Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation

Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department is committed to providing high-quality recreation programs for all. Adaptive and Inclusive programs provide leisure opportunities for persons with disabilities. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to participate in any of the recreation programs offered by the Recreation Division.

Adapted Programs

Adaptive programs are offered for individuals with disabilities and are designed to promote social interactions, leisure awareness, and skill building. These programs are created with individual’s abilities in mind and are modified to meet the needs of those who participate.  Program content covers a verity of areas including sports & fitness, cultural arts, social activities, and special events.

Program registration is available online through our Activenet website or by using the Adaptive and Inclusive Registration Form below. To register over the phone call 319-356-5100 and our staff can assist you. You can also print and fill out the Adaptive and Inclusive Registration Form and mail it to 220 S. Gilbert Street, Iowa City, IA 52240. 

Winter/Spring 2023 Recreation Registration 

Iowa City Parks and Recreation Fall Recreation Registration begins at 7am Wednesday, December 13 for Iowa City residents. Non-resident registration opens at 7 am on Thursday, December 14. In person registration is available at the Robert A Lee Community Center and Mercer Park Aquatic Center. Register online here. You can also learn more about our programs by selecting one of the program links below.

Inclusion Services

Recognizes that some individuals with disabilities would benefit from social opportunities available in non-adapted programs.  Inclusion provides a choice for individuals of varying abilities to experience recreation programming within their community.

Inclusion services are offered to residents at no additional cost to the family. Inclusion supports may come in the form of one or more of the following: program observation, staff training, program modification, modified equipment, and/or an inclusion companion.

If you or someone you know require accommodations or assistance to participate in recreational programs or city services, please notify us at registration and contact Malory Smysor, Recreation Supervisor for Inclusion and Outreach. Please provide us as much advanced notice as possible to provide modifications.  Malory Smysor at 319-356-5228 or Malory Smysor.

ADA

The City of Iowa City welcomes all individuals to enjoy our programs, parks and facilities, regardless of Ability, Sexuality, age, race or religious affiliation. It is our goal to create a welcoming environment for all and welcome feedback to better serve the community.   The City of Iowa City strives to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you have a concern regarding the ADA regarding accessibility to facility or programs, please contact Malory Smysor at 319-356-5228 or Malory Smysor.

Rec Assist

Interested in learning about financial assistance for our programs. Learn more and apply for our Rec Assist program!

Iowa City Parks and Recreation has something for everyone! We are accepting applications for Rec Assist, our income eligible discount program. One application for Iowa City residents is valid for the entire calendar year.

Follow link to application: Rec Assist Application

Rec & Ride

Iowa City Parks and Recreation offers free bus passes to residents when attending any recreation facility or any of our special events in our parks. For more information or to receive a pass, ask facility or event staff.

Follow Us on Social

Stay up to date by following us on our social media platforms. Don't forget to tag us in your inclusive recreation posts. 

Cancellation Information

Iowa City Parks and Recreation uses Rainout Line to communicate cancellation information.

There are three ways to check or sign up for updates:

  1. Download the free app to your phone by searching Rainout Line.
  2. Visit rainoutline.com and search for "Iowa City Parks and Recreation."
  3. Call 319-346-7080 and listen for prompts.

Please note that the app is only updated during regular business hours of operation. This does not include nights and weekends.

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