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Audra and Vernon Kirkwood secured a waitlist spot for their son Myles in J-Cares four years ago. Myles, who is 24 and has Autism, still had two years left in high school, but his parents didn’t want to miss out on the “amazing program.” Little did they know that J-Cares would become an integral part of Myles’ life, providing him with countless opportunities to grow, learn, and make meaningful connections.
Myles joined J-Cares during the pandemic and has been participating ever since. He loves everything about the program, according to Audra. J-Cares’ inclusive approach creates a supportive and engaging environment for Myles and the other interns, allowing him to enjoy experiences he wouldn’t have had access to elsewhere. Swimming, karaoke, camp, dancing, cooking, and creative arts are just some of the activities that bring joy to his life while also helping him develop important daily living skills and build relationships with his peers and community.
Audra notes that Myles has grown much happier through the program, particularly with overnight trips that have helped him become more independent and responsible, improving his socialization skills. Initially concerned about Myles calling daily, Audra was delighted to learn that Myles was having so much fun with his friends that he didn’t want to call home. This was a significant moment for Audra, as it marked the first time Myles had discovered his own identity and formed true friendships outside of family and friends. Myles has been on several trips since then and has learned to balance having fun and checking in, giving Audra and Vernon a much-needed respite.
WAYS TO GIVE
There are many ways to help support the JCC. Choose the one that best fits you. To learn more about how you can support the JCC, contact Laura Friedman at 908-443-9001 or lfriedman@ssbjcc.org.
The SSBJCC is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit; our tax ID number is 22-3681640. Our legal name is “Jewish Community Center of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties, Inc.”
Areas of Impact
How We're Making A Difference
315K
distributed in annual camp scholarships
150
people impacted from financial assistance
355K
In financial assistance each year
As Jacob’s time at camp is coming to a close, I just wanted to thank you for giving him a wonderful summer. The changes that I’ve seen in him were quite impressive. He took risks and tried new things, made some friends and embraced the Jewish culture. Even on his last day of camp, he wanted to go to camp to celebrate Shabbat. I am forever grateful for your generosity and the lifelong memories and skills you have given him.
Laura Rodaman
You make the difference.
Thanks to your generous donations, we are able serve the community with diverse events, programs and delightful experiences.
You and your family are integral to our community – your gift makes the Bridgewater JCC an even better place. Donate today and help us build on the progress we’ve achieved so far.
The Bridgewater JCC enhances the lives of so many in our community, including impacting those less fortunate right here locally. The JCC gives out over $500,000 each year in scholarship aid, including assistance to families with financial limitations so they could send their children to JCC Camp Ruach and the Blaustein Early Childhood Center. The JCC provides support services to more than 200 seniors in the community including a kosher nutritional lunch, exercise, cultural programs and the opportunity to socialize with one another. The JCC also awards scholarship assistance to individuals with disabilities and special needs for membership to the JCC.
We’re doing important work, and we can’t do it without you. You make the difference.
