Special Recreation - NISRA

Overview

The City of Elgin is a member of the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA). As a member of NISRA, Elgin residents with disabilities may choose from an array of year round recreation programs and register at in-district rates. The NISRA staff is offering activities at Elgin’s great facilities and invites residents to give suggestions for new programs.

Mission

Since 1976, NISRA has provided recreation programs for people with disabilities and its mission is enriching the lives of people with disabilities through meaningful recreation experiences. Socializing, building physical skills, learning, relaxation, and fun are some of the benefits gained from participating in NISRA’s year-round programs. Sports, fitness, social, cultural, outdoor, and preschool programs, along with camps, special events, and trips offer enjoyment for children, teens, and adults of all ability levels.

Member Communities

The City of Elgin and 12 other park districts and recreation departments form NISRA. Programs and summer camps are held throughout NISRA’s 13 member communities, and many activities offer transportation from Elgin. For more information, pick up an NISRA program brochure at The Centre. You can also call 815-459-0737 or visit the NISRA website.

Inclusion

In addition to NISRA programs, Elgin parks and recreation programs are available to people with disabilities. NISRA staff assists the recreation department staff with including residents with disabilities in recreation department programs. Types of support may include staff training, adapted equipment, sign language assistance or a program aide. If you have questions about inclusion, call 815-459-0737 or contact the Recreation Department to register for a program.

Special Olympics

Training

NISRA provides local Special Olympics training and competition in the following sports:

  • Alpine skiing
  • Aquatics
  • Basketball
  • Bocce Ball
  • Bowling
  • Flag Football
  • Floor Hockey
  • Golf
  • Powerlifting
  • Rhythmic Gymnastics
  • Snowshoeing
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Tennis
  • Track and Field
  • Unified Golf
  • Volleyball
  • Young Athletes