Adaptive programming and inclusion services
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Want an ARLE participant profile? Click here to download the form.
Bloomington Parks and Recreation believes:
- Every Parks and Recreation youth program is open to inclusion. No exceptions!
- Anyone with a disability may choose to participate in any program.
- Every registrant is entitled to an assessment to determine the best inclusion supports.
- The family of the participant is the most valuable resource in planning.
- Talking with teachers, therapists and friends is critical for assessment and planning.
- Every disability can be accommodated with good training, observations and supports.
- The benefits to inclusion are endless!
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Join us for an opportunity to learn a new skill! Participants will learn the basics of archery safety, equipment, and shooting form from certified instructors. All equipment included.
- Who: Ages 18+
- When: Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
- Where: Marsh Lake Archery Range, 9401 France Ave. S.
- Cost: $15
Registration
- Deadline: May 31, 2025 or until full
- Online: Webtrac
- Phone: 952-563-8877, MN Relay 711
Weather/Cancellations
If there is bad weather, we will follow this procedure:
- The program coordinator will decide if the program will be canceled.
- By 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line at 952-563-8878, option 5.
- If there is bad weather after 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line and participants as soon as possible.
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Come fishing in Bloomington at Bush Lake Beach!
Experienced instructors from Fishing for All LLC will provide all the equipment needed. Fishing License waivers are provided to participants. All fish are catch and release but you can keep the pictures and memories forever!
- Who: Ages 18+
- When:
- Wednesday, June 25, 2025, 6 - 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, July 23, 2025, 6 - 8 p.m.
- Saturday, August 23, 2025, 1 - 3 p.m.
- Where: East Bush Lake Park (Bush Lake Beach), 9140 E. Bush Lake Rd.
- Cost: $12.50
Registration
- Online: Webtrac
- Phone: 952-563-8877, MN Relay 711
Weather/Cancellations
If there is bad weather, we will follow this procedure:
- The program coordinator will decide if the program will be canceled.
- By 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line at 952-563-8878, option 5.
- If there is bad weather after 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line and participants as soon as possible.
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Get out on the water this summer!
Participants will learn the basics of paddleboarding, including paddle strokes and balance positions. This program offers a way to try a new water sport. Sessions include an introductory lesson followed by activities and self-paced paddling on the water.
- Who: Ages 18+
- When:
- Monday, July 7, 2025, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
- Monday, August 11, 2025, 6 - 7:30 p.m.
- Where: East Bush Lake Park (Bush Lake Beach), 9140 E. Bush Lake Rd.
- Cost: $15
Registration
- Online: Webtrac
- Phone: 952-563-8877, MN Relay 711
Weather/Cancellations
If there is bad weather, we will follow this procedure:
- The program coordinator will decide if the program will be canceled.
- By 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line at 952-563-8878, option 5.
- If there is bad weather after 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line and participants as soon as possible.
Discover the game of pickleball! Learn basic skills, make new friends and enjoy friendly games in an inclusive and encouraging setting.
- Who: Ages 18+
- When: Thursdays, June 19 - July 17, 2025, 6:30 - 8 p.m.
- (no play July 3)
- Where: Dred Scott Park, 10820 Bloomington Ferry Road
- Cost: $40
Registration
- Deadline: May 31, 2025 or until full
- Online: Webtrac
- Phone: 952-563-8877, MN Relay 711
Weather/Cancellations
If there is bad weather, we will follow this procedure:
- The program coordinator will decide if the program will be canceled.
- By 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line at 952-563-8878, option 5.
- If there is bad weather after 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line and participants as soon as possible.
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Join Bloomington Parks and Recreation for an exciting summer of adaptive softball. Adaptive softball is open to adults ages 18+ with disabilities who want to play for fun.
No experience is necessary. Play, learn, improve your skills, meet new friends, and most importantly, have fun all summer long!
Siblings and parents are invited to volunteer.
- Who: Ages 18+
- When: Tuesdays, June 10 - July 29, 2025, 6:30 - 8:15 p.m.
- (no games July 1)
- Where: Tarnhill Park, 9650 Little Road, Bloomington
- Cost: $70 (includes team shirt and photo)
Under the Lights Game
Celebrate the end of the season with a special “Under the Lights Game” at Red Haddox Field at Valley View Playfield. Spectators will view the game from the grandstand as the game is announced. The night will end with a dance party on the field!
- When: Tuesday, July 29, 7:30 - 9 p.m.
- Where: Red Haddox Field, 360 East 90th Street, Bloomington
Registration
- Deadline: May 31, 2025 or until full
- Online: Webtrac
- Phone: 952-563-8877, MN Relay 711
Weather/Cancellations
If there is bad weather, we will follow this procedure:
- The program coordinator will decide if the program will be canceled.
- By 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line at 952-563-8878, option 5.
- If there is bad weather after 4 p.m., we'll update the weather line and participants as soon as possible.
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Adult Adaptive Crafts
Each month we will feature a unique craft, delivered to participants with step-by-step instructions.
We provide all supplies.
- Every third Wednesday
- 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
- Creekside Community Center, 9801 Penn Avenue South
Download, print and share the Adult Adaptive Crafts flyer.
Questions? Contact Creekside at 952-563-4944, MN Relay 711, creekside@bloomingtonmn.gov
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Adult Adaptive Board Games
Join friends, new and old, for games, friendly competition, and fun!
We will provide a variety of games each week, selected based on the interest of participants.
- When: First Wednesday of each month
- Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
- Where: Creekside Community Center, 9801 Penn Avenue South
Download, print and share the Adult Adaptive Board Game flyer.
Questions? Contact Creekside at 952-563-4944, MN Relay 711, creekside@bloomingtonmn.gov
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Come join your friends or meet new people at "Dance Your Socks Off." These dances are for adults ages 18 and above with disabilities. You don't need to register. Just download and complete a Participant Profile or fill one out at the dances. If you prefer to register online, go to blm.mn/webtrac. Don't miss out on the fun!
- Dances take place 7 - 9 p.m. at Creekside Community Center, 9801 Penn Avenue South.
- Entry fee is $6 and includes a free beverage ticket.
EVENT SCHEDULE
Halloween Dance - Friday, October 25, 2024
Get details on the Halloween Dance event page.
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Tropical Beach Party - Friday, November 22, 2024
Get details on the Tropical Beach Party event page.
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Flannel Ball - Friday, December 13, 2024
Get details on the Flannel Ball event page.
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Winter Dance - Friday, January 24, 2025
Get details on the Winter Dance event page.
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Valentine's Dance - Friday, February 14, 2025
Get details on the Valentine's Dance event page.
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St. Patrick's Dance - Friday, March 28, 2025
Get details on the St. Patrick's Dance event page.
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Spring Fling - Friday, April 25, 2025
Get details on the Spring Fling event page.
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TRAIL Rides
- To request a ride to the dance with TRAIL, contact Matt at 952-563-4872 or mdcolwell@bloomingtonmn.gov.
Other Important Information
- Doors open at 6:50 p.m. You aren't allowed to enter early.
- Dances end at 9:00 p.m. We aren't responsible for people waiting for transportation.
- You must arrange your own transportation.
- You must bring your own support person if needed. You don't pay admission for a support person.
- We'll serve drinks during the dance. We're not responsible for diet restrictions or food allergies. You must bring a support person if you need help monitoring or consuming refreshments.
- You must stay in the designated area for the activity.
- You can't smoke anywhere on the property during the dance.
- We don't recommend consuming alcohol before the dance. We won't allow or serve alcohol.
- You can dress up to go with the dance theme. We may ask you to leave if your outfit is offensive or questionable.
- We give out door prizes at the end of the dance. You MUST be present to win! No exceptions.
Bloomington Parks and Recreation provides Inclusion Services to program participants with disabilities. These services are available by request. We will provide support to help you fully participate in our programs.
- When you register, check the box that says you need support to participate.
- We will contact you with more information.
- We will continue to adapt our services as we get to know you.
You may need to complete medical forms before you register your child for programs.
- Asthma Form
- Diabetes Form
- Medications Form
- Severe Allergy Non-Food Form
- Food Allergy Dietary Restrictions Form
- Seizure Action Plan
- Sunscreen Form
You must submit forms if:
- Your child may need medication during the program (including overnight at Camp Kota). Examples: inhaler, medication, insulin, antibiotics, EpiPen®
- Your child has a severe allergy (not including seasonal allergies). Examples: nut allergies, latex allergies
- Your child has asthma.
- Your child has diabetes.
You can submit forms completed for the current school year in place of the medical forms above.
You must have a doctor's signature for any prescription medication. This rule applies if your child will take any prescription medication during the program (including inhalers). You will need a doctor's signature on the Medications Form before your child can participate in the program.
- Look through the current programs offered by Bloomington Parks and Recreation.
- Pick out some programs that look fun and developmentally appropriate.
- Contact the staff below to set up a meeting for personal recommendations.
- Youth Inclusion Services: Arron Willis, 952-563-8891, AWillis@BloomingtonMN.gov
- Adult Adaptive Programs: Matt Colwell, 952-563-4872, MDColwell@BloomingtonMN.gov
- Tell us about your goals for programs. (Examples: fun, socializing, fitness, etc.)
- Get program details. (Examples: location, activities, staffing, etc.)
- Decide which programs meet your goals.
- Tell us about your support needs.
Suggestion: Prepare a personal description before we meet. Share your strengths, interests, support needs, medical concerns, and other important information. Make a list with names and contact information of people who know your child well (teachers, case managers, therapists, etc.) Keep copies of this information to help register again in the future. - Tell us your questions and concerns about receiving support during the program.
- Register for the program. Check the box that says you may need support.
- We'll develop an inclusion plan that meets your needs and sets you up for success!
About AR&LE
AR&LE stands for Adaptive Recreation & Learning Exchange. The cities of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, and Richfield offer adaptive recreation options designed for people with disabilities. Adaptive recreation staff collaborate with the Learning Exchange and the Community Education Adults with Disabilities programs provided through the school districts.
AR&LE Participant Profile
Please complete the participant profile in the link below. This form helps us meet your support needs and create a successful environment. The more information you share, the better we can support you.
Please return the form to:
City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation
Attn: AR&LE
1800 West Old Shakopee Road
Bloomington, MN 55431-3027