Sports & Recreation Programs

becca shoots for 2 in wheelchair basketball

Our agency provides quality programs focusing on instruction, sportsmanship and most of all FUN! We are excited to offer activities for all levels - children trying a sport for the first time, those familiar with the sports, adults who need a leisure outlet and those looking for some playful competition. IndependenceFirst prides itself in offering a variety of programs in several community locations with an effort to include all who want to participate.

To provide healthy recreational and sports activities for persons with disabilities. To promote integrated leisure activities in the community.

Goals

  • To provide sports programming that meets individual needs.
  • To educate persons with disabilities about adaptive sports options and resources.
  • To encourage persons with disabilities to become active and enhance personal health.
Contact Information
Staff Name: Kathy Mohar
Title:  Lead Sports and Recreation Coordinator
Phone: 414-226-8375 (V/Relay), 414-291-7520 (V/TTY) "Leave a Message"
E-mail: Kathy Mohar


Program Availability
For specific times, dates, locations and cost for each program or activity please contact IndependenceFirst. Some activities require pre-registration and are limited to the number of participants.

Sport Schedule
Basketball Sept - March
Boccia Ball Feb - March
Football March - April
Ice Hockey April - May
Snow Skiing Jan - March
Softball June - August
Street Hockey June - July
Water Skiing August

Q&A

Who is this program for?
In reading this information you may be wondering what activities would be appropriate for you. Our Sports and Recreation staff are trained to adapt equipment and activities to meet individual needs. If you have a question or concern about accommodations, please call.

Here are some guidelines for participation:
*ADAPTIVE PROGRAMS are intended to include people with a variety of ability levels. In some cases the rules of the sport may be more loosely followed or rules will be changed to allow for more equal participation. We will provide instructions and suggestions for adaptations as necessary.

*WHEELCHAIR SPORTS are intended for people who use manual or motorized chairs/scooters. Participants are encouraged to independently maneuver themselves, however in some cases a volunteer will be assigned to assist you if needed. These activities are often integrated with able-bodied participants who use the wheelchairs provided.

If an interpreter is needed for an activity please call at least 2 weeks before the start of the event so arrangements can be made.

Type of Assistance/Information
IndependenceFirst's sport programs are staffed by people who are helpful and friendly. We encourage individuals to participate as independently as possible. Our sports programs are structured around the formal and competitive rules of each activity, however modifications are made to enhance people's abilities to participate.

Eligibility Requirements
Our youth programs are appropriate for youth ages 5-15 years old unless otherwise noted in the program description. Our adult programs service those over 16 years of age. Everyone is welcome to participate - our activity flyers will note the availability of extra wheelchairs for inclusion of family members and friends.

Types of classes Offered (Individual or Group)

Winter and Spring Programs: January - May
SEWASP Adaptive Downhill Ski Program
Adult Wheelchair Football
Youth Wheelchair Basketball
Youth Wheelchair Ice Hockey
Adult Wheelchair Ice Hockey

Summer Programs: June-August
Summerfest wheelchair sports demonstrations
Youth wheelchair street hockey
Youth and adult wheelchair tennis
Youth wheelchair softball
Youth and adult adaptive waterskiing

Fall Programs: September-December
Scuba Diving
Self-defense for participants who use wheelchairs
Self-defense for participants with disabilities who do not use wheelchairs

Consumer Responsibilities/Expectations
1. Call to request registration information and to be added to our mailing list.
2. Send in registration and payment.
3. Attend and participate in the sports and activities of your choice.
4. Have FUN!
5. Complete the evaluation at the end of each program.

Cost
Each program has its own fee/cost. Program costs range from $5.00-$40.00.

IndependenceFirst believes in providing services to all who desire to participate, financial assistance is available upon request. Donations above and beyond the program fee are also welcomed and help pay the costs of those who are unable to.

Publications and Resources