What is Inclusion?

Inclusion within Frederick County Parks and Recreation means that individuals who have disabilities or need additional support are welcome to participate in the same recreation programs and activities alongside their peers without disabilities. Inclusive opportunities are supported through reasonable accommodations, or disability modifications, with support from our AIR Team. Reasonable Accommodations are based on each individual’s abilities and needs.

What are examples of Accommodations?

Accommodations that may be available to promote successful participation in programs include:

• Inclusion support staff 
• Use of companions 
•  ASL interpreters  
• Communication visuals  
• Additional training provided for program staff  
• Adaptive equipment or supplies
• Activity modifications that do not change the nature of the program or activity   
• Individualized strategies for success

For a more detailed overview of each type of support, please read through our reasonable accommodations. 

How do I request an Accommodation?

To request an accommodation, 

1. Register for the program, camp, or event. 
2. Check "yes" that you are requesting an ADA accommodation.   
3. AIR staff will contact the parent/guardian to complete a Program Accommodation Form and return the completed form to the AIR Team at 355 Montevue Lane, Suite 100, Frederick, MD 21702 or via email.   
4. Once the Program Accommodation Form is received, AIR staff will reach out to the parent/guardian to set up a time to review the request and develop individualized strategies for success.

*Please note, Accommodation Requests must be received at least two weeks prior to the program start date.

What are the minimum requirements for successful inclusion?
The same minimum requirements that apply to a person without a disability also apply to a person with a disability. These include:

• Meeting the program’s age and registration requirements;
• Following the rules of conduct (with or without reasonable accommodations); 
• Voluntary participation (Note: Recreation programs and activities are voluntary in nature. Participation will be encouraged and aided, but not forced.); 
• Meeting necessary level of participation with or without reasonable accommodations (participant will engage in scheduled activities for the majority of the program time);
• Ability to use a consistent form of communication to indicate basic needs and follow simple directions; and 
• Ability to function, with assistance, as a member of a group of 12 or more people.

What services are not part of inclusion?
Inclusion services do not include the following:

• Being in a separate area or participating in alternate activities for the majority of the program.
• Exception (with or without accommodations) to minimum compliance with program rules and regulations established for safety purposes. 
• Hiring, selection, or guaranteed assignment of a specific staff member.
• Individualized therapy within a program.
• Provision and/or purchase of personal custom devices.

Is an inclusive recreation setting the right choice and/or expereince?
Observe the program first-hand and ask yourself…

• If school-aged, do your child’s current classroom activities or goals prepare them for an inclusive recreation experience? 
• Has the individual shown an interest in the program activity or subject matter? 
• Are they comfortable and able to function appropriately, with or without assistance, in inclusive environments (malls, restaurants, parks, etc.)?
• Will an accommodation or inclusion support staff give the participant adequate support to fully participate in a general recreation program without disruption to others? 
• Are Adaptive Recreation Programs a better choice?

What are Adaptive Recreation Programs for Individuals with Disabilities? 

Frederick County Parks and Recreation offers alternative choices through specialized adaptive recreation programs for individuals with disabilities. Participants have a wide range of abilities and special needs; some prefer and benefit from participating in highly structured specialized programs designed specifically for participants with disabilities. Programs utilize trained staff and higher staff/participant ratios in addition to adapted spaces, materials, and content to provide an opportunity for individuals to participate in various recreation activities. 

Programs include: 

• Adaptive sports 
• Fitness, health, & wellness classes 
• Social groups 
• Enrichment and special interest classes 

Program spaces are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants must meet the program's essential eligibility criteria. For program inquiries, please call the AIR Team at 301-600-2197.

What are Program Levels and Essential Eligibility Criteria?
FCPR's Adaptive Recreation Programs utilize designated program levels and essential eligibility criteria to ensure the safety of all participants and staff who are part of the program and to allow participants to experience the program to the fullest extent. These levels outline the minimum physical and cognitive skills needed in order to participate.

For appropriate referrals related to eligibility requirements for programs, contact the AIR Team at 301-600-2197 or email cguercio@frderickcountymd.gov.