The New Canaan YMCA is proudly home to one of the largest special needs departments in YMCAs throughout the country. With a dedication to a supportive environment for all, the New Canaan YMCA serves over 130 children, teens, and adults with special needs each year through meaningful programs, events, and resources.

Thanks to the support of the Cioffi Family Fund within the Y’s Endowment, the Y is proud to announce the launch of its employment initiative for individuals with special needs, strengthening its commitment to an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. Employment opportunities are included in various departments throughout the Y and are designed to provide meaningful work, skill development, and job experience in a supportive environment.

Since launching the initiative this summer, the Y has hired five employees who have held positions in summer camp, aquatics, youth programs, and the Y’s wellness department.

New Canaan YMCA Executive Director, Margaret Riley, shared, “Our Y is grateful to be able to provide meaningful job opportunities to individuals with special needs through our employment initiative. We’re incredibly proud of every employee hired through the initiative and excited to grow our employment offerings in a workplace committed to inclusivity.”

Many of these employees have grown up at the Y participating in the Y’s Special Needs (YSN) programs. Through their participation in YSN programs over the years, they have strengthened social skills, self-confidence, and independence, providing a foundation for success in the workplace and the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the organization that they have been a part of for so many years.

Carolynn Kaufman, Director of Special Needs at the YMCA, added, “We’re honored to be able to offer job opportunities for individuals with special needs at our Y. These opportunities go beyond our enrichment programs and services, providing these individuals with competitive employment and meaningful work to hone skills and gain experience.”

For additional information about the New Canaan YMCA’s Special Needs programs, support services, and employment opportunities, contact Carolynn Kaufman at 203-920-1656 or [email protected]. Special Needs programs and support at the New Canaan YMCA are made possible by donations. To make a donation or learn more about supporting the Y, visit www.newcanaanymca.org/donate.