Young Women's Program
The Young Women's Program, an outgrowth of the Initiative for Women with Disabilities, introduces girls with physical disabilities between the ages of 14 to 21 to concepts of health and wellness. The program helps young women to develop a better sense of themselves, take charge of their health and wellness, and respect and honor their bodies. This program is the only health and wellness program for girls with physical disabilities being offered in the tri-state area. Through group sessions after school and specialized workshops during school recess, they participate in classes in exercise/fitness, expressive arts, wellness and discussion groups. In addition, each participant develops her own health and wellness plan identifying achievable goals for the next six months.
Through the program, young women will
- Explore new ways to focus on health and wellness through our diverse class offerings
- Develop their own health and wellness plan
- Meet new people and develop friendships
- Learn about resources available to them
- Learn new skills through our expert instructors
- Share concerns, feelings and experiences with other young women with physical disabilities
Class offerings include:
- Exercise/Fitness: Cardio Blast, Yoga, Hip Hop Dance, Tai Chi, Belly Dancing
- Expressive Arts: Drawing, Painting, Clay, Bead Making, Drama, Singing/Songwriting, Creative Writing
- Discussion Workshops: Traveling with a Disability, Socializing and Dating with a Disability, Going to a Gynecologist for the First Time, Planning for the Future (College/Career), and more
- Wellness: Nutrition: Common Sense Consuming, Horticulture, Beauty (Hairstyling/Makeovers), Acupuncture, Massage Therapy, Reflexology, Reiki
Comprehensive referrals available:
- Primary Care Physician (Adult and Pediatric)
- Gynecology Services (Equipped with fully accessible examination table)
- Physical Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Individual Nutrition Consultation
- Adult Mentors
- Social Work Services
- Referrals to Outside Agencies/Programs
Testimonials:
From participants: “I liked all of the classes. The talk we had on traveling with a physical disability is important, we need to know how to do that. I do yoga now at home that I learned at the Program.”
"The program getes me out of the house, I learn new things and met new people. The program is important for my development as a person."
"It (the program) gives me an outlet. I have freedom and a voice."
"It (individual health and wellness planning) gives me something to work towards. I've never really pushed myself like this before."
From a parent: “She [my daughter] really likes coming. Even when she is tired or has a lot of homework she always insists on coming. She always leaves happy."
Upcoming Events & Workshops Schedule:
Fall Program Schedule 2009
Visible Theater Workshop
Achilles Track Club Group Workout
For more information and to register, please contact Nancy Xenakis, LCSW, MS, Program Coordinator at (212) 598-6479 or nancy.xenakis@nyumc.org.
The Young Women's Program is partially funded by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
