Campus Life & Beyond
At Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, we believe that a meaningful life includes vibrant social connections and a strong foundation of wellness. Through our integrated Recreation and Wellness programs, adults of all abilities discover new passions, build lasting friendships, and develop the skills to lead independent, fulfilling lives.
Located in the heart of New Haven, our campus offers easy access to a wide range of cultural and recreational opportunities. Students enjoy outings to:
- Yale sporting events (hockey, football, basketball)
- Museums, zoos, and live performances across New England
- Amusement parks like Six Flags and Lake Compounce
- Shopping trips, movie nights, and local dining experiences
At Chapel Haven, we believe recreation should reflect personal choice. Whether you're looking for a few fun outings or a full calendar of activities, there's something for everyone—and every level of engagement.
Whether you’re exploring new interests or deepening existing ones, our recreation program is designed to support independence, build friendships, and make every day meaningful.
Annual Week-Long Trips
From the magic of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios to adaptive hiking in Colorado and relaxing cruises, these journeys are designed to inspire independence, adventure, and joy.
Seasonal Weekend Getaways
A Partnership Rooted in Nourishment, Independence, and Community
For the past five years, Chapel Haven Schleifer Center has partnered with Honeyplate Kitchen to make healthy eating simple, accessible, and joyful for our adults. This service is not a replacement for the daily cooking and meal preparation transition residents learn in their own apartments—it’s a thoughtful complement. Honeyplate offers a convenient way to enjoy nutritious, ready-to-heat meals without leaving campus. Whether it’s a busy day, a special event, or just a night off from cooking, Honeyplate helps ensure our community always has access to wholesome food options.
At Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, the arts are a vibrant part of our community and curriculum. Grounded in both visual and performing arts, our programming celebrates the creative potential of every adult we serve—through hands-on learning, artistic expression, and public showcases that highlight their incredible talents.
Located in the heart of New Haven, Connecticut, a city renowned for its thriving arts scene, we treat the city as our classroom. Our students engage with working artists, explore world-class institutions, and participate in meaningful cultural experiences that
foster growth, confidence, and connection.
We’re proud to collaborate with a wide range of arts organizations, including:
- Yale Center for British Art
- Yale Child Study Center
- Yale Art Gallery
- Yale Repertory Theatre
- Artspace
- Westville Village Renaissance Alliance
- Madison Fine Arts Cinema
- Mitchell Library, Westville
- Edgewood School Pen & Paint Pal Program
- Autism Awareness Day at Woolsey Hall, Yale University
- Students for Autism Awareness at Yale (SAAY)
Chapel Haven artists have exhibited their work at prestigious venues locally and abroad, including:
- CHSC Annual Holiday Art Show & Sale (2009–present)
- Yale Center for British Art (multiple years)
- Woolsey Hall at Yale University
- Whitney Center, Mitchell Library, & Edgewood School
- Wadsworth Atheneum, Madison Arts Cinema, & Creative Arts Workshop
- JCC Hoos Gallery, Evergreen Woods, & Lyric Hall
- Horsfall Gallery in Manchester, England
- Westville Annual Artwalk and more
The REACH and ASAT programs provide continuing adult education opportunities that foster lifelong learning, independence, and social engagement. Open to Chapel Haven Schleifer Center graduates as well as adults from the Greater New Haven community, these programs offer meaningful ways to connect with peers while building practical skills.
Participants take part in workshops covering a wide range of topics—including budgeting, cooking, art, job search skills, and dating/sexuality. Classes are offered in day and evening sessions, running in twelve-week cycles with instruction held on campus and in the community. Together, these programs empower adults to continue growing, learning, and thriving in supportive environments.
CL&B is designed for adults who are:
- Adults ages 18+
- Mild developmental and intellectual disabilities
- Seeking to gain a community of friends and engage in lifelong learning
- Transition independently throughout campus
- Emotionally and behaviorally stable
Interested families can begin by contacting our admissions team at admission@chapelhaven.org or 203-397-1714 ext. 185
- Review of recent psychological/neuropsychological testing, IEPS/school or program reports, and vocational assessments
- Virtual Interview
- Online Application
- Sample experience