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.
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 919-556-7093.
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.
Inclusive 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 September 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.
PRCR Department to host online meeting about Holding Park Inclusive Playground September 26
The Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department will share updates on the Holding Park Inclusive Playground and offer area residents the opportunity to ask questions about the facility during special “Talk With Me Tuesday” online meetings Tuesday, Sept. 26, at noon and 6 p.m.
Hosted by PRCR Director Ruben Wall, Specialized Programs & Inclusion Specialist Olivia Atkinson, and Parks & Recreation Maintenance Manager Randy Hoyle, the online sessions will include a construction update and an overview of the facility layout and fencing.
“We recognize that our community is excited about the inclusive park and understand that some have expressed concerns about the proposed layout and fencing,” said Wall. “We are hosting these online meetings to give residents a chance to get answers to their questions.”
Advance registration is required for the September 26 sessions. Registrants will have the opportunity to submit questions in advance.
Several days prior to the online sessions, registrants will receive an email with information about joining the session.
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.