for breaking news visit www.queenscourier.com MARCH 13, 2014 • BUSINES • The Queens Courier 37 business (continued from page 36) include Nursery Camp, Academic Summer Enrichment, Sports Camp, Teen Travel, and a day camp at Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds featuring sports, nature, arts and pioneering. Camp Poyntelle Lewis Village in Wayne County, Pennsylvania, is a top-notch residential camp experience featuring a breath-taking waterfront with boating, ropes courses and a wide variety specialty activities. PROGRAMS FOR KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS The Samuel Field Y was one of the first organizations to offer programs for kids with special needs, because the organization was founded by people who wanted children with disabilities to have access to after school programs and activities. Today, the Y and its affiliates continue to strive to be leaders in delivering service to those with special needs including autism and other developmental challenges.. There are after school social programs for children with disabilities, and sports activities, including Basketball Buddies and Soccer Stars, where teen mentors act as the children’s coaches and buddies throughout the season. After school programs, such as Project Child at the Bay Terrace Center, provide children with recreational and socialization opportunities. Educational programs, including homework help, are available as well. The Y’s programs for children with special needs help children to learn and play to their fullest. There are also many activities in which children can interact with kids without disabilities, making for a future of mutual understanding and respect. “We know that people with disabilities live in a world comprised with many people,” Mendelsohn said. Letting them have exposure with their peers, and their peers to have exposure with them is a recipe for having a world with compassion.” THE Y FOR ADULTS AND ELDERLY As mentioned earlier, the Y is a place for not only kids, but also adults and the elderly. The Y has an adult center in Little Neck that offers support services to enhance the quality of life of its members and focus on continuing growth, opportunities for service and enrichment. The senior center also provides people over the age of 60 with hot lunches, served in a congenial and engaging environment. Every day there are a variety of activities, including art classes, political discussions, guest speakers and exercise programs. The dynamic program offers social clubs, extensive trips and theater going opportunities among other amenities. The community center also hosts day and evening programs for gay and lesbian adults over the age of 50, in what’s called the GALA Group. Family fun (continued on page 38) Friendships form at the Samuel Field Y Programs & Services for People of All Ages
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