NEW ROCHELLE, NY — The Mission of the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is to enable all young people, especially those who need it most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. The organization proudly employs dedicated professionals committed to both empower and uplift young people as they begin their personal success stories.
Recently, the Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle’s youth development staff participated in a training entitled “Understanding Developmental Delays/Disorders: Creating Effective Programs for all Children” facilitated by Susan Varsames, founder of the Holistic Learning Center, to better serve its members in particular those with special needs. Located in White Plains, New York, the Holistic Learning Center offers healthy, non-invasive and personalized treatment options for children and adults with special needs. The center also offers individualized therapies; staff development and parent training designed to enhance the understanding of best interventions for children with language, learning, sensory, and behavioral challenges.
During the recent training, Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle staff engaged in interactive exercises to learn the definition of inclusion, information about the ADA and ADA Amendments Act, disability statistics, and inclusive communication strategies (including person first language). Many staff reported that as a result of this training, they will begin using person first language and be more committed to fostering an environment of social inclusion.
“The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is an organization constantly searching for ways to successfully support children. Last Spring, we successfully launched a Yoga For Special Needs program and plan to offer even more opportunities this school year. I am so thankful that we are able to collaborate with Susan and the Holistic Learning Center to develop methods that help us include more kids in our programs. Our entire staff is looking forward to learning even more about what inclusion truly is and how we can help end barriers that inhibit all children from participating in our popular youth development programs,” says Eric Woodlin, Director of Operations for the Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle.
