A Social Group for the Differently-abled

The Open Doors program has been a mainstay of the Upper Main Line YMCA since 1980. The goal of the program is to guide, encourage, and challenge each person to reach his or her fullest potential. Recreation and instructional programs are provided in a way that promotes dignity and independence.

While most programs are agency driven, Open Doors is offered within the YMCA for the entire community. Open Doors members share a strong sense of pride in their YMCA community with opportunities to participate in not only Open Doors but in all Y programs.

Program offerings include:

Open Doors Friday Nights

Held at the YMCA and locations throughout the area, this program for adults who are 20 years and older offers recreational opportunities for individuals with mild mental impairments. Off campus activities include visits area restaurants, theatres, sporting events, etc. On campus include dances, gym and swim activities, pizza parties and more.

Trips

One-day and or evening trips enable members to enjoy the fun of traveling and making friends. Various trips are planned throughout the year. The group enjoys visiting many area attractions — sporting events, concerts, shopping and more. A weeklong summer trip to the Jersey Shore is the highlight of the year.

Bowling League

The group meets one week night for bowling at a local alley.

Adaptive Programming

The Upper Main Line YMCA offers aquatics and fitness programs for individuals of with special needs.

Water Exercise Techniques (WET)

WET is a warm water class for people with disabilities. The buoyancy of the pool water decreases the strain on joints and helps to increase flexibility and range of motion. Swimming is not required. The pool is equipped with a chair lift and access stairs.

Special Needs Aquatics Program (SNAP)

For adults with developmental differences. Using floatation devices if necessary, participants enjoy shallow and deep water exercises as well as games and socialization to build strength, self-esteem and independence. Aides or caretakers may be required to enter the water with participants. Class is held in our warm water ADA accessible pool.

UMLY Y-Not Otters

A fun and competitive aquatics program for individuals with developmental challenges who are between 4 and 18 years of age. The program provides an outlet where children are able to explore their abilities, develop skills and find within themselves the confidence to pursue their goals and open the door to a lifelong hobby. All participants will be tested and assessed as to their ability and placement onto the team.

Progressive Fitness

This fitness program for individuals between 16 and 20 years old is an introduction to health & wellness in our Wellness Centers. A trainer will meet with each participant individually to assess their personal fitness needs. We'll work on the body and mind with activities that enhance social competence through character development exercises.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

The Ability Center directly supports a variety of programs that enable children and adults to experience social, recreational and educational opportunities that they never imagined possible.

1. How do I get my family member enrolled?
   There is an application and medical form that needs to be completed before beginning a program with the Ability Center. A meeting with new members and the Director is also important to insure proper placement and familiarity with the program and facility.
   
2. What is the difference between the Ability Center and Special Olympics?
   Our social, recreational, and educational programs are offered through and solely supported by Upper Main Line YMCA. These programs are not associated or part of Special Olympics organization.
   The Upper Main Line Y is proud to a be financial supporter, a Training Site for Special Olympics and provide coaches for the teams. When competing, we compete on the local level as the Y in nine sports. When we compete in Sectionals, State, National and Worldwide we are a part of Chester County’s Team, Pennsylvania’s Team, and Team USA.
   
3. Do we have to be Y members?
   No, you do not have to be a full privileged member to participate in the Ability Center programs. All participants in the Ability Center become Y Program Members when they register. This includes the class for which they have enrolled in only. To utilize the entire facility one would have to become a Full Member.
   
4. How can I help? Come out and volunteer. We could always use a helping hand. Make a donation or organize a fundraiser: Contact The Ability Center Director Jennifer F. Whalen at 610-647-9622 ext 2401.
   
5. Is there funding for this program?
   There is funding available through the YMCA with a program called Y CARES, if you qualify. You could also check with your County Support Systems Program to find out if you qualify for Funding.
   
6. What is Y CARES?
   The YMCA of the Upper Main Line provides financial assistance for membership and program fees to anyone in our community experiencing financial difficulty. Our Annual Campaign supports this program. Applications are available at the Welcome Center or in the financial assistance are of this website.