Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA)

The Wheeling 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, dancing, art, sports, swimming, gymnastics, horseback riding, and much more to those with special needs who require a lower staff-to-participant ratio than is typical of Park District programs.  NWSRA staff members are certified leisure professionals with knowledge of and backgrounds in the needs of individuals with disabilities, including those with physical, mental, visual, hearing, learning, behavioral, or emotional limitations.  NWSRA programs introduce leisure opportunities as well as enhance the personal, social, and developmental skills of the individuals involved.

Through NWSRA, the Park District also offers opportunities for structured inclusion in 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 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.