What's SRANI?           

SRANI is an acronym standing for the Special Recreation Associations of Northern Illinois. SRANI is a professional organization designed to further the development of community based Special Recreational staff and programs through a joint effort on SRANI members.

What is an SRA?

Special Recreation Associations (SRAs) are cooperative extensions of local Park Districts and Village Recreation Departments that provide year-round recreation programs and support services for individuals with disabilities. SRAs assist Park Districts with inclusion for individuals with special needs and teach staff how to develop programs so that positive experiences could be had by every individual. Close staff to participant ratios are maintained to ensure quality and safety for all participants in programs.

What services does an SRA provide?

SRAs provide year round recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities including:

     Outdoor Recreation ~ Cultural Outings ~ Day Camps ~ Leisure Education ~ Athletic/Fitness Programs ~ Travel Programs ~ Social Clubs ~ Special Events ~ Music & Dance Programs ~ Inclusion Services ~ Special Olympics Training ~ Arts & Crafts Programs

What is Inclusion?

SRA staff work with Park Districts and Village/City staff to facilitate smooth inclusion of participants with special needs who desire to participate in general recreation programs. While inclusion opportunities have always been available, the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) created an expanded awareness and opportunity. Polices and procedures have been developed so that individuals can participate in the least restrictive environment at their highest ability level. A wide variety of choice are available to each participant, whether they are special recreation programs, park district programs, or in a community program.