Skillz Program

The SKILLZ Program consists of specialized, topic-specific, short-term classes designed to help teens and adults with disabilities build confidence and specific life skills in a fun and engaging environment.

The SKILLZ Approach

These programs are separate from our regular Day Program activities. Classes will be held in the evenings, outside of the day program hours to create more opportunities and expand our reach to more individuals in our community to get involved with Able to Serve.

This program is part of Able to Serve’s vision to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities beyond our flagship Day Program and create additional pathways for learning, friendship, creativity, service, and independence.

Learn and practice new skills
Trying new things
Develop friendships and social confidence
Explore personal interests and creativity
Grow independence in specific ways
Serve and connect with the community

How It Works

SKILLZ Program consists of short-term classes designed for teens and adults with disabilities to learn new skills, explore interests, and build confidence in a fun, supportive environment.

1. Choose a Class

Browse our available classes and find a program that matches your interests. Classes announced by season.

2. Register

Complete the online interest form. Following the interest form, Able to Serve staff will send you more info & the full registration form.

3. Confirm Your Spot

Once your interest is received, you’ll receive additional details if spots are available in the class. Payment is required to reserve your seat, and space is limited.

4. Learn & Connect

Attend class, learn new skills, and build friendships alongside peers with support from Able to Serve instructors & volunteers.

Questions?

Summer 2026 Classes

Learn the fundamentals of sewing in a fun, hands-on environment! Participants will practice basic sewing skills, complete simple projects, and build confidence using a sewing machine.

Dates: July 7-16
Tuesdays, Thursdays | 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

Discover creativity, confidence, and teamwork through theater! Participants will learn acting skills, play theater games, rehearse together, and develop a showcase to perform together at the Garner Performing Arts Center!

Dates: July 20-August. 19
Mondays, Wednesdays | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Who Can Particiapte?

SKILLZ Programs are designed for teens and adults (ages 15+) with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are interested in learning new skills, building confidence, and connecting with others.

Participants should be able to function independently in a group environment and be independent in the restroom unless accompanied by a 1:1 caregiver.

Factors of ineligibility may include, but are not limited to, exceptional medical care needs, significant 1:1 assistance requirements, significant physical aggression, self-injurious behavior, or criminal history.

Note: Some classes may have additional age requirements, prerequisites, or enrollment limits based on the nature of the program.

Program Cost

Each SKILLZ Program has its own registration fee based on the length, materials, and instruction provided for the class. Program fees will be listed with each class description during registration. Payment is required to reserve your spot, and enrollment is not confirmed until payment has been received. Thanks to the support of our donors and community partners, we are able to offer these programs at an affordable cost while providing high-quality learning experiences for participants.

SKILLZ FAQ's

Does my family member need to be enrolled in the Day Program to participate?

No. SKILLZ Program classes are open to teens(15+) and adults with disabilities from the community, even if they do not currently attend Able to Serve.

SKILLZ Program classes are separate from the Day Program and require separate registration and payment.

Why is there a fee?

Because these are specialized classes with dedicated instructors, supplies, materials, facility costs, and staffing support. Fees help offset the cost of operating the programs while keeping them affordable for families.

Can participants attend more than one class?

Yes, if they meet the registration requirements and there is available space.

Will transportation be provided?

No. Families are responsible for transportation to and from SKILLZ Program classes.

What if a participant misses a class?

Because these are short-term classes, we encourage participants to attend all sessions whenever possible. Registration is for the whole class, not specific days within the class.

Will participants receive support during the classes?

Yes. Able to Serve staff and volunteers will help create an adaptive, welcoming, and supportive environment for participants. However, participants must be able to function independently in a group setting unless accompanied by a 1:1 caregiver.

Is there a maximum number of participants?

Yes. Each SKILLZ Program class has a limited enrollment capacity to ensure quality instruction and participant engagement.

Will medication be administered?

No. Only emergency medication will be accepted as an Emergency Self-Carry type. Please contact the staff if this is the case. (Example: Epi Pens).

Will there be more SKILLZ Program Classes in the future?

The Sewing Skillz Class and Theater Skillz Class are serving as our Summer 2026 pilot of the Skillz Program. As interest grows and resources become available, Able to Serve hopes to expand the SKILLZ Program into additional classes such as arts, cooking, music, technology, employment skills, recreation, leadership, and other areas of interest.