MAKING CONNECTIONS in YOUR COMMUNITY Community Groups for Teens and Adults with Special Needs

MAKING CONNECTIONS IN YOUR COMMUNITY Community Groups for Teens and Adults with Special Needs

Friends for Life (FFL) Trinity Presbyterian Church, 3101 Fontaine Ave Extended Contact: [email protected] Friends for Life is a monthly gathering for adults with and without special needs, hosted by Trinity Presbyterian Church. People of ALL abilities come together on the 3rd Wednesday of the month, 6:30 –8:00 pm (September – May) to develop friendships and learn more about following Jesus together. Please check our website for forthcoming updates to meeting details: www.trinitycville.org/Accessibility-Ministry

Fun on the Spectrum Maple Grove Christian Church, 3210 Proffit Road Contact: Evans - (540) 718-7674 or Email - [email protected] This social group for adults age 18 and older with Asperger or HFA Autism meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 7:00 – 9:00 pm (year-round) at the Maple Grove Christian Church Youth Center which is located behind and to the right of the church.

Pages and Pals Central Library, 201 E. Market Street Contact: [email protected] This Book Club for adults (18+) with intellectual disabilities meets in three-month sessions on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month (September – May). We read and discuss a short story and do a group activity. All supplies provided and Adaptive Recreation staff meet the participants at the front door.

Special Night Out (SNO) Cherry Avenue Christian Church, 1720 Cherry Avenue Contact: Church Office - (434) 977-1515 or www.cherryave.net/special-night-out This outreach ministry sponsored by the Cherry Avenue Christian Church serves older adults age 40-70 with special needs and meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month from 6:30 – 8:00 pm (year-round) in the Family Life Center. The evening includes dinner, fun and fellowship. Caregivers are also invited to participate.

Spring Hill Baptist Church Game Night 2620 Frays Mill Road, Ruckersville Contact: [email protected] or www.springhillbaptist.org/special-needs Game Night is for teens and adults with special needs and meets on the 1st Friday of every month (except July) from 6:30 - 8:30 pm in the Frays Mill Missions Hall at Spring Hill Baptist Church. We play games, socialize, celebrate birthdays, share devotions, and EAT! Registration is not required, but it is helpful for planning.

Supper Clubs – Charlottesville Parks and Recreation – Adaptive Recreation Program Crow Recreation Center, 1700 Rose Hill Drive (Drop Off & Pick Up Location) Contact: Catlin Marcotte – (434) 970-3269 or [email protected] This program provides small group outings monthly to local restaurants from 5:15 – 7:30 pm (except December). Each participant brings $15 to cover the cost of dinner. Participants learn social skills, how to order a meal, pay for meal and tip and communication skills.

Young Life Charlottesville – Capernaum Meadows Presbyterian Church, 2200 Angus Road Contact: [email protected] This is a Young Life Club for teens with special needs age 13 – 21(through Post High) which meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursday evenings from 6:30 – 8:00 pm at Meadows Presbyterian Church (September – May). A simple dinner is provided and as well as music, dancing, games, crafts, and a short devotion. Community Recreation Programs Serving Individuals with Special Needs

Access Arts Charlottesville/Albemarle (FREE) www.facebook.com/Access-Arts-CharlottesvilleAlbemarle-280834741939127/ Contact: [email protected] Access Arts Charlottesville/Albemarle is a partnership that develops arts-based programs, activities and events for students and adults with disabilities of all ages.  Winter Art Exhibit at Carver Recreation Center.  Artist led workshop in music, visual arts,  Virginia Festival of the Book Adaptive Activities in movement, poetry, and drama. March.  Annual Music Recital  Poetry book be published each fall, works collected December - May. NOTE: Email to receive information on all Access Arts activities.

Charlottesville Parks & Recreation Adaptive Recreation – AR Weekly On-Going Activities http://www.charlottesville.org/departments-and-services/departments-h-z/parks-recreation/adaptive Contact: Catlin Marcotte – (434) 970-3269 or [email protected]  Monday  10:00 – 10:45 am, Water Aerobics – Smith, year-round)/Call April – (434) 970-3261 ($1.00/Day)  11:00 am – 12:00 pm, Water Aerobics – Smith, Sept. – May/Call Caitlin – (434) 970-3269 ($1.00/Day)  5:15 – 7:30 pm, Supper Club Groups to area restaurants, monthly (Call to see if openings.)  Tuesday  10:00 – 11:00 am, Fitness – A workout and variety of strength and cardio exercises, Key Center, September – May. Dress in workout clothes and sneakers; bring water bottle. (FREE)  5:15 – 7:30 pm, Supper Club Groups to area restaurants, monthly (Call to see if openings)  Wednesday  11:00 am – 12:00 pm, Water Aerobics – Smith, year-round/Call Sarah – (434) 970-3264 ($1.00/Day)  11:00 – 11:45 am AR Basketball – Practice and learn new skills, Carver, September – May. (FREE)  Friday  10:00 – 11:00 am, Fitness – A workout and variety of strength and cardio exercises at the Key Center, September – May. (FREE)

Charlottesville Parks & Recreation Adaptive Recreation – AR Classes and Outings http://www.charlottesville.org/departments-and-services/departments-h-z/parks-recreation/adaptive Contact: Check Classes on Web Site or Call Caitlin Marcotte - (434) 970-3269  Interest Classes are scheduled in late afternoon and on Saturday during Fall, Winter and Spring session such as: cooking, crafts, painting, walking/jogging, hiking, yoga, lunch/movie etc.  Day and Overnight Trips are planned for individuals with disabilities. The goals are to help with independence and self-esteem as well as having fun while learning about local and state-wide attractions.  One-On-One Swim Instruction for non-ambulatory or extra special needs children, teens, & adults once a week for six sessions. Times and days vary depending on participant and instructor. You must bring your own personal care aide if assistance is needed in dressing room. $60(R), $80(NR)  One-On-One Fitness Instruction for individuals with disabilities who would like to learn more about staying fit in the fitness center. Times and days vary depending on participant and instructor. You must bring your own personal care aide if assistance is needed in dressing room. $60(R), $80(NR)  NOTE: Sign-Up to receive the monthly AR newsletter online or by mail by calling: (434) 970-3269.

 AR Program information is also in the Charlottesville Program Guide online and in print.  2020 Registration Dates: Spring/Summer – April 20; Fall – August 3; Winter – November 30.  Registration for AR Activities can be online, phone, in-personal mail, or fax. Special Olympics Area 3 (FREE) https://specialolympicsva.org/who-we-are/find-special-olympics-near-you/shenandoah-region/area-3 Contact: Rose Ann Gamma, Coordinator – [email protected]  Serving athletes age 8 and above in Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene and Louisa.  Sports Training is offered at varying locations year-round:  Late Summer/Fall – Golf, Soccer, Volleyball and  Winter – Basketball, Sports Conditioning and Bocce Young Athletes  Late Fall – Bowling  Spring – Track & Field, Swimming and Tennis  NOTE: Email to receive information on sports programs.

The Gym – Special Athletes Program www.thegymcville.com/community-2/ or (434) 878-0369  Works with individuals between the ages of 14 and 20+ and within a wide range of disabilities (ASD, muscular skeletal conditions, intellectual disabilities, etc.) to increase their opportunities to learn, work and play.  The environment at The Gym is conducive to meeting the needs of each of its participants through providing a 1:1 ratio of support.  There is a Fee; but scholarships, based on a sliding fee scale, are available so no one is turned away.

Wheelchair Basketball – The Charlottesville Cardinals (FREE) www.cardinalsbasketball.com or Tom Vandever – (434) 971-9629 Encourage teens and adults with mobility limitations who are interested in competitive wheelchair basketball to join their weekly Thursday evening practices. The local team plays games against teams from Virginia Beach, Northern Virginia, Richmond, Maryland, and other east coast teams.

Community – Fitness Classes, Gym and Aquatic Centers Charlottesville Recreation Centers

Carver Recreation Center – On-Line Schedules (Monthly) www.charlottesville.org/departments-and-services/departments-h-z/parks-recreation/carver-recreation-center Located at the Jefferson School City Center, 233 4th Street, NW – (434) 970-3053  Carver Group/Drop-In Exercise Classes  Carver Open Gym Hours  Carver Fitness Center Hours

Key Center – Open Gym Calendar (Monthly) – Online Schedules (Monthly) www.charlottesville.org/departments-and-services/departments-h-z/parks-recreation/facilities/key-recreation-center Located at 800 East Market Street, just off Downtown Mall – (434) 293-8273

Smith Aquatic & Fitness Center – Online Schedules (Monthly) www.charlottesville.org/departments-and-services/departments-h-z/parks-recreation/smith-aquatic-fitness- center Located on the Campus of Buford Middle School, 1000-A Cherry Avenue – (434) 970-3072  Smith Pool Hours  Water Aerobics Classes  Smith Drop-In Fitness Classes

NOTE: Fees at Carver and Smith Centers

 Reduced fees for individuals with disabilities: Monthly Access Pass: City - $20; Non-Resident

$26 NOTE: Fees Key Center -- There is a drop-in Fee for Adults - $2/day.  There is no charge with an Access Pass, just swipe your pass when you visit. Scholarships are offered to City Residents in need of financial assistance.

 NOTE: No cost for an aide to accompany a person with a disability as long as providing direct Other Fitness Classes, Gym and Aquatic Centers

Atlantic Coast Athletic Club (ACAC)  www.acac.com  Albemarle Square, Downtown Charlottesville, Pantops (24 Hours) and Crozet (24 Hours) locations

Piedmont Family YMCA  https://piedmontymca.org  Brooks Family YMCA at McIntire Park and Crozet YMCA locations  At the Y, no one is turned away for their inability to pay. Scholarships are available . Planet Fitness (24 Hours)  https://www.planetfitness.com/gyms/charlottesville-va

UVA Aquatic & Fitness Center (ACF)  https://recsports.virginia.edu/afc  A UVA student may sponsor a guest who is age 18+ with a photo ID on day pass.

NOTE: At each of these fitness centers, an aide may accompany a person with a disability if providing direct support in dressing, using equipment, participating in classes, or using a pool or other facilities.

Other Recreation Opportunities

Charlottesville T'ai Chi Center http://www.charlottesvilletaichi.org/ or (877)880-2479  Through her inclusive efforts via workshops and classes, Hiromi Johnson has introduced the health benefits of T’ai Chi and this visual physical art form to individuals with disabilities in the community.  Workshops are held at times in conjunction with Post High, WorkSource Enterprises, Adaptive Recreation and through Access Arts Charlottesville/Albemarle.

Decades Arcade https://www.decadesarcade.com/ 30+ pinball machines showcasing the ’50s to today, 40+ of the most popular arcade games from the ’80s and ’90s, and the hottest home gaming consoles from the ’70s to today.  Hours: Friday, 6:00 – 11:00 pm; Saturday, 2:00 – 11:00 pm and Sunday, 2:00 – 7:00 pm.  Main level is accessible.

JUMP – Special Needs Jump https://jumpcville.com/special-events/  Every Thursday 10:00 am – Noon (Special Needs Only) and 4:00 – 6:00 pm (Open to the public at this time and rate will be honored). $10 per person (caretakers get in for free) for 1 hour.  NOTE: *This time is reserved for individuals with special needs only, but we reserve the right to book a private event during that time.

Regal Theater at Stonefield – ADA Assistance Pass https://www.regmovies.com/static/en/us/admittance-procedures  If a caregiver/family member accompanies an individual with a disability needing assistance to go to the movies, go to the Customer Service Desk in Main Lobby to request an ADA Pass. Lifelong Learning Adult Education and Workforce Training Classes Albemarle County Parks and Recreation Classes https://www.albemarle.org/department.asp?department=parks&relpage=2207 or (434) 296-5844  Adult Classes: A wide variety of classes is offered or cosponsored such as: dance, yoga, Pilates, aerobics, fitness, martial arts, karate, and Tai Chi.  NOTE: See the Program Catalog online and in print for information on each session: Fall (August), Winter/Spring (Early December) and Late Spring/Summer (May).  Registration: Online, by mail or in person.

Charlottesville Parks and Recreation Classes www.charlottesville.org/home/showdocument?id=41596 or (434) 970-3260  Adult Classes: A wide variety of classes is offered such as: art, sewing, dance, yoga, aerobics, fitness, and martial arts. (These are not AR and open to anyone.)  NOTE: See the Program Guide online or in print for information on each session: Fall (Late July), Winter/Early Spring (Late November) and Spring/Summer (Mid-April).  Registration: Online, by phone, in-person or by mail.  NOTE: Individuals with special needs may bring an aide to support them in participating in a class.

Open Doors Community Education – Albemarle County Classes www.opendoors1.org or (434) 975-9450  NOTE: See the Program Brochure online and in print for information on each session: Fall (Mid-August) and Winter/Spring (Early-January) for non-credit classes.  Community Education Classes are listed such as: arts, crafts, cooking, computer technology, gardening, and wellness.  Albemarle Parks and Recreation Classes are also cross-referenced in it.  Registration: Online, mail-in or by phone.

Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) Stultz Center for Business & Career Development www.pvcc.edu?workforceservices or (434) 961-5270  This is the non-credit side of the college offering:  On campus and online courses  Customized workforce training.  Career Studies Certificates (non-credit)  Personal interest online classes  Many of the programs offered by Workforce Services lead to industry credentials or state licensure such as: small engine repair, welding, foodservice sanitation, basic life support, health programs and customer service.  NOTE: See the Program Guide online and in print for information on each session: Fall Semester (late July); Spring Semester (early December) and Summer Sessions (early May).  Registration: Online.

 NOTE: Individuals may enroll in these non-credit classes and programs who did not receive a Standard High School Diploma or GED Certificate.  One would still need to be able to meet industry credential or state licensure requirements some fields.  The PVCC Disability Counselor is Susan Hannifan at [email protected] or (434) 961-5281 to answer any questions.

Historic Sites and Art Centers (FREE)

 African American Heritage Center www.jeffschoolheritagecenter.org

 Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection www.kluge-ruhe.org

 McGuffey Arts Center www.mcguffeyartcenter.com

 Monticello Visitor Center www.monticello.org/site/visit/guide-visiting Movie, Exhibitions, Cafe, and Saunders Trail (2.3 miles - walking/biking, completely accessible)

 Rotunda Tour and University of Virginia Lawn Area www.virginia.edu/rotunda

 The Frelin – UVA Art Museum at UVA www.virginia.edu/artmuseum

NOTE: Use the Free Trolley between the Downtown area and the UVA Corner on either end to see some of the mentioned attractions!

Library Programs (FREE) Fluvanna County Public Library https://www2.youseemore.com/Fluvanna

Jefferson Madison Regional Library Branches – www.jmrl.org  Central Library (434) 979-7151  Louisa County Library (540) 894-5853 www.jmrl.org/br-central.htm https://www.jmrl.org/br-louisa.htm

 Crozet Library (434) 823-4050  Northside Library (434) 973-7893 www.jmrl.org/br-crozet.htm www.jmrl.org/br-northside.htm

 Gordon Avenue Library (434) 296-5544  Scottsville Library (434) 286-3541 www.jmrl.org/br-gordon.htm www.jmrl.org/br-scottsville.htm

 Greene County Library (434) 985-5227 https://www.jmrl.org/br-greene.htm  Beyond Books, JMRL’s Program Guide, contains all programs in the branches for children, teens, and adults. It is available online and in print three times a year: Fall (September), Winter/Spring (January) and Summer (May).  Adult Programs include Book Clubs, Movie Nights, Game Nights, Computer Workshops, Needle Work Groups, Genealogy, Tax Assistance, Job Fairs etc.  Adults – Connecting @ Your Library – One-on-One tutorials are available with staff to assist you. NOTE: Participants must get a library card and call to schedule a time for a tutorial.

Madison County Public Library https://madisoncountyvalibrary.org Seasonal Activities Outdoor Activities (FREE)

 City Market – Downtown – https://www.visitcharlottesville.org/listing/charlottesville-city-market/69/  Open on Saturdays, April – October 7:00 am – Noon; Preorder and Pickup Only at Pen Park.  NOTE: Other Virginia Farmers Markets – https://www.virginia.org/farmersmarkets/

 Fridays After Five at Sprint Pavilion Downtown Mall, Mid-April – Mid-September, 5:30 – 8:30 pm (Cancelled)  http://www.sprintpavilion.com/events-tickets/fridays-after-five-line-up - A FREE concert series

 Local Orchards to pick fresh fruit or vegetables year-round. (Open for picking or preorder & pickup)  Carter Mountain Orchard – https://chilesfamilyorchards.com/carter-mountain-orchard/visit/  Chiles Orchard in Crozet – https://chilesfamilyorchards.com  NOTE: Virginia U-Pick Farms in your area – www.pickyourown.org/VA.htm

 Sunset on the Mountain at Carter’s Mountain Orchard, Thursdays, May – September (Cancelled at this time)  Sunsets at Carter Mountain Orchard bring the community together with this FREE live music event.  Bring your chairs and picnic or food is available for purchase.

 Tom Sox Baseball Games, CHS baseball field, May–July – https://www.tomsox.org/ (Cancelled)  Bring your chairs to observe in the outfield (FREE); or bleacher seating $10/car. Food is available for purchase.

Summer Bowling Pass Program (Closed at this time) AMF Keglers www.amf.com/activities or (434) 978-3999  An adult summer pass for about $54 (2019 rate) enables one to bowl three games per day, includes shoe rental.  Bowling is a sport which is fully accessible for all abilities.

Summer Camps for Teens & Young Adults with Special Needs (All are Cancelled) Charlottesville Parks and Recreation Adaptive Recreation Summer Camps Contact: Sarah Blech (434)970-3264 or [email protected]  Camp Henry ($125) – Located at the Post High House, 915 Henry Avenue, for ages 14 – 22 from June 17 – July 17 For individuals who can function in a recreation setting of one staff to five campers. The camp includes leisure activities and pre-vocational opportunities through community volunteering through field trips.

 Camp Challenge ($125) – Location TBD, for ages 14 – 22, from June 17 – July 17 For individuals needing more direct supervision in a ratio of one staff to three campers who can benefit from a modified Camp Henry experience. This camp will incorporate leisure activities, volunteer opportunities and field trips.

 Nature Arts Camp ($110) – Located at Crow Recreation Center, for ages 13 – 25 from July 20 – July 31. For campers who can function in a recreation setting of one staff to five campers who are independent in dressing and eating. The camp includes both nature and arts-based activities.

Summer FREE/$1 Family Movie Programs (All Closed at this time)  Regal Summer Movies for Kids and Families 2020 (10:00 am on Tuesday and Wednesday/$1 per person) https://www.verywellfamily.com/regal-s-summer-movie-express-1356797  Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Kids Camp Shows ((Scheduled in Matinee Hours/$1/person in 2019) https://drafthouse.com/news/summer-kids-camp-is-back2  Violet Crown Cinema Free Family Film Series (11:00 am on Wednesdays/FREE in 2019) https://charlottesville.violetcrown.com/movieinfo.php?movie=HO00000845

NOTE: Kids and Family Summer Films are open to everyone at the stated price. Check 2020 dates and times. Also check how tickets can be purchased since all are first come/first serve until capacity is reached! Walking, Hiking, Biking, Mountain Biking, Tennis, Golf, Skate Boarding, Swimming, Fishing, Canoeing, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding

Albemarle County Parks – (434) 296-5844 https://www.albemarle.org/department.asp?department=visitors&relpage=19044 SUMMER 2020 – CLOSURES (until further notice)  Albemarle County Facilities closed due to the COVID19 (Coronavirus) include restrooms, playgrounds, basketball & tennis courts, picnic shelters, picnic tables, grills, etc.  Summer Swim Season is Canceled/No Swimming at All County Lakes

SUMMER 2020 - OPEN ACTIVITIES  Albemarle County parks, trails, dog parks(limit 10 humans at a time in dog park) and boat launches will remain open for the time being. Please follow CDC guidance and social distancing  TRAILS: Walking, hiking, and mountain biking are allowed, and parking lots are open at all parks.  LAKES & RIVERS: Fishing, boating (including canoeing, kayaking) and standup paddle boarding are allowed.

Charlottesville City Parks – (434) 970-3260 www.charlottesville.org/?navid=1725 SUMMER 2020 – CLOSURES (until further notice)  All indoor recreation centers and pools  All outdoor pools and spray grounds  All playgrounds on Park or City School property  All outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic shelters and park restrooms  Meadowcreek Golf Course and Charlottesville Skate Park  Sugar Hollow Reservoir  Parking lots are closed at the following parks: McIntire Park, Pen Park, Tonsler Park and Washington Park

SUMMER 2020 – OPEN ACTIVITIES  TRAILS: All are open for walking, hiking, and biking  LAKES & RIVERS: https://www.hookandbullet.com/fishing-rivanna-reservoir-charlottesville-va

Area Trails and Accessibility Greenbrier Park Trail https://cvillegreenbrier.weebly.com/trail-plan.html  .5-mile+ accessible crushed stone/boardwalk flat trail for walking/biking along the restored Meadowcreek stream bed. It is a very wide trail with a few benches for resting. Leashed dogs allowed.  Enjoy the view of sycamore groves, a meadow, and Greenbrier Marsh, believed to be one of only two such natural marshes in the Virginia Piedmont region.  Access points with parking are off Greenbrier Drive, but the easiest is at Jamestown Drive.

Ivy Creek Natural Area https://ivycreekfoundation.org/  .75-mile accessible paved flat trail for walking from the parking lot.  The Ivy Creek Natural Area (ICNA) is a 215-acre preserve bordering the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir with 6 miles of trails.  NOTE: Dogs are not allowed at Ivy Creek Natural Area. John Warner Parkway Trail https://www.traillink.com/trail/john-w-warner-parkway-trail-/  1.6-mile accessible paved trail for walking/biking from East Rio Road to Route 250 Downtown with steep switchback at trail head. Leashed dogs allowed.  Accessible from E. Rio Trailhead with parking at CATEC. Easier access points are parking at Melbourne Road or Route 250 Allied Shops area.

Pen Park Fitness Trail https://charlottesville.gov/659/Trails  .5-mile accessible paved loop for walking with 20 exercise stations and benches with some slight changes in grade. Leashed dogs allowed.  Accessible behind the picnic shelters. The parking lot is closed at this time.

Pen Park Nature Trail https://charlottesville.gov/659/Trails  1.5-mile trail along the Rivanna River. This trail is a combination of a wider main path and side trails that offer closer views of the river. The main trail is very flat and wide, good for jogging or hiking. Leashed dogs allowed.  Access the trailhead behind the picnic shelters, off the fitness trail. The parking lot is closed at this time.

Ragged Mountain Trail Fork https://www.trailforks.com/trails/ragged-mountain-outer-loop/  The Ragged Mountain Natural Area is a 980 acre preserve surrounding the Ragged Reservoir with 5 miles of trail.  NOTE: Dogs are not allowed at Ragged Mountain Natural Area.

Rivanna Greenbelt Trail at Riverview Park https://www.visitcharlottesville.org/listing/riverview-park-%26-rivanna-greenbelt/266/  2.3-mile accessible paved trail for walking/biking, which is flat. starting at Riverview Park along the scenic Rivanna River. Check for rules for days of leashed/unleashed dogs.  Access and parking at Riverview Park.

Rivanna Trails https://www.albemarle.org/department.asp?department=parks&relpage=2746  The Rivanna Trails circumnavigate the City of Charlottesville with walking/biking.  Check for specific information on leashed dogs.

Saunders Trail at Monticello www.monticello.org/site/visit/saunders-monticello-trail  4-mile accessible paved/boardwalk trail for walking/biking on the south side of the Thomas Jefferson Parkway (Rt. 53) with a maximum grade of 5%. Leashed dogs allowed.  Access and parking from Monticello Visitor Center lot at the head and Kemper Park with limited parking. This trail is closed at this time.

Sentara Martha Jefferson Walking Trail https://www.mypacer.com/routes/114894/sentara-martha-jefferson-park-charlottesville-virginia-usa  1-mile accessible paved trail (narrower than other trails) for walking around three picturesque ponds with lush grassy areas for sitting. Leashed dogs allowed.  Easier access and parking on lower parking lots near the large pond with the swan as the grade is steeper at upper access points near Sentara buildings.

Volunteer Options in Your Community Volunteer Opportunities in Charlottesville and surrounding counties: These resources provide a wide range of volunteer options for an individual to do independently or with a partner. Volunteer Centers  United Way - Thomas Jefferson Area Volunteer Center – https://www.volunteermatch.org  Jefferson Area Board for Aging (JABA) Volunteer Center – https://www.jabacares.org/become-a-volunteer

Local Organizations with Volunteer Coordinators  Charlottesville Gardens and Parks Volunteers – https://[email protected].  Habitat for Humanity – https://cvillehabitatstore.org/volunteer.html  Rivanna Trails – http://www.rivannatrails.org/page-962816  SPCA – Adult Volunteer Options - https://caspca.org/volunteerfoster/volunteer-at-the-caspca/

Other Ideas in Your Community  Animal Shelters/Rescues  Nursing Homes  Church Food Pantries/Clothing Closets  Natural Areas/Parks/Trails/Gardens  Food Banks  Nonprofit Thrift Stores

Resources for Finding an Activity Partner/Mentor/Sitter

NOTE: No specific recommendation is being made regarding any of these listings. It is advisable to meet candidates in person to review personal references and assess fit based upon a discussion of the characteristics and needs of your son or daughter. The candidate should then be introduced to your family member to ensure that both parties are comfortable with the match before any commitment is made.

Autism Allies at UVA https://www.facebook.com/autismalliesatuva/ Contact: Email [email protected] or Call (757) 572-1165  Link to request an Autism Allies Mentor: https://forms.gle/HiS55PmVWCfgroge9  Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and a match is made when there is an available mentor that would suit your child’s interests. The more information you provide, the better we will be able to match him/her with a mentor who is compatible!  If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email the mentorship coordinator, Emily Wright at [email protected]  The Autism Allies Mentorship Program partners with the Virginia Institute of Autism to foster meaningful relationships between UVA students and children, teens, and young adults with autism in the Charlottesville community during the academic year. Mentors will meet with mentees about 6 times a semester for activities such as getting ice cream, playing basketball, going to the movies, group holiday parties, and more!

Best Buddies at UVA https://www.facebook.com/events/795271274303520/ Contact: Pam Fisher, Region Ten, Email – [email protected] or Call (434) 970-1285  To request a Best Buddy:  Referrals are usually made in August by an individual’s Region Ten Case Manager or a parent can contact Pam Fisher at Region Ten directly.  Matches are made by mid-September with UVA students. Peer–Buddy – Our chapter upholds the mission of Best Buddies by matching UVA students in one-to-one friendships with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities from the Charlottesville community. These pairs are then able to form lasting friendships through phone calls, emails, and outings.  Monthly Events – The chapter holds monthly events to give buddy pairs a chance to get together with others from our chapter and just spend time together as friends. In addition, Buddies can participate in small group outings and awareness events.

Curry School Announcement Request https://curry.virginia.edu/curry-announcement-request  One can post up to a 100-word request for an Activity Partner/Mentor/Sitter. This newsletter is sent to all students each Monday during the school year and intermittently during summer session.  However, we serve only as a facilitator of these announcements. Curry does not review or vet students, nor can Curry warrant their suitability, background, or competencies for performing work or other activities you have chosen to post through our announcements process.

HooSitting www.hoositting.com Contact: To request a sitter/for information – Email [email protected] or Call (757) 572-1165  HooSitting is a network connecting UVA students to families in the Charlottesville area looking for childcare and a large supply of babysitters who are eager to sit.  It is a very simple process to create an account and profile of your family. The best part is that if you need to contact us, we can answer most emails the same day.

Websites for Sitters, Child Care or Adult Care Care.Com – www.care.com SitterCity – www.sittercity.com  For a fee, one posts a listing for the kind of caregiver/sitter you are seeking including for individuals with special needs, so this enables one to be specific as to your son or daughter’s needs, experience or skills required and what the job would entail.  One can also view the backgrounds and time availability of those on the site

Women’s Center Sitter List https://womenscenter.virginia.edu/babysitters Contact: To request a list Email [email protected] or Call 434) 982-2361  Even though babysitting may not make the cut on an undergraduate's resume, we know that many students have that experience. We keep an up to date list of students interested in offering babysitting to staff, faculty, and friends of the University.  The Women’s Center does not conduct screening interviews or background checks on any babysitter listed, and it is the responsibility of the parents to negotiate terms and pay rates.

This resource has been compiled to assist families in connecting their son or daughter with special needs to...  Social and recreational activities to maintain relationships and develop new ones  Activities of current personal interest and new ones for expanding knowledge and skills  Caring individuals interested in supporting young adults with challenges in pursuit of a safe and fulfilling lifestyle  Outlets for special needs individuals during the work week for working families, especially if one is not safe at home alone  Low cost opportunities available on weekends, providing fun activities for their adult child as well as respite for parents This resource may also be of interest to Area School Divisions, Adult Activity Programs and Residential Programs looking for accessible and FREE or low-cost activities for their participants.

C. Ribando/June 2020 – The information contained in this document is believed to be accurate, but not guaranteed. Updated for Parent Resource Center. There is information on Summer 2020 Activities with Covid-19.