The Connection

08/28/2026

🎨🎶 Explore. Create. Connect. 💜

The Sensory Collective is a fun, supportive space for kids ages 4–12 to explore art, music, sound, movement & play while building communication, self-regulation, motor skills, social interaction, choice-making, and confidence—all through recreation and creativity!

✨ A great fit for children with autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences, developmental disabilities, or kids who simply thrive in a smaller, supportive environment.

📅 Mondays | 4:15–5:15 PM

👉 Learn more & register: https://operations.daxko.com/programs/redirector.aspx?cid=5147&pid=12436&sid=1525209

08/25/2026

Behind every glamorous night is a serious mission. ⭐ For over a century, The Connection has been a place where kids learn to swim, seniors stay active, and families find support — regardless of what they can afford. On October 3rd we celebrate that legacy in style. Get your tickets for our 2026 gala, A Night of Hollywood Glamour, today! https://onecau.se/2026connectiongala

The Connection is rolling out the red carpet! Tickets are now on sale for its annual gala, “A Night of Hollywood Glamour,” taking place Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Embassy Suites Berkeley Heights...

08/17/2026

Meet Jonathan Leonardi, The Connection’s new Adaptive Program Coordinator! 💙 With 20+ years of experience in education and special education, Jonathan is bringing his expertise and passion for inclusive programming to our community.

This fall, he’ll help launch two new programs—The Sensory Collective and Independence in Motion—designed to support confidence, communication, independence, and connection for children and teens with disabilities.

We’re so excited to welcome Jonathan to The Connection team! Learn more about our Adaptive Programs and register for fall classes at theconnectionnj.org.

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/summit/categories/press-releases/articles/the-connection-welcomes-jonathan-leonardi-as-adaptive-program-coordinator-expanding-inclusive-programming

The Connection is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Leonardi as its new Adaptive Program Coordinator, a role dedicated to expanding innovative recreational and educational...

08/12/2026

We are excited to partner with the NFL and RCX Sports to launch a developmental Girls Flag Football League for ages 5-8! 🏈

This program will feature a fun mix of practices and games tailored to our players ages and abilities! We will focus on athletic development, teamwork, and building the confidence girls need both on and off the field. We are also looking for volunteer parent coaches, who will receive training, drills, and step-by-step practice plans through an easy-to-use app.

https://bit.ly/4woNgW0

08/11/2026

FALL REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

Ready for a fun-filled fall? Registration is officially open for classes at The Connection!

From Gymnastics, Dance & Swim Lessons to Girls Flag Football, Art, Chess, STEM, Adaptive Programs and so much more, there’s something for everyone!

📅 Fall Session: September 8 – November 25

Click the link to find your class and get registered today! https://bit.ly/3S7mzaa

08/10/2026

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
Make a difference while building meaningful connections! We're looking for caring, enthusiastic volunteers to serve as Adaptive Program Aides, helping children and teens with disabilities participate in recreational activities in a fun, supportive environment.

Choose one or multiple classes!
Mondays: 4:15-5:15pm and 5:15-6:15pm
Saturdays: 10:15-11am, 11:15-12pm, 12:15-1pm
Sundays: 11:15-12pm, 12:15-1pm, 1-1:45pm

Volunteers are asked to commit to one session, but we encourage volunteering for the full school year whenever possible. A consistent schedule helps build lasting relationships and supports the growth and confidence of both our participants and volunteers.

2026–2027 Sessions
Fall: September 8 – November 25
Winter: November 30 – March 14
Spring: March 15 – June 20

Contact [email protected] for more info!

08/06/2026

🎟️ The moment is here — tickets to our 2026 Gala, A Night of Hollywood Glamour, are officially ON SALE! Join us Saturday, October 3rd at American Beauty Events in Berkeley Heights for cocktails, dinner, dancing, and a silent auction full of unforgettable experiences.

For more than 100 years, The Connection has been dedicated to enhancing lives and fostering community for people of all ages. Your support helps ensure that no one is turned away because of financial circumstances.

Grab your tickets early and invite your friends—every seat supports our mission! https://onecau.se/_hz6zt1

07/27/2026

Thank you Connie Dwyer Breast Cancer Foundation, your support allows Pathways, a program of The Connection to help women rebuild their strength and confidence during and after cancer treatment 🩷

https://www.tapinto.net/towns/summit/categories/press-releases/articles/connie-dwyer-breast-cancer-foundation-awards-10-000-grant-to-support-pathways-sister-strong-fitness-program

07/22/2026

Thank you to all of our amazing Theater Camp performers for a fantastic production of Finding Nemo! We are so proud of everything they accomplished this session!

07/17/2026

Summer is flying by, and we're soaking up every minute! 😎