Specialized Programs & Inclusion


SPIRIT Wake Forest

"SPIRIT Wake Forest" is our way of identifying the initiatives, activities and events offered by Specialized Programs & Inclusion. It stands for Specialized Programs and Inclusion Resources for Individuals Throughout Wake Forest. 

Our staff has a wide variety of experience working with people of all physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities.

We offer fun, adaptive and inclusive recreation opportunities in our community including adaptive sports, social and fitness programs, and after school activities - with more on the way. 

Current Spirit Programs 

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Inclusion Services 

The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation, & Cultural Resources Department is committed to an inclusive approach to recreation and encourages individuals with and without disabilities to participate together.

In order for individuals with special needs to participate as fully as possible, reasonable modifications will be provided in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you or a family member requires a reasonable modification to participate in a program, contact Olivia Atkinson at 919-435-9559.

What is a Reasonable Modification? 

Reasonable modifications are additional supports and resources used to help aid a person with a disability to participate in any program. These resources may include, but are not limited to, auxiliary aids or services, adaptive equipment, or additional support staff. The ADA does not require the Town of Wake Forest to take any action that would fundamentally alter the nature of its programs or services, compromise the safety of participants, or impose an undue financial or administrative burden.

Meet the SPIRIT Team! 

Olivia AtkinsonOlivia Atkinson is the Specialized Programs and Inclusion Specialist for Wake Forest PRCR.

Olivia graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a degree in Recreation Therapy in 2016. Prior to joining the Town of Wake Forest, Olivia worked with the City of Raleigh for 6.5 years as the Recreation Programs and Inclusion Coordinator. She has created innovative inclusive processes, programs, and trainings. She is passionate about making recreation a place for everyone and equipping staff to serve all individuals.

When she's not at work, you can find Olivia enjoying time outside with her family, cooking, doing wedding hair and makeup, or being actively involved in her church.

Adison EvansAdison Evans is the PT Specialized Programs and Inclusion Coordinator for Wake Forest PRCR.

She is a recent graduate of Western Carolina University and a newly Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist! Adison has several years of experience working with individuals with disabilities, through day programs, One on One care and at a Therapeutic horse-riding center.

A little about herself is that she is a dog mom to a Labradoodle named Murphy, they spend a lot of time together outside. When she is not outside, you can find her in the kitchen cooking her favorite recipes and baking cookies from scratch. Adison is excited to join the team here and get to work in this awesome community!

Inclusive PlaygroundInclusive Playground coming soon to Holding Park

Construction began in June 2023 on the Holding Park Inclusive Playground, 133 W. Owen Ave.

Weather permitting, the installation of the new playground is expected to be completed by December 2023. Upon completion, the new playground will feature:

  • Fully ramped playground structures that offer ease of access for people of all mobility ranges.

  • Multiple sensory experiences, including tactile, visual, auditory, spatial & vestibular – these items include play panels, rockers, swings, spinners, slides, and balance challenges.

  • Seating and shade for parent relaxation.

  • Play Ensemble Outdoor musical equipment.

  • MOVMNT – accessible interactive game piece.

  • Serenity Spot - fort-like environment with a variety of activities that can be calming and allow the expression of stimming behaviors.

  • Brava Universal Swing – a unique way to experience swinging and rocking movements.

  • Volito Swing – disc seat that allows the whole group to swing together.

  • AirVenture Glider – a stand up swing that thrills all ages.

  • Inclusive Orbit Spinner – a multi-user, zero entry merry-go round.

 Learn More


Talk With Me Tuesdays

Attention disability advocates! "Talk With Me Tuesdays" is your chance to be heard! Share with Specialized Programs & Inclusion Specialist Olivia Atkinson your ideas about community needs, programming opportunities, and disability networking. It's also an opportunity if you simply need someone to talk to about being a care provider or advocate for the disability community.

Join Olivia for a one-on-one opportunity to discuss all things disability and inclusion, or anything that will make the Town of Wake Forest a better place for individuals of all abilities.

Register Here

 

Specialized Programs & Inclusion
Recreation Specialist - Specialized Programs
919-435-9559