Creating an adaptive tennis program that encourages players of differing abilities to play together

By Cameron Levis

The daily mission of park and recreation professionals is to enhance the quality of life for residents through a variety of programs, services, and facilities. However, some professionals may not fully recognize their power to create true social change for a population that is often forgotten about. Individuals with disabilities are sometimes viewed in a negative light, which prevents them from being fully included in the everyday happenings of a community. Whether the issue is employment, housing, transportation, or even recreation and sports, community leaders too frequently fail to make accessibility and inclusivity a priority.