Maplewood, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, will host Inclusive Sports and Games Day at the Maplewood YMCA Community Center on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This free, inclusive event celebrates individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and offers health, wellbeing and connection activities for everyone to enjoy. The event is free to all and open to the public. No YMCA membership is required.
Inclusive Sports and Games Day is designed for all ages and abilities, offering a welcoming environment with an emphasis on fun, building community and participation.
Attendees of all ages and abilities can enjoy a host of activities including many different carnival games, music and dancing, a caricature artist and face painting, and a free lunch buffet. Three raffle drawings during the event will give attendees a chance to win prizes including gift cards, stuffed animals, headphones, Amazon Fire tablets and more.
Athletes ages 8 and up can join adapted and unified sports including running, basketball and swimming. Pre-registration for sports events is required by Dec. 1 and all registered athletes will receive a free T-shirt and medal.
An information expo will showcase organizations serving the community with programs and services related to wellness, hygiene, nutrition, recreation, sports, housing, jobs and education. Attendees ages 17 and younger may also participate in free vision screenings.
Event sponsors include The Arc, the City of Maplewood, the Rotary Club of North St. Paul Maplewood Oakdale, and Ramsey County.
Admission is free and all attendees will be asked to check in. Advance registration is required for sports events. To learn more and register, visit the YMCA of the North website.
WHAT: Inclusive Sports and Games Day
WHERE: Maplewood YMCA Community Center, 2100 White Bear Ave., Maplewood, MN 55109
WHEN: Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
SCHEDULE:
- 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: Open house, carnival games, DJ/dancing and more
- 9-11 a.m.: Track and field events
- 10:45 a.m.: Raffle drawing
- 11 a.m. – noon: “Shine” adaptive dance class
- 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Basketball events
- 11:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Free lunch buffet
- 12:45 p.m.: Raffle drawing
- 1-3 p.m.: Swimming events
- 2:45 p.m.: Raffle drawing
About the YMCA of the North
The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 169 years ago, the Y seeks to be the leader in experiences that foster wellbeing for people and communities. By nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and serving our neighbors, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.