Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)

Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)

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Enriching the lives of people with disabilities through meaningful recreation experiences.

NISRA provides year round recreation activities for people with disabilities. Since 1976, children and adults of all ability levels have enjoyed socializing, building skills and having fun in hundreds of weekly programs, special events, camps and trips each year. NISRA serves residents with disabilities in 13 communities in northern Illinois, thanks to the partnership of the member districts. Barr

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 06/05/2026

Today’s the day! The NISRA Foundation Spring Shootout is here, and we couldn’t be more grateful for the incredible sponsors, golfers, volunteers, and supporters who make this event possible.

Your generosity makes creating meaningful recreation opportunities, unforgettable experiences, and lasting connections for individuals with disabilities throughout our communities POSSIBLE!

As golfers hit the fairways today, we want to send a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our sponsors for helping make this event a success. Your commitment to the NISRA Foundation is truly a hole-in-one!

Birdie Sponsor: Idealease

Par Sponsors: Audi Financial Services, ExcalTech, Lamp Incorporated

Tee Box Sponsors: Advia Credit Union, American Ad Bag, Wauconda Park District

Corporate Sponsors: BCU, Hammortree Financial Services, Kingston Lanes Bowling and Sports Lounge, Melissa Cooney, and Northwestern Medicine

Lunch Sponsor: Northwestern Medicine Huntley Health & Fitness Center

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 06/03/2026

Over the past few weeks, we’ve had the privilege of celebrating an incredible career and honoring an extraordinary leader as Executive Director Jim Wiseman begins his well-earned retirement.

Celebrations included Representative Suzanne Ness presenting Jim with a retirement resolution recognizing his 18 years of leadership at NISRA, to his final Board of Directors meeting, a heartfelt retirement celebration surrounded by community members, donors, staff, board members, and volunteers, and finally a sweet donut send-off filled with well wishes from participants and their loved ones. Each moment reflected the tremendous impact Jim has made on our organization and community.

For 42 years, Jim dedicated his career to the field of therapeutic recreation, including 18 years leading NISRA with vision, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to inclusion.

Jim, thank you for your leadership, your advocacy, and your steadfast dedication to making recreation accessible for all.

Please join us in congratulating Jim on an amazing career and wishing him all the best in retirement! 💜

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 05/27/2026

Waiting for summer programs to begin? So are we!

This is the perfect time to get creative and start working on artwork for the upcoming NISRA Art Exhibit at McHenry County College’s Epping Gallery!

We’re inviting participants to paint, draw, sketch, design, or create original pieces to be featured in this special community exhibit this August. Whether you love bold colors, detailed drawings, abstract art, or trying something totally new, let's see your creativity shine!

Start creating now and submit your artwork to the NISRA office by Monday, July 13!

Questions? Reach out to MacKenzie Dombrowski, Manager of Cultural Arts at [email protected] today.

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 05/26/2026

Creativity was flowing at our Bubbles and Brushes Adult Social Club! 🎨🍹

Participants enjoyed a relaxing evening filled with colorful canvases, tasty mocktails, laughter, and great company.

NISRA's Adult Social Clubs like these are great for everyone! Whether you are a first-time painter or experienced artists, all participants have the chance to express themselves, make new friends, and create their own masterpiece.

This social club was a perfect blend of art, fun, and social connection!

05/25/2026

In observance of Memorial Day, the NISRA office will be closed.

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

Wishing everyone a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend. 🇺🇸

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 05/21/2026

NISRA participants served up smiles one slice at a time this spring season! 🍕

Our Out and About group had a great evening at Georgio's Chicago Pizzeria & Pub creating their own delicious pizzas and enjoying time together with friends.

Nothing brings people together quite like pizza, laughter, and a business that supports our mission!

💜

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 05/20/2026

The NISRA Knights Track & Field athletes gave it their all on April 25–26, bringing home an incredible 23 medals during Special Olympics Spring Games:
🥇 10 Gold
🥈 10 Silver
🥉 3 Bronze

We’re so proud of the determination, teamwork, and heart shown by all 14 athletes throughout the competition. Congratulations, NISRA Knights!

Next stop: Summer Games at ISU, June 12–14. Let’s keep the momentum going! 💜

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 05/19/2026

It's the last week you can register for the NISRA Foundation Annual Spring Shootout ⛳️

More than just a day on the course, this event brings our community together in support of meaningful programs and unforgettable experiences.

Give the gift of fun while having fun with us on Friday, June 5 at the Randall Oaks Golf Club in West Dundee.

Registration is now open so gather your friends, family, and colleagues to be part of something special!

Register your foursome at https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E352447&id=35 today!

Photos from Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA)'s post 05/15/2026

Life is berry sweet when we picnic together!

Our Adult Social Club had a berry fun time enjoying tasty treats, refreshing drinks, games, laughs, and sweet friendships at our Berry Sweet Picnic!

The evening was jam-packed with smiles, good weather, and even better vibes! 💜

05/13/2026

Ready to pedal into something new?

Registration for the summer season closes tomorrow!

Check out Spin Jam...the perfect way to jam with your fam!

Don’t miss this fun, family-style fitness experience packed with music, movement, and motivation.

This “Party on Wheels” class is designed to energize participants while building confidence, endurance, and wellness in an encouraging environment.

Thursdays | July 9–30
6:45–7:30 pm
Woodstock | Ages 16+

Register now before spots close at NISRA.org today!

Questions? Call our office at (815) 459-0737 and we'd be happy to help!

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Location

Telephone

Address


285 Memorial Drive
Crystal Lake, IL
60014

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm