South West Special Recreation Association (SWSRA)

About SWSRA
Alsip Park District has a co-operative agreement with South West Special Recreation Association (SWSRA) to provide recreation choices for people with disabilities.

WE ARE SPECIAL….

SWSRA is a special recreation co-operative comprised of the following communities: Alsip, Blue Island, Justice, Merrionette Park, Midlothian, Palos Heights, Posen, Summit and Worth. 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.

SWSRA is now in its 31st year of providing recreation for special populations in the south suburban area. 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 who's 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.

We Offer...
SWSRA offers a wide variety of programs, sports (including participation in Special Olympics Illinois), special events, trips and summer camps. Participants of SWSRA not only have fun, but also make friends, increase physical activity, enjoy new experiences and refine their social and life skills.

Inclusion
Some people with disabilities prefer to have recreation opportunities in traditional recreation programs with people who do not have disabilities. To meet this need, SWSRA provides training, support staff and assistance to partner park districts and local recreation departments so inclusive recreation can be enjoyed by all!

SWSRA Charity Runners
Run for a good cause at the First Midwest Bank Southwest Half Marathon in Palos Heights. Charity runners helped raise a substantial amount of proceeds that benefited our scholarship fund. This year, we are aiming to spread the news early and increase the number of SWSRA charity runners. Save the date of Sunday, May 6 for a day to physically and mentally challenge yourself while raising proceeds for individuals with special needs who face daily challenges. For more information, please contact the SWSRA office.

Walk, Run or Roll Race
The Walk, Run or Roll ½ Mile Race is specifically designed for individuals with special needs and is held in conjunction with the First Midwest Bank Southwest Half Marathon on Sunday, May 6. Please keep checking www.swsra.com for more updates. For more information, please contact SWSRA at (708) 389-9423.