Accessibility Efforts

When the Friends funded the design and construction of the new JMZ, opened in 2021, accessibility was at the forefront of the initiative. By partnering with accessibility advocates, we strived for the facility to exceed ADA compliance and collaborated with JMZ leadership to create exhibits that celebrate the unique strengths of JMZ guests of all abilities. 

We continue to prioritize accessibility efforts by funding enhanced exhibits at the JMZ that are intentionally designed for guests with physical and cognitive disabilities and hosting appreciation events in partnership with the JMZ and community organizations.

Super Family Sundays

Super Family Sundays are limited-capacity, after-hour events that welcome families who have children with physical disabilities and learning differences to enjoy the JMZ in a low-sensory environment.

Designed by a team of expert educators, these formative science experiences shape the future attitudes of young children as competent science learners. With hands-on animal encounters and unique science activities, such as exploring bubbles and investigating solar electricity, Super Family Sundays answers a community need for high-quality science learning experiences tailored for children with disabilities.

Since beginning this partnership with the JMZ in 2010, the Friends has welcomed over 15,000 guests to these special experiences.

Affinity Events

In partnership with local nonprofits, the Friends hosts no-cost, after-hours events designed for children and families who may face financial, physical, or cognitive barriers to accessing the JMZ. Each event is customized to the community it serves, creating space for enriching, hands-on science experiences in an environment where every child feels welcome and inspired.

To inquire about hosting an Affinity Event for your nonprofit, please email info@friendsjmz.org. 

Behind Our Impact: The Access & Inclusion Committee

The Access & Inclusion (A&I) Committee is the driving force behind the Friends’ community engagement efforts. Composed of teachers, advocates, and community leaders, the A&I Committee brings community voices into our decision-making and governance processes and provides recommendations to improve our impact for children with physical or learning disabilities and from communities that have been underinvested in.

The A&I Committee operates under three pillars:

Community & Access - Ensure that the JMZ and its programming remains accessible to everyone, regardless of financial, physical, or cognitive barriers by engaging and connecting with neighboring communities.

Classrooms & Education - Support educational equity for children by providing early science education in under-resourced schools and communities as a foundation for future academic and career success.

Continuous Learning - Invest in continuous learning for the JMZ and the Friends to evolve with the communities we serve.