A large part of going to college is learning about different communities and gaining a new perspective on life. The SRWC VIP Program provides this opportunity in a noteworthy, enjoyable way.

“The VIP Program is an incentive program for students to participate in our inclusive rec events--events they would normally not participate in,” says Michael Freeman, Aquatics Inclusive Recreation Coordinator. “It is for both able-bodied and disabled students to come together and create an equal playing field.”

The SRWC was built as a holistically inclusive facility with the idea that every person - no matter their ability, age, culture, or gender - should be able to use all areas of our facility. Since its opening, the SRWC team has made it a priority to offer a number of inclusive events and activities geared toward the needs of students living with cognitive and physical disabilities. These events offer a great and insightful opportunity to those without disability to step into the shoes of their disabled peers and gain a new perspective.

Weekly programs include:

• Sit and Shoot Mondays -- Mondays, 8:00 - 10:00 AM
• Inclusive Goal Ball -- Wednesdays, 2:00 - 4:00 PM
• Free Friday Self-Defense -- Fridays, 1:00 - 2:30 PM
• Inner Tube Fridays -- Fridays, 2:00 - 4:00 PM

Monthly programs include:

• Green Tea and Tai Chi -- Second Wednesday of each month
• No Barriers Climbing -- First Friday of each month, 11 AM - 1 PM)

Each of these programs offer an outlet for individuals living with various disabilities.

“The great thing about these programs is they exist for all students to experience,” says Freeman. “They cater to those living with physical or cognitive disabilities, those from our military that go into social inclusion to readjust, and some from the LBGTIQ+ community, but it’s our responsibility, as people not living with those cognitive or social disabilities, to get perspective. It’s what you come to college for!”

Upon completion of 15 regular weekly programs and five special events, students can earn a free T-Shirt and water bottle, as well as be entered into an opportunity drawing for a chance to win other fun SRWC associated prizes!

For more information, visit the SRWC front desk or visit http://www.asirecreation.org/inclusive/