Inclusion Programs

https://www.chicorec.gov/inclusion

The goal of CARD's Inclusion Program is to provide access to our programs for members of the community with varying needs and abilities. CARD offers the opportunity for participants to request reasonable accommodations in order to participate in our programs. It is the responsibility of CARD to facilitate opportunities for program participants with disabilities to engage in recreational pursuits in the most inclusive settings possible.

Reasonable accommodations you may see in your programs:

• Inclusion staff with additional training.

• 1-to-1 aides with participants.

• Auxiliary aids or services (ex. interpreters, assistive listening services, etc).

• Adaptive equipment.

• Other effective modifications as needed.

In the event that CARD will be providing reasonable accommodations within your program, you will be notified as soon as possible. In many instances, an Inclusion Aide will be provided by CARD to meet this request.

What is an Inclusion Aide?

Inclusion aides are CARD staff hired to work as one on one support with individuals with disabilities. Inclusion Aides help to assist the District in providing community access to programs and services through reasonable accommodations. By providing additional support in recreation programming, we are helping meet the social and leisure needs of individuals with disabilities.

Our inclusion Aides work in a variety of CARD programs serving as additional support to our participants with disabilities. Inclusion Aides receive additional training in inclusive practices, behavior management, and individualized support; in addition, Aides receive ongoing training throughout their tenure with CARD.

If a participant in your program is approved for 1:1 support, you will be notified about the placement and receive pertinent information such as:

• Participant name and contact information

• Program and start date

• Pertinent intake information

• Inclusion Aide name and contact information

• CARD point of contact

What is your role as a Contract Instructor?

• Be welcoming to all participants in your programs, regardless of ability level

• Be aware of potential site visits for individuals with disabilities to better prepare everyone for programs

• Be knowledgeable of ways to communicate questions, concerns, and support needs with the Inclusion Team