Ben and Dorothy Spencer Special Services Department

Building Connection, Confidence and Community

From children to seniors, the J supports individuals of all ages and abilities!

Our department supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, children and families impacted by cancer, adults receiving cancer treatment and seniors seeking connection, purpose and community. Through inclusive programs, vocational training, wellness activities, family support and meaningful social experiences, we help people build confidence, develop skills, create lasting friendships and experience a true sense of belonging.

From Merlie’s Giborim United and our Senior Programs to Sunrise South Florida Programs, the Special Services Department embodies the heart of our JCC, a welcoming community where everyone is valued, supported and included.

Merlie's Giborim United Merlie's Giborim United provides inclusive programming for individuals with developmental disabilities, offering opportunities to learn, grow, build friendships and participate fully in the JCC community. Learn More

GibConnect GibConnect offers in-person and virtual enrichment classes for individuals with developmental disabilities. Learn More

Giborim Adult Program (GAP) The Giborim Adult Program (GAP) offers adults with developmental disabilities learning and enrichment opportunities as well as employment and life skills. Learn More

HIRE-Ability HIRE-Ability offers vocational training that helps adults with developmental disabilities build practical skills for careers in the restaurant, hospitality and food service fields.  Learn More

The Square Bowl Food Truck The Square Bowl is our innovative food truck dedicated to providing meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Learn More

JLunch JLunch is a free weekday lunch program for adults age 60+ offering nutritious kosher meals, social connection and opportunities to stay active and engaged in the community. Learn More

Sunrise South Florida Programs Sunrise South Florida Programs supports children with cancer and their siblings with a free summer camp and a year-round hospital visit program. Learn More

RISE (Resilience, Inspiration, Support & Engagement) RISE expands Sunrise South Florida’s mission to adults living with cancer. RISE brings care, comfort, emotional support and companionship directly to adult patients during treatment. Beyond hospital walls, RISE will create opportunities for connection and healing through social and recreational gatherings, creative arts and wellness activities.

Meet the Special Services Team!

Ben and Dorothy Spencer Special Services Department
Howard Fleischer, Special Services Director
hfleischer@dpjcc.org | 954-434-0499 ext. 1108