Katz JCC In Cherry Hill Hosts PALS Special Olympics Next Week

CHERRY HILL, NJ — The Katz JCC in Cherry Hill will host the Peers using AAC for Language and Socialization (PALS) Special Olympics next week.

During the event, which runs from Aug. 16-20, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. each day, Multiply Disabled People ages 16-28 who require the assistance of an Augmentative Communication Device (ACD) will participate in a series of games and events.

The participants will be able to enjoy activities throughout the week such as arts and crafts and language lessons that will all be centered around the "PALS Summer Olympic Games." Participants will be encouraged to use their augmentative devices.

“We are very excited about our PALS Summer Olympics Games taking place with these special people,” the Katz JCC said in a statement. “It is our mission to continue to reach out to this non-verbal population, which will allow them to interact socially with other peers throughout the year.”

PALS was established in 2012, and continues to grow with the help of the following individuals, who have a personal interest in children with special needs:

• Donna Forman, MA CCC/SLP, Parent of 24 years old Sydney Forman of Cherry Hill, NJ. Donna is an Advocate and Certified Speech Pathologist.
• Ann Simon, MA CCC/SLP, Resident of Cherry Hill, NJ, Certified Speech Pathologist.
• Judi Krumbein, MA CCC/SLP, AAC Consultant
• Jillian Burkert, MS CCC/SLP, AAC Consultant
• Diane Grasso of Medford, NJ. Diane is a recently retired middle school teacher and a loving mother to Nicolas Grasso, 28 year old PALS participant.
• Amber Case, Adaptive Physical Education Teacher
• Samantha Ell, MS CCC/SLP, AAC Consultant
• Debbie Nichols of Williamstown, NJ. Debbie is the parent of Kenny Nichols, 21-year-old PALS participant, and an Advocate for children with special needs.

The organization was formed to promote socialization among peers of children who are multiply disabled and require aide for communication. PALS are using the talents of teachers, therapists and parents to prepare for a week of fun with the young adults. The Katz JCC of Cherry Hill, has played a major part in this event.

There will be a different Olympic-themed sporting event daily, with the final closing ceremony and award presentation on Friday, Aug. 16, 3 p.m.:

• Monday: Opening Ceremony with Soccer as the first Olympic event.
• Tuesday: Basketball Bucket Blitz Olympic event.
• Wednesday: Track and Field Olympic event.
• Thursday: Baseball Olympic event
• Friday: At 3 p.m., there will be an Olympic Closing Ceremony and Award Presentation for the Olympians