Sports & Recreation Programs

Wheelchair Sports Photo of Team Stretching Before The Game


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.

Goals

  • To provide healthy recreational and sports activities for persons with disabilities. To promote integrated leisure activities in the community.
  • To provide sports programming that meets individual needs.
  • To educate persons with disabilities about their options and resources.
  • To encourage persons with disabilities to become active and enhance personal health.
  • To provide volunteer opportunities to those interested.

Contact Information
Staff Name: Kathy Mohar,CTRS 
Title:  Wheelchair Sports and Adaptive Recreation Coordinator 
Phone: 414-226-8375 (V/Relay), 414-291-7520 (V/TTY) "Leave a Message"
E-mail: Kathy Mohar

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 your appropriateness for a program, 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 power wheelchairs.  Thes programs are structured around the formal and competitive rules for the program.  Each sport will have specific rules and equipment.  Staff are able to teach participants from beginner to advanced levels.  These programs may be competitive or recreational in nature.   

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, and when possible, modifications are made to enhance people's abilities to participate.

Programming for Individuals with Visual Disabilities
Goal ball and beep baseball are offered to youth adults who are experiencing visual disabilities.  These are wonderful team sport opportunities.

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 Programs Offered:

Winter and Spring Programs: January - May

SEWASP Adaptive Downhill Ski Program
Youth and Adult Goal Ball
Youth Wheelchair Basketball
Youth Wheelchair Ice Hockey
Adult Wheelchair Ice Hockey
Adaptive Track and Field


Summer Programs: June-August

Summerfest wheelchair sports demonstrations
Youth wheelchair street hockey
Youth and adult wheelchair tennis
Youth wheelchair softball
Youth and adult apaptive waterskiing
Youth and adult beep baseball



Fall Programs: September-December

Youth wheelchair basketball
Youth and adult goal ball
Youth and adult power soccer
Adaptive indoor bocce ball

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 for program fees, and possible transit fees are 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

Contact Kathy Mohar for a copy of the following resource lists: 

  • Area Programs and opportunities for people with disabilities.
  • Area Park and Recreation Departments noting any programs offered specifically for people with disabilities.
  • Area YMCA's offering programs specifically for people with disabilities.