City of Reno Awarded Two AARP Community Challenge Grants
The City of Reno is pleased to announce two grant awards from the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). These grants were awarded through AARP’s Community Grant Challenge, which provides small grants to fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable for residents of all ages.
The City was awarded the following grants:
• A $5,000 grant will support continued revitalization efforts at the Paradise Park Community Garden, in partnership with Reno Food Systems.
• A $15,686 grant will fund the purchase of an additional Fun2Go adaptive bicycle for the Adaptive Cycling Center.
“We are incredibly grateful to AARP for these generous grants, which will help us enhance quality of life here in the Biggest Little City,” said Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve. “These projects reflect our commitment to creating a more connected and livable city for residents of all ages.”
The AARP Community Grant Challenge is a national program that focuses on making meaningful, on-the-ground improvements that spark lasting change. As part of AARP’s Livable Communities initiative, this funding empowers cities, towns, neighborhoods, and rural areas to become vibrant and welcoming places to live for residents throughout every stage of life.
At Paradise Park Community Garden, the grant will support expanded programming designed to promote older adults’ well-being, foster social connections, and create a welcoming space for the entire community.
At the Adaptive Cycling Center, the funding will go toward the purchase of an additional Fun2Go adaptive bicycle, helping to expand access to adaptive equipment and support greater connectivity and bikeability throughout the Reno-Sparks region.
Adaptive Connect Newsletter is made possible by Renown Health
If you have an event or activity that you would like posted in the next publication of Adaptive Connect, Please Contact April Wolfe at: Phone: (775) 333-7765 WolfeA@Reno.Gov
Next Deadline is October 17, 2025.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are a vital part of the City of Reno Inclusion/Adaptive Recreation program. Volunteers will gain rewarding experiences through assisting Parks and Recreation staff with a variety of programs or providing additional support for participants.
We are currently seeking volunteers for our upcoming programs!
Bill Meacham
Ralph
(775) 657-4661
SPORTS
Wheelchair Rugby
Thursdays from 2-5 p.m. $50
EMNECC - 1301 Valley Road
Wheelchair or Quad Rugby is a fast paced and competitive sport for individuals with physical disabilities that affect all four
extremities. Players use special “Rugby Wheelchairs” to play the sport. These chairs are very maneuverable and can take a hit or two. Rugby players must be able to push their own wheelchairs.
Reno Rumble Wheelchair Rugby Tournament
October 31-November 2
EMNECC - 1301 Valley Road
The City of Reno will host their annual wheelchair rugby tournament. Teams from the United States Wheelchair Rugby Association (USWRA) will join the
Participants with physical disabilities will get a chance to learn about sled hockey and get on
Wheelchair Skills and Drills
Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. $50
EMNECC - 1301 Valley Road
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to develop your skills to get to the next level, this program
High Fives Wheelchair Rugby Team
in a fun filled and competitive weekend of wheelchair rugby. For game schedules, to volunteer or for more information contact April Wolfe. Please come out and support the team!
Adaptive Equipment Rental Program
the ice. All equipment and on-ice instruction provided. Please wear long pants and closed-toed shoes. No prior experience necessary.
Our adaptive recreation equipment is available to rent (sport wheelchairs, beach wheelchairs, hand cycles, etc.). Affordable prices for participants to try before they buy.
New Equipment Alert!
Thanks to a scholarship from 2Liv4, City of Reno Adaptive received an Extreme Motus All-Terrain Wheelchair. Available to rent today to go explore your favorite hiking trail or explore an area beach.
Adaptive Fitness at Upstate Nevada
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
No cost, specialized coaching and classes for those with physical or intellectual disabilities.
NEW! Wheelchair Pickleball
Saturdays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
$50
EMNECC - 1301 Valley Road
A new adaptive sport hits the court this Fall, Wheelchair Pickleball! This fast-paced, social, and highly engaging sport is quickly becoming
SOCIAL PROGRAMS
Dance for All For Teens and Adults with Special Needs
Halloween Dance
Sunday, October 26 from 2-4 p.m.
$3 at the door
City of Sparks Parks and Recreation Gym - 98 Richards Way, Sparks
Holiday Dinner and Dance
Friday, December 5 from 5-8 p.m.
$5 per person (All attendees MUST be pre-registered)
City of Sparks Parks and Recreation Gym - 98 Richards Way, Sparks
Register In-Person: Monday-Thursday from 7:30 a.m.-
5:30 p.m. or call (775) 353-2376. Deadline to Register:
Wednesday, November 26 by 5:30 p.m. (space is limited register early).
City of Sparks Park and Recreation
Bowling
Wednesdays from 2:45-4:30 p.m. Free Coconut Bowl - 1855 E Lincoln Way, Sparks
Bring your friends and come out to practice your game and have a great time too. We keep track of scores to average for the Special Olympics tournaments. No pre-registration necessary.
Arts and Crafts Class
Thursdays from 3-4:30 p.m. Free
City of Sparks Parks and Recreation Gym - 98 Richards Way, Sparks
We’ve teamed up with Arts for all Nevada to provide Weekly Wonders. Participants (16 yrs. or older) will develop their artistic abilities through a variety of fun projects. Reservations required.
Tahoe Waterman Adaptive Paddling Program
Experience the healing power of water through paddling on Lake Tahoe. The Tahoe Waterman Foundation’s Adaptive Paddling Program provides inclusive access to traditional and adaptive paddle sports for youth and adults with cognitive, sensory, mental health, or physical disabilities.
Based at Waterman’s Landing in Carnelian Bay, participants receive professional coaching and use specialized equipment and sessions are led by expert coaches from the Waterman’s Landing Paddle Center, offering safe, empowering on-thewater experiences that build confidence and community.
To learn more or sign up, visit www.LakeTahoeWaterman.org.
Join the Grand Opening at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
Friday, September 19 from 4-7 p.m.
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park - 1595 N. Sierra Street, Reno
Join Washoe County Regional Parks and Open Space for a special Grand Opening event to celebrate the completion of Washoe County’s first All-Inclusive Playground at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. Bring the entire family to enjoy an evening of play in the park, along with food trucks and other fun activities. For more information, call Andy Brown at (775) 785-4512 or visit www.WashoeCountyParks.com
Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada
https://www.dsnnn.org/
The Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada is a network of family, friends and individuals dedicated to provide information, education, and support as we raise awareness of Down syndrome in Northern Nevada.
Buddy Walk
Saturday, September 6 from 8-10:30 a.m.
Grab your capes, lace up your boots and mark your calendars - The 20th annual Buddy Walk is happening at Swift Sports Dome on September 6th! Get ready to join us for the biggest celebration of Down syndrome in Northern Nevada.
To register visit: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_ pdetails/MjMyOTY1
Note-able Music Therapy Services
NMTSReno.org/Services
Note-Able Music Therapy Services is a nonprofit organization with a primary purpose of providing inclusive music programs and music therapy services for children and adults of all ages and disabilities. Our mission is to create lasting change in the lives of people of all abilities through music.
For more information contact (775) 324-5521.
RESOURCES
Renown Rehabilitation Hospital
Renown Rehabilitation Hospital provides a full range of rehabilitation services for these conditions: brain injury, stroke/ neurological diagnoses, spinal cord injury, fractures, joint replacements, multiple trauma, cancer, Parkinson’s and movement disorders, heart and lung disorders, amputation, and worker’s compensation injuries.
At Renown, patient outcomes exceed national benchmarks, thanks to the team of rehab specialists.
Self-Advocate Advisory Board
The Down Syndrome Network of Northern Nevada (DSNNN) is excited to launch a self-advocate advisory board, made up of adults with Down Syndrome who want to make a difference in the community.
DSNNN is currently accepting applications from self-advocates ages 18 and older who want to learn, grow, and lead. This is a volunteer opportunity that also serves as a job-readiness experience, helping participants build confidence and gain knowledge about teamwork, communication, and decision-making.
To apply email katyDSNNN@gmail.com.
Reno Adaptive Awarded Renown Better Together Community Benefit Grant
Renown Health’s Community Benefit Program gives an opportunity for local organizations to collaborate in addressing the region’s most pressing health challenges. Guided by Renown’s mission, this program focuses on supporting initiatives that align with key health priorities and aims to strengthen partnerships and create measurable, sustainable improvements in community health. Reno Adaptive was awarded a grant to support its annual Renown Alumni Sports weekend at Sky Tavern and provide scholarships for the Adaptive Cycling Center.
Temple University Study for Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury
The purpose of this study is to help individuals with spinal cord injury improve their physical activity levels in the community. You will be using a smartphone based physical activity monitor system that will measure your physical activity in the community. You will also be required to answer questions related to your physical activity on a regular basis.
Participants can receive up to $20 per month for six months of the study and $40 for interviews and equipment return.
If interested, please contact: Shivayogi Hiremath, PhD Shiv.Hiremath@temple.edu, (215) 204-0496.
High Fives Hangouts
2nd Wednesday of the month 6:30 p.m.
South 40 - 1445 S. Meadows Parkway
The 2nd Wednesday of each month please join the spinal cord injury (SCI) community in a monthly meet, greet, eat, and enjoy each other’s company! All are welcome!
VETERAN PROGRAMS
Project Hero City of Reno
WeAreProjectHero.org
Founded in 2008, Project Hero is a groundbreaking national non-profit organization dedicated to helping Veterans and First Responders affected by PTSD, TBI and injury achieve rehabilitation, recovery and resilience in their daily lives and increasing awareness to combat the national mental health emergency posed by PTSD and TBI.
For our weekly ride/event schedule follow us on Facebook at Project HERO Hub City of Reno.
Fit But Not Forgotten
Wednesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at EMNECC & Moana Springs Community Aquatics and Fitness Center - 240 W. Moana Lane
Thursday from 12-1 p.m. & Fridays 10-11 a.m. at EMNECC - 1301 Valley Road
The City of Reno is offering our disabled veterans weekly fitness classes in our facility weight room. Classes will cover orientation to equipment, assessment of fitness level, proper technique to develop strength, endurance and flexibility, and discuss fitness goals. Upon completion of our four classes participants will be eligible for a FREE all inclusive facility membership good for one year.
Nevada Paralyzed Veterans of America
NevadaPVA.org
This program is dedicated to improving the quality of life for veterans and our disabled community with spinal cord injury or dysfunction. Nevada PVA offers an active sports and recreation program for our members, and the disabled in our community.
This organization sponsors programs in Northern Nevada that provides health benefits, support, opportunity and camaraderie for all involved.
Local Representative: Kurt Redinbaugh (775) 527.8761 redinbaughk@gmail.com
David J. Drakulich Art Foundation for Freedom of Expression
djdfoundation.org
DJD Foundation’s mission and vision are dedicated to the individuals who serve in the US Military, Veterans, and their supporters. The personal narratives and historical truths that emerge through the arts, humanities, and recreation produce resources that nourish the wellness and enlightenment of the entire community.
DJD Foundation is a community-based arts organization that offers free programming for Veterans. Most of our classes and workshops are open to the public. Our mission and vision are dedicated to the individuals who serve in the US Military, Veterans, and their supporters.
The personal narratives and historical truths that emerge through the arts, humanities, and recreation produce resources that nourish the wellness and enlightenment of the entire community.
Papermaking Workshops
Fridays from 3-7 p.m.
Support Veterans and learn the art and craft of papermaking! If you are interested in volunteering or participating email info@djdfoundation.org
