WJCS Early Childhood Programs hosted fun, heartwarming, and creative activities in observance of The Week of the Young Child (El Dia de Los Ninos), an annual celebration launched in 1971 by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Families throughout Westchester, including in New Rochelle, Sleepy Hollow, and Tarrytown, enjoyed interactive story times with dancing and singing, delicious potluck dinners brought by our amazing parents, joyful art activities, and handcrafted vibrant piñatas. To top it off, we were treated to a concert by our wonderful partners ConcertsInMotion. We are so proud of these unforgettable events that brought families together in joy and celebration.
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A strong sense of community, connection, and care were felt by all who attended the joyous Passover Luncheon for Holocaust Survivors that WJCS hosted at Beth El Synagogue Center in New Rochelle in partnership with UJA-Federation of New York and the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany. The afternoon was filled with music, food, smiling faces, and delicious kosher food provided by Seasons in Scarsdale.
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In response to the need for exercise and wellness programs for the neurodivergent community, WJCS has launched a Wellness & Fitness program for neurodivergent individuals, in partnership with the JCC Shames on the Hudson, which is funded by the Butler Foundation. This innovative approach integrates individualized fitness and cooking classes, fostering physical well-being, life skills development, confidence, independence, and community engagement.
Kenn Mann, PsyD, Program Director of WJCS Outpatient Services for People with Developmental Disabilities, Nicholas Primavera, MS, MBA, Program Coordinator of WJCS Shelanu, Supper Club, and Wellness Incentive Program, and Annie Bridson, Director of Supportive Services at the Shames JCC on the Hudson published an article in Autism Spectrum News about this new program.
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WJCS POINT participants celebrated Black History Month by taking a fabulous field trip to the Museum of Modern Art for a curated tour focused on black artists.
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“What makes a strong woman?” was the theme for participants in the WJCS Peer Impact Program as they celebrated “Tiger Day” at White Plains High School in observance of Women’s History Month. (above)
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Congratulations to Caitlin Leon, WJCS Director for Training and Digital Equity, on being recognized as one of three outstanding community leaders who are positively impacting the lives of children, youth, and families in Westchester County. We are thrilled that the Westchester County Youth Bureau and Youth Board celebrated Caitlin at its annual “Sheros” Awards ceremony. (below)
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VOLUNTEER AND MAKE OUR COMMUNITY STRONGER!
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WJCS was so proud to celebrate National Volunteer Month this April. All of us at WJCS are deeply indebted to our amazing crew of over 200 volunteers, who help our programs and participants grow and flourish. On behalf of all of our WJCS staff, thank you for the time and effort you dedicate to volunteering for our agency.
Give back to our community by becoming a WJCS Volunteer! We are always looking for volunteers in our programs throughout Westchester. Click here to get involved!
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WJCS now offers a free resource: FreeWill, to help you create a will for free. It also provides a free End-of-Life Planning Checklist that includes pertinent information about creating a will, beneficiary designations, naming an executor, financial Power of Attorney, and the necessary steps needed to take the best care of you and your family. Start your legacy today.
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