The National Inclusion Project Partners With The Somerset Hills YMCA To Create Recreational Opportunities

(BASKING RIDGE, NJ)- The National Inclusion Project has partnered with the Somerset Hills YMCA to implement Let’s ALL Play—Inclusion in Recreational Programs. The partnership will allow children with developmental disabilities to enjoy a successful summer camp experience in an inclusive setting. As part of this initiative, the National Inclusion Project will provide a program model, training, expertise, and an award of $10,000.

The National Inclusion Project has been actively developing its Let’s ALL Play Program since the program’s inception in 2004. In 2010, the Project is partnering with over 45 recreational programs in 23 states. Teaming with the Somerset Hills YMCA is another exciting step toward their goal of full inclusion. “We feel that working with the Somerset Hills YMCA will help us further our mission to open doors in communities nationwide for children with disabilities to experience everything life has to offer,” says Jerry Aiken, Executive Director.

Let's ALL Play helps bring an inclusive recreational experience to children with disabilities. It gives children with developmental disabilities the same experience as those without. Children with disabilities and their peers who are typically developing come together to participate in recreational activities such as swimming, arts and crafts, community service, physical fitness and more.

In 2008, the Project enlisted the services of The Center for Social Development and Education at the University of Massachusetts-Boston to assess the implementation of Let’s ALL Play. Overwhelming evidence showed that children with disabilities improved self-esteem, social skills, confidence to participate, and sport and motor skills. Campers of all abilities were equally likely to develop friendships with each other.

“We are very excited to work with the National Inclusion Project to further open the Somerset Hills YMCA program to children with disabilities,” said Bob Lomauro, President/CEO of the Somerset Hills YMCA. “This will help enable us to give more children the chance to participate in activities they and their families may have never thought possible.”

About the National Inclusion Project: The National Inclusion Project, formerly the Bubel/Aiken Foundation, serves to bridge the gap that exists between young people with disabilities and the world around them. By providing curriculum, training and financial assistance, the Project partners with communities and programs in creating awareness and opportunities for full inclusion where barriers break and doors open. It is their goal to create an environment for children where inclusion is embraced. To learn more about the National Inclusion Project or ways to get involved visit their Web site at www.inclusionproject.org.