OUR FACILITIES
The Woodlands programs are getaways designed to be fun! There’s nothing quite like joining in our group events, camps or clubs to open minds, challenge comfort zones, overcome barriers and forge new friendships. No one is left on the sidelines.
Here, differences don’t mean limitations and everyone is encouraged to discover a whole new world of possibilities and independence. Our programs offer safe, inclusive experiences that provide enrichment for participants with all disabilities – while caregivers have a chance for a welcome respite.
Jewel in the Woods Meditation Center
The Julie Clakeley Memorial Center for the Spirit responds to participants’ needs for a peaceful gathering place for contemplation, meditation and celebration. Designed by well-known architect Tasso Katselas of TKA Architects, this award-winning building embraces the environmental concepts of Earth, water, fire, and spirit. The Meditation Center features a fireplace, fountain and unique circular design with windows positioned for light and sun in all directions.
Activity Center
The sounds of music, laughter, and lively interaction can often be heard from the multi-purpose Activity Center. The space houses a dramatic brick fireplace and an adapted kitchen used to teach basic cooking skills as a key component of building independence. Participants can relax at the end of the day, or just enjoy the company of friends in this safe, inviting place.
Aquatic Center
With over 36 years of experience, British Swim School focuses on water safety and survival through an individualistic approach. From three months old all the way through to adults, small classes allow instructors to get to know students and families on a first-name basis. British Swim School welcomes anyone with special abilities.
Campsite at The Woodlands
The opportunity to commune with nature is a highlight of The Woodlands’ grounds. Our wheelchair-accessible Nature Trail meanders gently through the woods, commencing at an inspiring overlook. A cozy campground with ten wheelchair-accessible platforms includes a fire pit, providing the perfect setting for roasting marshmallows and sharing adventures of the day with others.
Allegheny Intermediate Unit DART Early Intervention Program
The Discovery Assessment Referral Tracking (DART) program serves eligible children in Allegheny County, ages 3-5, who are experiencing developmental delays or disabilities.
Fitness Gym
The Fitness Gym offers a variety of fitness options for maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, including: arthritis, senior, and children’s fitness classes, open gym time, adapted equipment, and classes aimed at building core strength, balance, flexibility, and range of motion.
The Woodlands Golf Course
The Woodlands Golf Course is a par-3, adapted golf course specifically designed to provide children and adults with disabilities the opportunity to learn, play and appreciate the game of golf. The only facility of its kind in the region, the 9-hole course, designed by Dominic Palombo, offers a unique experience for individuals learning the game of golf or returning to the game after a setback from injury or illness.
Quad Pavilion & Patio
The Quad Pavilion welcomes all visitors and campers onto the main campus. With its soaring architecture of geometric steel beams and canvas canopy, the Pavilion captures the spirit of The Woodlands motivational concept — to “Imagine the Possibilities.” Underneath the Pavilion is a large gathering area where participants can gather, relax or sing in front of a beautiful, hand-built masonry fireplace. The patio also accommodates a large stage used by campers and performers for musicals and plays.
Sports Court
Let’s play! The Sports Court is the center of many different team and individual activities, including track and field events, basketball, tennis, and other recreational events. The inspiring area is fully wheelchair-accessible and used regularly by participants of all ages and abilities for recreation, team building, and sports instruction.
The Farmhouse - Administration
This 100-year-old structure served as the former home of J.J. Nordman, the former burgess of Bradford Woods. The Farmhouse now houses The Woodlands’ administrative offices and is a beautiful reminder of our long history and rooted commitment to our grounds.
The Woodlands Wellness Center
The Woodlands’ Wellness Center is a 4,000-square-foot facility, adapted to provide a wide range of healthy activities and recreation for children and adults with disability and chronic illness. Its variety of adapted equipment, indoor warm water therapeutic swimming pool, and qualified staff serve to make The Woodlands’ Wellness Center a safe and comfortable destination for individuals looking to pursue a healthy lifestyle.
Zip Line
Zip through the air and experience the world in a whole new way! Our zip line experience is accessible to all abilities and an experience that helps to remind participants of their boundless potential. Participants are securely harnessed in an adapted seat, suited with helmets, and safety-trained by a certified member of The Woodlands staff. Once situated securely upon the zip line, riders will glide 187 feet. The out-and-back experience is designed to bring the riders back toward the starting point where they will be assisted by a trained member of The Woodlands staff to exit the zip line.