Contrasting Perceived Barriers to Recreation for People with Disabilities in Maywood Park District

Removing accessibility barriers to special recreation in community park districts, particularly among kids and youth with disabilities has been identified as an important need. The purpose of this study was to identify barriers in the Maywood Park District policies, practices, and spaces impacting the growing Latino population. Initial community needs assessments indicated that the Latino population was not represented in the park district needs assessments. The research methodology included quantitative measures (the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines checklist (ADAAG) and the Inclusivity Assessment Tool (Inclusion U) to identify physical barriers and policies in the Park District. I also conducted individual interviews with staff members and 2 focus group meetings with community members, one of them with Latino community members. The instruments identified several barriers which were confirmed and expanded by the staff interviews and the focus group data. The Spanish speaking focus group reported cultural factors as significant barriers to community access for people with disabilities in the Maywood Park District. The study findings indicated that public communication and awareness were the greatest barriers. I hope that the results of the study will be used to locate and prioritize barrier removal opportunities for the Maywood Park District.