New Social Club, Recreation Opportunities For Special Needs Youth In Jersey City

JERSEY CITY, NJ — The city has hired a specialist who will spearhead a new social club for children and youth with special needs, and expand inclusive recreational opportunities across Jersey City.

Mayor Steven M. Fulop and the Department of Recreation and Youth Development said the city is continuing to expand recreational and educational experiences for children with all abilities.

The city has hired Ryan Magee as the first special needs recreation programming specialist. A new Special Needs Social Club will launch in December, giving youth with disabilities a place to socialize and hang out.

“Since expanding the Department of Recreation to include Youth Development, we have been successful in establishing new programs and enhancing existing recreation to be more inclusive of everyone’s abilities and interests, ultimately attracting more children to participate in skill-building experiences that help create a solid foundation for a prosperous future,” Fulop said.

Right now, children and teens with special needs can participate in adaptive sports and social opportunities like bucket drumming, kickball, and flag football. Magee and the city will work to expand those offerings, and plan more events, trips, and family-themed programming.

“The vision of these programs is that no matter who you are, you have a purpose in this life, no matter your disability, and have a right to participate in community activities," Magee said in a news release. "With ongoing support and encouragement, the department truly believes anyone can have fun.”

Special guest Mauro Castano from Carlo’s Bake Shop will host inclusive Holiday Dessert Decorating Classes on October 27 and November 4 from 4-6 p.m, for individuals aged 10-24. See the image below for more details.

The Special Needs Social Club will meet on Tuesdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m., the city said, beginning in December.

Other special needs programs currently include bucket drumming and Friday Night Kickball.

For more information on any of these events and to register, visit jcrec.recdesk.com.