LifeTown
Cause Area
- Children & Youth
- Education & Literacy
- People with Disabilities
Location
6220 East Dublin-Granville RoadNew Albany, OH 43054 United StatesWebsite:
http://www.lifetowncolumbus.orgOrganization Information
Mission Statement
LifeTown is a simulated city where children with special needs will come to learn and practice life skills in a realistic and supportive environment. The LifeTown village has a real bank so children can interact with a bank teller, withdraw money and enjoy a sense of responsibility as they manage their own accounts. Additionally, LifeTown will features a real doctor's office, dentist's office, pet store, library, movie theater, hair salon, concession shop and park. Through role-play, the children will develop vital skills, such as completing a job application, interviewing for a job, learning about teamwork and socialization, and, best of all, being inspired by the safe, warm, loving atmosphere. Lif Town 's realistic "cityscape" increases independence, self-confidence, and self-determination.
Description
When disabilities are compounded by poverty, children are at even higher risk of a life of failure and dependence. Through a groundbreaking partnership between Schottenstein Chabad House/Friendship Circle and Columbus Public Schools, the LifeTown "village" will bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real life learning that often exists for students with special needs. The vast majority of youngsters who will benefit from Life Town will be from impoverished backgrounds. These children are most at risk of being left behind in society.