Adaptations

Adaptations photo resized

Adaptations is a dynamic, supportive, social community for adults at the Jack and Shirley Silver Center for Diverse Abilities (CDA) at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. Through structured social/recreational and employment programs, Adaptations provides multiple pathways to fostering independence, finding your passion, and experiencing the richness of community. Adaptations is not a clinical or therapeutic program.
Our work is guided by six principles:

  • Ensure participants experience a sense of belonging
  • Connect and empower participants to build friendships through facilitated social opportunities
  • Encourage engagement through rich and diverse programming that reflects participants’ interests
  • Create adapted experiences that enable participants to expand their sense of self and abilities
  • Offer customized job-readiness programs to help individuals achieve competitive employment
  • Facilitate local community connections and foster inclusive opportunities for participants to enhance their quality of life

Join our community on Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date on all of the exciting things Adaptations members are doing.

To find out more about Adaptations, click the FAQ link below.

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Adaptations FAQ
Adaptations landing

​​​Adaptations FAQ

What is Adaptations?

Adaptations is a dynamic, supportive, social community for adults at the Jack and Shirley Silver Center for Diverse Abilities (CDA) at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. Through structured social/recreational and employment programs, Adaptations provides multiple pathways to fostering independence, finding your passion, and experiencing the richness of community. Adaptations is not a clinical or therapeutic program.

Who is in the Adaptations community?

Adaptations is a community of adults with a high level of independence looking to learn, grow, and deepen connections with one another. Adaptations members are:

  • Adults over the age of 22
  • Comfortable in a 12:1 member to staff ratio
  • Able to travel independently throughout the city
  • Have a support system in place such as family, friends, or therapists
  • Able to maintain a respectful and safe environment for others
  • Excited to meet new people and try new activities.

What types of programming does Adaptations provide?

Below is just a sampling of all of the programs Adaptations has to offer. In your discovery call, we will review our monthly calendar with you. To browse the current season's offerings, click here.

  • Social Programming: board game lounge, dine outs, karaoke, speed friending, etc.
  • Support + Skills: men's/women's/neuroqueer/couples' Groups, Relationships + Sexuality, advocacy group, etc.
  • Arts + Culture: art classes, improv, comic book club, museum trips, and Broadway outings
  • Fitness: circuit training and holistic warriors
  • Job Support: social skills in the workplace, working professional dine outs
  • Special Events: holiday parties and programming, community service events, annual events such as prom, Disability Pride Parade, and more

How do I join the program?

Step 1: Please reach out to Adaptations director Michelle Wexler at mwexler@mmjccm.org to complete our online questionnaire.

Step 2: Following completion, Adaptations will reach out to schedule a virtual discovery call. The discovery call is an opportunity to learn more about you, your goals, and to share more about Adaptations. If during the course of the discovery call, you or Adaptations feel like our community isn't the ideal match, we will email you referrals for alternate programming and/or support.

Can I try out Adaptations programs before my discovery call?
You must complete a discovery call prior to registering or attending Adaptations programming. Following your discovery call, you are welcome to trial a program.

Are there fees for programs and do you offer scholarships?
There are fees associated with Adaptations programs, generally $10-$25 each. We never want money to be a barrier to programs and we offer scholarships on an as-needed basis. No JCC or Adaptations membership fees are necessary to join.

I live outside of NYC. Can I still join Adaptations?
Yes! We have participants who travel to us from near and far—New Jersey, Long Island, Westchester, and other locations.

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Adaptations Program Descriptions
Adaptations Programs
  • Relationship Support
  • Social Scene
  • Arts + Culture
  • Fitness + Healthy Living

RELATIONSHIP SUPPORT

Creative Alternatives to Social Learning

Licensed drama therapists and trained theater artists lead engaging, interactive activities that inspire confidence and a sense of community.

NeuroQueer Support Group

Are you looking to meet other LGBTQ+ or questioning individuals with disabilities to learn from and share your experiences with? Each month, this support group offers a safe space to discuss and share questions and situations around being LGBTQ+ and having a disability.

This group is for adults 18+ who identify as LGBTQ+ or are questioning their sexual orientation/gender.

Couples Group

Are you part of a couple in which both of you are members of Adaptations? Join us in this safe space to talk about the ups and downs of being together.


SOCIAL SCENE

Lounge

Join your friends and other Adaptations participants on Sunday afternoons at one of our most popular programs. Engage in conversation and enjoy light fare in a relaxed, social environment.

Dine Out

Interested in catching up with old friends and making new ones over dinner? Spend an evening dining with Adaptations members at a local restaurant.

End-of-Season Parties

Join Adaptations for our traditional end-of-season parties! Whether it’s on the rooftop, a dance party, or a dinner party, don’t miss these spectacular events with friends from your favorite programs.

Jewish Holiday Celebrations

Join Adaptations for some of the many holiday-themed programs at the JCC. Celebrations such as First Night First Light, Tikkun, Adaptations Sukkot Dinner, Chanukah Lounge, and Purim parties are just some of the Jewish holiday celebrations offered.


ARTS + CULTURE

Comic Book Club

Are you a little angry at DC Comics over the annual universe shake-ups? Did you know who the Red Hulks were before the reveal? Come discuss and learn about the comic book world with this lively group!

Anime Group

Are you tired of keeping your inner otaku—your obsession with anime—a secret? Do you want to watch anime beyond Dragon Ball or Bleach? Find others who share your passion at Anime Group.

Literary Club

Build a body of creative writing work that ranges from heartfelt to hilarious. Writers hone their craft and express themselves through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.


FITNESS + HEALTHY LIVING

Circuit Training

Come every week to learn how to train your body into the shape you want. Sign up by yourself or with other Adaptations members to work out with Jamar Grimball, a terrific and talented certified trainer at the JCC Fitness Center.

Teens/Young Adults Special Needs Swim Class

This swim class is for teens and young adults with special needs (age 15–29). This class focuses on basic swimming skills and strokes, including breathing technique and becoming comfortable in the water. We specialize in small class sizes and dedicated instructors. Intake form required. Please contact Caitlin Boker at aquatics@mmjccm.org for more information.

For more information, please email Adaptations director, Michelle Wexler.

Adaptations programs are generously supported by Jack and Shirley Silver and individual donors.

Adaptations Classes

Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Men's Group
Adaptations Men's Group

Virtual. Are you a man who is looking to learn alongside others who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Men's Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations Literary Club
Adaptations Literary Club

In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be one you wrote! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations @ The Movies: Wicked
Adaptations @ The Movies: Wicked

In Person. Join us for a movie outing as we head to the theater to see Wicked! Experience the magic of the Broadway musical on the big screen, with stunning visuals, catchy songs, and the unforgettable story of Elphaba and Glinda. It's a night out  you won't want to miss!

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge
Adaptations Lounge

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Chorus
Adaptations Chorus

In Person. Learn about pitch, tempo, and beat at Adaptations' very own Chorus. Singers of all levels are invited to join the fun.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge: Chanukah Edition
Adaptations Lounge: Chanukah Edition

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love. Join us at this Lounge to celebrate Chanukah!

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Neuroqueer Group
Adaptations Neuroqueer Group

Virtual. Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community who is looking to learn alongside others who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Neuroqueer Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations Dine Out
Adaptations Dine Out

In Person. Explore the best restaurants on the Upper West Side with Adaptations! Together, we will learn and practice skills related to dining out and money management while enjoying a delicious meal.

Please Bring:
- Cash for Meal, Tip, and Dessert

-
5.00
Members
5.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge
Adaptations Lounge

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Literary Club
Adaptations Literary Club

In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be one you wrote! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge
Adaptations Lounge

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Chorus
Adaptations Chorus

In Person. Learn about pitch, tempo, and beat at Adaptations' very own Chorus. Singers of all levels are invited to join the fun.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Virtual: Adaptations Couples' Group
Virtual: Adaptations Couples' Group

Virtual. Are you and your partner looking for a supportive environment to connect with other people who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Couples' Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills. Couples only need to register once.
 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations 20s + 30s Community Choice
Adaptations 20s + 30s Community Choice

The 20s+30s Community Choice Program puts you in control of the excitement! Each month, vote on thrilling activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to trendy workshops. Connect with a lively group of peers as your interests shape an ever-changing calendar. This month we will...

 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations 40+ Community Choice
Adaptations 40+ Community Choice

The 40s+ Community Choice Program invites you to take charge of the fun! Each month, you get to vote on exciting activities, from adventurous outings to creative workshops. Join a vibrant community where your interests shape the calendar. This month we will...

 

 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations 20s + 30s Social
Adaptations 20s + 30s Social

In Person. Are you a member of Adaptations in your 20s + 30s? Then this event is for you! Each month, we will participate in exciting events at the JCC and/or around the city as well as plan our following month's program.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Sunday Trip
Adaptations Sunday Trip

In Person. Uptown, downtown, midtown, and more. Join your Adaptations crew each month for an NYC adventure!

Travel Information:
The group will meet at the JCC at 2:45 pm. The exact location will be emailed to registered participants.

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations On Broadway
Adaptations On Broadway

In Person. Wicked, Annie, Les Mis! What's your favorite musical? Join Adaptations on Broadway as we experience all that the theater district has to offer! Skills to learn include audience etiquette and creative expression.

-
65.00
Members
65.00
Public
Adaptations Sunday Getaway

Adaptations Sunday Getaway

In Person. Adaptations is taking its next adventure out of the city, this time to___. Your registration includes transportation, activity tickets, two meals, and lots of fun!

Please Bring:
- Cash for Snacks + Souvenirs
- Water Bottle

-
160.00
Members
160.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Virtual Voyage Dine In
Adaptations Virtual Voyage Dine In

In Person. Join us for an international and culinary adventure from the comfort of the JCC! Immerse yourself in a new city's history, landscape, and culture through an engaging virtual tour. Stick around to enjoy authentic cuisine from that country, courtesy of our favorite local restaurants.

-
24.00
Members
24.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge: Superbowl
Adaptations Lounge: Superbowl

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Chorus
Adaptations Chorus

In Person. Learn about pitch, tempo, and beat at Adaptations' very own Chorus. Singers of all levels are invited to join the fun.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations 40+ Community Choice
Adaptations 40+ Community Choice

The 40s+ Community Choice Program invites you to take charge of the fun! Each month, you get to vote on exciting activities, from adventurous outings to creative workshops. Join a vibrant community where your interests shape the calendar. This month we will...

 

 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations 20s + 30s Community Choice
Adaptations 20s + 30s Community Choice

The 20s+30s Community Choice Program puts you in control of the excitement! Each month, vote on thrilling activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to trendy workshops. Connect with a lively group of peers as your interests shape an ever-changing calendar. This month we will...

 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations 20s + 30s Social
Adaptations 20s + 30s Social

In Person. Are you a member of Adaptations in your 20s + 30s? Then this event is for you! Each month, we will participate in exciting events at the JCC and/or around the city as well as plan our following month's program.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Night to Shine
Adaptations Night to Shine

In Person. On Night to Shine, we celebrate the work of Adaptations artists, writers, and performers. Family and friends are invited to join the Adpations community for this spectacular annual showcase!

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge
Adaptations Lounge

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Neuroqueer Group
Adaptations Neuroqueer Group

Virtual. Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community who is looking to learn alongside others who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Neuroqueer Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Literary Club
Adaptations Literary Club

In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be one you wrote! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations On Broadway
Adaptations On Broadway

In Person. Wicked, Annie, Les Mis! What's your favorite musical? Join Adaptations on Broadway as we experience all that the theater district has to offer! Skills to learn include audience etiquette and creative expression.

-
65.00
Members
65.00
Public
Adaptations 20s + 30s Community Choice
Adaptations 20s + 30s Community Choice

The 20s+30s Community Choice Program puts you in control of the excitement! Each month, vote on thrilling activities, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to trendy workshops. Connect with a lively group of peers as your interests shape an ever-changing calendar. This month we will...

 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations Dine Out
Adaptations Dine Out

In Person. Explore the best restaurants on the Upper West Side with Adaptations! Together, we will learn and practice skills related to dining out and money management while enjoying a delicious meal.

Please Bring:
- Cash for Meal, Tip, and Dessert

-
5.00
Members
5.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge: Oscar's
Adaptations Lounge: Oscar's

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Virtual: Adaptations Couples' Group
Virtual: Adaptations Couples' Group

Virtual. Are you and your partner looking for a supportive environment to connect with other people who share similar experiences? Join us for our bi-monthly Couples' Group to learn self-awareness, self-advocacy, and interpersonal skills. Couples only need to register once.
 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public
Adaptations Purim Carnival
Adaptations Purim Carnival

In Person. Get ready to party like it's Purim! Join us for an epic carnival filled with games, cocktails, and live beats. It's the ultimate costumed night out for adults who know how to have fun. Don't miss out!

-
24.00
Members
24.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge: Virtual
Adaptations Lounge: Virtual

Virtual. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations Literary Club
Adaptations Literary Club

In Person + Virtual. The next great piece of writing could be one you wrote! In Literary Club, you will practice expressing yourself through journal writing, poetry, essays, humor pieces, television scripts, and more.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations On Broadway
Adaptations On Broadway

In Person. Wicked, Annie, Les Mis! What's your favorite musical? Join Adaptations on Broadway as we experience all that the theater district has to offer! Skills to learn include audience etiquette and creative expression.

-
65.00
Members
65.00
Public
Adaptations Lounge
Adaptations Lounge

In Person. Everyone's favorite board game meet-up is back and better than ever! Spend your Sundays with Adaptations at the new and improved Lounge. Expect new games, art supplies, and snacks with the same ol' Adaptations energy you know and love.

-
15.00
Members
15.00
Public
Adaptations Chorus
Adaptations Chorus

In Person. Learn about pitch, tempo, and beat at Adaptations' very own Chorus. Singers of all levels are invited to join the fun.

-
10.00
Members
10.00
Public
Adaptations CASL
Adaptations CASL

In Person. Calling all thespians! Heidi Landis leads group members through engaging, interactive theater activities to learn skills around improvisation, scene work, and more.

-
30.00
Members
30.00
Public
Adaptations 40+ Community Choice
Adaptations 40+ Community Choice

The 40s+ Community Choice Program invites you to take charge of the fun! Each month, you get to vote on exciting activities, from adventurous outings to creative workshops. Join a vibrant community where your interests shape the calendar. This month we will...

 

 

-
20.00
Members
20.00
Public

Help us continue to ensure accessible programming for everyone. Please support special needs at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan.