Adaptive Sports, Recreation, Art, and More
Join us for year-round adaptive programming all around Northeast Ohio.
Need More Information?
Contact Mackenzie Vecchio, Director of Program Services, at 440-892-1001 x118 or [email protected].
Eligibility
Youth Challenge provides recreational activities for kids with physical disabilities, including but not limited to:
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
- Deaf or hard of hearing
- Blind or visually impaired
- Limb differences
- Muscular dystrophy
How Our Adaptive Programming Works:
Each participant is paired 1:1 with a teen volunteer. This unique peer-to-peer model is transformative for both participants and volunteers because it encourages connection, inclusion, and mutual growth.
When our kids and teens enter YC’s doors, our goal is for them to feel that they have a safe space where they will be heard and included. Every program ends with a snack, social time, and a ride home with friends in our accessible vans.
$0 Cost to Families
YC programs are 100% free for all youth participants.
Free Rides to and From Programs
Trained drivers pick up participants from school or home with lift-equipped accessible vans.
300+ Programs a Year
Choose from hundreds of adapted physical activity programs to discover new skills and gain confidence through peer-to-peer interaction.
Realize Your Potential
Every activity is adapted to fit each child’s needs while encouraging growth and independence.
Meet New Friends
Participants are paired 1:1 with teen volunteers to build friendships, grow social skills, and have fun.
Professional Staff and Disability Specialists
Our professionally trained staff are always available to support participants with their unique needs.
Adaptive Programming Near You
Based in Westlake, Ohio, Youth Challenge brings programs to schools, community centers, and parks across Northeast Ohio, from the East Side to Lorain County.
Our daughter, Molly, absolutely loved sled hockey. She’s a wheelchair user and this was the first time she had ever played a contact sport. The joy she experienced was second only to our own as we watched her out there. I loved how the teenage volunteers got to know her quickly and helped her gain some speed. Molly is excited to try other sports because of this program. We are so grateful.
- Catie, Participant Parent
Why Join the YC Crew?
- Make friends
- Learn new skills
- Build leadership capabilities
- Try exciting challenges
- Find hobbies you love
- Get out of your comfort zone
- Discover what you’re capable of
- Gain confidence and independence
- Have fun
