Organization Launches $1 Million Capital Campaign for Adult Disability Aquatic Center
PARAMUS, N.J. (May 22, 2026) — New Concepts for Living (NCFL), New Jersey’s leading provider of services for adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), has launched a $1 million capital campaign to construct an Aquatic Therapy Center at its Paramus Achievement Center.
The nonprofit organization officially kicked off the campaign on Giving Tuesday 2025 and additional momentum is expected from their sold-out 20th Annual Golf Outing on June 1, with all proceeds designated to support the project.
While aquatic therapy is widely recognized for its physical and therapeutic benefits, few community-based providers serving adults with I/DD have the space, resources or infrastructure to offer an on-site pool.
“This addition represents a major enhancement to our therapeutic services, which currently include occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy,” said Steve Setteducati, CEO of New Concepts for Living. “This project is about more than building a pool - it’s about creating opportunities that many of the people we serve have never had. Families and guardians have shared how meaningful this would be for their loved ones. For some, it could be the first time they experience that sense of freedom and movement in the water.”
The 2,000-square-foot pool will be part of a 6,500-square-foot therapy center expansion on the western side of the Paramus Achievement Center. The project is being designed by Jarmel Kizel Architects & Engineers of Livingston, with groundbreaking anticipated this summer and completion targeted for spring 2027.
The pool will feature ADA-compliant accessibility and sensory-friendly design elements, including a zero-entry area that can accommodate pool access via wheelchairs and adaptive equipment. The pool will also include a lift system to safely lower and raise individuals with mobility challenges in and out of the pool.
Aquatic therapy offers significant benefits for adults with I/DD, including improved mobility, balance, and strength, as well as enhanced sensory regulation, reduced anxiety and increased confidence and independence.
NCFL is currently seeking donations and corporate sponsorships to support the aquatic therapy center. Individuals and organizations interested in contributing to the campaign can contact Development Director Sharon Scimeca at sscimeca@ncfl.net or visit https://ncfl.net for more information.
About: New Concepts for Living (NCFL) is dedicated to enriching the lives of adults with special needs through caring and compassionate support within a nurturing environment that promotes independence, growth, and inclusion. NCFL envisions a world where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) live with dignity and independence, with access to the highest quality of care. As the leading provider of services for adults with I/DD, NCFL will continue to provide invaluable and lasting peace of mind for families while setting a standard of excellence for other providers across the nation. To learn more, visit ncfl.net