Volunteer guides are available to walk, jog, and run with the athletes. Achilles International, based in NYC, was established by Dick Traum in 1983 to encourage people with disabilities to participate in mainstream athletics. With support from Traum, the Westchester Chapter was founded in May 2015. Since then, over 50 athletes have joined, and in addition to the weekly sessions, the group has participated in 5ks throughout Westchester. The Dam is near the Valhalla Train Station and on the Beeline Bus route. However, if transportation costs preclude an individual from joining, they are encouraged to apply for transportation funding through a scholarship.
Scholarship:
for Transportation, cost TBD
POINT WJCS
Shelanu WJCS
NorthEast Recreation
Theater for Action JCCA Compass
POINT WJCS
POINT supports adults, ages 21 and older, with developmental and learning disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, to live independently in apartments located throughout downtown White Plains. Participants engage in individual and group meetings that emphasize life skills training, health awareness and social interactions. In addition to building camaraderie, participants are supported by a dedicated staff of master’s level specialists.
CHECK OUT POINT
Achilles International
POINT WJCS
Shelanu WJCS
NorthEast Recreation
Theater for Action JCCA Compass
Shelanu WJCS
A home away from home for young Jewish adults with autism
WJCS “Shelanu” (which means Ours in Hebrew), is a membership community for Jewish young adults, 18–35, with autism spectrum disorders, and their friends. Shelanu provides the opportunity for young Jewish adults on the autism spectrum to share experiences, learn together, participate in recreational activities, build skills, and develop lasting friendships in a safe and supportive atmosphere.
CHECK OUT SHELANU
Achilles International
POINT WJCS
Shelanu WJCS
NorthEast Recreation
Theater for Action JCCA Compass
North East Westchester Special Recreation
North East Westchester Special Recreation, Inc. is a community based therapeutic recreation program for children, teens and adults with developmental disabilities residing in Westchester County, New York.
CHECK OUT NORTHEAST RECREATION
Achilles International
POINT WJCS
Shelanu WJCS
NorthEast Recreation
Theater for Action JCCA Compass
Theater for Action JCCA Compass
The Compass Project helps teens and young adults with learning differences, executive functioning and social communication challenges, Autism Spectrum disorders and related disabilities.
The Compass Project is designed to help young people plan for and make a successful transition from high school, college or unemployment to the workplace and independent adulthood.
CHECK OUT THEATRE FOR ACTION
Achilles International
POINT WJCS
Shelanu WJCS
NorthEast Recreation
Theater for Action JCCA Compass
Achilles International
Achilles International, a global organization operating in 18 countries including the US, transforms the lives of people with disabilities through athletic programs and social connection.
CHECK OUT ACHILLES INTERNATIONAL
Achilles International
For more information about these programs, please click on the links provided below:
Our hope is that these scholarships, for eligible applicants, will open more doors for individuals to partake in and benefit from services in Westchester County that promote independence, connection, friendships, and community.
— Valerie Rosen & Bob Mensch, Co-Chairs, of Helping Hands for Independent Living
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Helping Hands for Independent Living is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young adults with the tools and support needed to develop life skills and achieve independent living. Together, we foster growth, connection, and community.