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Fun & Recreation

A Kid Again

With chapters across the county and throughout Ohio, A Kid Again provides free fun adventures, hospital visitations and parents’ nights out for families with children ages 0-20 with a life-threatening medical illness. Visit the website to find your local chapter, upcoming Adventures, and enroll online for free.
281 Cramer Creek Court, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 362-3042
akidagain.org/chapter/central-ohio-chapter

A Special Wish (ASW) Foundation

Non-profit granting wishes for children ages 0-20 with a life-threatening or terminal illness who have not had a wish granted by another wish-granting organization. Anyone can refer a child by completing the form on their website. Call the organization for additional details.

Central Ohio: 620 Taylor Station Road, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
(614) 258-3186
Northeast Ohio: (877) 770-9474
Southeast Ohio: (740) 449-2063
Southwest Ohio: (937)-223-9474

aspecialwishfoundation.org

Ability Matters

Serves: Students ages 3-21, individuals, and families.
Supports individuals with autism and other neurological disabilities. Services include intervention training and support, customized and individualized learning options through the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program, and independent supportive living. The Beyond Ability Matters program provides housing, educational experiences like preparing for a job interview, and community outings. Services are offered by trained and experienced care providers.
425 Metro Place North, Dublin, Ohio 43017
(614) 956-1229
abilitymattersohio.com

Adaptive Sports Connection

Serves children, veterans, and adults with disabilities through outdoor and therapeutic recreation and education across Ohio. They offer sporting events and camps for all skill levels with adaptive equipment. Programs include kayaking, cycling, soccer, skiing, and more. The Bikes to Go program helps children and adults obtain an adaptive bike. Individuals and families can register for a yearly membership or separate programs at low-cost. Scholarships are available for registration fees.
6000 Harriott Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 389-3921
adaptivesportsconnection.org

Adaptive Sports Ohio

Helps remove barriers for individuals with physical disabilities to participate in sports. They offer community-based sports leagues and clinics, including wheelchair basketball, football, rugby, handcycling, track & field, strength & conditioning, and outdoor summer camp activities. These programs are available in Wayne, Cuyahoga, Mahoning, and Lucas Counties. Students across Ohio in grades 7-12 can contact the organization to have free adaptive equipment sent to their school or community organization. Individuals and families can contact the organization for help navigating adaptive sports programs as well.
1720 Enterprise Parkway, Wooster, Ohio 44691
(301) 601-1400
adaptivesportsohio.org

Akron Rotary Camp for Children with Disabilities

Offers programs for campers with disabilities in Akron, Ohio. Programs include summer adventure camps for ages 6-17, summer day camps for ages 6-12, and adult camps for ages 18+. Respite programs include school day out for ages 6-12, year-round respite weekends for ages 6-17, and adult weekend retreats throughout the year. Costs vary by program and scholarships may be available.
4460 Rex Lake Drive, Akron, Ohio 44319
(330) 644-4512
gotcamp.org/akron-rotary-camp

Art Possible Ohio

Inclusive art organization combatting ableism in the art world. They host accessible art shows, showcase and help sell works, provide professional development, and help artists with disabilities apply for grants. The Adaptation, Integration, and the Arts (AIA) program matches teaching artists and classroom educators for creative residencies in inclusive classrooms.
77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(380) 799-6253
artpossibleohio.org

Best Buddies Ohio

A One-to-One Friendship program creating social inclusion and friendships for people with and without intellectual or developmental disabilities. Programs take place at middle schools, high schools, colleges, and online across Ohio. The Leadership Development program empowers people with or without IDD to become leaders, public speakers and advocates.
PO Box 45353, Westlake, Ohio 44145
(614) 928-3383
bestbuddies.org/ohio

Bookshare

Customizable e-book library for people with dyslexia, learning disabilities, visual impairments, physical disabilities, and other reading barriers. They operate under exception to US copyright law, allowing a huge collection of copyrighted titles to be made available for readers using a tablet, computer, assistive device, or smartphone. They also offer textbooks and learning materials. Students in Pre-K-12, post-secondary, graduate, vocational, or continuing education can access the library for free. Individuals must register as members and provide proof of qualifying disability. Find program details and register on their website.
(650) 352-0198
bookshare.org

Buddy Up For Life for Youth with Down Syndrome

Serves individuals with Down Syndrome by providing engaging activities that help athletic, social, and emotional development. Athletes are partnered with volunteer Buddies to provide support, develop friendships, and reinforce the coaches’ instructions. Coaches are trained to implement the curriculum specifically created for athletes with Down Syndrome. Programs include tennis, pickleball, fitness, Zumba, and summer camp. The Columbus location offers a Life Skills program for students ages 14+ to learn skills like cooking, finance, and professional communication.
8000 Walton Parkway, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 579-8808
buddyupforlife.org

Camp Nuhop

Hosts a variety of programs for individuals ages 6-29, with a focus on those living with ASD, ADHD, learning disabilities, mood disorders, and other neurodiversities. Programs include summer camps, weekend respite programs for ages 8-18, Life Skills camp for ages 18-29 to grow independent living skills, and outdoor experiential learning courses.
1077 Township Road 2916, Perrysville, Ohio 44864
(419) 938-7151
nuhop.org/camp-nuhop

Casey Cares

Offers palliative programs for families with critically ill children to keep spirits high and make lasting memories. Programs include opportunities for families to enjoy local attractions and outings, surprise gifts for birthdays, new pajamas for children who are homebound or during an extended hospital stay, gift cards for grocery assistance and themed parties for Casey Cares families across the country to meet. Families who have lost a child can continue to receive services for one year and are encouraged to participate in a monthly bereavement support group. Families must complete the online application for services, including medical documentation to be completed by the child’s health care staff.
Ohio Region: 7775 Walton Parkway, New Albany, Ohio 43054
Application Questions: (443) 568-0064
General: (888) 568-0060
caseycares.org

Center for Courageous Kids (CCK)

Offers free summer camps and family retreat experiences for seriously ill children, in a safe, medically supervised environment. Medical care is provided by volunteer physicians and nurses coordinated by a full-time medical director. They provide camps for kids with asthma, cancer, cerebral palsy, diabetes, blood disorders, muscular dystrophy, sickle cell, spina bifida and more.
1501 Burnley Road, Scottsville, Kentucky 42164
(270) 618-2900
courageouskids.org

Columbus Chill Youth Hockey Association (CCYHA) Columbus Blue Jackets Special Hockey

Provides children and young adults with developmental disabilities the opportunity to learn to skate and play ice hockey in an environment adapted to each athlete’s ability level. Anyone regardless of age, sex, developmental disability, or skill level, who is physically able to play, may join. Practices are held at the Ohio Health Chiller Ice Rinks including Dublin, North, and Easton. There is a program fee for each player.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3243 Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 284-6104
ccyha.org/program/special-hockey/1024

Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML)

CML is an award-winning library and amazing resource in the community. With 23 locations throughout Franklin County, they provide a lot more than just books, including lots of free online resources, story times for kids, and community events. Programs include:

Adaptive Services: Request accommodations, adaptive audio and visual equipment, and large print reading materials.
Adult Education: ESOL and GED referrals; free technology business, and coding classes; history and genealogy experts, Digital Navigator staff can help you access hardware and software, and Excel Adult High School allows adults to get their high-school degree in an online, self-paced program.
Business & Nonprofit Resource Center: Visit Main Library for access to co-working space, specialized professional help, access to community partners, tools, and resources.
Culture Pass: Use your library card to check out a Culture Pass for free admission to a variety of Columbus organizations and events; including Columbus Museum of Art, Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus Clippers, Columbus Symphony, and more.
Kindergarten Readiness: Find Storytimes, Play to Learn, and Kindergarten readiness classes for ages 0-5. They also have Skill Builder videos with activities you can do together at home.
Notary Service: Free basic notary service with an Ohio Notary Public at most library locations. Schedule an appointment online.
School Help: K-12 students can get after-school homework help, K-3 students can get extra reading practice with Reading Buddies in person or online, HelpNow offers 24/7 online homework help and test prep, and some locations host After School Snack times.
Teen Programs: YouMedia Discord for ages 13-17 to work on music, podcasts, videos, and more with skilled mentors; homework and test prep help, and monthly Teen Spotlight videos.

Locations:

Barnett (Temporary Location): 3227 East Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43227
Canal Winchester: 115 Franklin Street, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
Driving Park: 1422 Esat Livingston Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43205
Dublin: 75 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43017
Franklinton: 1061 West Town Street, Columbus, Ohio 43222
Gahanna: 310 Granville Street, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
Hilliard: 4500 Hickory Chase Way, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Hilltop: 511 South Hague Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43204
Karl Road: 5590 Karl Road, Columbus, Ohio 43229
Linden (Temporary Location): 1990 Jefferson Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43211
Main Library: 96 South Grant Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43215
Marion-Franklin: 2800 Lockbourne Road, Columbus, Ohio 43207
Martin Luther King: 1467 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
New Albany: 200 Market Street, New Albany, Ohio 43054
Northern Lights: 4093 Cleveland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43224
Northside: 1423 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43201
Parsons: 1113 Parsons Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Reynoldsburg: 1402 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
Shepard: 850 North Nelson Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
South High: 3540 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43207
Southeast: 3980 South Hamilton Road, Groveport, Ohio 43125
Whetstone: 3909 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
Whitehall: 4445 Esat Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43213

(614) 645-2275
Upcoming Events: events.columbuslibrary.org/events?
Website: columbuslibrary.org

Columbus Recreation & Parks Therapeutic Recreation

Sponsors recreational activities that are modified to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities at Columbus Community Centers. Families can fill out an Inclusion Support Request online and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist will coordinate accommodations. They also offer an adaptive fitness center, inclusive summer camps, adaptive sports clubs, and events.
Adaptive Fitness Center at Franklin Park Adventure Center: 1755 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 645-5648
Inclusion Support Request: columbusrecparks.com/wellness/therapeutic-recreation/inclusion-support
Website: columbusrecparks.com/wellness/therapeutic-recreation

COSI (Center of Science and Industry)

Science center offering hands-on STEAM education for all, through interactive exhibits and programs. Families can purchase tickets or memberships to enjoy their live shows, special events, opportunities to volunteer, resources for educators, and more. They offer a special Family Access Membership that is available for families who get WIC, EBT, or Ohio Medicaid. They also offer Sensory Bags and a Sensory Environment Map to help individuals with sensory needs enjoy their visit. The COSI Connects website has lots of STEAM information, videos, and activities for families and educators.
333 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 228-2674
cosi.org
cosi.org/connects

Danceability at Leap of Faith

An integrative dance class for students with special needs. These classes teach rhythm, balance, coordination, and choreography. Instructors are trained to apply fun and functional dance movement to aid in reaching developmental goals. Classes are held at Leap of Faith Dance Company, a faith-based dance studio in Westerville, Ohio. The studio offers a variety of dance classes and a summer camp. Scholarships are available.
355 Cherrington Road, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 901-8325
leapoffaithdancecompany.com/dance-ability

Deaf Services Center (DSC)

Empowers the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community through accessibility services. Services include ASL interpretation, peer support, case management, employment services, adaptive equipment programs, youth mentoring programs and summer camps, and early intervention services for ages 0-3 years old with a diagnosis of hearing loss.
dsc.org

Central: 215 North Front Street, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 841-1991 or (614) 515-6065 VP
Northwest: 1002 Garden Lake Parkway, Toledo, Ohio 43614
(419) 720-3935 or (419) 386-2627 VP

Described & Captioned Media Program (DCMP)

Provides services to support the academic achievement of students who are blind, visually impaired, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind. Families and school personnel who have at least one student with a disability can sign up for free membership to access the media center, which has tons of great described and captioned videos with ASL pop-up tools for an accessible media experience. Topics include Deaf life, literature, art classes, science documentaries, and more. Their website also has great educational tools for parents and educators.
(864) 585-1778 or (800) 237-6213
dcmp.org

Discovery Riders

Serves: Individuals with disabilities ages 4 and up. Find specific physical requirements on their website.
Equine therapeutic riding center providing individual riding, summer camp, and life skills group for children with a disability. Horses provide a special format for individuals to connect and socialize with the animal and each other. They also offer riding programs for able-bodied individuals, veterans and soldiers, and senior citizens. Lesson fees are low-cost, and financial assistance may be available.
(937) 935-6545
1797 State Route 47, East Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311
discoveryriders.org

Do It For the Love – Music Wish Grants

Supports music therapy, research, and provides live music experiences. They provide Wish Grants for people with life-threatening illnesses, children with severe challenges, or wounded veterans to experience live concerts for free. Family members, close friends/colleagues, or medical professionals can nominate someone for a Wish Grant. Visit the website to apply for a Wish Grant or contact the organization.
doitforthelove.org

Dreams on Horseback

Center offering equine-therapy and horse-assisted learning experiences to enrich lives. Programs include therapeutic riding for children and adults with special needs, Military Connections for military personnel and veterans, youth social-emotional learning, vocational training for young adults with special needs, and more.
1416 Reynoldsburg-New Albany Road, Blacklick, Ohio 43004
(614) 864-9500
dreamsonhorseback.org

Easterseals Central & Southeast Ohio

Serves: Children and adults with developmental disabilities.
Provides comprehensive health services for children and adults living with disabilities. Services include early childhood education, adult day services, in-home care, referral services, and outpatient therapies. They also offer afterschool programs and summer day camps for children.
3830 Trueman Court, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 228-5523
easterseals.com/centralohio

Experience Columbus – Columbus Accessibility Guide

Provides a list of accessible dining, transportation, activities, hotels and other resources in and around Columbus that have been reviewed by disability inclusion experts. For specific questions about accessibility at a particular location, contact the location (or source of transportation) for the most up-to-date details.
(614) 221-6623
experiencecolumbus.com/accessibility

Fishing Has No Boundaries (FHNB)

Non-profit providing recreational fishing opportunities for all regardless of their age, race, gender, or disability. Their annual fishing event is an opportunity for people with disabilities to connect in community and participate fully in the world of fishing. Events are facilitated by volunteers.
PO Box 1499, Grove City, Ohio 43123
(614) 383-8851
fhnbcentralohio.org

Flying Horse Farms (FHF) Camps for Kids With Serious Illnesses

A medical specialty camp providing transformative experiences for children with serious illnesses and their families, free of charge. Campers range from 7-21 years old and have diagnoses including cancer, heart conditions, rheumatologic diagnoses, blood disorders, lung conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, craniofacial diagnoses, spinal cord diagnoses, and mental health conditions. Campers are given the opportunity to embrace new experiences like exploring the ropes course, archery, and swimming. Professionals can find opportunities to volunteer as camp counselors, kitchen crew, and medical and psychosocial team members. Families must visit the website and apply to attend camp.
5260 State Route 95, Mount Gilead, Ohio 43338
(419) 751-7077
flyinghorsefarms.org

Friendship Circle Columbus

Teen and young-adult volunteers are paired with children with disabilities and their families to participate in one-on-one and group activities. Parents and families get respite as well as the opportunity to socialize with other families. Learn more and sign up on their website.
6220 East Dublin-Granville Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054
(614) 570-4014
friendscolumbus.com

Goodwill Columbus

Goodwill Stores sell thrift clothing, furniture, art, and more to support their job training programs. Services include 1:1 career coaching, job training courses, and job placement. They offer training for basic work readiness, Roads2Work commercial driver training, STNA and medical coding; digital skills technology classes, and CompTIA IT program. They also offer AMP for young adults 18-24 to access additional wraparound services. I/DD services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities include access to Goodwill Columbus Art Studio, work readiness, adult day and residential services, and transportation.
671 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43206
Main Office: (614) 294-5181
Career Coaching: (614) 966-9283
goodwillcolumbus.org

Grove City Buddy Ball

A baseball league providing opportunities for all persons to play baseball, regardless of ability. Players with physical and/or intellectual disabilities are supported by volunteers called Buddies. Leagues are open to players aged 4 and up. The season runs from May through June. Fees are minimal, and financial scholarships are available. Visit the website for contact information.
3400 Ventura Boulevard, Grove City, Ohio 43123
grovecitybuddyball.com/home

Heart of Unlimited Boundaries (HUB)

Provides therapeutic, recreational, and employment programs for children and adults with disabilities or critical illnesses. They are known for their adapted Go-Karting program (therapeutic karting), which enables severely disabled individuals to drive a vehicle on an outdoor course. They also offer 3-D printing classes and an adaptive equipment lab for development of inclusive technology.
414 North Detroit Street, West Liberty, Ohio 43357
(614) 800-3310
unlimitedboundaries.org

iCan Shine

Provides quality learning opportunities in recreational activities for individuals with disabilities ages 3 and up. They collaborate with local non-profits to host iCan Bike, Swim, and Dance camps in the spring and summer. Use the website to contact the organization or to find a program near you.
PO Box 541, Paoli, Pennsylvania 19301
icanshine.org/programs/camp-locations

Integrity Athletics

Athletic recreation center in Central Ohio offering a variety of classes, training opportunities, and competitions for youth (ages preschool and up). Classes include gymnastics, tumbling, martial arts, and HUGS gymnastics for youth with disabilities. They also host a preschool open gym, special events, summer camp, and camps for school closures/holidays. They partner with Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine to provide specialized athletic training.
8185 Business Way, Plain City, Ohio 43064
(614) 733-0818
integritygym.com

Kiwanis Northwest Columbus

Volunteer organization serving kids in Northwest Columbus. They host several youth soccer programs, including Kiwanis Soccer Buddies for children K-6 with disabilities They also volunteer for habitat restoration at Upper Arlington parks, host Aktion Club for adults with disabilities, and award college scholarships to high school students with or without a documented disability. Find program details and contact information online.
northwestkiwanis.com

McLindon Family Foundation (MFF)

Provides free adaptive bikes to children and young adults with conditions like Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Hydrocephalus, Autism, and more. Families may contact the organization directly to start the application process, which includes an application, interview, and letter from the family’s therapist. Wait times vary by state.
8305 Tom Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70815
(225) 456-3505
mclindonfamilyfoundation.org

Miracle League of Central Ohio

A fully accessible field for athletes with disabilities. The custom-designed venue eliminates barriers for children who are visually impaired, wheelchair- or walker-restricted, or who use any type of mobile device. The Saturday League allows children with disabilities ages 3-18 to play baseball alongside a volunteer Buddy. Night League is for teenagers and young adults over the age of 16 to play adaptive baseball without a Buddy. Find directions and registration details online.
Miracle League Field at Darree Fields Park: 6259 Cosgray Road, Dublin, Ohio 43016
(614) 526-6500
miracleleaguecentraloh.org

National Center on Health Physical Activity & Disability (NCHPAD)

A resource for information on physical activity, health promotion, and disability; serving persons with physical, sensory and cognitive disability across the lifespan. Their website has helpful information on disability and aging, adaptive physical activity, and inclusive guidance for community health organizations. They also have a state-by-state directory of accessible parks, adaptive equipment suppliers, and physical activity programs for people with disabilities. The NCHPAD Connect program offers free, virtual wellness programs for individuals with mobility limitations. Programs include coffee club community group, exercise and mindfulness classes, and online wellness resources.
3810 Ridgeway Drive, Birmingham, Alabama 35209
(866) 866-8896
nchpad.org

National Park Service America the Beautiful Interagency Passes

Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. Passes cover entrance fees at lands managed by the National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. They are also used for day use fees at lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Free Interagency Passes are available for 4th graders, senior citizens, U.S. military families, and individuals with permanent disabilities. Find program details and park locations online.
nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm

Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) Adaptive Sports Medicine Program

Provides individualized treatment for children, adolescents, and young adults with physical disabilities. Services include injury evaluation, rehabilitation, and adaptive athletic training.
Livingston Orthopedic & Surgery Center: 405 Butterfly Gardens Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43215
(614) 355-6000
nationwidechildrens.org/adaptive-sports-medicine-program

Next Chapter Book Club (NCBC)

Community-based book club program for adolescents and adults with Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy and other intellectual and developmental disabilities. A small group meets with trained facilitators at bookstores, cafés, and public libraries throughout Franklin County. Anyone can participate, whatever their reading or ability level. Members experience an inclusive community focused on reading to learn together and build friendships, rather than learning to read.
1581 Dodd Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 685-6718
Franklin County: nisonger.osu.edu/adolescent/adolescent-clinics-services/next-chapter-book-club-2
National Website: nextchapterbookclub.org

Ohio Sled Hockey

Program for youth and adults who have a physical disability limiting their ability to play ice hockey in a standing position. Players can propel themselves on the sled like a manual wheelchair or are assigned an experienced “pusher” to help them navigate on the ice. They have teams in Columbus and Bowling Green Ohio. Contact the organization through their website for details.
(740) 587-3659
ohiosledhockey.org

PALS Chrysalis Health

Serves: Children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities
Serves individuals with developmental disabilities by building on the foundation of physical activity and life skills (PALS). They offer adult day services, residential services, educational and vocational services, and psychiatry and mental health services. Art Outside the Lines Age offers a welcome, professional art studio for adults with disabilities in Franklin County. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the service and location. Call for details.
palschrysalishealth.com

Belmont County: 428 Thirty-fourth Street, Bellaire, Ohio 43906
(740) 449-3685
Franklin County: 5250 Strawberry Farms Boulevard, Columbus, Ohio 43230
(614) 454-3726
Gallia County: 614 Silver Bridge Plaza, Gallipolis, Ohio 45631
(740) 446-3775
Guernsey County: 60772 Southgate Road, Byesville, Ohio 43723
(740) 439-5017
Harrison County: 82460 Cadiz-Jewett Road, Cadiz, Ohio 43907
(740) 942-2150
Jefferson County: 220 East Murdock Avenue, Mingo Junction, Ohio 43938
(740) 266-6167
Lawrence County: 413 Solida Road, South Point, Ohio 45680
(740) 442-7077
Licking County: 585 Industrial Parkway, Heath, Ohio 43056
(740) 249-1686

RallyCap Sports

A club providing recreational sports specifically designed for children and young adults with special needs. RallyPlayers register for a 4-8 week season focused on one sport. RallyPlayers are matched with a RallyPal, and they participate in practices and scrimmages together. Programs are based at several Ohio colleges and universities. Find program details and register online.
(732) 391-2282
rallycapsports.org/osu

Recreation Unlimited Camp

Serves: Children, Teens, Adults, and Families with developmental disabilities and health concerns, Ages 5-23 depending on the program.
Provides a camping experience for individuals with developmental disabilities and health concerns. They offer year-round weekend respite camps, summer and winter residential camps, and summer day camps for children and adults. They also offer specialized camps for individuals with autism, Prader-Willi syndrome, military families and more. Fees may be covered by Board of Developmental Disabilities Waivers, and scholarships are available. Contact the organization directly for detailed pricing information.
7700 Piper Road, Ashley, Ohio 43003
(740) 548-7006
recreationunlimited.org
2025 Camp Dates: recreationunlimited.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2025-Dates-Confirmed-NEW-112524.pdf

Shane Center for Therapeutic Horsemanship

Serves individuals ages 5+ with cognitive and physical disabilities such as autism, PTSD, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, and others, through therapeutic horse riding. Programs include adaptive/therapeutic riding, independent riding, and Shane’s Calvary for veterans and their families.
7908 Myers Road, Centerburg, Ohio 43011
(740) 625-9324
shanecenter.org

Special Olympics Ohio

Advances inclusion for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sports, health education, and leadership programs throughout Ohio. They have a Young Athletes program for children 2-7 years old, year-round sports for children and adults with disabilities, free health screenings, and leadership training courses in addition to their Olympic-style sporting events. Contact the organization for program details and locations.
921 Eastwind Drive, Westerville, Ohio 43081
(614) 239-7050
sooh.org

Special Skills Sports Camps

Free sports fantasy camps designed and adapted for special needs kids ages 8 and up. Camps take place at collegiate or professional athletic training facilities and are taught by collegiate athletes, along with current and former professional athletes. Camps include soccer, football, golf, baseball/softball, tennis, and basketball.
(614) 432-6627
specialskillssports.com

Superspecs – Free Sports Goggles

Provides no-cost eye safety wear to protect kids’ eyes during sports and other recreational activities. Sports leagues, schools, 4-H groups, and Girl Scouts troops may apply for baseball and softball helmets, sports goggles, and safety goggles for career-technical activities. Families who meet income guidelines or have a foster child may apply to receive free prescription sports goggles. Find eligibility details and apply online.
Ohio Ophthalmological Society: 4400 North High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43214
(614) 527-6799
superspecs.org

Team IMPACT

A free program for children with serious medical conditions and disabilities ages 5-16. Children are paired with sports teams at colleges and universities across the state of Ohio with the goal of creating meaningful, long-lasting relationships with student athletes. Kids experience positive social-emotional development and a sense of belonging through inclusion, support and team engagement. Go online to find a participating team near you and apply.
National Office: 500 Victory Road, Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
(317) 709-7658
teamimpact.org

The Art of Music LLC

Uses movement, music, and art to bring kids together and provide an enriching experience. They offer year-round 6-week sessions, small groups, and summer camp for ages 1-21 for a fee. Each session is a blend of music and visual art experiences that actively involve children of all abilities. They also offer sessions for adults. Register online.
129 Orangewick Drive North, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035
(937) 645-7641
theartofmusicllc.com

The Butterfly Pig

Offers research-backed, inclusive medical toys for purchase to empower kids through play. The toys can help reduce medical fear and boost self-esteem for kids with a variety of medical conditions. Products include miniature replicas of medical devices like hearing aids or insulin pumps that kids can use with their favorite dolls or stuffed animals. Families may be able to get reimbursement or coverage through FSA/HSA funds.
thebutterflypig.com

TOPSoccer (The Outreach Program for Soccer)

An adaptive soccer program for athletes with disabilities, through the Ohio Soccer Association. Children ages 4-19 play soccer in a safe, fun environment focused on development, training, and meaningful participation rather than on competition. Registration for the Fall season is in July, while the Spring season registration is in February, and there is a registration fee.
1929 Ohio Drive, Grove City, Ohio 432123
(614) 591-3181
ohio-soccer.org/parents/topsoccer

Valemee – Inclusive Gym & Fitness Training Center

Adaptive fitness program for people with physical, neurological, and developmental challenges, and their caregivers, to achieve optimal health and fitness. Athletic trainers, gyms, and recreation centers can become certified in the program. They provide personal training and group fitness classes at their partner gyms in Central Ohio. Individuals can call or go online for an intake meeting where Valemee will get to know you and your goals, perform an assessment, and find a gym near you.
(567) 203-8423
valemee.com

YMCA of Central Ohio

Hosts programs for all ages, including health and fitness, swimming, childcare, summer camps, juvenile justice, and housing services. Programs include:

Healthy Living Programs: Y Members can access swim lessons, group fitness classes, personal training, lifeguard & CPR training, and more. Programs for youth include School Days Off programs, summer camps, leadership, teen programs, and more. Financial assistance is available for membership fees.
CareSource YMCA Membership Benefit: Children or adults with a diagnosis of diabetes, obesity, or hypertension with CareSource can receive free YMCA membership as part of their insurance benefit. The benefit must be renewed every 6 months.
Child Care Centers: Offers full-day childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old at YMCA Early Learning Centers.
- YMCA Early Learning Center: 2879 Johnstown Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
  (614) 342-5836
- YMCA Early Learning Center West: 1952 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
  (614) 752-8877
Early Childhood Programs: Offers Head Start Programs, Preschool, and Kindergarten Jump Start Summer Program at various YMCA locations. Free or low-cost Preschool may be available for qualifying families through the ECE Grant Program. Families can also access free childcare while adults use the Y facilities.
Head Start: (614) 389-3880
Preschool & Kindergarten Jump Start: (614) 288-8084
Early Childhood Resource Network Plus (ECRN+): Programs for children with special healthcare needs, developmental disabilities, and delays. Services include early intervention for ages 0-3, developmental screenings for ages 3-5, speech therapy, and SPARK school readiness. Families can apply online for an adaptive equipment loan.
Housing: Provides supportive housing and wraparound case management services for adults facing homelessness in Columbus, Ohio. This program is referral only. Call the Franklin County Homeless Hotline at (614) 274-7000 for immediate assistance.
PALS Juvenile Justice: Provides a structured and supervised environment for 6-12th grade students as an alternative to being suspended from school. Students must be referred by their school district.
(614) 578-7568
Y Cares: Supports families who are pregnant or have infants under the age of 1. Includes free pregnancy tests, emergency diapers, formula and baby supplies, counseling, and more.
(614) 689-2080
YMCA Stable Families: Families with children (from Pre-K to 12th grade) who live in Franklin County can access a service coordinator who can help with household income, maintaining safe and stable housing, and academic achievement of school-aged children.
(614) 813-1226

Columbus Locations:

Delaware: 1121 South Houk Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015
(614) 389-4648
Eldon & Elsie Ward: 130 Woodland Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43203
(614) 389-4643
Gahanna/John E. Bickley: 555 YMCA Place, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
(614) 389-4529
Grove City: 3600 Discover Drive, Grove City Ohio 43123
(614) 389-4567
Hilliard/Ray Patch Family: 4515 Cosgray Road, Hilliard, Ohio 43026
(614) 389-4557
Hilltop: 2879 Valleyview Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43204
(614) 389-4565
Jerry L. Garver: 6767 Refugee Road, Canal Winchester, Ohio 43110
(614) 389-4556
Liberty Township/Powell: 7798 Liberty Road North, Powell, Ohio 43065
(614) 389-4566
North: 1640 Sandalwood Place, Columbus, Ohio 43229
(614) 389-4707
Pickaway County: 440 Nicholas Drive, Circleville, Ohio 43113
(614) 389-4650
Reynoldsburg: 1470 Davidson Drive, Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43068
(614) 689-2040
Whitehall: 402 North Hamilton Road, Whitehall, Ohio 43213
(614) 689-2050
Early Learning Center: 2879 Johnstown Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219
(614) 342-5836
Early Learning Center West: 1952 West Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio 43223
(614) 752-8877

Website: ymcacolumbus.org

Younglife – Faith-Based Mentoring Programs

Faith-based mentoring for youth ages 14-21 at various middle schools, high schools, and colleges in Central Ohio. Groups for youth with disabilities are available. The YoungLives program serves teen moms who are pregnant or parenting through mentorship, community, and a life with Christ. Go online to register for a program near you.
1200 Chambers Road, Columbus, Ohio 43212
(614) 547-3167
greatercolumbusoh.younglife.org

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