The Integration Initiative is a program that allows children of all abilities to come together as a group and play. The Hockomock Area YMCA offers a welcoming environment for individuals with special needs. The Initiative is facilitated by YMCA personnel and offers an integrative setting for children with special needs to learn from “typically developing” peer models; and focuses on teaching tolerance, acceptance, mentoring and respect for all children.

The Integration Initiative offers the following programs:

Fun Days: Teens have opportunities to participate in camps as well as special outings including adaptive kayaking, hiking and skiing.

Aquatics: Children with special needs love our chlorine free pool. We feature a Mioxx system that is sanitary, yet gentle on the skin. Small group classes are available for children with special needs who are not ready for integrated classes.

Challenger Sports: This will help a child over the age of five work on the skills necessary to participate in typical sports classes while having lots of fun with instructors and volunteers.

Fun-Athlon: Triathlon training is available for children with special needs over the age of ten. Children will receive instruction on using stationary bikes, walking/running on the track, and lap swimming, all in a fun and supported environment.

Real Deal: This is a mentoring program that helps teens with and without disabilities connect in a safe environment and is conducted twice a month.

PIT Crew (Personal Integration Trainers), are volunteers that help ensure the success of the children participating in the Integration Initiative.

To learn more about the Integration Initiative or to volunteer for the P.I.T. Crew, please contact Jerome Kennedy by phone at (508) 643-5266 or by email at: Jeromek@hockymca.org; or  Jamie Estrella at (774) 235-2722  or by email at:  mailto:jaimee@hockymca.org.