Membership and Programs for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

By: Mollie Shauger | Wednesday, August 16, 2023 | Healthy Living

A trainer helps a young man who has a disability.

Y partners with Public Partnerships and Easter Seals

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is committed to serving individuals of all abilities. We offer Community Benefit Memberships that are paid for through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) to encourage physical activity and social engagement for adults with development and physical disabilities. 

Through DDD memberships, individuals are able to exercise using a variety of cardio and strength training equipment in our wellness centers, take fitness classes, or enroll in group or private swim lessons.

Health & Wellness Facilities and Programs

Facility memberships are available at West Essex and Sussex County Ys. Facility membership provides access to the Wellness Center including cardio machines and strength training equipment as well as group fitness classes, lap swimming, and virtual fitness. 

New Milford YMCA Program Center also offers drop-in fitness classes and packages.

Aquatics Programs

Group and private swim lessons are available at West Essex, Sussex County, and East Orange Ys. 

The Piranhas is West Essex YMCA's swim team for those adults with intellectual disabilities. The Y provides an inclusive atmosphere for athletes to practice and compete in partnership with the Special Olympics of New Jersey.

How to participate in Y programs

An individual works with their support coordinator to determine what kind of services they need and if the Y could provide those services. We work with Public Partnerships LLC and Easter Seals to get reimbursed for the cost of these services by the Division of Developmental Disabilities. 

Individuals should first speak with a Y membership director to review membership and program options. If interested in obtaining Y services, we will provide an application and work with participants and/or support coordinators to review and approve the application and obtain payment from PPL and Easter Seals. For questions about the application process, contact Julie Morrow at jmorrow@metroymcas.org or 973-758-9622, ext. 1142.

For more information about DDD services and eligibility, visit https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/ddd/

Please note: Individuals who do not meet DDD services eligibility may participate in these Y memberships and programs. Financial assistance is available. Visit metroymcas.org/fa or call 973-758-9039 for information.