SPECIAL RECREATION ASSOCIATIONS FOR SPECIAL CITIZENS

by Kevin T. Kendrigan

In 1969, a group of innovative professionals formed a special association to meet the needs of their residents, who were either mentally or physically handicapped.

Since the formation of Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association, several other associations have formed. Special Recreation Associations may be formed by two or more park districts. The authorization is covered in Section 8-10-1 and 8-10-2 of the Park Code.

The basic reason for the formation of a special recreation association is the obligation we, as public agencies, have to serve all people in the community. Due to staffing problems, the cost of programming, and the representation of a limited number of a given population, the handicapped are not currently being served in many districts. Cooperative associations offer a vehicle which will enable you to serve this portion of the population.

An association of this type is formed through articles of agreement, and governed by a representative board of trustees. Each district has one (1) representative on the board.

In northern Illinois, the Associations have organized along similar boundaries as their Special Education Associations. The Associations currently are functioning with a limited full-time staff and a large supplementary part-time staff. The part-time staff is comprised of special education teachers, instructors in skill areas, recreational therapists, and students.

The concept of an association has proven to be both effective and workable. There are many special citizens in your community. The vast majority of special populations are in the community and not in institutions. This is a community responsibility, with your support, permanent funding can be established which will:

a. allow you to establish a program to serve the people of your community;

b. allow the program to function independently without subtracting from your recreation budgets;

c. allow Illinois to demonstrate again its leadership in leisure time services.

Current legislation is pending in the state legislature which would allow park districts to levy a $.02 tax to provide services for the handicapped. This Bill has a back door referendum provision. It is important for all professionals and Commissioners to support legislation involving leisure pursuits for our special citizens.

For Additional Information,

Stephen R. Keay, Executive Director
Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association
760 Red Oak Lane
Highland Park, Illinois 60035
(312) 831-2450

Barbara Sternfeld, Executive Director
Maine-Niles Assn. of Recreation for the Handicapped
4400 Grove
Skokie, Illinois 60076
(312) 674-1500

Steve Weaks, Executive Director
South Suburban Special Recreation Association
1125 Division
Chicago Heights, Illinois 60466
(312) 747-4222

Kevin Kendrigan, Executive Director
Northwest Special Recreation Association
660 N. Ridge
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004
(312) 394-4948

Ilinois Parks and Recreation 14 July/August, 1975