Our Access & Ability programs are grant-funded inclusion programs through AccessCNY’s Family Support Services program. Individuals of all ages and abilities are able to participate in any Y program based on their interests.
Access & Ability support staff may be arranged through the YMCA free of charge to qualifying* individuals with a current YMCA membership. Support staff may also be arranged for an hourly fee to individuals seeking additional hours of assistance as well as for individuals not qualifying for free support based on grant guidelines. If the family chooses to provide their own support in programs, the outside support may accompany the child into the Y without a membership but must present agency or photo ID to member services.
*Note: Support may be provided free of charge to individuals with a developmental disability with qualifying documentation through OPWDD, who reside in Onondaga County and live at home with their families. These qualifications are specific to grant guidelines. Support hours are limited and given on a first come, first serve basis.
Support Staff are available through our Access & Ability funding at YMCA Camp Evergreen, Hal Welsh East Area Family Y Camps, Manlius Y Camps, North Area Family Y Camps, and Northwest Family Y Camps.
Each camper can receive 2 weeks of support at summer camp through our Access & Ability program. Please contact your Access & Ability Department for qualifying information and support availability.
Support Staff are available through our Access & Ability funding to ensure that every person who wants to take part in programs at the Y has a chance to do so. Please contact your Access & Ability Department for qualifying information and support availability.
Please contact your Access & Ability department for more information:
Ashley Downey (She/Her)
Access & Ability Director
(315) 637-2025 x213
Thank you to our Community Partners!
Access & Ability is made possible through financial support from AccessCNY, the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities and the YMCA of Central New York's Annual Support Campaign. We thank everyone for their confidence and support in our quest to meet our mission!