Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center's Project L.I.F.E. - Program For Young Adults With Special Needs

Part of the Levis JCC’s Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department, Project L.I.F.E. serves individuals ages 18-30+ through a structured, Monday-Friday program from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The initiative blends life-and social-skills development with health, wellness, recreation, and volunteer opportunities both on and off campus, creating a supportive bridge between school-aged programming and adult independence.

With a staff-to-participant ratio of one instructor for every four participants, Project L.I.F.E. offers individualized, experienced attention while fostering meaningful peer connection. Participants volunteer at the JCC’s Zale Preschool, Levis JCC Resale Boutique, and Sinai Residences, learn cooking skills from a professional chef, participate in yoga and wellness activities led by specialized instructors and engage in weekly community outings to locations such as grocery stores and libraries. A dedicated technology component introduces practical skills like sending emails and navigating basic digital tools.

“At its heart, Project L.I.F.E. is about empowerment, inclusion, and possibility,” said Ali Landman, Vice President, Special Needs Services. “We’re creating a space where young adults with special needs are not only supported, but valued—where they can contribute, learn, and thrive as active members of the community.”

Project L.I.F.E. launched in Fall 2025 with 13 participants and is growing quickly, though there is still limited space available for the program. While the program is private-pay, families may seek reimbursement through Med Waiver and partial scholarships are also offered.

For more information, visit: https://levisjcc.org/specialneeds.

About the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department

For more than 30 years, the Helene & Roy Schwedelson Special Needs Department has supported children, teens, and adults with special needs through inclusive, high-quality programming. Serving more than 500 families annually through over 25 programs for participants ages 3–50+, the department welcomes families of all backgrounds and is committed to providing financial assistance to those in need.

About the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center

The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center promotes and enhances Jewish culture, heritage, and values through educational, spiritual, social, wellness and recreational programs for individuals of all ages. With a preschool, summer camp, family activities, athletics, cultural arts, adult enrichment, and special needs programming, as well as a Resale Boutique, the Levis JCC offers something for everyone.