Graduation day
Students with special needs finish Giborim U life skills program
About 75 adults and children with special needs were honored after completing the GiborimU12-week programof courses at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center inDavie.
The Giborim U courses engage specialneeds adults and children fromages 8 through 60 in a variety of courses covering arts, life skills, socialization and sports to enrich the lives of the students.
“This is a very proud day to recognize the achievements of all the students who deserve to be honored today,” said Scott Ehrlich, CEOof the Posnack JCCin his remarks at the awards ceremony.
According to Ehrlich, the Giborim (translated from Hebre was “heroes”) U program marks the first time that a yearround programhas been offered for special-needs adults and children at any South Florida Jewish Community Center.
“GiborimUis an outgrowth of the center’s unique and special special needs camp [Camp Giborim] whichwe have run since 1991on our campus,” said Ehrlich.
Adults and children enrolled at Giborim Uhave been diagnosed with a developmental disability such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy or Downsyn drome.
“Special-needs people, like all of us, need to develop the social skills to interact with others and bond. Inworking with our students, we see an increase in verbal skills through improvisation, movement and music ,” said Debra Lombard of the nonprofit Exceptional Theater Company, in offering classes at GiborimUin drama, movement and music.
Five of Lombard’s students showcased their skills in singing and music by performing the songs “Rock the Boat” and “Wild Thing” at the awards ceremony in front of the150 friends and family members who attended the ceremony.
BrianAdams said of his son, “Ross not only enjoys performing, but he bonds and interacts with others at GiborimU. This is a wonderful programthat is an asset and an invaluable service to our community.”
Each studentwas greeted with applause and hugs after receiving their certificate.
“We are so pleased that the special needs children and adults have become involved at GiborimUthrough the love and guidance of their families and our instructors,” said DianeWilen, who is co-chair of GiborimUwith Beth Allen.
Seven paintings created by many of the studentswere also showcased at the awards ceremony.
“The skills and ability to not just draw, but to express individuality in these paintings is a testimony to the creativity of the
students,” Wilen said.
Along with classes in drama, other classes offered at GiborimUinclude basketball, cooking, dancing, hip-hop, karate, soccer, weights in motion, yoga and zumba.
The Jewish Federation of Broward County has granted GiborimU$30,000 to continue the program.
“We are very pleased that GiborimUis being viewed as a programthat other JCCS across the country wish to implement,” said Ehrlich.
The book “Howto Be a Super Sibling” was sold at the awards ceremony to raise funds for the Posnack JCC. The bookwas written by Genevieve-More-jon-Lopez and illustrated by her sonRonald, a GiborimU student.
“This book shines light on all siblings who are taught and understand their siblings with special needs. Sometimes you are expected to simply be patient. Iwant all children to knowthat although a specialneeds family member requires a lot more attention, you are just as important and appreciated, which makes you a super sibling,” saidMorejon-Lopez.