|
Happy August!
We’re thrilled to announce that registration for our Fall and Winter programs goes live on Friday, Aug. 1. This season is packed with exciting new offerings we can’t wait to share with you!
We have some standout programs we’re especially excited about, including our new Boundless Buddies program, the Sensory Friendly Treat Trail event, and our Spirit of Connections speed dating event! Plus, we’re continuing our Inclusive Playground Series in partnership with Cary, Apex, and Raleigh, creating more accessible play experiences across the Triangle!
We’re also proud to introduce some fantastic new programs from our amazing community partners: Smiling While Sending Hope will be offering more karaoke and craft nights along with a new Friendsgiving event! ReCreate Yourself is offering some new gardening and journaling programs along with a holiday craft night!
July was a month full of highlights! We welcomed over 60 attendees to our Sensory Friendly Watch Party, a new addition to the Fireworks Spectacular. We also published the final installment of our Inclusive Playground Educational Video Series, be sure to check it out below! And this month, we’re making waves at Holding Park Aquatic Center during Club Connect.
That’s all the news and updates for now, we can’t wait to see you at our upcoming programs and events!
| | |
Wheelstop Art Project
Saturday, Oct. 4 | 8-10 am & 11 am-1 pm
E. Carroll Joyner Park, 701 Harris Road
SPIRIT Wake Forest, Wake Forest Public Art Commission, and Downtown Design & Appearance Committee are proud to present The Wheelstop Project - a creative community art initiative bringing color and character to everyday spaces! This October, SPIRIT Wake Forest takes the spotlight, designing bold, blocky patterns to transform wheelstops into vibrant works of art. Join us for “Paint Day” on Saturday, Oct. 4, where you can help bring these designs to life. It's art with impact, beautifying Wake Forest one wheelstop at a time!
What is a Wheelstop?
A wheelstop is the cement “bumper” at the edge of a parking spot. They prevent you from going too far past the spot and into the curb.
Where will we be painting?
On October 4 we will meet in the Joyner Park parking lot, 10-15 wheelstops near the entrance by the playground.
Please Note: Since this will be an all-day event, we have split this event into groups. Group 1 (8 -10 a.m.) and Group 2 (11 a.m.-1 p.m.) Please register for one or both groups!
| | |
Sensory Friendly Treat Trail
Friday, Oct. 24 | 5:30-7:30 pm
Joyner Park Community Center, 701 Harris Road
Join us for a magical and inclusive indoor Halloween experience designed especially for children and families with sensory sensitivities!
Our Sensory Friendly Treat Trail offers a calm, welcoming space where guests can enjoy all the fun of Halloween—without the loud noises, flashing lights, or overwhelming crowds. Register today!
| | |
Wake Forest Mental Wellness Fair
Saturday, Sept. 27 | 1-4 pm
Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 Brooks St.
Mark your calendar for Wake Forest's Third Annual Mental Wellness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 1-4 p.m., at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 Brooks St.
Led by Commissioner Nick Sliwinski, the fair is designed to raise awareness about mental wellness and provide information on community programs, services, and resources available to loved ones who may be suffering from untreated or undertreated mental illness.
The Mental Wellness Fair is free and open to all – whether you need help or want to know how to support those who do. For more information, email Community Outreach Manager Andrew Brown, Jr.
| | |
Meet Laura!
This month we are pleased to introduce, Laura Holmes! Laura is the founder of "ReCreate Yourself" and teaches various SPIRIT programs! Let's get to know her more!
How long have you been teaching your skill?
I’ve been a Recreational Therapist for 13 years! I’ve always loved to cook/bake and have taken various classes throughout the years. I started with expressive arts in my first Recreational Therapy job in 2012 and have incorporated cooking and arts in my practice since then. I used to support a Boccia team in Washington DC in 2013-2016 and hope to clone it here in the Triangle.
What do you like about teaching for the Town of Wake Forest?
I love working with Mackenzie to serve underserved populations and bring new recreational opportunities/adapted sports to our local disability community.
What is a fun fact about you?
I love the Carolina Hurricanes and was lucky enough to witness the canes win the Stanley Cup in 2006.
Check out her programs on RecDesk!
| | |
You're invited to to join our SPIRIT Wake Forest Facebook group!
Current and future SPIRIT program participants and their family members are invited to join our “SPIRIT Wake Forest” group on Facebook!
Within this group, we share useful information on upcoming SPIRIT Wake Forest programs, services, and special events.
Our group also serves as a forum for members to support one another, ask questions, and share insights on how we can best serve you as a member of the SPIRIT Wake Forest community.
To join, simply click on the button below!
| | |
SPIRIT Open Play
Saturdays | Aug 2, 23, 30 | 1:30-3:30 pm
JPCC, 701 Harris Road
SPIRIT Wake Forest will host Open Play for individuals with disabilities on three Saturdays in August from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at JPCC.
We welcome all ages and all abilities!
Whether you're looking to get active, have fun, or connect with others, we invite you to enjoy a supportive and accessible space.
Open Play Time is free for RecCard holders and $5 for non-RecCard holders.
We can't wait to see you there!
For more information, email Mackenzie Dolecheck.
| | |
ASPIRE Respite Day Program
Wednesdays & Thursdays | 9 am-noon
JPCC, 701 Harris Road
Aspire is our adult day program for individuals with disabilities in the Wake Forest community.
At Aspire, we come together as a supportive and inclusive community to help each individual achieve their personal goals in life. Our program embraces a holistic approach, focusing on a wide range of objectives, whether they be recreational, communication, or essential life skills.
Under the guidance of our instructors, participants will embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Throughout the program, they’ll have the opportunity to explore new interests, try out exciting activities, and discover fresh passions that will bring them closer to their goals.
Join us in this enriching experience, where we nurture dreams, build skills, and foster a sense of belonging.
Designed for people ages 18 and over, this program meets on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m.-noon at the Joyner Park Community Center, 701 Harris Road.
| |
Caregiver Kindred
Thursday, Aug 7 | 6:30-8 pm
JPCC, 701 Harris Road
Join us as Lori Tryon, board member at We Will Walk With You and educational consultant at 3-C Family Services leads parents/caregivers through a discussion about strategies that can help you and your child.
As a former special education instructor, coordinator, and assistant school principal, Lori knows the topic inside out! She helps families advocate for what they need and would love to help you, too!
| |
Cooking with Friends
Thursdays | 5-6:30 pm
JPCC, 701 Harris Road
Cooking with Friends is a specialized cooking program for individuals with disabilities. This class will focus on simple cooking and baking recipes that can be prepared as independently as possible.
An instructor will help students concentrate on safety in the kitchen, learn basic cooking skills, follow recipe directions and work on communication. The students will be able to take the cooking skills that they learned and use it at home to impress family and friends.
Come join us as it’s a fun time to socialize with new and old friends. Students will have the opportunity to taste and bring home leftovers to share with the family.
We are changing things up by offering sessions on Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m. at Joyner Park Community Center, 701 Harris Road.
| | |
Brain Power Bistro: Adaptive Cooking
Fridays | Aug 8-29 | 10:30 am-Noon
JPCC, 701 Harris Road
Brain Power Bistro: Adaptive Cooking is a four-week cooking series designed for individuals with neurological challenges such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke. This hands-on program focuses on building culinary confidence and independence through simple, nutritious recipes adapted to meet a variety of needs. Each session offers a supportive and engaging environment where participants can develop kitchen skills and enjoy the meals they prepare. Caregivers are encouraged to attend if additional support is needed. Upon registration, participants should email any dietary restrictions to laura@recreateyourselfllc.com. While accommodations will be considered, we cannot guarantee all needs will be met.
| | |
Therapeutic Neuro Expressions
Fridays | Aug 8-29 | 1:30-2:30 pm
Flaherty Park Community Center, 1226 N. White St.
This holistic program, presented by Recreate Yourself, LLC, is designed for individuals with neurological disorders such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke to explore self-expression through art, journaling, and other creative outlets. Through these therapeutic activities, participants can improve cognitive function, support emotional well-being, and build a sense of community in a safe and nurturing space. The program encourages participants to connect with their personal stories and unlock their creative potential in a welcoming, judgment-free environment.
| | |
Smiling While Sending Hope Game Night
Friday, Aug 22 | 5-7 pm
JPCC, 701 Harris Road
Smiling While Sending Hope invites participants of all ages and skill levels to enjoy an evening of connection and fun through a variety of board games, card games, and interactive challenges. Whether you're a seasoned player or simply looking to try something new, this Game Night offers something for everyone—from timeless classics to exciting modern picks. Attendees can expect plenty of laughter, lighthearted competition, and opportunities to meet new people or enjoy time with friends. Light snacks and beverages will be provided to keep the energy going.
| | |
Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness Month
August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy Awareness month (also known as SMA). SMA affects roughly 4 people in every 100,000 throughout the USA. SMA also highly affects some seniors who deal with inactivity due to physical, balance, cognitive, or any other challenges that prevent a person from activity. 1 in 50 people carry the disease, and 1 out of every 6,000 to 10,000 people develop SMA.
This month is dedicated to raising awareness about Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). The goal is to educate the public, support those affected by SMA, and promote research for a cure.
| | |
What is SPIRIT Wake Forest?
SPIRIT Wake Forest is our way of identifying the initiatives, activities and events offered by the Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department's Specialized Programs & Inclusion. It stands for Specialized Programs and Inclusion Resources for Individuals Throughout Wake Forest.
Our staff has a wide variety of experience working with people of all physical, emotional, and cognitive abilities.
We offer fun, adaptive, and inclusive recreation opportunities in our community including adaptive sports, social and fitness programs, and after school activities - with more on the way.
| | |
You have received this e-mail because you are subscribed to E-Notifier – part of the Town of Wake Forest’s e-mail subscription service. E-Notifier keeps you up-to-date on Town of Wake Forest news, information, and special events. If you believe you have been subscribed in error, or would like to cancel your subscription, you may unsubscribe below.
If you have questions or comments about the Town of Wake Forest website or E-Notifier, please contact Bill Crabtree by email or call 919-435-9421.
|
| | | |
