Blog
Finding Calm in the Chaos: Understanding and Managing Stress When Overstimulated
Big crowds, large events, and loud noises stress me out. As a little kid, I was scared of trains because they made loud noises. Now, I don’t like loud music. I used to avoid grocery stores because they felt overwhelming—big, crowded, and chaotic. While I’ve grown more comfortable with grocery stores over time, I still […] Learn More ›
Celebrating JDAIM at the J
Each February, JCC Chicago, alongside Jewish organizations around the country celebrate JDAIM (Jewish Disability Acceptance Awareness and Inclusion Month). Though we at the J celebrate the achievements within the Disability community all year round, February is JDAIM is really at the intersection of multiple identities and all that comes with that. It is an additional […] Learn More ›
All Star Abilities Expands to Chicago: Transforming Teens’ Lives Through Fitness and Friendship
Photo caption: Reid (far left) and Kaden (center) standing working with two All Star Abilities participants on the row machine. Written by: By Reid Pearsall & Kaden Uddin All Star Abilities has been transforming teens lives since 2017. It’s aimed to close the fitness gap by pairing teens with and without disabilities together for a […] Learn More ›
Growing the Next Generation of Leaders: Apachi Day Camp’s CIT Program
At Apachi Village Northbrook, we’re not just creating incredible summers; we’re helping shape the next generation of leaders. Watching campers grow into confident, capable role models through our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role as Director. Our CIT program is designed to give teens in 8th to 10th […] Learn More ›
Shaped by Camp Chi: Jack Zislis’ Journey from Camper to Counselor
From camper to counselor, Jack Zislis shares how Camp Chi shaped his life. In this video, he reflects on giving back to the place that helped him grow, guiding campers to discover Chi’s magic, and how camp prepared him for college and beyond. This video was filmed on July 19, 2024. Learn More ›
Music & Hope Filled The Air At The 2nd Annual Growing Hope Concert
Wow! What a night we had at the 2nd Annual Growing Hope Concert and Community Fair on Wednesday, Sept. 25, a.k.a., the recently proclaimed Illinois Growing Hope Day! Together, we reveled in the inspiring performances and celebrated our shared commitment to creating a kinder, more inclusive world. We also welcomed YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago as […] Learn More ›