Inclusion takes center stage with our specialized and adaptive recreation programs. Discover a diverse range of activities tailored to accommodate varying abilities, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive and enjoy the transformative power of recreation.
Weekly Activities
Join us each week for a fun activity! We alternate between Harbor Friendship Socials and our Move to Music program from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and have Nature Explorers on Thursdays.
Harbor Friendship Socials
The Harbor Friendship Social is a gathering focused on fostering social connections and community spirit for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Participants will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including creative arts and crafts, collaborative games and activities and enjoying the beauty of community together.
Details:
- Every other Wednesday
- 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Ages 13 and up
Move to Music
The Move to Music program is aimed at engaging participants in physical exercise that promote increased feelings of wellness. We will harness the natural motivation music provides our bodies to move, with stretching and strengthening opportunities. Music will be selected based on participants’ interests and movements modified to support individual participants’ strengths.
Details:
- Every other Wednesday
- 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Ages 13 and up
Specialized Nature Explorers
Nature Explorers is an engaging, hands-on outdoor experience designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities to connect with nature, build friendships, and explore the world around them. Participants will discover the sights, sounds, textures, and wonders of the natural environment through sensory-rich activities, guided exploration, and creative nature-inspired projects.
Details:
- Thursdays Sept. 10 – Oct. 8
- 10:30-11:30 a.m.
- Ages 13 and up
Other Inclusive Activities
We offer a number of other inclusive activities! From bowling to arts and crafts, come join us for a good time!
Play Connections
Specialized Plan Connections is a new opportunity for parents of neurodiverse children that may benefit in playing in a low sensory environment. Participants can enjoy hands-on activity stations that inspire creativity, discovery and friendship. Families and caregivers stay during the program to support participants and connect with other families in the community.
Details:
- Oct. 25 and Nov. 22
- 10-11 a.m.
- $5 per session
- Ages 3-12
Costume and Decorating Party
Join us at Sehmel Homestead Park for a frightfully fun evening filled with music, dancing, karaoke, and Halloween fun! Participants are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite costumes. A light dinner will be provided. Arrive 45 minutes early to join in on a creative wheelchair and mobility device decorating time before the party begins!
Details:
- Friday, Oct. 23
- 5:30-7 p.m.
- Ages 13 and up
Cocoa and Gingerbread House Decorating Party
Unleash your inner artist while sipping on hot cocoa. Our hot cocoa bar will feature a variety of flavors and toppings to make your experience even sweeter. This event is specially designed for artists with disabilities and their family and friends. All ages and abilities are welcome to decorate a gingerbread themed house.
Details:
- Friday, Nov. 20
- 5:30-7 p.m.
- Ages 5 and up
Adaptive Sports Open Gym
Join us for a fun, inclusive open gym where you can try new sports, practice skills and make friends! This session welcomes athletes with physical disabilities and supports confidence, skill-building and connection. Have questions or need support? Reach out! We’ll do our best to help.
Details:
- Every Thursday from Jan. 8 – April 30
- Recreation drop-in fee, no registration required
- Ages 7-18
Bowling Meetup
Join us for a fun-filled time bowling at Ocean5, where you can meet new friends, boost your confidence and improve your skills! This inclusive event welcomes bowlers of all abilities, including those with intellectual and physical disabilities. Friends and family are encouraged to register and participate. Adaptive equipment will be available to ensure everyone can enjoy the game.
Details:
- Every other Saturday from Jan. 8 – April 30
- Cost: $10
- Ages 5 and up
Specialized Recreation Calendar
Our Summer 2026 Specialized Recreation Calendar is set! Click on the picture or the button below to view or download the full calendar for February, March and April.
Financial Assistance
PenMet Parks is proud to offer financial assistance through a tier-based program. Depending on household income, participants may receive 50% to 100% off program fees, up to a maximum of $400 per person each calendar year. Once the $400 limit is reached, standard program fees apply.
For more information on how to apply and eligibility requirements, visit our Financial Assistance page.
Contact Us
We’re here to help! If you have any questions, comments or ideas for our Adaptive and Specialized Recreation Programs, please email program director Mindy Gesell-Stanley. You can also give us a call at 253-858-3400.