New Concepts for Living Welcomes Special Olympics New Jersey to its Paramus Achievement Center
PARAMUS, N.J. — Special Olympics New Jersey is collaborating with New Concepts for Living (NCFL) to expand its reach in North Jersey. Special Olympics, the world's largest sports organization for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, will now have office space in the Paramus headquarters of NCFL, the nation’s premier provider of services for adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
The move marks the beginning of a meaningful association between the two nonprofits, which are united by a shared commitment to empowering individuals with I/DD.
While New Concepts for Living provides comprehensive day programs and housing for adults with I/DD, Special Olympics New Jersey serves athletes of all ages through year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports that foster inclusion, confidence and achievement.
Both organizations plan to have joint-programming opportunities to strengthen community connections and enhance inclusion for the special needs community they serve.
“This partnership represents a natural alignment of our missions,” said Steve Setteducati, CEO of New Concepts for Living. “Together, we can create even more pathways for inclusion, growth and community integration in northern New Jersey.”
NCFL supported Special Olympics New Jersey’s annual Law Enforcement Run, that took place on Friday, June 5. Their first major collaboration is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, when New Concepts for Living will host Special Olympics New Jersey’s “Community Day” at its Paramus Achievement Center. The event is intended to bring together athletes, families, staff and the local residents for a day of fun activities, social interaction and to raise awareness for individuals with (I/DD) throughout the community.
“We are thrilled to welcome Special Olympics New Jersey to our headquarters, and we look forward to building a lasting relationship that will positively impact the lives of so many of our residents, their caregivers and others across the region,” Setteducati added.
Heather Andersen, President & CEO of Special Olympics New Jersey said she believes the partnership expands access to sports, wellness programs and social engagement, helping individuals with I/DD build confidence, improve physical and mental health and form meaningful relationships within their community.
“This is about access and opportunity,” Andersen said. “By having a more visible presence in Bergen County and partnering with New Concepts for Living, we can reach more individuals with I/DD and connect them to inclusive sports and wellness programs.”
For more information about New Concepts for Living, visit https://ncfl.net/. To learn more about Special Olympics New Jersey, visit https://www.sonj.org/.