Adaptive and inclusive programming are essential to communities, providing more access to a wider variety of people of all abilities. A recent poll conducted by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) showed that U.S. adults are highly supportive of adaptive and inclusive recreation programming provided through local park and recreation agencies.
Nearly nine in 10 U.S. adults want local park and recreation agencies to provide adaptive and inclusive recreation programming, according to the latest NRPA Park Pulse Poll. Adaptive and inclusive programs can incorporate modifications to timing or movement, individualized instruction or necessary equipment to ensure all may participate.
Key findings from the poll include:
- Nearly 90% of U.S. adults agree it is important that local park and recreation agencies create and provide recreation programming that is adaptive and inclusive so people of all abilities may participate.
- Two-thirds of U.S. adults agree it is very or extremely important that local park and recreation agencies create and provide recreation programming that is adaptive and inclusive so persons of all abilities may participate.
“Centering equity in all that we do ensures that parks and recreation remains accessible, inclusive, engaging and culturally relevant to the communities that their agencies serve,” said Kevin Roth, NRPA vice president of research, evaluation and technology. “Inequity is a pressing challenge facing our nation, and parks and recreation can make a profound difference.”
Park and recreation professionals strive to bring programming and opportunities to everyone in their community—regardless of ability. According to NRPA’s “2021 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Parks and Recreation” report, 74% of agencies offer programming and activities for individuals with physical disabilities and 62% offer programming and activities for people with cognitive disabilities.