About Us

Everyone needs friends. Since social clubs and extracurricular activities are often inaccessible, people with disabilities struggle to cultivate friendships, develop talents, or take their rightful places in the community. For disabled children and young adults, school is the primary source of social and intellectual stimulation. However, for this particularly vulnerable population, the twenty-second birthday marks the abrupt end of public school services and the beginning of an uncertain and often lonely adulthood. With few options for working parents and guardians, once gregarious graduates find themselves languishing in the isolation of their homes. Bonds of friendship weaken, physical and mental skills atrophy, and opportunities for artistic self-expression dwindle.

 Zack’s Place is a social and creative center for people with disabilities. Through enrichment activities, participants engage with one another and with community members in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. At ZP precious bonds of friendship are cultivated and the qualities that make each participant unique are celebrated.

“As I share in the joy that it brings to participants and their families, the success of Zack’s Place is a dream come true.”     –Founder, Dail Frates

All are welcome at Zack’s Place - regardless of age or ability and programs are provided at no cost to participants.

Enrichment programs take place every weekday and include ice skating, yoga, original ZP musical productions, dancing, art, reading, playing instruments, and so much more!

Over the past twelve months, Zack’s Place has provided more than 1000 hours of programming, with staff spending an average of 37+ hours per week with participants.  ZP has also hosted three community fundraiser events, including the annual Turkey Trot, a 5K walk/run with more than 900 registered participants, Dine Around events, and The Stay at Home Tea.