Lincolnway Special Recreation Association offering less programming, but getting through pandemic safely

The Lincolnway Special Recreation Association has not seen anywhere near the number of registrants for

The Lincolnway Special Recreation Association has not seen anywhere near the number of registrants for its programs as has in the past, but Executive Director Keith Wallace and the rest of the staff have found ways to keep many participants engaged. 

“We love to do programs to (try and reach all our participants),” Wallace said. “We’ve tried to do all programs that would comply with the executive order. We started evaluating our participants.” 

Wallace said one part of the evaluation helped determine each participant’s ability to social distance, wear a mask and stay safe if they participated. 

For example, “Tier A” had basketball opened up to them.

LWSRA also has been conducting different programs virtually for some of those who are unable to attend in-person programs. 

“The parents are appreciative of it,” Wallace said. 

Before Wallace determines what programs will be conducted in person, he always asks himself if it is something that he would feel comfortable participating in himself. One positive for the recreation association is that Wallace has been able to keep all his full-time employees employed. 

“Safety is the No. 1 concern and if I don’t think I can keep myself or our staff safe, we won’t do it,” he said. “That’s how I’ve been leading.”

And even though they cannot all be together, Wallace said they have been doing “Hawk Fly Bys” to say hi to the participants and let them know they have not forgotten about them.

The staff also periodically makes personal calls to the participants to check in and also creates virtual newsletters. 

The recreation association has also had to get “creative” with its fundraising. Wallace and other members were at Square Links Golf Course in Frankfort seeking donations. 

Other fundraising includes its “Spooktacular” 50/50 raffle. Tickets are $20 and only 200 are being sold. The drawing is being held Oct. 30. To purchase tickets call (815) 320-3507 or email [email protected]

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