Northlands Association for Special Recreation is a cooperative partnership between the Freeport, Rockford and Belvidere Park Districts (referred to as a member district). NASR programs are open to any individual with disability-related needs such as physical, mental and developmental and persons with mental illness, behavior disorders and visual and hearing impairments.

Each year, NASR hosts three one-day events: Got Talent, Bowling Tournament and Fall Fun Day. Each event requires its own registration and transportation to out-of-district locations.

Member district residents are invited to participate in specialty/therapeutic (TR) programs offered through any member district at the resident rate. For participation in Inclusion Services at a member district other than your own member district, you must pay the non-resident rate for that program.

Social. Active. Inclusive. Fun

Our Special Recreation programs are designed to create joyful, engaging experiences for individuals with disabilities, ages eight through adult. From lively socials to feel-good fitness, every program is built around community, creativity and connection. Participants can join activities like Bowling Buddies, energizing fitness classes, or enjoy picnics and outdoor games. Seasonal events such as the Spring Fling Dance, Monster Mash Dance, and festive Holiday Creations & Sing-Along bring extra excitement throughout the year. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with friends at Guys Night, Girls Night, Book Club, Bingo, and Movie Nights. Whatever the season, our programs are here to spark laughter, friendship and lasting memories.

 

Special olympics team uniforms

All Special Olympic athletes must obtain a team uniform as required for each sport. Uniform requirements are included in the program description. Contact the Administration Center in Read Park for order forms or to inquire about uniform purchases. Uniform fees apply and are
subject to change.

*PLEASE NOTE: Participation in state tournaments is not guaranteed and is dependent upon staff availability. Additional participation fees up to $50 may apply.

BINGO and Movie Night

Join us for a night filled with the thrill of Bingo, a delicious dinner, and a classic movie. Socialize, win prizes, and have fun with your friends! Are you ready to shout, “BINGO!”? Location: Administration Center

Session Name:
BINGO and Movie Night-03

Dates:
04/02/2026 - 04/02/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Facility:
PAVILION

Days:
Thursday


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Bowling Buddies

It’s not just about strikes and spares! Bowling Buddies invites you to join us for afternoons filled with fun and friendship. Whether you're fine-tuning your skills for the Special Olympics or just seeking a fantastic time, this is your perfect lane to play. Location: 4 Seasons Bowling Center

Session Name:
Bowling Buddies-01

Dates:
04/30/2026 - 05/21/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:

Days:
Thursday


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Fit with Friends

Join our active community where we participate in a variety of fun fitness exercises in multiple formats. We strive to help create a healthy lifestyle and lifelong habits. All activity levels are welcome! Location: Krape Park Community Building

Session Name:
Fit with Friends-01

Dates:
05/05/2026 - 05/26/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
KRAPE COMMUNITY BUILDING

Days:
Tuesday


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NASR Bowling Tournament

Strike it big at NASR’s 15th Annual Bowling Tournament! Bowlers will compete in 2 games and be placed on lanes based on bowling average and age. If you are not a regular bowler, please indicate skill level when registering and let us know if you will utilize a ramp to bowl. Pizza, awards, door prizes, bowling shoes, and tons of fun are included in the fee. Transportation is NOT provided. Location: Don Carter Lanes

Session Name:
NASR Bowling Tournament-01

Dates:
07/11/2026 - 07/11/2026

Times:
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Facility:

Days:
Saturday


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NASR’s Got Talent

Calling all dancers, actors, singers, magicians, jugglers, joke-tellers – the possibilities are endless. If you’ve got a talent, this event is for you! Participate in NASR’s Got Talent for prizes, awards, and a chance to be a star. There will be refreshments and tons of talent. Judges will vote for their favorite acts to determine who will be this year’s most talented star. Transportation is NOT provided. There will be a dress rehearsal. Location: Sinnissippi Park Music Shell, Rockford

Session Name:
NASR’s Got Talent-01

Dates:
05/16/2026 - 05/16/2026

Times:
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Facility:
Sinnissippi Park Music Shell

Days:
Saturday


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Night Out

Hey fellas! It’s time to put on your game face and get ready for a night out with the guys – no girls allowed. From playing board games to watching movies, this is the perfect opportunity to bond with your best buds. Dinner and refreshments included in registration. Location: Read Park Pavilion

Session Name:
Guys Night!-01

Dates:
08/06/2026 - 08/06/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Facility:
PAVILION

Days:
Thursday


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Pickleball Pals

Whether you’re eager to master the basics or ready for some spirited competition, we’re here to serve up a good time! Grab your gear, rally with friends, and let the pickleball adventure begin. Equipment will be provided for the class. Location: Krape Park Pickleball Courts

Session Name:
Pickleball Pals-01

Dates:
08/13/2026 - 10/01/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Krape Pickle Ball Court 1

Days:
Thursday


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Picnic and Outdoor Games

Celebrate summer by escaping to Read Park to enjoy the great outdoors for laughter, food, yard games, and the company of friends. Your perfect picnic awaits! Location: Read Park Pavilion

Session Name:
Picnic & Outdoor Games-01

Dates:
06/30/2026 - 06/30/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Facility:
PAVILION

Days:
Tuesday


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SO Bowling

Let’s roll into victory together! Join us for an exciting opportunity to improve your bowling skills and compete in the upcoming Special Olympics Bowling Tournament! To participate, all you have to do is bowl at least 12 games at practice. All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform Required: Shorts, T-shirt Location: 4 Seasons Bowling Center

Session Name:
SO Bowling-01

Dates:
08/17/2026 - 11/02/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Bowling Alley

Days:
Monday


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SO Soccer

Kick off a season of fun with Freeport Freedom soccer! Compete in regional games and later participate in Spring Games at Harlem High School. All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform Required: Jersey, Shorts Location: Read Park Multi-Purpose Field

Session Name:
SO Soccer-01

Dates:
03/09/2026 - 04/20/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Multi-purpose Field (Soccer)

Days:
Monday


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SO Softball

Step up to the plate and knock it out of the park! Whether you’re returning to the team or a newcomer, we welcome you to join us for an exciting season of fun and competition. All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform required: Jersey, Shorts, Baseball Hat Location: Read Park Ball Fields

Session Name:
SO Softball-01

Dates:
05/21/2026 - 07/23/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
State Bank Field(NW)

Days:
Thursday


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SO Swim Team

If you like water, this is the sport for you! Work with trained swim instructors to improve your overall performance. Practice swim strokes, starts, turns, and the overall rules of competition. This program is great exercise and is gentle on the joints, making it possible for most everyone to participate. To be able to participate, you must be able to swim one length of the pool (25 yards) independently with no floatation device. All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform Required: Swim Cap Location: Freeport Middle School

Session Name:
SO Swim Team-01

Dates:
01/21/2026 - 03/25/2026

Times:
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park Pool

Days:
Wednesday


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SO Track and Field

Ready to race to the finish line or show your strength in throwing events? Practice every week to compete at Spring Games at Harlem High School. Let’s go for the gold! All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform Required: T-shirt, Shorts Location: Read Park Multi-Purpose Fields

Session Name:
SO Track and Field-01

Dates:
03/11/2026 - 05/06/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Multi-purpose Field (Soccer)

Days:
Wednesday


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SO Volleyball

Bump, Set, Spike! Our volleyball teams are ready for an incredible season, and we want you on the court! Join us, and with the guidance of our expert coaches, you’ll hone your skills and achieve victory. All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform required: Jersey, Shorts Location: Park Hills Church Gym

Session Name:
SO Volleyball-01

Dates:
07/15/2026 - 09/16/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Park Hill Church Gym

Days:
Wednesday


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Spring Fling Dance

Dust off your dancing shoes because an unforgettable night awaits! We invite you to join us for an evening filled with music, dancing and an egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt. Oh, and did we mention refreshments and snacks to sweeten the celebration? Get ready for a night of fun and surprises! Location: Read Park Pavilion

Session Name:
Spring Fling Dance-01

Dates:
04/17/2026 - 04/17/2026

Times:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Facility:
PAVILION

Days:
Friday


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Van Trip: Henry Vilas Zoo

Join your friends as we travel to Milwaukee for a Brewers game, lunch and tailgating at Miller Park. Fee includes, transportation, tickets, lunch, staff, & tailgating.

Session Name:
Van Trip: Henry Vilas Zoo-01

Dates:
05/22/2026 - 05/22/2026

Times:
8:30 am - 3:30 pm

Facility:
Oakdale Overflow Parking

Days:
Friday


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Walking Club

Session Name:
Walking Club-01

Dates:
06/02/2026 - 06/23/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
McKinley Parking Lot

Days:
Tuesday


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