CANCELLATION/CLOSURE NOTICE (Updated May 29, 2020)

Dear M-NASR Participants, Families, and Caregivers,

I hope this update finds you well! COVID-19 has impacted the world and our daily lives in unprecedented ways. After careful consideration, we have come to the difficult decision that we will not be offering our typical in person programming or day camps for summer 2020. Please know the staff worked very hard on developing potential scenarios which we could offer limited programming, but there were multiple factors out of our control that would not allow us to do so. We know our programs and day camps are important for many of you and did not make this decision lightly. The M-NASR staff know that this has been a difficult time for many, and we are looking forward to getting back to some of the things we miss, including M-NASR programs, as soon as possible. Please continue to read for some great opportunities and resources we do have available for you.

SUMMER VIRTUAL ONLINE PROGRAMS

Please consider registering for some of our FREE “REConnect” summer programs M-NASR is providing in a live online format. It is a great way to socialize, maintain physical activity, fight boredom, and visit with staff and friends. We have group programs, 1:1 Rec Chats with staff, as well as ongoing activities on our Facebook and Pinterest page. You can view the line up or register for programs at: https://mnasr.org/virtual-programming/. Please let us know if you have suggestions for additional programs.

ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY

Thanks to a donation, M-NASR has some funds available to assist those who are currently unable to access our online programs. If you would typically request financial scholarships for our programs and/or do not have the physical equipment or technology available to access online M-NASR programs, you may be eligible for assistance. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Superintendent Jennifer Gebeck at (224) 217-0618 by Friday, June 5. 

RESPITE SUPPORT NEEDED?

We understand you may be in need of care for your child this summer. Since we are not offering our summer programs, there are some seasonal staff who may be looking for summer work. We will be coordinating a list of individuals interested and available to provide respite. If you are interested in independently hiring them, we can provide you with this list (a waiver will be required). Contact Lauren Ruiz at lruiz@mnasr.org  for more information. Please note, it is your responsibility to interview the individual and determine if it is a good fit for your family, and this work arrangement is completely independent of M-NASR. 

OFFICES

Our offices remain closed until further notice. If you have specific questions, you may call (224) 217-0618 between 9:30am and 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, or email me at tbreitlow@mnasr.org.

Thank you again as we navigate this situation together. Please know our goal is to continue to provide meaningful programming and interaction, and to be able to do so in a live setting as soon as it is safely possible.  

Sincerely,

Trisha D. Breitlow, CTRS, CPRP

Executive Director

Who We Are

Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation (M-NASR) has been providing fun, recreational, and beneficial opportunities to individuals with disabilities since 1972. Today we serve over 1,300 children and adults in more than 600 programs, trips, and special events each year. Programming options include recreational or competitive sports, exercise, cultural arts, general recreation, bowling, swimming, and more! In addition, individuals with disabilities who choose to participate in their home park district may benefit from our inclusion services.

M-NASR offers programming and services to individuals with disabilities living within our seven member districts:

Des Plaines Park District – Golf-Maine Park District – Morton Grove Park District – Niles Park District – Park Ridge Park District –Skokie Park District – Village of Lincolnwood Parks & Recreation

Mission

The Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation is dedicated to improving the quality of life and through advocacy and awareness, promoting a successful leisure lifestyle for individuals with disabilities.