Leisure education partnered NWSRA with local school districts during the school year providing new experiences to students


in special education classes. Outdoor cooking, martial arts and ice skating were just some of the many diverse classes offered. Wall climbing became one of the most popular activities with over 120 students receiving instruction in climbing safety and technique. Classes were taught at Prairie Stone Sports & Wellness Center in Hoffman Estates.


Special events, trips and social clubs kept the good


times rolling between program sessions and on holidays. Outings to local sporting events, visits to museums and overnight trips were just a few of the excellent options available. One of the biggest events of the year occurred in the fall when 35 adult travelers took in some of the best Tennessee had to offer. Stops included The Country Music Hall of Fame, a backstage tour of The Grand Ole Opry, Dollywood and a bus tour of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.


Lightning sports programming gave athletes with disabilities an opportunity to shine. With instructional classes and fi tness


training for over 50 teams, athletics was a cornerstone of the NWSRA experience. It was a remarkable year for over 630 Lightning athletes who competed in sports such as golf, volleyball, fl oor hockey and powerlifting.


In August, the softball team


competed in a national Special Olympics Invitational Tournament hosted by Moose International and the Amateur Softball Association. The competition took place over three days, and the team was thrilled with its third place fi nish.


Adapted equipment is used to ensure that individuals with disabilities can fully participate in programs, camps, special events and park district programs. SLSF utilized funds raised through events, donations and grants throughout the year to purchase adapted sleds, developmental


scooters and adapted arts supplies in 2011. SLSF


SLSF A C T S


2011 Highlights 2011 Highlights


Inclusion support of patrons with disabilities into member park district programs by providing


education, training, adapted equipment and individual assistance. The inclusion process ensured that all individuals were able to participate at their highest level of ability. It was one of the busiest years ever for inclusion, with support being provided at over 1,070 programs. While there were many success stories, one of particular note happened at the Arlington Heights Park District. A seven-year-old boy with Pervasive Developmental Disorder had an inspiring camp experience thanks to the collaboration of the Kal Camp staff and the NWSRA inclusion aide. His mother noted that with the support of all the staff, her child was able to blend in with his peers and make new friends. After this positive experience, she was excited to have him try additional park district programs and camps.


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