Beyond Barriers: Exploring Community Access Unlimited’s Impact Part 3
Community Access Unlimited (CAU) serves over 3,000 individuals with disabilities and youth at risk across New Jersey. The organization provides a wide range of support services designed to promote independence and community inclusion. CAU offers many programs and services; this article focuses on the Day Program, the Academy of Continuing Education (ACE), and the GAME initiative, which takes place at the Day Program. Each program is designed to meet the diverse needs of the individuals they support through innovative approaches that empower growth, learning, and community connections.
The Day Program in Cranford, NJ features state-of-the-art technology alongside extensive programming and recreational activities developed to support individuals with disabilities. Participants benefit from medical and behavioral support, including access to an on-site nurse, a Board-Certified Behavioral Analyst, and a Registered Behavior Technician. Activities range from seasonal field trips and animal therapy to arts and crafts, educational classes, culinary arts, games, personal fitness, and more. One participant shared, “I love coming to Day Program to meet new friends and learn things every day.” This comprehensive program promotes skill development, wellness, and community engagement in a safe and supportive environment.
The Academy of Continuing Education (ACE) at CAU provides adults with disabilities a unique, small classroom learning environment where students build on existing skills and explore subjects such as math, science, music, theater, visual arts, performing arts, and digital arts. During performing arts, Carolyn Dorfman Dance visited with several of their performers for an interactive dance workshop. In math, individuals enhanced their skills by practicing fundamental concepts such as addition, multiplication, percentages, and division. In science, they investigated a variety of captivating topics, including biology, physics, and chemistry, through hands-on activities and inquiry-based learning. ACE’s hands-on approach fosters ongoing academic, artistic, and life skills development, helping students gain confidence, independence, and meaningful community involvement.
CAU’s GAME (Gaining Acceptance through Mutual and Engagement) initiative is redefining how individuals with disabilities and local first responders connect and build trust. Held at 70 Myrtle Street in Cranford, the program combines arcade games like Air Hockey and Basketball Pro with a classroom component, creating a fun, relaxed space where relationships form, barriers break down, and peer-to-peer learning thrives. According to the 2022 Racial and Identity Profiling Advisory (RIPA) Board data, force was used 3.3 times more often on individuals with disabilities than their nondisabled peers, often due to miscommunication. GAME provides a proactive solution to foster empathy, reduce tension, and strengthen community bonds. By bringing first responders and community members together in a positive, engaging environment, the initiative helps change perceptions and create safer, more inclusive neighborhoods.
Together, these programs embody CAU’s dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities by fostering skill development, community connections, and personal growth. Through innovative approaches and inclusive partnerships, CAU continues to create opportunities for independence and meaningful engagement, positively transforming lives and communities across New Jersey.
Made possible by funds from the Union County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.