A community-wide task group consisting of special education professionals and parents of children with special needs is working with members of the Hockomock area YMCA to roll out a new "Integration Initiative".  You have probably read about this initiative in our previous catalogue; however, we are now ready to provide special task training to our management staff and "front line" professionals in an effort to begin offering classes in designated program areas for the winter session.  These areas will include: aquatics, gymnastics, pre-enrichment and sports.

The mission of the group is to provide an opportunity for ALL children to participate in the YMCA's community programs.  This initiative will be facilitated by YMCA personnel and will offer an integrative setting for children with special needs to learn from "typically developing" peer models; and will focus on teaching tolerance, acceptance, mentoring and respect for all children.

Integration Initiative Mission Statement

• To provide an enjoyable and comfortable environment for the individual with special needs.
  
  
• To allow the individual with special needs to be and feel successful and competent.
  
  
• To teach individuals with and without special needs to respect one another for whom he or she is including their abilities and disabilities.
  
  
• To facilitate relationships among peer groups made up of both individuals with and without special needs.

If you have any questions or would like more information about this initiative, please call North Attleboro Integration Coordinator Liz Costantini at 508-695-7001, x266, or Bernon Family Branch Integration Coordinator Linda Gagnon at 508-528-8708, x122.