Special Needs Programs

About the Program

Irving Parks and Recreation serves individuals with special mental and physical needs through an Adult Therapeutic Day Program, Irving Special Olympics, and the AquaStars swim program. Currently, these programs are housed at Lively Pointe Youth Center, except AquaStars, which is located at Irving aquatic centers. Interested participants and volunteers are welcome to call (972) 721-8098 or email Carleshia Smiley for more information.

For additional information and resources, please visit the Irving Advisory Committee on Disabilities Website.

Adult Therapeutic Day Program

Girl in Wheelchair
Two Children on Amusement Ride

Our goal is to provide a recreation program designed to assist Irving residents ages 18 and older with mental and/or physical disabilities. The program was created for adults who require moderate staff assistance and instruction with leisure activities and physical fitness. Daily activities teach social and recreational skills and provide learning opportunities which promote a healthy independent lifestyle. The program hopes to improve the quality of life for this special population.

Program Schedule of Operations

The Therapeutic Day Program currently operates:

  • Monday through Friday
  • 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Program Session Options

  • Four eight-week sessions which run during winter, spring, summer and fall
  • A five-week mini session which operates between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays

Program Costs

Cost for each session is $175, and includes one field trip each week.

AquaStars for Special Needs Children

AquaStars Program for Children with Special Needs

The City of Irving's AquaStars program allows children with special needs, along with guardians, to safely enjoy monthly access to a premier city swimming facility.

In response to growing community interest and need, the Aquatics Division of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department expanded its programming to provide access for children with special needs to city swim facilities. City leaders see the new AquaStars program as a way to enhance the recreational opportunities of children in the community with special needs. Learn more ...

Special Olympics Program

Male Special Olympics Basketball Team

This program provides quality, recreational programs for ages 12 and older. Special Olympics programs vary throughout the year, based on each sports' schedule.

Program Sport Options

The City of Irving currently participates in the following sports through Special Olympics Area 10:

  • Basketball - December through May
  • Softball - June through August
  • Bowling - September through October
  • Volleyball - September through November

Program Schedule

  • Program practices are currently held on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 to 7 p.m.
  • Classifications and tournaments for Special Olympics Area 10 are held on Fridays and Saturdays for each sport.

Program Costs

There is no fee to participate in our Special Olympics Program, however, each participant does need to purchase an IPAR identification (ID) card in order to register for any of our programs.