Sid Jacobson JCC 's "Shooting Stars" program offers individuals with special needs the opportunity to learn basketball skills in a fun, friendly and non-competitive environment.

In conjunction with Roslyn Booster Basketball and partially funded by the Bettina F. Roberts Foundation, the program meets Sundays from 10:30 a.m.-noon and is open to children and teens ages 5-18. The program is ongoing from now until Sunday, Feb. 10.

Some parents have tears in their eyes as they watch their children have fun and be normal kids playing basketball. One teen had never played basketball before and was so happy to play two against two with his peers. His mother, Shawn Gladstone explained, "My son has few opportunities to play with friends. His life is usually filled with therapy and academics. To just have an hour on a Sunday morning to throw a ball around with friends is wonderful and keeps him active."

JCC Executive Director Susan Bender said, "Roslyn Booster Basketball has a lot of experience with sports programs for special needs individuals. We are happy to partner with them to develop a program that is open to everyone and fosters fair play and fun. These individuals have few opportunities to participate in this type of activity."

"Shooting Stars" is open to everyone and parents and siblings may also participate. Led by special education professionals and expert coaches, these non-competitive basketball activities help increase coordination and improve self-esteem. In addition, there are over 30 teen volunteers thus allowing each child or teen to have their own mentor during the class.

Craig Litt of Roslyn Booster Basketball added, "What impresses me most about this program is seeing the whole community pull together - the JCC community service kids, social workers, parents. It's rejuvenating for the community and in turn gives these children with special needs a chance to do the things that most kids do. It's an amazing feeling the parents have watching their children dribble a ball and seeing how much joy and happiness it brings them. For me, it's fulfilling that not just one person is benefiting but a lot of people are because of this program, and the kids are just having fun."

For information about the "Shooting Stars" program, please contact Sharon Denison, JCC Director of Special Needs at 484-1545, ext. 145 or email sdenison@sjjcc.org.