Once you locate potential adaptive recreation programs to attend, call each one directly. Tell them which program interests you. Explain to them the disability involved and the financial situation. Then ask if scholarships are available and, if so, how you would apply for one. Remember to ask which costs are covered by the scholarship and which ones you would still be expected to cover.
After you receive or download the scholarship application form, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and pay special attention to any stated deadlines for application. The program staff will be available via phone to assist you should you have any questions about how to complete the application.
To search for adaptive recreation programs for injured military in your region, visit the Challenge America resource directory, type the word "recreation" in the box under "I'm looking for" and type your zip code in the box under "near." You will get a list of programs available in your area.
We must find a way to maintain fitness and recreation for those individuals with special needs. Many institutions are cutting back on those services because of budget limitations. This a great opportunity for health clubs to offer some of these services. There are many activities at the gym that can be adapted to help physically challenged individuals. At Parkpoint Health Club in Santa Rosa, California, we offer an open gym time between 1pm and 3pm twice a week during the winter session break and three times a week during the summer session break. This 2-hour period is supervised by one of our trainers that is also the adaptive PE assistant at the junior college. The participants pay a fee to maintain the program but all the memberships fees are waived. This has definitely become a win win for our members as well. I feel that it is critical that those individuals with physical challenges be given the opportunity to maintain their level of ability and thrive.
PE Central (www.pecentral.org) provides up to date information on developmentally appropriate programs for school-aged children. It also offers resources and lesson ideas for regular and adapted physical education classes.
There is also a plethora of organizations that offer adapted sports programs from archery to water skiing for those interested in different physical activities. If this is of interest to you, feel free to contact me.
For individuals over that threshold, there are many community run programs as well as city-owned recreations facilities that those with disabilities can frequent. The National Center for Physical Activity and Disability (www.ncpad.org) provides a list of nationwide parks that accommodate individuals with disabilities. In addition, on their site there is a listing of programs throughout the United States designed for individuals with disabilities.
Continue Learning about Physical Disabilities
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.