Adapting Sport and Physical Activity for Individuals with IDD: Highlighting a Decade of Inclusion and Outcomes

The Adapted Physical Exercise (APEX) Research Group at the University of Windsor leverages the transformative power of sport and physical activity through inclusive, barrier-free programming for adults with intellectual and developmental disability (IDD). In collaboration with Community Living Essex County, APEX delivers volunteer-led, one-on-one fitness training at the University of Windsor’s fitness facility. The purpose of this article is to summarize our key findings and recommendations from…

Program Promotion

Do your promotional strategies include the necessary information for athletes experiencing disability to feel safe, welcomed and confident in their participation? Don’t forget accessibility information, local transportation options, specialized equipment available, level of challenge, and coach certification.

Becoming Para Ready

In 2017, 6.2 million Canadians reported having a disability and it was estimated that only 3% of those individuals engaged in regular organized physical activity (Statistics Canada, 2017; Government of Canada, 2012). Of the often-limited opportunities available, individuals experiencing disability may choose to participate through either segregated or integrated programs. Segregated sport programs are typically…

Accessibility During COVID-19

Accessing healthcare and other services (including sport, recreation, and social activities) during the pandemic may be particularly challenging for people with disabilities. Sport organizations can help to mitigate these challenges by planning virtual events (e.g., guest speakers, trivia), promoting a healthy lifestyle (e.g., video tutorials on adapted physical activity), and sharing information from public health…

Inclusion Must Be Intentional

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, “inclusion” is the action or state of including or of being included within a group or structure. True inclusion involves authentic and empowered participation and a true sense of belonging for all participants. However, if we want to be successful with inclusion, we must intentionally plan for it –…

Inclusive Return to Play

With return to play top of mind for many sport organizations, it’s important to remember that no one should be left out. Developing an inclusive return to play plan (that, for example, considers the needs of persons with disabilities) is crucial for ensuring that all Canadians have safe and equitable access to sport and recreation…

A framework for creating a campus culture of compassion: A participatory action research approach to equality

Project Summary This dissertation united key stakeholders from the University of Guelph community in order to examine issues around accessibility and inclusion of students with disabilities in campus recreation and sport opportunities. The research team included representatives from the University of Guelph’s Centre for Students with Disabilities and the Department of Athletics, an undergraduate student…

Creating Inclusive Workplaces in Sport and Physical Activity

According to the 2017 Canadian Survey on Disability, one in five Canadians (6.2 million) aged 15 years and older experience one or more disabilities that limited them in their daily activities. The Survey also reported that while 59% of working age adults with disabilities are employed, there are significant differences amongst those with mild disabilities…

Para Sport Jumpstart Fund

The Para Sport Jumpstart Fund is designed to support introductory and early competition Para Sport experiences for children and youth with disabilities. Through this partnership between the Canadian Paralympic Committee and Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, organizations can access funding for registration, transportation and equipment costs. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2020.

Special Olympics Healthy Athletes Program

The 2020 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games start today in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The international Healthy Athletes program includes a range of screenings that support a holistic approach to health, reducing the risk of preventable secondary health condition such as obesity, nutritional deficit, untreated or poorly treated vision, dental, hearing and podiatric problems. Learn more…