The Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA provides specialized programming to individuals with a range of neurodiverse and/or physical disabilities.

Our goal is to provide a welcoming, engaging, and inclusive environment where all members and non-members alike can participate in safe, fun, and meaningful activities. We strive to provide accessible programming and services to people of all ages and abilities so that every member feels a sense of belonging at the Y. Our programs will encourage people to be active, social, and engaged through recreational and health and wellness programs.

To learn more about your eligibility for an inclusion membership please contact the Program and Inclusion Coordinator at 514-737-6551 EXT 235 or via email at rdhesi@ymywha.com

Recreation Guide

Kids Programs

THRIVE with Sportball ( 5 – 12 years )

In a supportive and developmentally appropriate environment, participants are able to practice their gross-motor and movement skills. The first hour takes place in our basketball gym, where the children participate in cooperative games and activities, followed by one hour of fun in the pool. Participants are encouraged to make new friends and develop their physical and cognitive skills while being supported by experienced facilitators.

Sundays 1:15 PM – 3:15 PM
September 15, 2024 – December 15, 2024

$420 Annual Members • $496 Non-Members

Register

Adult Programs

Inclusion Swimming (18+)

Discover the joys of swimming in this recreational swim program, where participants are encouraged to enjoy swimming and are met at the level they are at.
Mondays 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
September 9, 2024 – December 16, 2024
$210 Annual Members • $248 Non-Members
Register

Chaverim* (18+)

Chaverim is a collaborative and engaging social program for adults with diverse cognitive profiles. Chaverim encourages participants to develop their communication, decision-making and conflict resolution skills. Each week participants gather with their peers to engage in group discussion, improve on life skills, enjoy games and leisure activities here at the Y.
Participants are encouraged to access their creativity and will collaborate with each other on group projects. Supper is included.
Wednesdays 5:45 PM – 7:45 PM
September 11, 2024 – December 18, 2024
$337 Annual Members • $388 Non-Members
Register

REACH Fitness (18+)

A fun and adapted exercise program taught by a certified fitness instructor. Each class incorporates elements of strength, flexibility, mobility and cardio. All movements can be modified to suit individual needs and abilities and seated versions are always provided. Participants must be able to follow exercise instructions while in a group environment.
This program is targeted for adults and young adults with diverse abilities! We want to REACH our goals, feeling READY, welcoming EVERYONE, so we are all ABLE to CHALLENGE ourselves and improve our HEALTH.

Wednesdays 4:15 PM – 5:15 PM

September 11, 2024 – December 18, 2024

$135 Annual Members • $160 Non-Members

Register

Koulanu Yachad* (All ages)

Our mission at the Y is to provide a welcoming, engaging, and inclusive Jewish environment where all members can participate. Koulanu Yachad is a program that seeks to embody our mission by providing help to those who need it in order to safely and effectively use our facilities. Due to the nature of this program, dates and times are flexible and based on participant needs. If you or someone you know requires assistance due to their disability in order to fully benefit from our facilities, contact our Inclusion Services at inclusion@ymywha.com

Note: Please contact our Inclusion Services at inclusion@ymywha.com before purchasing online.

Partnered Programs

United Explorers (14+)

A social and recreational program designed for young adults with developmental disabilities, United Explorers takes place every Saturday from 10am-3pm. Program organizers Ebohon and Dolores bring over 25 years of skill and experience working with the neurodiverse community.  Participants use the Y facilities to practice sports and movement, go swimming and engage in sensory integration activities. Every few weeks an organized activity is incorporated into the schedule, such as visiting the library or watching a movie.

Note: Contact Ebohon Idonije at 514 692 9923 or d.e.united.explorers@gmail.com to register *Registered participants must purchase an inclusion membership for full access to the Y facilities*
 

Saturdays 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
$100 per day

Stronger Together (16+)

Has your mental health impacted your ability to participate in exercise and daily living? Are you looking for a safe, welcoming environment in which to improve your physical and emotional wellbeing? Our new program can help you get into a healthy routine, grow personally, and make valuable social connections.

This group, facilitated by fitness instructor Julie Adams and psychosocial animators Sarah Tabah and Lisa Zimanyi, is a collaboration between L’Annexe: the Ometz Centre for Young Adults, the First Episode Psychosis Program at the Jewish General Hospital, and the Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA.

Join us for an 6-week program of fitness & wellness activities, designed to be welcoming and accessible to young adults experiencing mental illness:

Questions? Please email sarah.tabah@ometz.ca for any wellness session questions and rdhesi@ymywha.com for any fitness questions

Tuesdays 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
September 10, 2024 – December 17, 2024
$94 Annual Members • $108 Non-Members
Register

* Please note that registration with any Inclusion program will automatically add an Inclusion membership to your cart. An inclusion membership costs $72 annually, allows members to bring a companion with them, provides early access to inclusion programs and full access to our fitness facilities, pool, and basketball gymnasium. If you do not wish to purchase an Inclusion membership at this time, please instead complete your program registration by emailing your request (name of participant, activity and session information) to contact@ymywha.com or calling (514) 737-6551 for assistance.

Making A Positive Impact

Learn more about the impact of our Inclusion Services 

Learn More…