Inclusive Sport and Recreation Collective
The Beginnings
Five individuals met in the spring of 2017 to chat about ways in which to better align the inclusive sport and recreation system in Alberta. Previous Adapted Physical Activity Symposiums led by the Steadward Centre were held in Red Deer, Grande Prairie and more recently Calgary. It was at the Calgary meeting where the group recognized the need to continue the conversations. Therefore, Danielle Peers agreed to host a symposium at the University of Alberta in June 2018. This event, named the Inclusive Sport and Recreation Symposium attracted more than 130 participants over two days of workshops, seminars, and lively discussion. Follow up discussions and daylong meetings were held in February 2019 in Red Deer with a second one in May 2019 in Enoch as part of the Alberta Sport Leadership Conference. A third meeting is planned for October 3, 2019 in Calgary.
Who Do We Represent?
The participants at the meetings represent a broad “big tent” perspective including organizations that provide sport, physical activity and recreation services for persons living with a disability across continuums, from the puddle to podium, an individual’s lifespan and abilities.
Our intention is to include and reflect those experiencing all types of disabilities and any intersectionality within these communities.
What Do We Do?
We meet to connect and engage with each other around a common vision of accessible and inclusive physical activity, sport and recreation in Alberta; to share information about resources, programs and services; to address common challenges and opportunities for our community; and to celebrate our collective and individual experience, expertise and success.
Priority Areas
- Create a shared online space of programs, events, information and resources
- Activate an online platform for connection among leaders and build a community of practice
- Host events and specific professional development opportunities
- Encourage and facilitate opportunities for collaboration amongst represented organizations to maximize the benefit of available resources
- Create better alignment with each other and local, provincial and national goals, including strategic priorities outlined in policy documents such as the Common Vision and Active Alberta.
- Promote and advocate for a safe, welcoming and inclusive sport and recreation system in Alberta
- Create a “case” for representation and support of the community priorities and financial benefits of being inclusive
- Create a common voice to mobilize resources, promote and protect the
services offered through our collective
The Steering Committee
Karen Dommett
Calgary Adapted Hub powered by Jumpstart
David Legg
Mount Royal University
Jen Leo
The Steadward Centre
Tara Chisholm
Medicine Hat Adaptive Sport & Recreation -Paralympic Sports Association
Linda Robinson
Community Member
Brian Torrance
Ever Active Schools
Bob Steadward
University of Alberta
Karen O'Neill
Canadian Paralympic Committee