The Northwest Special Recreation Association (NWSRA) was formed in 1973 to provide recreation services to individuals with disabilities. The association is comprised of 17 member park districts located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago.

NWSRA offers a variety of recreation programs throughout the year including bowling, swimming lessons, crafts, cooking, team sports, piano lessons, Special Olympics training, horseback riding, social clubs, and summer day camps. During holidays and between program sessions, NWSRA provides numerous special events to sporting events, museums, concerts, dances, and park district facilities.

Thirty-nine full time staff support the year-round activities of NWSRA. The professional recreation staff hold degrees in Therapeutic Recreation or related fields and certification with state and/or national professional organizations. The staff are certified in First Aid, CPR, Lifeguarding and Water Safety Instruction.

Each session, NWSRA employs 80-90 part-time staff. Volunteers from local high schools, colleges, service groups, scouting programs and churches also assist in our efforts to provide a close staff-to-participant ratio. Click here for information about employment and internship opportunities. Click here for information about volunteer opportunities. You may also call the NWSRA office at 847-392-2848.

NWSRA is governed by a Board of Trustees comprised of one representative from each of the member districts. The Board of Trustees represents the member districts in their commitment to ensure community access and full participation for individuals within their community experiencing a disabling condition.