REACH

REACH was a multi-component project designed to expand and reimagine recreational opportunities for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) across Washington State, from middle school through adulthood. The project combined storytelling, training, community connection, and practical tools to support people in finding and enjoying meaningful activities in their communities.

The purpose of REACH was to address the barriers that Individuals with IDD often face to accessing inclusive, meaningful recreation and community connection. REACH centered lived disability experience, increasing access through multilingual and accessible formats, and equipping individuals, families, and providers with tools to support person-centered recreation journeys.

Funded by the Dan Thompson Memorial Grant.

Core Components & Outcomes:

Video Storytelling

REACH produced a series of short, accessible video stories featuring individuals with IDD participating in meaningful recreational activities. The stories highlighted diverse experiences and identities and were shared widely through a dedicated webpage and social media campaign, with all content designed to be multilingual and accessible.

Online Learning & Events

The project hosted live virtual events where featured storytellers engaged directly with attendees. These sessions were recorded and repurposed into on-demand learning content, extending the reach of the project and allowing people to engage with the material over time.

REACH Hub

(Online Community of Practice)

The REACH Hub served as a central online space for connection and resource-sharing. Community members could access all project materials, share their own stories and ideas, and connect with others around shared interests in recreation and community inclusion.

Comprehensive Toolkit

REACH developed a self-guided, person-centered toolkit to help individuals explore interests, identify activities, and build community connections. The toolkit was designed for flexible use by individuals, families, educators, and providers, with strong emphasis on accessibility and real-life examples.

These materials are available in English, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, and Chinese.


Use the link below to access our toolkit resources.

This project has concluded, but the REACH model can be adapted or replicated to support inclusive recreation and community connection in other communities or states.

My son recently watched the REACH Webinar: The Power of Recreation: Rock Climbing, Music and the Magic of Community!  He was enthralled by this interesting and well-produced documentary…  Thanks so much for highlighting these creative opportunities for recreation and inclusiveness in the community.

Interested in continuing or reimagining this work?

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REACH

Access the REACH Toolkit Resources

Enter your information below to get immediate access to our full collection of self-guided, person-centered toolkit resources, available in multiple languages. Whether you’re an individual, family member, educator, or provider, these materials are designed to help you explore interests, discover activities, and build meaningful community connections.

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