Inclusive Adult Recreation Programming at Willowdale Community Centres

I am requesting the creation and expansion of inclusive adult recreation programming at Willowdale community centres, including Edithvale Community Centre and Mitchell Field Community Centre, for adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities.

Currently, many Parks, Forestry & Recreation programs are restricted by age, which creates a significant service gap for adults with disabilities who age out of youth programs but continue to benefit from structured, supported recreation. This gap is particularly evident during March Break, summer, and holiday periods, when inclusive options for adults are extremely limited or unavailable.

At present, adults may participate in certain inclusive programs at these centres (such as ongoing social or evening programs), yet are excluded from other recreational offerings at the same locations due solely to age limits. This results in inconsistency, reliance on one-time exceptions, and inequitable access to City services.

Requested Outcomes

   •   Development of inclusive, age-appropriate adult programs during school breaks (March Break, summer, and holidays)

   •   Clear City guidelines that support continuity of participation for adults with disabilities already engaged in community centre programming

   •   A pilot inclusive adult recreation program at Edithvale and/or Mitchell Field that could be evaluated and expanded across Toronto

Community Impact

Expanding inclusive adult recreation programming would:

   •   Promote accessibility, equity, and social inclusion

   •   Support mental health and meaningful community participation for adults with disabilities

   •   Provide critical relief for caregivers

   •   Maximize the use of existing City facilities and staff expertise

This proposal aligns with the City of Toronto’s commitments to accessibility, equity, and inclusive community services. This initiative would help ensure that adults with disabilities are not excluded from community life simply due to age-based program structures.