Join Us At An Upcoming Event!

Events

Sensory Friendly Easter Bunny
Mar
28

Sensory Friendly Easter Bunny

Hop on over for a Stress-Free Spring Celebration! 🐰✨

Our wonderful friends at the Sally Ploof Hunter Memorial Library are hosting a special Sensory Friendly Easter Bunny event designed specifically for children with higher support needs.

We know that big crowds and loud noises can be overwhelming. That’s why they’re offering a judgment-free zone where your family can enjoy the magic of spring at your own pace.

The Details:

  • When: March 28th | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

  • Where: Sally Ploof Hunter Memorial Library

  • What: One private 10-minute session per family to interact with the Easter Bunny in a calm, supportive environment.

Registration is required to ensure everyone gets their dedicated time.

View Event →
Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation
Apr
1

Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Teen+ Club is a specialized program designed to serve neurodivergent teens and young adults (ages 13-21) in the community, providing them with a supportive environment where they can build social skills, engage in collaborative activities, and receive guidance for transitioning into adulthood. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, especially during the critical adolescent and young adult years, the Teen+ Club aims to bridge the gap in services that cater to their social, emotional, and developmental needs.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus, led by volunteers.

2025 dates are the 1st Wednesday of the month, starting February 5, 2025

View Event →
Tinker Club sponsored by the United Way of Northern New York (ages 10-21)
Apr
1

Tinker Club sponsored by the United Way of Northern New York (ages 10-21)

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Tinker Club is a specialized STEM and social program developed to support exceptional youth ages 10-21.

The program is designed to address the unique needs of young individuals with higher support needs, providing them with a nurturing environment to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, engage in creative problem-solving, and build essential social skills.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus in Watertown

2026 dates are *typically* the 1st Wednesday of the month

View Event →
Exceptional Family Camp
Aug
8
to Aug 9

Exceptional Family Camp

**Save the Date – Family Camp is Coming!

Get ready for something new and exciting from Encompass Recreation!

Family Camp is happening August 8–9, 2026!

This overnight camp experience at 4-H Jefferson County, NY and 4-H Camp Wabasso is designed for youth with higher support needs and their families to connect, relax, and enjoy a night at camp. Think swimming, activities, campfires, and time together in a welcoming environment.

Overnight and day camp options available.

Activities for the whole family!

Supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

No cost to families thanks to our generous sponsors.

We’re sharing a tentative schedule so you can see what the weekend may look like, and an interest form to help us plan as spots are limited.

More details coming soon — we can’t wait to camp with you!



View Event →

Bowling sponsored by NTC Contracting
Mar
14

Bowling sponsored by NTC Contracting

Encompass Recreation is proud to partner with NTC Contracting and offer an Exceptional Bowling event at Lewis Lanes in Lowville, NY!

This sensory friendly event is intended for all exceptional youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs. Immediate family/caretaker members may join us for lunch and to watch their family member bowl. Participants with deitary restrictions are welcome to bring their own food. Each child will receive 1 FREE game of bowling with shoe rental included. Participants and a parent/caretaker assisting may use clean, dry sneakers that were not worn to the bowling alley as an alternative to the bowling shoes. However, shoes (either the sneakers or bowling rentals) must be worn. Shoes that are worn into the bowling alley are not acceptable.

Date: March 14th

Time: 12-2 pm

**Bumpers and rails are available on each lane.**

We will also feature our "Chill Zone" for when you need a little break from the excitement.

This event is FREE thanks to NTC Contracting and our other generous sponsors.

**Depending on the number of participants, we may need to divide our bowlers into 2 separate groups.**

View Event →
St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Mar
7

St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Mar
7

Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Tinker Club sponsored by the United Way of Northern New York (ages 10-21)
Mar
4

Tinker Club sponsored by the United Way of Northern New York (ages 10-21)

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Tinker Club is a specialized STEM and social program developed to support exceptional youth ages 10-21.

The program is designed to address the unique needs of young individuals with higher support needs, providing them with a nurturing environment to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, engage in creative problem-solving, and build essential social skills.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus in Watertown

2026 dates are *typically* the 1st Wednesday of the month

View Event →
Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation
Mar
4

Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Teen+ Club is a specialized program designed to serve neurodivergent teens and young adults (ages 13-21) in the community, providing them with a supportive environment where they can build social skills, engage in collaborative activities, and receive guidance for transitioning into adulthood. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, especially during the critical adolescent and young adult years, the Teen+ Club aims to bridge the gap in services that cater to their social, emotional, and developmental needs.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus, led by volunteers.

2025 dates are the 1st Wednesday of the month, starting February 5, 2025

View Event →
Exceptional Tubing sponsored by E.K. Counseling Services
Feb
28

Exceptional Tubing sponsored by E.K. Counseling Services

Get Ready for an Exceptional Snow Tubing Adventure! ❄️🛷

Join us on February 21st from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM for a fun-filled Exceptional Snow Tubing Event designed especially for youth ages 2–21 with higher support needs. This exciting winter outing offers a safe, welcoming environment where participants can enjoy the thrill of snow tubing, build confidence, and make joyful memories with peers and families.

This event is proudly sponsored by E.K. Counseling, whose generous support helps make inclusive recreation opportunities possible for our community.

Important Details:

📅 Date: February 28

⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

👧🧒 Ages: 2–21 (higher support needs)

📍 Location: Dry Hill Ski Area

📝 Registration is required to attend.

Be sure to register soon to secure your place in this winter adventure. We can’t wait to see you on the slopes for laughter, connection, and snowy fun!

View Event →
Inclusive Bluey Dance Party
Feb
19

Inclusive Bluey Dance Party

🕺💙 Inclusive Bluey Dance Party! 💙💃

Calling all Bluey fans ages 3–6! Join the amazing Miss Ayla for an Inclusive Bluey Dance Party on Thursday, February 19th from 5–6 PM at Rhonda’s FooteWorks 🎶✨

This joyful, movement-filled event is designed to be welcoming and supportive for ALL children.

👉 All exceptional youth ages 3–6 with higher support needs may attend for FREE with registration (courtesy of Encompass Recreation).

🗓 Date: February 19

⏰ Time: 5:00–6:00 PM

🎉 Who: Ages 3–6

💙 FREE for eligible families with registration

📝 Registration required

⏳ Registration closes February 18th at 11:59 PM

Get ready to wiggle, dance, and have a Bluey-tastic time with friends! 💫🐾

Spots are limited—be sure to register before the deadline!

View Event →
St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Feb
14

St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

Join us for the rescheduled February date… February 14th!

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Feb
14

Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

Join us for the rescheduled February date… February 14th!

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Feb
7

Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Tinker Club (ages 10-21)
Feb
4

Tinker Club (ages 10-21)

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Tinker Club is a specialized STEM and social program developed to support exceptional youth ages 10-21.

The program is designed to address the unique needs of young individuals with higher support needs, providing them with a nurturing environment to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, engage in creative problem-solving, and build essential social skills.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus in Watertown

2026 dates are *typically* the 1st Wednesday of the month

View Event →
Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation
Feb
4

Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Teen+ Club is a specialized program designed to serve neurodivergent teens and young adults (ages 13-21) in the community, providing them with a supportive environment where they can build social skills, engage in collaborative activities, and receive guidance for transitioning into adulthood. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, especially during the critical adolescent and young adult years, the Teen+ Club aims to bridge the gap in services that cater to their social, emotional, and developmental needs.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus, led by volunteers.

2025 dates are the 1st Wednesday of the month, starting February 5, 2025

View Event →
Exceptional Dance Party sponsored by Rhonda’s FooteWorks
Jan
24

Exceptional Dance Party sponsored by Rhonda’s FooteWorks

Get ready to groove in an environment built just for you! Rhonda's FooteWorks is excited to host a specialized dance party designed specifically for children and teens aged 5-15 who have higher support needs.

Inclusive Dance Experience at Rhonda's FooteWorks

  • Who: Dancers ages 5-15 with higher support needs

  • What: A supportive, high-energy, and inclusive dance party

  • Where: Rhonda's FooteWorks studio

  • When: January 24th from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM

  • Why: To provide a safe, sensory-friendly space where everyone can experience the joy of movement and music!

This is a welcoming atmosphere with modifications to ensure every participant feels comfortable and empowered. Experience an hour of tailored music, adaptive dance activities, and a chance to shine on the dance floor. Rhonda’s volunteers will be on hand to provide the necessary support, making this a truly exceptional afternoon for everyone involved.

Mark your calendars for January 24th and prepare for an afternoon of fun, rhythm, and connection!

View Event →
Basketball sponsored by Converse Lending
Jan
18

Basketball sponsored by Converse Lending

Encompass Recreation is proud to partner with the 2022 Section III, Class D STATE CHAMPIONS from Copenhagen Central School for an Exceptional Basketball Game! 

January 18th, 2025 @ 1pm, Copenhagen Central School

BASKETBALL: This game will consist of each exceptional player being paired with a member of the varsity team for four quarters of basketball fun.  We can accommodate all youth (ages 2-21) with higher support needs.

OTHER OPTIONS:  Have a kiddo that you want to participate, but basketball and cheer aren't their favorite?  We need scorekeepers, ball kiddos, referees, and more!

Register by January 2nd to guarantee your shirt size!

Brought to you by Jeremy Briggs from Converse Lending and other generous sponsors, this event is FREE for participants!

View Event →
Josh Cox and the Rattlesnakes Benefit
Jan
17

Josh Cox and the Rattlesnakes Benefit

Josh Cox and the Rattle Snakes are taking the stage on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at the Carthage Elks Lodge #1762 and you don’t want to miss this night.

Grab your tickets online here or stop by:

• Carthage Elks

• Bottle Caps Beverage Center

Many of our board members are also selling tickets!

Your ticket also enters you into the CASH Bash where 41 people will win cash prizes totaling up to $8,000! 💵🔥You do NOT need to be present to win, but your ticket needs to be dropped off the evening of the show.

This amazing evening is presented by Platinum Property Services of NNY, LLC. All proceeds support Encompass Recreation and help inclusive programming for local youth.

Let’s pack the Elks with energy, music, and community.

See you there!

View Event →
Tinker Club (ages 10-21)
Jan
7

Tinker Club (ages 10-21)

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Tinker Club is a specialized STEM and social program developed to support exceptional youth ages 10-21.

The program is designed to address the unique needs of young individuals with higher support needs, providing them with a nurturing environment to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, engage in creative problem-solving, and build essential social skills.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus in Watertown

2026 dates are *typically* the 1st Wednesday of the month

View Event →
Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation
Jan
7

Teen+ Club sponsored by the Northern New York Community Foundation

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Teen+ Club is a specialized program designed to serve neurodivergent teens and young adults (ages 13-21) in the community, providing them with a supportive environment where they can build social skills, engage in collaborative activities, and receive guidance for transitioning into adulthood. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, especially during the critical adolescent and young adult years, the Teen+ Club aims to bridge the gap in services that cater to their social, emotional, and developmental needs.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus, led by volunteers.

2025 dates are the 1st Wednesday of the month, starting February 5, 2025

View Event →
St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Jan
3

St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Jan
3

Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

A welcoming, inclusive art experience designed especially for children with higher support needs, ages 2 through high school.

Our Exceptional Art Club provides a supportive, sensory-aware environment where children can explore creativity at their own pace. Each session offers adaptive, process-focused art activities that encourage self-expression, confidence, and joy—no prior art experience needed. Families and caregivers are welcome to support participation as needed.

Dates:

📅 First Saturday of each month

• January – June

• October – December

Who It’s For:

🎨 Children and youth ages 2 through high school with higher support needs

What to Expect:

• Inclusive, judgment-free atmosphere

• Adapted materials and flexible instruction

• Sensory-considerate space

• Focus on creativity, not perfection

Join us for a fun, meaningful art experience where every child is celebrated and creativity has no limits.

View Event →
Exceptional Dance Party sponsored by Rhonda’s FooteWorks
Dec
29

Exceptional Dance Party sponsored by Rhonda’s FooteWorks

Thanks to an amazing partnership with Rhonda's FooteWorks of Watertown, we are proud to offer an Exceptional Dance Party!

When: December 29th

  • 4:30-5:15 pm for exceptional youth ages 5-9 with higher support needs

  • 5:15-6:00 pm for exceptional youth ages 10 through high school with higher support needs

**This event requires at least 6 participants per age group to occur, so gather all of your exceptional friends and sign up today!*

The event is FREE for all exceptional youth and made possible by the generosity of Rhonda’s FooteWorks and their kind volunteers.

View Event →
Sensory Friendly Movie
Dec
21

Sensory Friendly Movie

We are so proud to partner with North Country Prenatal/Perinatal Council, Inc to offer a sensory friendly showing of Zootopia 2!

This event is FREE of charge, and does not require pre-registration.

We welcome EVERYONE, not just those needing sensory accomodations. *We will be collecting basic demographic information (age + gender) during the event.

What does a sensory friendly movie showing mean?

💡 The lights will be turned up a bit from the typical darkness of a movie

🎧 The sound will be turned down a bit from typical settings

👫 We welcome, and encourage, movement to keep regulated

We will feature our Chill Zone again for anyone needing a break from the movie.

Hope to see you there!

View Event →
St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Dec
13

St. Lawrence County Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

Encompass Recreation is proud to again offer an Art Club for exceptional youth, ages 2 through high-school.

Thanks to our sponsor, D2 Accounting, this program is free to exceptional participants.

Class Dates + Times:

October 18th 1:30pm
November 8th 1:30pm
December 13th 1:30pm

Class Location: St John's Episcopal Church 500 Caroline St., Ogdensburg

Due to limited space for each class, if at any point in time you are unable to attend a session you've registered for, please inform us at hello@encompassrec.com

View Event →
Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting
Dec
13

Art Club sponsored by D2 Accounting

Encompass Recreation is proud to again offer an Art Club for exceptional youth, ages 2 through high-school.

Thanks to our sponsor, D2 Accounting, this program is free to exceptional participants.

Class Dates + Times:

October 18th 10-12
November 8th 10-12
December 13th 10-12

Class Location: Evans Mills Public Library at 8706 Noble Street, Evans Mills, NY 13637

Due to limited space for each class, if at any point in time you are unable to attend a session you've registered for, please inform us at hello@encompassrec.com

View Event →
Sensory Friendly Santa
Dec
6

Sensory Friendly Santa

Come meet Santa at the Sally Ploof Hunter Memorial Library!

Each immediate family will sign up for one 10 minute slot to allow for dedicated time with Santa without having to wait in line with crowds.

Come as you are… you are free to lay, roll, jump, spin, or flap with Santa!

You are welcomed and encouraged to take your own photos.

Please sign up one child with higher support needs from your family, and then indicate on the registration how many immediate family members will be attending.

This sensory friendly event is FREE and made possible thanks to many kind volunteers and our friends at the Sally Ploof Hunter Memorial Library!

View Event →
Tinker Club (ages 11-21) sponsored by the United Way of Northern NY
Dec
3

Tinker Club (ages 11-21) sponsored by the United Way of Northern NY

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Tinker Club is a specialized STEM and social program developed to support exceptional youth ages 11-21.

The program is designed to address the unique needs of young individuals with higher support needs, providing them with a nurturing environment to explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, engage in creative problem-solving, and build essential social skills.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus in Watertown

2025 dates are *typically* the 1st Wednesday of the month

View Event →
Teen+ Club sponsored by the Ryden & Spearyn Frederick Charitable Fund
Dec
3

Teen+ Club sponsored by the Ryden & Spearyn Frederick Charitable Fund

  • Children's Home of Jefferson County Cottage #1 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Teen+ Club is a specialized program designed to serve neurodivergent teens and young adults (ages 13-21) in the community, providing them with a supportive environment where they can build social skills, engage in collaborative activities, and receive guidance for transitioning into adulthood. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, especially during the critical adolescent and young adult years, the Teen+ Club aims to bridge the gap in services that cater to their social, emotional, and developmental needs.

Program will be in Cottage #1 on the CHJC Campus, led by volunteers.

2025 dates are the 1st Wednesday of the month, starting February 5, 2025

View Event →
Indoor Track sponsored by Samaritan Medical Center
Nov
23

Indoor Track sponsored by Samaritan Medical Center

Encompass Recreation is proud to offer a four (4) week indoor track program for youth ages 2 through high school.
Each series date takes place on Sundays in November and offers age/grade appropriate distances for everyone. 
1 Lap/125 Yards
2 Laps/250 Yards
4 Laps/500 Yards
7 Laps/Half-Mile
  • Distances MAY be divided into heats based on registration numbers
  • Distances MAY be combined based on registration numbers
View Event →
Indoor Track sponsored by Samaritan Medical Center
Nov
16

Indoor Track sponsored by Samaritan Medical Center

Encompass Recreation is proud to offer a four (4) week indoor track program for youth ages 2 through high school.
Each series date takes place on Sundays in November and offers age/grade appropriate distances for everyone. 
1 Lap/125 Yards
2 Laps/250 Yards
4 Laps/500 Yards
7 Laps/Half-Mile
  • Distances MAY be divided into heats based on registration numbers
  • Distances MAY be combined based on registration numbers
View Event →

Ongoing Programs