The JCC’s Center for Inclusion and Special Needs provides important resources for adults and their families by offering programs that are open to the community.
Questions about our adult inclusion programs?
Contact Renee Hundt, Director of Special Needs & Inclusion , at 414-967-8206.
Chaverim
Chaverim (Hebrew for friends) is an adult social group for individuals of differing abilities to enjoy social, recreational, and educational programs. We work with participants to develop their social skills, build peer relationships, and try new things in a safe and inclusive environment. Chaverim meets Tuesdays & Thursdays throughout the month to participate in dinners, cultural events, arts & crafts, movie & dance nights, social & educational opportunities, and wellness events.
-
How much does Chaverim cost?
Option #1
$50 a year (+ minimal fees for events) for a Chaverim membership which provides access to:• All Chaverim events
• Door-to-door transportation (ask about service area)
• Free holiday luncheons
• Community-wide events
Option #2
By becoming a JCC Member, you can participate in the Chavimer program. Learn more about Joining the JCC today. jccmilwaukee.org/join -
What is door-to-door transportation?
A unique component of Chaverim outreach is our ability to provide door-to-door bus transportation to participants within a pre-determined radius of the JCC. To make programs accessible to individuals regardless of living situation and income, we provide transportation to each event whether it is at our Jewish Community Center or out in the city of Milwaukee.
-
Chaverim Code of Conduct
The purpose of this document is to set out the standards of behavior expected of Chaverim members while engaged in activities through the Harry and Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center (JCC), when communicating with JCC staff members, and, when applicable, during transportation services. As part of Chaverim, each member must also agree to always adhere to these codes.
CLICK HERE to sign.

"This is our son's first month attending Chaverim and we have never seen him so excited about a program that he has been a part of. He truly enjoyed all the activities that he participated in, especially Upstream Arts. He thanked us for getting him involved. This has never happened before! We are so grateful for the JCC and this wonderful program. "
»Wellness 360
Wellness 360 is a group wellness program designed for adults with disabilities to learn skills & habits that build independence. Offered in partnership with Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin Family Services Inc. (DSAW), participants work on wellness skills like independent exercise, mindfulness, and hygiene, and practical skills like money handling, paying bills, and more.

"I like coming to Wellness 360 so see my friends, making the community happy, and trying new activities. Wellness 360 makes me feel happy and I feel excited to come in the mornings. I like playing soccer, cooking, selling coffee to the JCC, and going to restaurants with my friends! We enjoy listening to music, helping my friends in the class, eating lunch, and going on field trips like bowling, Rainbow Day Camp and going to museums! "
»Bonim Farms
Bonim Farms is a program of the Albert & Ann Deshur JCC Rainbow Day Camp that employs adults with disabilities to work as Farm Fellows. Participants maintain general garden needs, harvest & package produce and herbs, manage farmer’s markets, and more, all while learning important life skills.
Transportation to Fredonia, WI is included for all Bonim Farms participants.
Tutoring and Personal Training
CISN’s Tutoring Center is for individuals ages 3-30 years old in need of academic assistance in one or more subject areas. Our qualified and experienced special educators & assistants work with participants on improving organizational skills, which is often the foundation to academic success.
CISN’s Personal Training program is for individuals 12 years and older to learn fundamental fitness skills and increase their gross motor skills. Our qualified personal trainers work with individuals to develop a training plan that meets goals & expectations.
A supportive community
Through every age and stage, the JCC supports families and individuals throughout our community.

Classes for Little Ones
All parent-child classes and many of our kids-only classes are STARS friendly.
Learn More »
