Northlands Association for Special Recreation is a cooperative partnership between the Freeport, Rockford and Belvidere Park Districts (referred to as a member district). NASR programs are open to any individual with disability-related needs such as physical, mental and developmental and persons with mental illness, behavior disorders and visual and hearing impairments.
Each year, NASR hosts three one-day events: Got Talent, Bowling Tournament and Fall Fun Day. Each event requires its own registration and transportation to out-of-district locations.
Member district residents are invited to participate in specialty/therapeutic (TR) programs offered through any member district at the resident rate. For participation in Inclusion Services at a member district other than your own member district, you must pay the non-resident rate for that program.
Social. Active. Inclusive. Fun
Our Special Recreation programs are designed to create joyful, engaging experiences for individuals with disabilities, ages eight through adult. From lively socials to feel-good fitness, every program is built around community, creativity and connection. Participants can join activities like Bowling Buddies, energizing fitness classes, or enjoy picnics and outdoor games. Seasonal events such as the Spring Fling Dance, Monster Mash Dance, and festive Holiday Creations & Sing-Along bring extra excitement throughout the year. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with friends at Guys Night, Girls Night, Book Club, Bingo, and Movie Nights. Whatever the season, our programs are here to spark laughter, friendship and lasting memories.
Special olympics team uniforms
All Special Olympic athletes must obtain a team uniform as required for each sport. Uniform requirements are included in the program description. Contact the Administration Center in Read Park for order forms or to inquire about uniform purchases. Uniform fees apply and are
subject to change.
*PLEASE NOTE: Participation in state tournaments is not guaranteed and is dependent upon staff availability. Additional participation fees up to $50 may apply.
BINGO and Movie Night
Join us for a night filled with the thrill of Bingo, a delicious dinner, and a classic movie. Socialize, win prizes, and have fun with your friends! Are you ready to shout, “BINGO!”? Location: Administration Center
Session Name:
BINGO and Movie Night-01
Dates:
03/05/2026 - 03/05/2026
Times:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Bowling Buddies
It’s not just about strikes and spares! Bowling Buddies invites you to join us for afternoons filled with fun and friendship. Whether you're fine-tuning your skills for the Special Olympics or just seeking a fantastic time, this is your perfect lane to play.
Session Name:
Bowling Buddies-01
Dates:
02/05/2026 - 02/26/2026
Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Fit with Friends
Join our active community where we participate in a variety of fun fitness exercises in multiple formats. We strive to help create a healthy lifestyle and lifelong habits. All activity levels are welcome! Location: Krape Park Community Building
Session Name:
Fit with Friends-01
Dates:
01/06/2026 - 01/27/2026
Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Holiday Creations
Get ready to whip up holiday magic and sing along to your favorite holiday songs! Put on your aprons and join us for a hands-on workshop filled with traditional crafts, delightful cookies, and candies. You’ll get to take home a goody bag of festive creations. Let’s make this holiday season even sweeter! Location: Administration Center
Session Name:
Holiday Creations & Sing-Along-01
Dates:
12/09/2025 - 12/09/2025
Times:
4:30 pm - 6:00 pm
SO Basketball
Swish! It's game time. Get pumped for another amazing season on the courts. We'll start by practicing skills and then compete in games to prepare for the ultimate showdown at the regional tournament. Athletes must have a current Special Olympics Athlete Registration Form on file through March 2026 or submit one at time of registration. Uniform Required: Jersey, Shorts Location: Open Bible
Session Name:
SO Basketball-02
Dates:
10/29/2025 - 01/21/2026
Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
SO Soccer
Kick off a season of fun with Freeport Freedom soccer! Compete in regional games and later participate in Spring Games at Harlem High School. All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform Required: Jersey, Shorts Location: Read Park Multi-Purpose Field
Session Name:
SO Soccer-01
Dates:
03/09/2026 - 05/04/2026
Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm
SO Swim Team
If you like water, this is the sport for you! Work with trained swim instructors to improve your overall performance. Practice swim strokes, starts, turns, and the overall rules of competition. This program is great exercise and is gentle on the joints, making it possible for most everyone to participate. To be able to participate, you must be able to swim one length of the pool (25 yards) independently with no floatation device. You must have a current Special Olympics medical form on file through June 2025 or submit one at registration. Uniform Required: Swim Cap Location: Freeport Middle School
Session Name:
SO Swim Team-01
Dates:
01/21/2026 - 03/25/2026
Times:
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
SO Track and Field
Ready to race to the finish line or show your strength in throwing events? Practice every week to compete at Spring Games at Harlem High School. Let’s go for the gold! All athletes must have a valid Special Olympics Illinois account (or create one) through the Center of Excellence at https://portals.specialolympics.org/. Athletes must complete the Health History Form and Athlete Acknowledgement Form, and accounts must be renewed annually to be eligible to participate. Uniform Required: T-shirt, Shorts Location: Aquin Track
Session Name:
SO Track and Field-01
Dates:
03/11/2026 - 05/06/2026
Times:
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm