CHAPTER NINE • SPACE USE RECOMMENDATIONS NAPERVILLE PARK DISTRICT INDOOR RECREATION SPACE NEEDS ASSESSMENT
ɀ NPD should expect demand to increase for more adaptive recreation programs throughout all their core programming areas and facilities. To be intentional with these efforts and strengthen its partnership with the Western DuPage Special Recreation Association, staff should continue to assess community needs as well as strategic partnerships with local organizations that could enhance offerings. Collaborating with experts and engaging volunteers can improve program design and support. ȿ Training staff on inclusion services provided through WDSRA is crucial, along with improving facility accessibility by conducting regular audits and implementing universal design principles with new construction or renovation projects. ȿ Successful adaptive recreation programs start with specific design that can be adapted to various abilities, ensuring everyone can participate together. NPD should support WDSRA’s efforts to create specific programs for individuals with a variety of needs, using specialized adaptive equipment and techniques. ȿ NPD should also support WDSRA’s purchase and maintenance of adaptive sports and recreation equipment such as wheelchairs for sports, adaptive bikes, and other necessary specialized equipment. ȿ Finally, raising community awareness about the importance of adaptive recreation and highlighting success stories fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment. Promoting programs through accessible communication and diverse outreach channels ensures broad community awareness and participation. ɀ New fitness and wellness classes designed to meet the diverse needs and abilities of the community’s older residents could also be included in an overall health and wellness program for NPD. ȿ Neuroflex Fitness, which NPD has recently revamped, by the addition of Neuroflex Boxing, supports seniors with early signs of neurodegenerative health issues such as Parkinson’s Disease. Some benefits of this programming include: ▪ The improvement of hand-eye coordination ▪ The development of total body strength ▪ The sharpening of the function of the brain ▪ Encouraging movement for people with joint or bone issues ȿ Additionally, fitness games for seniors can promote social interaction and friendly competition with low- impact activities including examples such as chair fitness bingo and balloon volleyball. ɀ Users indicate that the gymnastics space at Fort Hill Activity Center is frequently full of participants from 3:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. during the week. Gymnastics-related programs could be offered at other facilities with multi-use spaces. ȿ Ninja Warrior classes can provide challenging physical fitness and skill development to younger children. Classes can be structured to focus on fundamental movement skills and balance through a smaller obstacle course to advanced training for older children with climbing and swinging that promote agility, coordination, and grip strength. ȿ Tumbling classes with toddlers through elementary-aged children can provide engaging games and activities to build coordination and motor skills development as well as more advanced techniques such as cartwheels, handstands, aerials, and other skills that lead to gymnastics. ȿ Freestyle Movement blends elements of parkour, free running, and gymnastics to offer a creative and challenging workout experience for older children and teens. ȿ To effectively engage the population in recreational programming, NPD should prioritize understanding needs through research, outreach, and partnerships with the various communities within the District. Interactions with cultural centers, the school districts, and religious institutions can also help staff understand how to address unmet needs. Communication and accessibility are key, requiring multilingual materials and culturally sensitive outreach. Programming should be culturally relevant, including traditional activities and social events tailored to various races and ethnicities. Building trust and representation through staff, advisory committees, and highlighting success stories can further enhance engagement efforts. Additional tips include offering scholarships and hosting community events that celebrate all heritages.
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