Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association was formed in 1970 and is an extension of ten park districts , two cities and one village in the northern suburbs of Chicago . This partnership includes the Park Districts of Deerfield , Glencoe , Glenview , Highland Park , Lake Bluff , Kenilworth , Northbrook , Northfield , Wilmette and Winnetka ; the Cities of Highwood and Lake Forest and the Village of Riverwoods . NSSRA has been creating an environment of belonging through play for 50 years , and has the distinction of being the first Special Recreation Association in the country .

As a cooperative of 13 partner communities , one representative from each partner community serves on our Board of Directors , collaborating to provide leadership and governance to NSSRA .

NSSRA families and the community are invited to attend board meetings on designated Thursdays at 10:00 am . Board meeting schedule can be found online at nssra . org .

Compassion , Respect , Quality , Flexible , Accountable and Ethical Practices . NSSRA ’ s services include traditional , inclusive , cooperative and summer camp programs . Special events , trips , overnight camps , Gator Athletics / Special Olympics , adaptive sports and more are also available .

To be leaders in recreation by providing innovative and exceptional services for people with disabilities .

Enrich the lives of people with disabilities in our partner communities through quality recreation services .

NSSRA is committed to cultivating an inclusive , equitable and safe environment . NSSRA works to remove barriers by fostering a culture that embraces diversity and treats all people with dignity and respect .

Comes from three sources :

» Partner agency contributions » Program fees » Outside support from NSSRA Foundation

Contributions from partner agencies are made proportionately based on community size and collected through a property tax levy issued by each partner .

4 About NSSRA | nssra . org