Inclusive Recreation

The City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department is committed to an inclusive approach to recreation. Inclusion is individuals with and without disabilities participating in recreation activities together. In order for individuals with disabilities to participate as fully as possible, reasonable accommodations are provided. Reasonable accommodations are individualized techniques and resources used to enhance program participation without fundamentally altering a program. 

How request reasonable accommodation:

1. When you register, mark "yes" in the inclusive service request section. At least two weeks notification prior to the registration deadline for each program is required. In some cases reasonable accommodation may take longer.
2. Fill out a General Accommodation Request or Download and fill out an inclusion questionnaire. Complete and return the questionnaire to Bloomington Parks and Recreation's Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, Amy Shrake, at shrakea@bloomington.in.gov. Kid City campers should fill out a Camper Inclusive Services Request.
3. Inclusive Recreation Coordinator will contact participant to establish an individualized inclusion plan.

The Leisure Companion Program is a service in which participants with disabilities are partnered with a volunteer companion who provides additional support during participation in inclusive activities. the level of support varies according to the specific needs of each individual. Leisure Companions are also needed to assist participants in Inclusive Recreation programs. To be partnered with a Leisure Companion, register for activities of interest and request a reasonable accommodation. Leisure Companion volunteer hours are supervised by a Certified therapeutic Recreation Specialist. 

For more information or to request assistance, contact Amy Shrake, Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, at (812) 349-3747.

Special Olympics Indiana - Monroe County

Special Olympics Indiana - Monroe County offers year-round sports training and athletic competition for children (ages 8 years and up) and adults with intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities. Special Olympics provides opportunities for athletes to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and share gifts, skills and friendship with others in our community.

Special Olympics Indiana - Monroe County is proud to work with nearly 200 Special Olympics athletes and their families. To find out if you or a family member are eligible to participate, call 812-325-1548 or email soimc.cc@gmail.com.

Special Olympics Indiana-Monroe County is also on Facebook. If you are interested in joining the County Management Team, contact Denise Brown at 812-325-1548.