Team and Board
The People Behind River Valley Special Rec
Our Team
Kristin Giacchino, Executive Director
Kristin joined River Valley Special Rec in 2024. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Arts in Reading Instruction, both from Olivet Nazarene University.
As Executive Director, Kristin empowers her team to provide welcoming, fun, and accessible recreation for people of all abilities. She loves working at River Valley Special Rec because seeing our programs bring participants joy is so fulfilling—their positivity and happiness inspire her every day.
Fun Fact: Kristin can often be spotted exploring trails and parks around town on her e-bike with her family.
Emily Ramirez, Director of Programming
Emily joined River Valley Special Rec in 2022 as the Special Olympics Coordinator. Soon after, she also became the Teen Coordinator and, in 2024, stepped into her current role as Director of Programming.
A local of the area and BBCHS graduate, Emily knew early on she wanted a career in special education. Prior to her position here, she spent four years as a job coach in the BBCHS Ignite program, and has loved continuing to create meaningful experiences for the River Valley Special Rec community.
As Director of Programming, Emily brings creative ideas to life, creating programs that bring joy, connection, and smiles to participants.
Fun Fact: Emily is dyslexic, an experience that has strengthened her career and deepened her empathy and passion for special recreation.
Ericka Esters, Office Coordinator
Ericka joined River Valley Special Rec in 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Olivet Nazarene University and an Associate in Applied Science in Social Work from South Suburban College.
As Office Coordinator, she manages administrative duties and provides support wherever it’s needed to help the team and leadership run smoothly. She loves working in special recreation because our participants are amazing, our activities are a blast, and we make sure everyone feels welcome and included.
Fun Fact: She is a big fan of horror movies, which are her favorite to watch!
Our Board
Bourbonnais Township Park District: David Zinanni and Peggy King
Kankakee Valley Park District: Ross Bruni and Michael Matthews
Limestone Park District: Doug Krippel
2025-2026 River Valley Special Rec Meeting Dates
Board Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 5:00PM at the River Valley Special Rec office. The public is welcome to attend.
- Tuesday, June 17th
- Tuesday, July 15th
- Tuesday, August 19th
- Tuesday, September 16th
- Tuesday, October 21st
- Tuesday, November 18th
- Tuesday, December 16th
- Tuesday, January 20th
- Tuesday, February 17th
- Monday, March 16th
- Tuesday, April 21st
- Tuesday, May 19th
To view agendas, past meeting minutes, and the organization’s budget, click here.
How to Submit a FOIA Request
In compliance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, River Valley Special Rec provides the following information to assist citizens who ask for access to records authorized under the Act.
The request for access to public records must be made in writing. A written request does not have to be made on a standard form. You may submit your written request in person at the address listed below – or via mail, fax, or e-mail.
Please submit your request to:
Kristin Giacchino – FOIA Officer
River Valley Special Rec
1335 E Broadway Street
Bradley, IL 60915
Email: kristin@rivervalleysra.com
When submitting your written request, please be as specific as possible. The Freedom of Information Act is designed to allow you to receive and/or inspect copies of records. It is not designed to require a public body to answer questions.
