There are many different situations in which people with disabilities can be included in services offered by a Parks and Recreation department. Some people utilize services independently. Others may choose to ask for an accommodation or reasonable modification so they may participate. The Americans with Disabilities Act states that programs and services for persons with disabilities must be provided in the most integrated setting possible. Individuals with disabilities cannot be excluded from a regular program, or required to accept special services or benefits. It is important to understand and realize that there are many aspects involved in an inclusion process.

The following information is an outline of inclusion concepts used in PRCS programs and services:

NOTE: It is important to remember that a person with a disability need not disclose they have a disability if he or she chooses not to request an accommodation or modification to our services or programs. However, if a request or inquiry is made, you may be asked to be part of the inclusion process.

Initial Request: The PRCS is notified that a person with a disability will need an accommodation or reasonable modification to participate in a program, class, or service. This request may be made on a registration form, a statement of request form, or during an inquiry on the phone, via e-mail, or in person.

Program Eligibility: What is the purpose of the program or class? Are there eligibility requirements of all customers to participate (registration deadlines, skill prerequisites, fees, age requirements, etc)? If so, does the participant meet the criteria?

Customer Needs: The customer's individual needs and abilities may be assessed to meet the request. Each situation is assessed individually, on a case-by-case basis to determine the amount of support necessary for the individual to function within the guidelines of the program. Each program or division may do its own assessment. The Inclusion Office may provide additional assessment and support.

Program Structure and Guidelines: Structure and programming can directly affect participants with disabilities. How are the activities structured? What is the purpose of the program, rules, policies, etc? Identify potential barriers to participate related to the needs of the participant? Can programming be modified to better include the participant with a disability? For example, during "activity period," can different games and activities be implemented so to better include a child with a disability?

Further observation and assessment may be desired.

Inclusion Goals and Planning: What are the goals of the customer for participation in the program? What modifications will be made to attain those goals? How does the program plan to include the customer? Staff may meet with program leaders and the participant to plan for inclusion and to determine the modifications and levels of support to participate.

Inclusion Plan/Reasonable Modifications Implemented:

• Reasonable modifications or adaptations are made.
• Participant is included.
• Reasonable modifications or adaptations may be documented and/or reassessed to determine effectiveness.
  

NOTE: Other options or a grievance procedure may be discussed if accommodation cannot be granted.

Evaluations:
Evaluations may be used to ensure successful inclusion. Inclusion is a work in progress.
Ongoing changes may be made to strive towards goals.

Resources/Support: General recreation leaders/instructors are informed of the resources that exist for them. This includes the Inclusion Office staff, additional training, family/caregivers, teachers, other professionals, and agencies that can assist. Customers without disabilities should be encouraged to call if they have questions or concerns.

Staff Training: Training topics may include the following:

• Disability Awareness Training
• Responsible Care Training
• Inclusion Process and Registration
• Program Adaptations
• Adapted Aquatics Training
• Adapted Golf Clinic and Demonstration
• ADA and Special Events Planning
• Effective Communication Workshop
• ADA Roundtable Discussions
• Behavior Management and Modifications

Forms: Programs should keep on file a copy of the participant's registration form (and emergency information) waiver, and accommodation request. If applicable, the file could also include the individual assessment, goals, behavior plans, incident/accident reports, ongoing documentation or any other pertinent information.

Inclusion Strategies: The program leader/instructor can help include the person in the program and help other customers (without disabilities) feel comfortable by having a positive attitude, modeling equality, and helping to demonstrate abilities and similarities.

Concerns: Everyone should be encouraged to be honest about their fears and apprehensions. As an employee, feel free to talk with the Inclusion staff you are working with. Also seek out information about the general recreation staff concerns. For questions or concerns about including patrons with disabilities, please contact your supervisor and/or the Inclusion Office, 326-6316. Grievances or complaints concerning a denial of service can be filed with the ADA Coordinator through the office of the City Diversity and Training Manager, 334-3123.