Closing Gaps in Health, Fitness, and Recreation
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities face some of the greatest health disparities of any population. They experience shorter life expectancies, higher rates of obesity and preventable health conditions, and are more likely to experience loneliness, social isolation, anxiety, and depression.
Many of these disparities are driven not by disability itself, but by limited access to inclusive health, fitness, and recreation opportunities designed to meet their needs.
We're using pickleball as a vehicle to help close those gaps by creating thoughtfully designed experiences that promote movement, confidence, connection, and belonging.
Photo Credit: Erin Calfa Weide • Community Partner: Balance
From Our Community
The impact of thoughtfully designed recreation is best told by the people who experience it.
Photo Credit: Forage Art House • Community Partner: Blossom
Meet Liam
Liam, a once-reluctant participant, has grown into an enthusiastic and engaged member of our community. When Liam first joined our classes, his reaction time was significantly delayed. We'd have to feed the ball high enough to give his brain time to register the motion and prepare for a swing.
Early on, there were many missed hits and plenty of moments where it looked like he might give up. But week by week, something shifted. Today, Liam can rally back-and-forth, returning shots without the need for adapted ball feeds.
Outside of class, Liam often rides his bike around town. Improved reaction time isn't just a win on the court, it's a skill that supports real-world safety and independence.
Even after a long day at work, Liam still shows up. If he's too tired to play, he helps pick up balls and spends time with his friends. Where he once checked out, now he leans in, fully engaged, socially connected, and physically active for the duration of class.
Liam's progress reminds us that when the right supports are in place, participation transforms into passion and small gains ripple outward into everyday life.