Inclusion Services

Thank you so much for choosing to participate in an inclusive recreational opportunity! At the Rockford Park District, we want to be sure to help individuals of all abilities “Enjoy Life”. Inclusion within the Rockford Park District means individuals with disabilities are welcome to participate in the same recreation programs and activities as their peers. Reasonable accommodations are provided to enable an individual’s successful participation in a program.

Please inform the Rockford Park District of disability related needs at least 2 weeks in advance.  The Park District makes reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in compliance with the ADA and other applicable law.

With respect to unsafe or threatening behaviors by patrons with disabilities, where reasonable accommodations do not eliminate a direct threat to the safety of the patron or others, or would fundamentally alter the nature of the program and/or create undue hardship, the Park District may suspend the participant from the activity.

If a parent/guardian discloses that a participant cannot adhere to one or more of the eligibility requirements due to a disability, RPD staff will engage in an interactive process and discuss potential reasonable accommodations based on an individual assessment. Contact inclusion@rockfordparkdistrict.org or 815-987-1610 to discuss.

Testimonials

"We are so grateful for this program; it is the only summer program I can send my son to and have peace of mind knowing the staff can handle my son's issues. The staff did everything they could to make it a successful experience."

"The inclusion staff were great, super enthusiastic, high energy, and great communication."

"My son has a great summer having the ability to participate in golf and tennis. I am truly at ease when he is there because of the level of understanding that the staff have. Thank you so much!"

Inclusion within the Rockford Park District means individuals with disabilities are welcome to participate in the same recreation programs and activities as their peers. Reasonable accommodations are provided to enable an individual’s successful participation in a program.


About Inclusion Services

Who is Eligible for Inclusion Support?

Any individual who registers for a Rockford Park District (RPD) program and has a disability and/or health related need is eligible to receive inclusion services.

Is there a limit to the number of programs one can register for and receive inclusion support?

There is not a limit to number of programs one can register for and receive inclusion support. The RPD Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor will make needed and appropriate reasonable accommodations for each program that an individual with a disability and/or health related need registers.

What is the cost for Inclusion Services?

Participants must pay the program fee, but Inclusion Services are provided at no additional cost.

Advance Notice and Preparation

The Rockford Park District strives to create a successful and ideal inclusive opportunity for each participant. Planning and preparing are essential elements that create a strong foundation for a positive inclusive experience. The RPD requests a minimum of two weeks notice so that necessary supports can be set up.

Program Changes/Drops

We understand that programs may be canceled due to low enrollment/weather, participants may participate on a different time/day, and that sometimes circumstances may change and affect one’s ability to participate in a program. Should you decide to cancel enrollment in a program or find out that the initial program details have changed, please contact the Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor so that appropriate action can be taken.

Inclusion Services is a Team Effort

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