Exceptional Families United :: essays research papers

EXCEPTIONAL FAMILIES UNITED Exceptional Families United is a support group comprised of service providers and parents of individuals with special needs. This group meets monthly in Springfield. When this group was first formed, the biggest issue that the families wanted addressed was the lack of recreational opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the Springfield area. We discovered that in other areas around the state, park districts and municipalities have formed joint Special Recreation Associations (SRAs) to address the increasing demand for recreation inclusion and accessibility, as mandated by the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). These joint programs are authorized by law to levy their own taxes to pay for the programs, which is the real beauty of the SRA. The SRAs often employ Therapeutic Recreation and related professionals to provide a wide range of athletic and social programs for individuals with disabilities of all ages and abilities, such as swimming, camps, after school activities, shopping trips and dinner outings. In addition, the SRA helps all individuals have the chance to be included in existing park district programs by providing the necessary supports such as one-on-one assistants, staff training, sign language interpreters, transportation, and adaptive equipment to ensure a safe and successful experience for everyone inv olved. Springfield area families and individuals would benefit greatly from such a program. We have consulted with SRA administrators from around the state and the Illinois Association of Park Districts for their expertise and advice, and will have their support in presenting the idea to the mayor and park district officials in Springfield. WE NEED YOUR HELP!!!! We are seeking letters of support from local organizations that serve individuals with disabilities. A brief letter indicating your organization’s support for a SRA in the Springfield area would be beneficial and greatly appreciated.