Category: Inclusive Programs
Hello Access Nature Community,
Excited to share the launch of a new pilot program designed especially for teens in our community — Unstoppable.
Unstoppable is a peer-based program for teens ages 13–20 with Spina Bifida and similar disabilities that is being managed by the Spina Bifida Resource Network. The program is designed to create a welcoming and supportive space where teens can connect with one another, build confidence, strengthen self-advocacy skills, and explore greater independence — all while having fun.
Through group activities and conversations, participants will have opportunities to:
- Connect with other teens who share similar experiences
- Build friendships and peer support
- Develop confidence and independence
- Strengthen emotional well-being
- Try new activities in a safe, judgment-free environment
- Our first gathering will take place:
Registration is required. A parent or guardian must complete the registration form.
If you have a teen who might enjoy connecting with peers and building new skills, we encourage you to register early as space for this pilot program may be limited.
Please click here to download the event flyer for full program details and registration information.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact SBRN at info@thesbrn.org or 908-782-7475, or reach out to Andrea Bachmann-Brady, Program Leader, at 570-234-6957 or onecrazygreek1970@yahoo.com
Calling all water lovers in the mobility disability community!!
Join Ocean Positive and Ocean County Parks and Recreation for this first ever event and collaboration in Ocean County showcasing inclusive outdoor aquatic activities and community building.
Supporting inclusive outdoor recreation and empowering those with physical and mobility challenges to explore recreation and sport in our natural waters.
Registration begins March 15th by going to – http://www.bcoceanpositive.org
These courses are designed to make learning American Sign Language engaging, accessible, and community centered.
CorpsTHAT group courses are perfect for:
-Beginners or those refreshing their ASL skills
-Individuals, families, educators, and professionals
-Anyone interested in Deaf culture and inclusive communication
What you can expect:
-Interactive group sessions
-Clear instruction with real-life signing practice
-A supportive and welcoming learning environment
-Focus on both ASL language and Deaf culture
Course details:
-Format: Group classes (virtual via Zoom)
-When: Winter, spring, summer and or fall
-Duration: 10 weeks for an hour twice a week sessions
Spots are limited for a maximum of 8 students per class to ensure quality interaction.
Ocean Positive and Pinelands Alliance have teamed together to provide training for your staff and volunteers on safety protocols, emergency response, and respectful interactions with participants who have physical disabilities.
Almost 500,000 NJ residents have a Spinal Cord Injury/Disorder or Movement Challenge, yet there is currently no systematic training available for outdoor recreational and community locations on how to provide services appropriate to the needs of these residents.
The free “Safe & Positive For All” training sessions taught by the team from Ocean Positive are designed for land management leaders, guides, support staff and coordinators for agencies and other providers of outdoor recreation opportunities that may include those with special physical needs or movement challenges.
Elements of the sessions and larger support services may include:
• Training in building disability planning into your safety and emergency procedures
• Support in assessing a trail or scenic location for inclusive programming
• Training in customizing program details to meet the needs of people with mobility challenges, developmental disabilities, or other disability concerns.
• Support in building connections with other providers and potential participants involved in the inclusive outdoor arena
If you have any questions regarding organizing or logistics for offering a workshop, please reach out to Nature Disability Advocate, Sean Kane Holland at sean@pinelandsalliance.org or call 609-859-8860 ext. 117.
Blue Journey Unified’s Fall Pool Sessions Are Back, Thursdays, 7-8 PM.
Wed September 24 – Thu November 20, 2025 join Blue Journey Unified at Ocean City Aquatics and Fitness Center Ocean City, NJ 08244 US
Use the link to register – https://www.ticketsignup.io/TicketEvent/BlueJourneyUnifiedPoolFall2025?rsus=200-500-98adaaa8-a1c7-41eb-b77e-e999c81ae3e3
In this Access Nature Forum we hear from Dr. Natalie Schultz-Kahwaty; Director of the Dance for PD program at Rutgers University – Mason Gross School of Music. Which received a stipend from PPA’s Nature: Accessible for All campaign. The stipend intends to enable Mason Gross to offer free programs for individuals with disabilities to participate in activities at the Rutgers Botanical Gardens and the Accessible Garden in New Brunswick, NJ. In this forum, we will hear about the project and its planning, implementation, and its outcomes.
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation provided a grant to fund the work of PPA and its partners in launching and sustaining the Nature: Accessible for All campaign. The Campaign is a collaborative effort by individuals, public agencies, and nonprofits to ensure that people with disabilities, their families, and allies can and do enjoy New Jersey’s extraordinary natural places.