Neighbor News
Our Neighborhood Academy Hosts Open House, Nov. 11
Berkley nonprofit highlights its year-round offerings designed to empower young adults with special needs

BERKLEY, MICH. — Our Neighborhood Academy (ONA), a fully accredited 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides life-skills programming for young adults with special needs, is thrilled to announce its Open House event on Saturday, November 11th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its downtown Berkley location at 3096 12 Mile Road.
ONA's Open House provides an opportunity for the public to explore the organization's commitment to empowering young adults with special needs during their transition to independence. ONA’s doors will be open to anyone who has questions about programming or would like to sign up a family member. The event will feature a special presentation at 2:00 p.m., highlighting the diverse program offerings available.
ONA's programs, which are based on the Stanfield Transitions Curriculum, focus on comprehensive skill development, encompassing personal management, career management, and life management. Program offerings emphasize essential life skills including job application and interview preparation, while laying a strong foundation for participants to engage with their communities using the essential skills they develop during their transition to independence.
Find out what's happening in Huntington Woods-Berkleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
As part of its program, ONA encourages students to create micro-enterprises, with ventures such as a Children's Boutique and a handmade vinyl clothing enterprise. These hands-on experiences allow students to apply classroom knowledge in practical settings, gaining valuable life skills in the process.
The inclusive and supportive environment at ONA encourages the development of lasting friendships among its participants through in-house activities, discussions, and community outings. This supportive setting encourages personal growth and independence, while also provided a hub for social networking.
Find out what's happening in Huntington Woods-Berkleyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
"Our Open House event is wonderful opportunity for the public to see what makes Our Neighborhood Academy’s programs so special, and to sign up family members who would benefit from being part of our community. We're all about unlocking the amazing potential in young adults with special needs. It's about building skills, nurturing confidence, and fostering independence. We’re so excited to be able to share our offerings with the public.”
To learn more about ONA's program offerings or to enroll, please visit ourneighborhoodacademy.com.
About Our Neighborhood Academy
Founded in 2021, Our Neighborhood Academy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to helping young adults with special needs transition from a school setting to independent adult life. Their membership-based programs draw from the Stanfield Transitions Curriculum modules (personal management, career management, and life management), teaching daily living skills, employment skills, self-advocacy, and social skills. Our Neighborhood Academy seeks to provide a safe, nurturing environment that creates a sense of community and belonging for its members as they gain the tools to reach their full potential and become engaged, valuable members of their communities. To learn more about Our Neighborhood Academy, please visit www.ourneighborhoodacademy.com.
# # #