Aurora-based Fox Valley Special Recreation Association (FVSRA) enriches lives of disabled people through diverse, yearlong, recreational activities.
That was the message earlier this month from FVSRA outreach coordinator, Jennifer Wisneski, at an Aurora Noon Lions Club’s membership meeting at Luigi’s Pizza and Fun Center in Aurora.
According to Wisneski, the nonprofit FVSRA provides programming for 800 residents with disabilities to experience active, healthy, and fulfilling lifestyles.
She said the agency, founded in 1976, serves as an extension of Oswego, Sugar Grove, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, Fox Valley Park Districts and South Elgin Parks and Recreation Department.
FVSRA service areas, said Wisneski, are adult day programs, youth/teen programs, fitness programs, Special Olympics, overnight trips, Summer day camps, participant assessments and inclusion services.
According to Wisneski, FVRSA is a partner with Aurora University in an online Spartan Pals program. Under the program, approximately 30 AU students periodically interact with FVSRA participants.
Founded in 1922, Aurora Noon Lions Club is planning its centennial celebration for 2022. Open to men and women interested in community service, the Club meets on the first and third Mondays at Luigi’s Pizza, 732 Prairie Street in Aurora.
With the motto “We Serve,” Lions volunteers focus on supporting causes including hearing and vision impairment, hunger, the environment, childhood cancer and diabetes.
Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world. Approximately 1.42 million members in more than 48,000 clubs serve in more than 200 countries and geographic areas worldwide.
Since 1917, Lions have strengthened local communities through hands-on service and humanitarian projects and extend service impact through the Lions Clubs International Foundation. For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit lionsclubs.org.
—Al Benson