MISSION: To promote and develop recreational programs for individuals with differing abilities.
The Special Populations division of Recreation Services is dedicated to offering recreational programs to the physically and mentally challenged from preschool through senior citizens. We recognize that meaningful recreational activities can have a positive and often profound impact on the lives of persons with disabilities.  Therefore, Recreation Services is committed to providing a wide range of both integrated and specialized activities. The Special Populations program boasts the opportunity to experience a wide variety of activities and field trips. In addition, it provides an avenue to make new friends, increase self-esteem, and enhance social skills.
This program offers daily, organized recreational activities that assist with character building and strengthening. The  activities include, but are not limited to, mild stretching, calisthenics and walking followed by an organized competitive activity, swim camps, youth day camps, horseback riding camps, workshops, seminars and Miracle League Sports programs.
The Special Populations staff works with the following organizations to provide organized activities within the City.
Ability Plus
Anita Homecare
Bradford Health Services
Centers For The Developmentally Disabled North Central Alabama, Inc.
Harris Home for Children
Huntsville Madison County Mental Health Center
Opportunity Center
Lowe Center
McKemy Center
Our Place
Pathfinders
Volunteers of America Day Center
Special Populations recognizes four main categories of disabilities:
Mentally Challenged/Developmentally Delayed: (Learning disabilities, autism, down syndrome, mental retardation)
Physically Challenged: (Birth defects, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, hearing impaired)
Consumers of Mental Health Services: (Biological Brain Disorders, emotionally disturbed)
At Risk/Environmentally Challenged: (Substance abusers, mentally and physically abused, homeless, persons within the juvenile justice system)
Please contact the Special Populations division for more information.
Special Populations Coordinator: Brian Winston
Email: special.coord@huntsvilleal.gov
Phone: (256) 427-5780
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