I've lived in Lake Forest pretty much my whole life, so I'm very familiar with the city's Parks and Recreation services. Growing up, I used to love going to the various parks in Lake Forest and playing on their playground. In the winter, I always liked going ice skating at one of the parks. The Parks and Recreation department also puts on an annual Fourth of July celebration with fireworks and a live concert, which I enjoy going to every year and meeting up with friends there. I think they offer great programs for both kids and adults, and a wide variety of them, too.

Disability Awareness:   Welcoming, Talked to me person-to-person, Friendly, Gave me choices, Respectful, Helpful when I needed assistance or accommodation, Flexible service, Physically accessible, Accessible Parking

I have been a member of the Lake Forest Recreation Department Karate program since 2000 and we have always had members with developmental and/or physical disabilities. I have trained alongside kids and adults with Down syndrome, autism, and fairly significant mental retardation, and have seen them all thriving in this sport. Instructors Frank and Ron modify their instruction styles for all students, because we are all of varying abilities in this sport, so accommodating disabilities does not prove a problem. Black belts are often assigned to work alongside members with disabilities when they need one-on-one attention. If your family member is interested in martial arts, I recommend contacting Frank Chrzanowski to arrange a trial session or two.

Disability Awareness:   Welcoming, Talked directly to the person/people with disability, Friendly, Gave choices, Gave extra time, Respectful, Helpful with assistance or accommodation, Physically accessible