By JEVS Staff
JEVS Independence Network provides co-ed living communities for adults with disabilities. Members receive personalized support for independent living, social connection, community engagement, and employment.
The JEVS Independence Network held its 2024 Annual Picnic at the Cooper River Yacht Club in Collingswood, NJ. Participants and families came together to celebrate the program and the community. Since beginning in 2011, the JEVS Independence Network has grown to include locations in Narberth, PA, and Collingswood, NJ. A third location in Ambler, PA, is accepting new members. The annual picnic offers a time for everyone from each location to spend time together, meet other members, and have fun.
The Cooper River Yacht Club offered an indoor gathering space, covered seating area, and outdoor activity area with a view of the Philadelphia skyline. Attendees also set up chairs along the lawn to chat and enjoy the warm, sunny weather.
Members were able to enjoy lunch; complete a “Get to Know You” scavenger hunt activity; paint pumpkins; take pictures at a photo wall; play bocce and other games; and sing karaoke. They also had the opportunity to take a ride in an open-air roadster.
Many people praised the quality of the program, calling it “life-changing” for participants. The supportive nature of the community has motivated several families to move to the area. Families shared stories about the jobs that members have started, the guidance from their mentors, the friendships they’ve made, and their busy social calendars.
Thank you to the staff, families, and members for a wonderful event! To learn more about the JEVS Independence Network, please visit: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/program/independence-network-program/
