
SPECIAL NEEDS/SWSRA
The Worth Park District is a member district of the South West Special Recreation Association (SWSRA), also comprised of the Alsip Park District, Blue Island Park District, Hickory Hills Park District, Village of Merrionette Park, Midlothian Park District, Palos Heights Recreation Department, and Posen Park District. SWSRA was formed in 1981 to provide year-round quality recreation programs and services for individuals with disabilities or special needs. SWSRA programs are designed to increase independence and enhance the quality of life for each individual.
A wide variety of programs are available for individuals from early childhood through adulthood. The programs are designed to meet the individual recreation needs of any person who is in special education classes, participates in a sheltered workshop, is referred to SWSRA from a local hospital or rehabilitation center, or whose special needs restrict or prohibit their participation in traditional park district setting. This would include individuals who have varying degrees of physical or mental disabilities, learning disabilities, behavior disorders, attention deficit disorders, hearing or visual impairments.
Programs
SWSRA offers a wide assortment of year-round therapeutic recreation programs and special events in-person and virtually for individuals from early childhood through adulthood. In addition to summer camp, adult day program and sensory room
OASIS - ADULT DAY PROGRAM
OASIS was created to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities ages 18 and older. This is a structured program designed to help increase independence in a variety of areas that help foster personal growth of each individual.
General program goals are to provide quality therapeutic recreation services as well as increase and maintain social skills through well-designed activities and community integration. Other areas of focus include skills to promote independence through daily living skills, social interactions, cooking, health & fitness, and leisure activities. OASIS promotes social interaction with peers and within the community.
INCLUSION
SWSRA is committed to providing new and challenging leisure and recreation activities for all our participants. We recognize that a park district or recreation department program may better serve an individual’s needs. SWSRA works with our member districts to assist individuals with the opportunity to participate in these programs. Our professional staff can help you choose an appropriate program, provide referral services, conduct any necessary staff training, secure support staff, or supply adaptive equipment and/or communication devices. If you or a family member wish to participate in a park district or recreation department program or want to learn more about inclusion services you may contact our office.
SENSORY DEPOT
A sensory room that is a specifically designed environment for people ages 3 to adult with various ability levels to experience a variety of senses and to assist in developing specific skills. Our Sensory Depot can be used to create a safe atmosphere to relax and benefits to specific sensory processing difficulties. By Appointment only Monday - Saturday.
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
SWSRA Coyotes Athletics is proud to provide training in a variety of Special Olympics sports for our athletes including basketball, bowling, softball, and much more. Athletes train under the guidance of our coaches who inspire to teach them fundamental skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Our teams compete against other Special Olympics teams throughout the season and have the opportunity to participate in local and state Special Olympics events and other competitions.
SWSRA
Board of Directors
Jeanette Huber, Alsip Park District
Ted Ruthenberg, Blue Island Park District
Renee Chavez, Hickory Hills Park District
Michelle Higgins, Village of Merrionette Park
Edward Jung, Midlothian Park District
Matt Fairbanks, Palos Heights Parks & Recreation
TJ Whitcomb, Posen Park District
Robert O'Shaughnessy, Worth Park District
SWSRA
Administrative Staff
Nicolette Lahman-Morales, Executive Director
Patti Swiney, Business Manager
Marina Uher, CTRS, CPRP, Superintendent of Recreation
Brittany Izzo, CTRS, Program Manager
Tina Izzo-Delbovo, Recreation Specialist
Ami Ill, CTRS, Program Manager
John Bedore, Vehicle & Facilities Coordinator