May Fun with Therapeutic Recreation!
Summer Camp, Family Night Out, Spring Classes and more!

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TR

May 2025



Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage

Five images of individuals of Asian American or Pacific Islander heritage with disabilities.

 

As we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month, we recognize the incredible contributions of individuals with disabilities within the Asian American and Pacific Islander community. This month, we shine a spotlight on their resilience, creativity, and advocacy. From trailblazing activists to inspiring artists, these individuals exemplify the strength and diversity of our community. You can learn more about the remarkable lives and achievements of those featured in our banner photo here: AAPI Month Bios


Join Our TR Summer Team

Join Our Team

 

Are you ready to make a difference this summer? We're on the lookout for enthusiastic and passionate individuals to join us as Summer Recreation Assistants!

 

You'll have the incredible opportunity to work with campers with disabilities in our adapted camps and provide inclusion support in our general recreation summer camps. It's a rewarding experience where you can help create unforgettable memories and ensure every camper has a blast!

 

Apply today and be part of an amazing team dedicated to creating an inclusive and joyful summer for all.

 

Blue apply now button

Important Summer Camp Payment and Cancellation Updates

Recently, the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) sent out a message regarding summer camp payments and cancellation fees. Recognizing the challenges many in our community are facing in 2025, to help ease financial strain, temporary changes have been made to this year’s summer camp payment schedule and cancellation options. Our goal is to offer more flexibility, so families have the time they need to plan. We encourage all summer camp families to review these updates and see how they may help.

 

You can review the full message and updated policy here:

Summer Camp 2025 - Updated Payment Schedule and Cancellation Options

 

Access for All Logo

Spring Adapted Classes

Spring is here and our spring adapted classes are not far behind! We're highlighting three fantastic options below, but there's so much more to explore. Select the register button below to see all our available adapted classes. Don't forget to check out the Spring Enjoy Arlington catalog for a full list of general recreation offerings.

 

Register button

 

Adapted Beginner Art

Tuesday, April 22 - June 10, 5:30pm - 6:30pm

Activity #: 302005A

8 sessions - $77

 

Discover your inner artist at our fun and introductory art program at Lubber Run Center. Explore various materials and techniques like papermaking, brush painting, and collage to create beautiful works of art. Designed for individuals with disabilities, this program allows you to use unconventional materials and express your creativity.

A woman using different tools to paint.

Adapted Pre-Fin & Me

Sunday, April 27 - June 29, 1:15pm - 1:45pm

Activity #: 310411A

8 sessions - $72

 

Join our beginner swim class at Long Bridge Center. This class is designed for participants and their parent or guardian. Participants will learn water safety, basic swim skills like floating and kicking, and get comfortable with instructors. Perfect for preparing them for future swim classes on their own.

 

A child wearing a floatation device being supported by a woman in a pool

Adapted Group Fitness: Upper Body Strength and Stretch

Saturday, May 17, 10am - 11am

Activity #: 304003B

1 Session - $15

 

Join SPIRIT Club's Adapted Group Fitness program at Langston Brown Center. This adapted fitness class is perfect for individuals with disabilities who want to improve their balance, strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, speed, and agility. With clear visual demonstrations and verbal cues, our instructors will guide you through the exercises.

 

Check out all adapted group fitness classes here.

 

A group of adults being led in a fitness class

Family Night Out!

We are excited to host monthly recreation events for families that include a member with a disability. Families will get the opportunity to enjoy a variety of recreation activities as well as connect with other families. Check out what we have planned this month.

 

Adapted Skate Night

Saturday, May 3, 5:30-7:30pm

Activity #: 922225-06

 

Join us at Thomas Jefferson Community Center for a fun night of roller skating for the whole family! Participant(s) must be accompanied by a registered adult. Skate walkers are available for those who need assistance skating. This event will also feature a DJ for your enjoyment. Register today!

 

A mother and child posing with roller skates on and a skate walker.

Summer Camp Registration

Get Ready for Summer 2025

 

Get ready for an unforgettable summer with our exciting camp offerings! Limited spaces are still available for our adapted camps, Camp Discovery (ages 6-11) and Project FIVE (ages 12-21). Our adapted camps are designed specifically for campers with disabilities. These camps provide a supportive and engaging environment where every camper can thrive and enjoy a variety of activities. Available camp slots are listed below.

 

Camp Discovery (age group 6 - 8)

 

Project FIVE (age group 12 - 14)

 

The waitlist is open for all other sessions.

 

In addition to our adapted camps, be sure to check out general recreation camps that promise fun and adventure for all. Our incredible Inclusion Coordinators provide support services to ensure that every child can participate and have a fantastic summer experience.

 

Don't miss out on the fun—sign up today and make this summer one to remember!


Arlington Palooza

Arlington Palooza Banner

 

Get ready to dance the day away at the fifth Arlington Palooza! Bring your family and friends to Lubber Run Community Center on Saturday, May 17 from 11am to 4pm for an unforgettable celebration. Enjoy live music, explore a vibrant street vendor market, savor delicious treats from food trucks, and so much more!

 

This event is free and registration is not required, but you can let us know you're coming here.


Save the Dates: WAWAbility 2025

WawaAbility Promotional Banner

 

Celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) at WAWAbility. This two-day event, happening on July 11-12 in Washington, D.C., is a wonderful opportunity to honor the progress made in disability rights and continue working for a more inclusive future together.

 

The event will feature a variety of keynote speakers, incredible performances, an accessibility exhibition, and networking opportunities. You'll have the chance to connect with a community dedicated to accessibility and inclusion. The celebration will conclude with an ADA 35th Anniversary Party on July 12 from 8pm - 11pm at The Anthem.

 

Mark your calendars and be part of the change at WAWAbility 2025. Let's come together to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the ADA and continue to push for a more inclusive world.


Water Safety Days

Bring the whole family to Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center for Water Safety Day on Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25 from 9am - 2:30pm! This free two-day event is all about ensuring every family member feels confident and safe in the water. Learn and practice essential tips to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your friends while enjoying the water.

 

Water safety is important for everyone, and we have sessions for all age groups. Don't miss out and sign up today to make sure everyone is ready for a safe and fun summer!

Water Safety Days

Explore, Engage, Enjoy!

Collage of various recreational activities.

 

Discover the different events happening across our Parks & Recreation units! From fitness classes to community gatherings, there is something for everyone. Visit the Programs for All Ages website for a full list of events. Your next adventure awaits – do not miss out!

 

Check out some of the exciting things other units are doing this month:


Inclusion Support

The Therapeutic Recreation Office is committed to supporting individuals with disabilities in recreation activities by: