Programs for All

Everyone Belongs in Recreation

River Valley Special Rec participants raising their hands in excitement as they ride the bus to a fun program

What We Offer

At River Valley Special Rec, we offer high-quality recreational programs for individuals of all ages with special needs. Our youth programs begin at age 6, teen programs serve ages 13–21, and adult programs are available for ages 21 and up. Participants can enjoy a wide range of activities, including trips and outings, classes, sports, social events, seasonal activities, and more. Some programs are one-time events, while others meet weekly.

In addition to our athletics, day programs, and summer camps, which you can read about in detail under the “Our Programs” menu, we offer many other opportunities for fun, learning, and connection. Explore our current program guide to see all of our offerings and find the right fit for you.

View Current Program Guide

Ready to join in? Our online registration portal makes it easy! You can also visit or call our office to register. You’ll find our contact details here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Our Programs

Who can participate in River Valley Special Recreation programs?

Our programs are designed for individuals with disabilities of all ages, with most programs open to participants ages 6 and up. Residents whose primary residence is within the boundaries of our in-district communities—Kankakee Park District, Bourbonnais Township Park District, and Limestone Park District—are given priority in registration.

I’m a new participant. What should I do first?

We’d love to meet you! New participants are invited to schedule an in-person intake meeting. During this meeting, you can tour our office, meet staff, complete required forms, and set up your online account to register for programs. This helps ensure a smooth start and answers any questions you may have.

How do I register for a program?

You can register online through our website or by contacting our office. Some programs have limited spots, so early registration is recommended.

Can I attend a program if I am not registered for it?

No. All programs require pre-registration to ensure we have enough staff, materials, and resources. Pre-registration helps us provide a safe, well-organized, and high-quality experience for all participants.

Are your programs inclusive?

Absolutely! We strive to create welcoming, inclusive environments where participants of all abilities can engage, learn, and have fun. To ensure your participant meets our essential eligibility requirements, please contact our office.

What is the cost to participate?

Program fees vary depending on the activity and the duration of the program. Please refer to the program guide to see the pricing for each program offering. In-district residents may qualify for scholarships. A scholarship application and additional information can be found here.

What is your cancellation or refund policy?

We understand that unexpected situations may prevent a participant from attending a program they’ve registered for. To request a refund, please complete our Refund Request Form and return it to our office or email it to support@rivervalleysra.com. Refunds are generally issued if requested at least 7 days in advance and if no non-refundable costs (such as tickets or materials) have been incurred.

What is the staff-to-participant ratio in your programs?

Most programs are staffed at a 1:4 ratio (1 staff member for every 4 participants), unless otherwise noted in the program description. If you have concerns about your participant’s ability to safely participate within this ratio, please contact our office prior to registering, so we can discuss possible accommodations or modifications.

What are the requirements or prerequisites for participating in programs?

Participants must have completed a Waiver and Release of All Claims, an Annual Information Form (updated yearly), and any additional required forms as applicable, such as a Seizure Care Plan, Mobility and Transfer Plan, or Medication Dispensing Forms. All of these forms can be found online through your UltraCamp account. If you need help accessing these forms, please contact our office.

Do you photograph participants during programs?

Yes, we regularly take pictures during our programs. These photos are posted on our social media accounts and use to promote programs through marketing. If you do NOT want your participant to be photographed, please contact our office.

Will I receive a reminder before a program or a phone call?

We send a text reminder at least 24 hours before a program. (For weekly or ongoing programs, only one reminder is sent.) Texts are sent to the phone number listed in your UltraCamp account. Please note that these reminders are sent through UltraCamp, and replies to that number are not received by our office.

How can I get in touch with staff during a program?

Our team can be reached via work cell phones before and during programs. Please note that these phones are typically turned on 30 minutes before the program begins.
Special Olympics or Day Program staff: (779) 401-0540
Emily Ramirez, Director of Programming: (815) 351-9411
All other programs: (779) 401-0578
We recommend saving these numbers so you can contact us if needed during a program.