75 special needs adults and children were honored with awards for completing the Giborim U 12-week program of courses on May 21 at the David Posnack Jewish Community Center in Davie.
“This is a very proud day to recognize the achievements of all the students who deserve to be honored today,” said Scott Ehrlich, chief executive officer of the Posnack JCC in his remarks at the awards ceremony.
According to Ehrlich, the Giborim (translated from Hebrew as “heroes”) U program marks the first time that a year round program has been offered for special needs adults and children at any South Florida Jewish Community Center.
“Giborim U is an outgrowth of the center’s unique and special special needs camp (Camp Giborim) which we have run since 1991 on our campus,” said Ehrlich.
The Giborim U courses engage special needs adults and children, from ages 8 through 60, in a variety of courses covering arts, life skills, socialization and sports to enrich the lives of the students.
Special needs adults and children enrolled at Giborim U are diagnosed with a developmental disability including, but not limited to, autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and other disabilities.
“Special needs people, like all of us, need to develop the social skills to interact with others and bond. In working with our students, we see an increase in verbal skills through improvisation, movement and music,” said Debra Lombard of the not for profit “Exceptional Theater Company, in offering classes at Giborim U in drama, movement and music.
Five of Lombard’s students (Eric, Fiona, Kevin, Rod and Ross) showcased their skills in singing and music by performing the songs “Rock the Boat” and “Wild Thing” at the awards ceremony in front of the 150 friends and family members who attended the ceremony.
“Ross not only enjoys performing, but he bonds and interacts with others at Giborim U. This is a wonderful program that is an asset and an invaluable service to our community,” said Brian Adams, father of Ross.
Each student was greeted with applause and hugs after receiving their certificate awards.
“We are so pleased that the special needs children and adults have become involved at Giborim U through the love and guidance of their families and our instructors,” said Dr. Diane Wilen, who is co-chair of Giborim U with Beth Allen.
Seven paintings that were created by many of the students were also showcased at the awards ceremony.
“The skills and ability to not just draw, but to express individuality in these paintings is a testimony to the creativity of the students,” added Wilen.
Along with classes in drama, other classes offered at Giborim U include basketball, cooking, dancing, hip hop, karate, soccer, weights in motion, yoga, and zumba.
Jewish Federation of Broward County has granted Giborim U an allocation of $30,000 to continue the program.
“We are very pleased that Giborim U is being viewed as a program that other JCCS across the country wish to implement,” said Ehrlich.
The book “How to Be a Super Sibling” was sold at the awards ceremony to raise funds for the Posnack JCC. The book was written by Genevieve Morejon-Lopez and illustrated by her son Ronald, a Giborim U student.
“This book shines light on all siblings who are taught and understand their siblings with special needs. Sometimes you are expected to simply be patient. I want all children to know that although a special needs family member requires a lot more attention, you are just as important and appreciated, which makes you a super sibling,” said Morejon-Lopez.
To learn more about Giborim U at the Posnack Jewish Community Center, 5850 S. Pine Island Drive in Davie, call 954-434-0499 x347 or go to www.giborimu.org.