Welcoming new participants for Arts and Community Exploration

Disabilities
Written By Joan Thielen
Person in a wheelchair stirring something in a bowl

The JFS Arts and Community Exploration (ACE) program is a person-centered program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, engaging in center-based activities and community outings—and the program is now welcoming new participants! 

Improving our health and well-being while trying something new is vital for all of us, and our dedicated staff are trained and experienced to support self-determined ACE participants’ goals. Participants are empowered to learn new skills, develop relationships, and safely engage in their surroundings at our center at Calvary Baptist Church or in the Denver community.  

Meaningful center-based activities include: 

  • Art projects 

  • Cooking 

  • Research and learn  

Explore the community through fun and engaging activities like: 

  • Outdoor recreation (e.g., Staunton State Park: Track Chair program and fishing and DPR Adaptive Recreation: paddle boarding and adaptive cycling) 

  • Holiday light tours 

  • National Western Stock Show 

  • Plays at Denver Center for the Performing Arts 

Participants also have several opportunities to volunteer, including at the JFS Weinberg Food Pantry or the JCC for our Community Table Lunch Program or by assembling hygiene kits for Justice Necessary.  

RTD’s Access-A-Ride and private or contracted transportation services provide transportation to and from the ACE program. The ACE day program space is fully wheelchair accessible and a sensory-friendly location thanks to the Autism Community Store, the Sensory Friendly project, and the DHS IDDEAS program. 

Learn more about the program or schedule a tour, or contact Judy Pankoff, ACE Program Manager, at 720.459.3897. 

Joan Thielen
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