Important update from NWSRA regarding the Coronavirus- Program cancellations

Dear Families:

With the ongoing developments related to the COVID-19 (novel coronavirus), NWSRA continues to closely monitor the responses of its Member Park Districts and community organizations to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and make program related decisions. NWSRA also recognizes the diversity of its population, as the vulnerability and risk of certain individuals is heightened due to the many unique conditions of individuals served.

This is a tough decision that we do not take lightly, however, we feel that the following decisions are in the best interest of participants, families, staff and public safety.

NWSRA Programming Suspensions:

As such, NWSRA will suspend the following programs/events/activities effective immediately until Sunday, March 29:

All NWSRA programming, including weekly programs, social clubs, special events, trips and other programs/events/activities
All NWSRA lessons (music, swimming, horseback riding)
All Snoezelen Sensory Therapy programs
All Dream Lab Accessible Technology Center programs

All participants of suspended programming will be contacted and will receive a credit for the program that has been suspended. Credits may be used for future NWSRA programming. If you have any questions regarding your program, please contact your program leader at 847-392-2848.

Collaborative Programming Suspensions:

The following collaborative programs, hosted in partnership with Clearbrook, will be suspended until further notice:

PURSUIT Adult Day Program (Hanover Park, Mt. Prospect, Rolling Meadows, Wheeling)
STAR Academy After Care Program (Mt. Prospect, Rolling Meadows)

We will continue to review the various factors related to hosting programs and events to determine future action. In order to help limit the spread of the virus, NWSRA has implemented an accelerated cleaning regimen at all NWSRA spaces and will work closely with its Member Park Districts to ensure cleanliness of facilities. In addition, all staff have been reminded to utilize standard precaution when providing care and an additional supply of items such as cleaning agents, wipes, gloves and sanitizer is being ordered.

The NWSRA Admin Team will continue to review updates from both the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more information including program-announcements and helpful links regarding the coronavirus, please visit www.nwsra.org/coronavirus .

We thank everyone for your understanding, patience and cooperation during this uncertain and unprecedented time. Please take care of yourself and stay healthy.

NWSRA Launches Coronavirus Web Page

In order to ensure timely communication with participants, staff and families, NWSRA has launched a new web page, featuring information related to the coronavirus and updated program announcements. Please visit the page by clicking the link below:

Visit www.nwsra.org/coronavirus

As more data about the transmission of COVID-19 becomes available, the CDC continues to modify its recommendations. For the most up-to-date information and recommendations, please visit these sites:

For now, the CDC recommends following measures similar to those used to prevent the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses.

Stay home when you are sick.
Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue.
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds).
Clean surfaces regularly. (It may be possible to contract COVID-19 by touching a surface or object.)

Please find the following fact sheet from the CDC and IDPH which explains what COVID-19 is and how to protect yourself and your family.