Village to Host Post-Stroke & Adult Disability Support Group

Already known for its innovative programs and outreach in the disability community, Ridgewood has been selected as host to a county-wide support group.

Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan announced Thursday the formation of the Ridgewood Post Stroke & Disabled Adult Support Group, which will hold its first meeting in the Village Hall Senior Lounge on Tuesday, September 20. It's one of four similar centers throughout the county.

Councilman Paul Aronsohn, who heads Ridgewood's Community Access Network (which supports greater access for the disability community), said the creation of this new group was a combined effort of village staff and county administrators, notably James Thebery, who heads the county's Division on Disability Services.

"We're proud that the county recognizes Ridgewood's commitment to provide disability services, and we're excited about making this program available to our residents," he said. "With Nancy Bigos' [the Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation in Ridgewood] leadership, this program will certainly add something very special, very important to our community."

Among the programs offered are chair exercise, memory games, and special guest speakers on a variety of topics. 

The village passed an ordinance earlier this year that levied a fee for the renting of its facilities. However, said Village Manager Ken Gabbert, it will be "totally free" to the county and participants.

"The utilization of the Ridgewood Village Hall space will make attendance easier for Ridgewood and other nearby communities residents as they seek the support offered," Gabbert said in an e-mail Thursday afternoon. "The program will be listed in the Fall Village newsletter that lists free and low cost programs available to our residents."

Added Mayor Keith Killion, "We highly value compassion and education in this village, so it's great this council can provide a venue for those recovering from strokes and those who battle disabilities each day."

The group will meet each Tuesday at 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Pat Mancuso Senior Center.

Individuals with various disabilities are welcome to participate. Those wishing to join a group should contact program coordinator Daniel Kotkin at (201) 336-6504 or learn more from the Bergen County Division of Disability Services at (201) 336-6500 or (201) 336-6505 (for the deaf/hearing impaired).