What sets Encompass Recreation apart…
Encompass Recreation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating inclusive recreational opportunities for youth with higher support needs. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every child deserves access to safe, supportive, and meaningful opportunities to play, grow, and connect with peers.
Families across Northern New York often struggle to find recreational activities that are accessible and welcoming for children with diverse needs. Traditional programs may lack the necessary support, leaving children excluded and families feeling isolated. This lack of options not only limits opportunities for social connection and skill development, but also contributes to disparities in health, confidence, and community participation for children with disabilities.
Encompass Recreation was created to bridge this gap. We provide programs that celebrate differences, promote inclusion, and ensure that children can thrive in spaces designed with their unique strengths and challenges in mind. Our programming includes adapted sports, creative arts, outdoor recreation, and community events, all intentionally built to reduce barriers and foster meaningful engagement. Each activity is designed not only to provide fun and enjoyment but also to build confidence, independence, and friendships that extend beyond our programs.
What sets Encompass Recreation apart is our focus on the whole community. We recognize that inclusion is not just about the individual child—it is about creating environments where families feel supported and where children of all abilities can share experiences together. Through partnerships with schools, caregivers, and local organizations, we work to create a culture that celebrates differences and promotes understanding. Caregivers often share that our programs are the first spaces where their children have been fully accepted, which has ripple effects on family well-being and community connectedness.
Currently, our services are offered in Jefferson and Lewis Counties, but are open to those from neighboring areas. We intentionally design programs to meet families where they are, ensuring affordability (free) and accessibility while working to remove barriers that can otherwise prevent participation.
By focusing on inclusion through recreation, Encompass Recreation addresses multiple community needs at once: access to safe activities, opportunities for social and emotional growth, and relief for caregivers who often feel alone in navigating the challenges of raising children with higher support needs. Our work contributes to healthier, more connected communities where every child has the chance to belong and thrive.