Special Needs

NWSRA
The Northwest Special Recreation Association was formed in 1973 to provide recreation services to individuals of all ages with disabilities. The Association is comprised of 16 member park districts located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. The Bartlett Park District is one of those members. NWSRA program brochures are available at the Bartlett Park District Registration Office. For more information on NWSRA and its programs please call (847) 392-2848.

The Bartlett Park District in cooperation with the Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) offers year-round leisure opportunities for individuals of all ages with special needs. Recreation programs are offered in a variety of locations to people with similar abilities and interests. Through NWSRA, the park district is able to offer such programs as cooking, dance, art, sports, swimming, gymnastics, horseback riding, and much more to those with special needs, who require closer staff-to-participant ratio than is typically offered in a park district program. NWSRA staff members are all certified leisure professionals with knowledge and background in hearing, learning behavioral or emotional limitations.

NWSRA programs introduce leisure opportunities as well as enhance personal, social, and developmental skills of the individuals involved. Through NWSRA, the park district also offers opportunities for structured inclusion in park district programs. Any individual with special needs who is interested in participating in a park district program may do so by contacting NWSRA or the member park district. Individuals registering are strongly encouraged to communicate any special accommodation needs. NWSRA is the park district’s resource for understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities. The ultimate goal of both NWSRA and the park district is to provide a positive leisure experience for every individual in programs. For more information on NWSRA programs of inclusion services available through NWSRA, a brochure is available at the park district office or the NWSRA office at 3000 W. Central Road, Suite 205, Rolling Meadows, IL 847/392-2848 or 392-2855 TTY.