WDSRA aims to educate public, provide support for special needs individuals

CAROL STREAM — The Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) has been providing fun and recreational opportunities to people of all ages and disabilities since 1976. Programming begins at birth through three years old with family play groups and continues for older children, teens and seniors.

“There is a program for every age and every interest,” said Sherry Manschot, marketing and public relations manager.

Tammy Kerrins, WDSRA inclusion manager, can share several touching success stories of the special needs children, teens, and adults this organization serves. She recalled one story in particular.

“I'll never forget a number of years ago when a mom called me in tears, telling me that her little boy, who was participating in a park district preschool program, got his first invite to a birthday party,” said Kerrins.

Not surprising, life events most take for granted is reason for parents and WDSRA to celebrate.

WDSRA's vision of “equal fun for everyone” allows the organization to offer the same opportunities in life as everyone else by providing fun and recreational outlets for all ages. This allows opportunities to learn and grow over a lifetime.

Manschot noted that recreation provides a crucial component to the growth and development of anyone with a special need. Through play, individuals learn the life skills that will carry over into every aspect of daily life.

Think of a young adult who may never have had the opportunity to spend a night away from his parents because of his particular needs, Manschot said. With WDSRA he may be able to take a weekend trip with his peers for the very first time, because capable staff knows how to care for him during his time away from home.

“(Those with special needs) can do the same things you and I can do but just have to do it a little differently,” said Kerrins. “They may not excel in some areas but it is important to celebrate what they bring to the table.”

In an effort to educate the public WDSRA will bring pieces of adaptive equipment, which simulates various disabilities, to schools, churches, service groups or any organization that request a visit. Through this traveling educational program, participants experience being confined to a wheelchair, having impaired vision, hearing and sensory issues or other disabilities.

“It creates a sense of empathy and awareness,” said Kerrins of the education program.

WDSRA provides inclusion services at no charge to individuals who require assistance and support to participate in any member park district program.

Program fees vary by program with some offered at no cost.

WDSRA, located at 116 N. Schmale Road, Carol Stream, serves nine area towns including Bloomingdale, Carol Stream, Glen Ellyn, Naperville, Roselle, Warrenville, West Chicago, Wheaton and Winfield. The organization has several satellite locations.

Families may contact WDSRA directly at 630-681-0962 or sign-up through their home park district for inclusion services or visit the website, www.wdsra.com.

If you go

What: The 19th annual Charity Dinner and Auction

Theme: "Where Dreams Come True"

When: 6 to 10 p.m., Saturday, March 9

Where: The Abbington, Glen Ellyn

Want to volunteer?

Volunteers are asked to visit  www.wdsra.com and fill out the forms located in the “employment/volunteer” tab.