Access to Recreation

Access. Inclusion. Community.

Frustrations – about participation, about being together, about access – are experienced daily by millions of American families. According to the 2000 census, 8 percent of non-institutionalized children between the ages of 5 and 20 have a disability. These numbers increase dramatically with age. Nineteen percent of adults between 21 and 64 have a disability. For those 65 and older, the number rises to 42 percent.

Study after study has documented the health and social benefits of recreation in our society. Recreation strengthens communities, promotes social bonds, and improves physical and mental health. Not surprisingly, individuals with disabilities receive the very same benefits from participating in recreational activities. In fact, their need for these benefits is even greater. However, lack of opportunities often prevents them from being active.

Launched in 2006, Access to Recreation is a four-year initiative that supports community foundations, parks and recreation providers, advocacy groups, and individuals as they work to provide greater access to a wide variety of recreation opportunities.

Access to Recreation is made possible through a W.K. Kellogg Foundation grant to CMF supporting organization Midwest Community Foundations' Ventures.

Eight community foundations in Michigan have received grants to lead and convene community partnerships that have resulted in recreation projects that provide greater access for all. In addition, the foundations are building endowments for future accessible recreation projects.

A statewide Access to Recreation advisory group includes members of disability advocacy groups, state and local officials, parks and recreation professionals, and foundation grantees. Formed to identify and support strategies that will lead to changes in policy and practice, the advisory group partners with other recreation accessibility organizations including the Michigan Recreation and Park Association Foundation, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Accessibility Advisory Council, and the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness.