May 16, 2025
Local News

Glen Ellyn's Christopher Reilly has benefitted from WDSRA programs for 25 years

By ALEX KEOWN

Christopher Reilly, 31, has taken advantage of WDSRA’s programs for more than 25 years, including Rec and Roll. He is pictured with instructor Emily Toth. (Submitted photo)

GLEN ELLYN — For the past 25 years Christopher Reilly has taken an active role in the numerous programs and activities offered by the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association.

At 31, Reilly has been involved with the plethora of programs offered by WDSRA since he was 6 years old. His family found the organization when Christopher exhibited issues with developing social skills, said Phillip Reilly, Christopher's father. Christopher, who is autistic, said being involved in WDSRA has allowed him to make friends.

On March 16, Christopher will attend WDSRA's annual banquet and silent auction, which is the organization's biggest fundraiser of the year, providing funding for many of the activities that individuals like Christopher utilize. WDSRA's annual banquet is themed "Where Dreams Come True." WDSRA Marketing Manager Sherry Manschot said the organization is dedicated to making the dreams of its members come true, whether it be a slumber party with friends or driving a monorail. Christopher said WDSRA has helped him accomplish his dreams.

"WDSRA has made my dreams come true because I get to stay active and hang out with my friends," he said.

WDSRA serves more than 4,500 children and adults with special needs across DuPage County and the Chicago suburbs. WDSRA offers more than 1,500 programs and activities for its participants, including athletics and arts. The organization also offers inclusion programs and disability awareness programs for community members.

"WDSRA offers something for every one of the people involved," Manschot said.

Philip Reilly agreed.

"WDSRA is the gold standard of recreational districts across the country," he said. "They set a high caliber and have something for everyone."

Reilly speculated that approximately 80 percent of his son's socialization comes through WDSRA.

"WDSRA is one of the few outlets Christopher and his community of friends have to get together and socialize," he said.

"I like it there," Christopher said.

Christopher currently participates in the Rec and Roll program, which provides recreational opportunities as well as various field trips to points of interest across the greater Chicago area.

Since he was 6 years old, Christopher has interacted with many of the same people on an almost daily basis. Phillip said that kind of continuity is important for his son and his family. Not only has Christopher met and maintained friendships through the WDSRA programs, but so has the rest of the Reilly family.

"I can't say enough about how this organization provides not only for Christopher and his community, but for their families. WDSRA has recognized the need for individuals with disabilities to stay in the community and they offer the vehicle to do this," he said.

Christopher participates in organized WDSRA activities three days per week, as well as various special holiday programs.

One of Christopher's favorite activities is yoga. He participates in yoga directed activities as often as he can, Phillip said. He has participated in numerous yoga classes throughout the years.

"I like yoga," Christopher excitedly said.

Additionally he has also participated in programs such as country line dancing, acting workshops, swimming and bowling programs.

"It goes on and on what they offer," Phillip said. "I can't say enough about how great these people are. The people unequivocally that Christopher has been associated with are an outstanding caliber of people."

Parents and family members of the WDSRA participants are given the chance to get involved as well. Phillip said he served as a volunteer in Christopher's Boy Scouts troop that was led by WDSRA and Christopher's mother helped coach Christopher's swim team.