Want to see some happy faces? Check out the pictures that accompany this column.
The pictures paint a positive portrait of what life is like for those with intellectual disabilities who are enrolled in the Rec & Roll Day Program run by Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA). Rec & Roll is a recreation-based therapeutic day program that focuses on socialization, community involvement, independence, and having FUN!
So what is a typical day for Rec & Roll’ers? These adults (ages 18-55) engage in meaningful activities that may include gardening, cooking, art, music, exercise, games, and visiting fun destinations. In Naperville, the group meets at the Naperville Park District’s Sportsman’s Park Community Clubhouse. But most days, they don’t hang out there long before boarding the WDSRA bus for adventure. It’s common to see the group at such places as the Riverwalk, Cantigny or other local attractions. They often meet up with WDSRA’s other Rec & Roll groups from Carol Stream and Glen Ellyn and attend parties and field trips. Recently, they even took in a tour of United Airlines at O’Hare airport and a show at Medieval Times.
Rec & Roll day program fills the void that often develops once an individual with a disability graduates from high school. The program serves over 100 participants in four locations throughout western DuPage. Rec & Roll runs year round and is offered Monday thru Friday from 9AM-2PM, but participants choose the days they wish to attend.
For more information about Rec & Roll, contact Dori Napolitano, WDSRA Day Programs Manager, at (630) 681-0962 ext. 569 or visit www.wdsra.com.
