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"?

Session Name:
BINGO and Movie Night-03

Dates:
11/10/2026 - 11/10/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Tuesday

Ages:
8 - 99


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Session Name:
BINGO and Movie Night-04

Dates:
01/19/2027 - 01/19/2027

Times:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Tuesday

Ages:
8 - 99


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Session Name:
BINGO and Movie Night-02

Dates:
10/15/2026 - 10/15/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Thursday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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.

Session Name:
Bowling Buddies-01

Dates:
02/04/2027 - 02/04/2027

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
4 Seasons Bowling Center

Days:
Thursday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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 season or seeking a fantastic time, this is your perfect lane to play. Location: 4 Seasons Bowling Center

Session Name:
Bowling Buddies-01

Dates:
10/29/2026 - 11/19/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
4 Seasons Bowling Center

Days:
Thursday

Ages:
8 - 99


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Holiday Creations & Sing-Along

Get ready to whip up holiday magic and sing along to your favorite holiday songs! Put on your aprons and join us for a hands-on workshop filled with traditional crafts, delightful cookies, and candies. You’ll get to take home a goody bag of festive creations. Let’s make this holiday season even sweeter!

Session Name:
Holiday Creations & Sing-Along-01

Dates:
12/17/2026 - 12/17/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Thursday

Ages:
8 - 99


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Monster Mash Dance

We’re back! Find your favorite Halloween costume and join us as we dance the night away at this year’s Monster Mash. Refreshments and snacks, including Halloween candy, will be provided! Location: Read Park Pavilion

Session Name:
Monster Mash Dance-02

Dates:
10/23/2026 - 10/23/2026

Times:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Friday

Ages:
15 - 99


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NASR Fall Fun Day

Embrace the beauty of the fall season with your NASR friends! Join us for games, tie-dye, campfires, hayrides, and much more! You’ll even get to cook your lunch over the campfire. Don’t miss out on this fantastic autumn adventure! Location: Oakdale Nature Preserve Park, Freeport

Session Name:
NASR Fall Fun Day-01

Dates:
09/19/2026 - 09/19/2026

Times:
11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Facility:
Oakdale Nature Preserve

Days:
Saturday

Ages:
8 - 99


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Night Out!

Join us for a night that celebrates the power of friendship, fun, and a touch of elegance! Mini-manicures, coloring, movies, and games are all included, and to top it off, dinner is on us. No boys allowed – this is your space to relax, laugh, and create memories with your besties!

Session Name:
Girls Night!-02

Dates:
10/08/2026 - 10/08/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Thursday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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 Park

Days:
Thursday

Ages:
8 - 99


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SO Banquet

Calling all Special Olympic Athletes and Coaches! It is time for the annual Special Olympic Banquet honoring your hard work. Enjoy an evening of fun, friends, and food! Athletes and Coaches may bring up to 2 immediate family members or staff. We hope to see you there!

Session Name:
SO Banquet-01

Dates:
10/21/2026 - 10/21/2026

Times:
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Facility:
Harmony Church

Days:
Wednesday

Ages:
0 - 0


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SO Basketball

Swish! It's game time. Get pumped for another amazing season on the courts. We'll start by practicing skills and then compete in games to prepare for the ultimate showdown at the regional tournament. 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: Open Bible

Session Name:
SO Basketball-02

Dates:
11/04/2026 - 01/27/2027

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Open Bible

Days:
Wednesday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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:
08/31/2026 - 11/02/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
4 Seasons Bowling Center

Days:
Monday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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:
03/01/2027 - 04/19/2027

Times:
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Monday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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:
01/27/2027 - 03/24/2027

Times:
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Facility:
FMS TENN Court 1

Days:
Wednesday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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:
03/10/2027 - 05/05/2027

Times:
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Wednesday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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:
08/12/2026 - 10/07/2026

Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Facility:
Park Hill Church Gym

Days:
Wednesday

Ages:
8 - 99


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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:
04/16/2027 - 04/16/2027

Times:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Facility:
Read Park

Days:
Friday

Ages:
15 - 99


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Van Trip: Kuipers Family Farm

Join us for a fun-filled day at Kuipers Family Farm, where fresh air, hands-on activities, and seasonal attractions create the perfect recreational outing for all ages. Participants will enjoy a variety of farm-based experiences, including corn mazes, tractor rides, interactive play areas, and opportunities to explore farm animals and outdoor games.

Session Name:
Van Trip: Kuipers Family Farm-01

Dates:
10/16/2026 - 10/16/2026

Times:
8:00 am - 2:30 pm

Facility:
Read Park Administration Building

Days:
Friday

Ages:
0 - 0


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