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Our Recreation and Leisure Program
Our Recreation and Leisure Programs improve the quality of life
for people affected by cerebral palsy by providing essential social
interaction and participation in healthy activities in nurturing
environments.
We believe that recreation and leisure activities foster a balance
between mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
We develop and adapt all of our programs so as to:
- increase social interaction
- encourage friendship and community building
- promote positive self-esteem
- foster self-sufficiency
- contribute to personal growth
- create opportunities for meaningful community participation
- foster a sense of belonging and an enhanced quality of life
- improve emotional well-being and reduce stress
- improve happiness and self-confidence
Recreation and Member Service programs funded in part by: United
Way of Calgary and Area
Registration Information
Registration in CPAA Recreation and Leisure Programs is open to
individuals with cerebral palsy who are or become members of our
association. Membership is free.
Contact Us
- Calgary
Crystal Bukowicki-Mudge, Program Manager (Southern Region)
Email: cmudge@cpalberta.com
OR
Brenda McClain, Client Services Coordinator of Community Connections
Email: brenda@cpalberta.com
Jim & Pearl Burns Centre
3688 48 Avenue NE
Calgary, AB T3J 5C8
Phone: (403) 543-1164
Fax: (403) 543-1161
- Edmonton
Karen Quinn Program Manager (Northern Region)
Email: karen@cpalberta.com
OR
Michael Samson Computability Program and Recreation Assistant
Email: michael@cpalberta.com
17231 - 105 Avenue
Edmonton, AB T5S 1H2
Phone: (780) 477-8030
Fax: (780) 471-0855
Member Programs in Calgary
- After School Teen Program (NEW!!)
Looking for a place after school to hang out and meet new friends!!
The Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta is openning its doors to youth ages 13-17. There will be food, games, music, computers, sports, crafts, excursions, and more. Support staff will be in attendance for any assistance required.
| Times: |
Monday-Friday, 3:30 p.m - 5:30 p.m. |
| Dates: |
Ongoing year round |
| Place: |
Rotary Challenger Park, 3688 48 Ave NE |
| Notes: |
This program is for youth ages 13-17.
For more information on the winter session or to register contact Karen at (403)219-3609 or kking@cpalberta.com |
- Horticulture Therapy / Community Garden Project

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Horticulture Therapy is a process using plants, horticultural activities, and the natural world to promote awareness and well being by improving the body, mind, and spirit. Adapted tools, materials, and specially designed gardens help to promote effective therapy. The growing of plants provides a wealth of tasks that stimulate throught, exercise the body, nourish the imagination, soothe the spirit, and educate people about an important aspect of life. If you are interested in helping with our community garden project please contact the CPAA Calgary office at 543-1164.
| Times: |
Monday, 2 p.m - 4 p.m. |
| Dates: |
Ongoing year round |
| Place: |
Rotary Challenger Park, 3688 48 Ave NE |
| Cost: |
As per event |
- Art "fun" dementals
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Art "fun" dementals is a community based creative arts program for individuals of all abilities and disabilities. To Register for this program, please contact Brenda McClain (403) 543-1164 or email at brenda@cpalberta.com
| Times: |
9:30am - 11:30am |
| Dates: |
Thursdays all year |
| Place: |
3688-48 Ave. NE |
| Cost: |
$45 per 12 week session |
- Adaptive Fitness

The University of Calgary Health & Recreation Centre, Fitness Centre & the Talisman Centre offer many programs and services designed to encourage healthy participation in a variety of activities. The goal for these Fitness Centres is to provide an opportunity for participants to improve or maintain their health and vitality through a variety of activities and programs. CPAA will reimburse any member with cerebral palsy $75 of the registration of any of these programs, once a year with proof of enrollment.
U of C Program Contact: Alena Lischka at 220-8814
Talisman Centre Contact: Colin Hyland at 355-1254
Note: CPAA offers a subsidy up to $75/session X 3 sessions per year per participant. Contact the CPAA Calgary office at (403) 543-1161 for further information and details.
- Aquatics

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Through exposure to water on a regular basis and by employing in this medium the use of stretch, massage action, calming music and apparatus, participants in this program will develop confidence, maintain and increase joint range of motion, improve muscle strength, and improve cardiovascular conditioning. Participants will experience the increased independence that the buoyancy of the water allows. Through guided activities participants will gain confidence and skills to use in their daily challenges.
| Talisman Centre: (403) 355-1254 |
| Water Moves: (403) 815-3256 |
| CPAA offers a subsidy of up to $100 per year for participants in this program. Contact the CPAA Calgary offce at (403) 543-1161 for further information |
- Weekend Retreat Camp

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The participants will explore the wilderness through a variety of activities. They will gain a sense of independence and self- achievement. They will develop long lasting friendships with others who struggle with the same or similar challenges.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The April 18th - 20th camp has been cancelled.
| Dates: |
Fall: October 3rd - 4th, 2008 |
| Location: |
Camp Horizon |
| Cost: |
$180.00 |
| Registration Deadline is June 13th |
| Contact the CPAA Calgary office at (403) 543-1161 for further information, subsidy inquiries, or registration. |
- Horseback Riding (16 years & older)

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Provides individuals with the experience of riding a horse, the companionship of the horse and learn the proprer procedure to care for them. Horsemanship is evaluated and a scholarship is awarded based on this each session. Transportation to the program is provided from a predetermined location. Riders must have upperbody control and be able to sit up right independently.
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Contact the CPAA Calgary office at (403) 543-1161 for schedule and location details |
- Members Support Group

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This group is for adults affected by cerebral palsy who wish
to develop a social network and explore the community in a group
setting with people who have the same barriers and frustrations.
The group provides a private forum to seek advice as well as
to develop strong bonds with others who have common interests.
| Times: |
Tuesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with some
added special events on other nights! |
| Dates: |
Ongoing January 14th - December, 2008 |
| Place: |
T.B.A. |
| Notes: |
Meetings are usually held at the U of C Macewan Hall North. Please contact the CPAA office to confirm meeting locations and dates. |
- Bowling
Improve your strength and coordination, and have lots of fun!
Program registration is ongoing. To register for this program, please contact Brenda McClain at 543-1164 or brenda@cpalberta.com
| Times: |
Fridays from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. |
| Dates: |
Ongoing January 18th - December, 2008 |
| Place: |
Fairview Bowling Alley, 1010, 999 36 St
NE) |
| Fee: |
$25.00 for 12 weeks or $3.75 per game. |
- Massage Therapy

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A service for all ages consists of half hour sessions of massage with a registered massage therapist. Call the CPAA Calgary office to book an appointment. Massage is a great way to relax and provide some temporary relieve to tight muscles & tendons.
| Dates & Times: |
Fridays, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm |
| Place: |
3688 48 Ave NE. |
| Fee: |
$10.00 per appointment |
- Exercise and Fitness
Includes exercises in a chair or wheelchair, weights, mat work and presentations (i.e. nutrition & universal gym). This is a 12 week session.
| Times: |
Thursdays 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. |
| Dates: |
Ongoing January 10th - December 2008 |
| Place: |
3688 48 Ave NE. (Rotary Challenger Park Fieldhouse) |
| Fee: |
$45.00 per 12 week session |
Notes: |
Next session starts April 3rd, registration is on going.
To register for this program, please contact Brenda McClain at 543-1164 or brenda@cpalberta.com |
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Children's Programs in Calgary
- PALS Visits
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Are you a dog lover? This is a new program developed through
a partnership with PALS (Pet Access League Society). PALS dogs
come and visit, do tricks, and cuddle with you. PALS appear
at many special CPAA events.
Their next appearance is at the Calgary Cerebral Palsy Association's
Annual Christmas Party. Get your family's picture taken with
the dogs for $1.00 per print.
Details on other PALS visits will be announced!
- Dance

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Dance is a great way to exercise; music is the key to people’s souls and the benefits are endless for people with disabilities. We have established the dance mentorship program to create a unison integrated environment for all dancers to come together and share the experience of movement.
| Times: |
Thursdays 5:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. |
| Dates: |
February 21st - May 8th, 2008 |
| Place: |
VRRI Recreation Centre, 3304 33 ST NW |
| Fee: |
$45 |
- Children's Water Play Therapy

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We play various games as exercise tools, the use of warm water and floatation devices as an effective medium of therapy to promote relaxation, increased independent movement, increased joint mobility, pain relief, and fun for children affected by cerebral palsy and related disabilities. Children are able to play & splash in the water unaware of the therapeutic value.
| Times: |
6:30pm - 7:30pm |
| Dates: |
Mondays, September 17th - December 3th, 2007
Wednesdays, September 19th - December 5th, 2007
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| Places: |
Mondays: Cardel Place, 11950 Country Village Link NE
Wednesdays: YMCA Shawnessy, 333 Shawville Blvd. SE
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| Cost: |
$30 per individual |
| Notes: |
Contact the CPAA Calgary office at (403) 543-1161 for further information |
- Massage Therapy

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A service for all ages consists of half hour sessions of massage with a Register Massage Therapist offering free massage on alternate Saturday’s of each month. Call the CPAA Calgary office to book an appointment. Massage is a great way to relax and provide some temporary relieve to tight muscles & tendons.
| Dates & Times: |
Fridays, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm |
| Place: |
3688 48 Ave NE. |
| Fee: |
$10.00 per appointment |
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Calgary Recreation Resource Catalogue
- Rotary Challenger Park:
Offers fitness assessments, rental space and is a great facility, fully accessible to all abilities. For more information contact Wendy at 250-2707
A Place Where Everyone Can Play!
- Health Recovery:
Health Recovery: A program for adults with special needs. This program is called Health Recovery and is an excellent form of non-strenuous exercise and relaxation, combining slow stretches with soothing music. Call the Tai chi Society at 240-4566 for more information.
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Village Square Leisure Centre:
Offers Functional Fitness Programs for Individuals with Special Needs. The City of Calgary offers its own fee assistance for this program. For more information please contact Fitness Specialist at 280-9714 ext 742.
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Special Olympics:
Offers many recreational activities for all ages. Call Ben at 735-1022 for more information.
- Between Friends Club:
Offers recreation programs for people with disabilities, ages 5-30 years old. Phone 508-0113 for more information
- Alberta Children's Hospital:
Offers a youth with disabilities focus group. Call Mezaun Lahka Evin at 543-0076 for more details.
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Vocational Rehabilitation Research Institute (Recreation:
Offers a variety of integrated recreational programs. Call 284-2231 for details
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Past Calgary Events
Check out the pictures below from previous recreation and special events in Calgary
Rock Climbing |
Stampede BBQ |
Tai Chi |

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Retreat Camp |
Christmas Party |
Art Explosion |

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Edmonton Members Programs
- Members Annual Picnic

Come join us for a free picnic filled with fun, games, and food for everybody!!
| Time: |
11:00 a .m. - 2:00 p.m. |
| Date: |
Sunday, June 15, 2008 |
| Place: |
Hawrelak Park Site #2 |
- CPAA Yoga
The CPAA offers a non-competitive class for people with disabilities and
that is for all skill levels. It includes stretching, strengthening,
and lots of breathing to help you release tension and feel better.
| Time: |
10:00 a .m. - 11:00 a.m. |
| Dates: |
Thursdays, May 15, 2008 through June 26, 2008 |
| Place: |
The Steadward Centre (University of Alberta, Van Vliet Buidling, Room W1-67) |
| Fee: |
$5.00 |
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For More Information or to Register Contact |
Kim Henye at:
kim@cpalberta.com
477-8030 |
- Ballerina Dreams

Click here or on the picture above to visit the Ballerina Dreams picture gallery
The Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta
Is excited to announce our newest program:
“BALLERINA DREAMS”
Ballerina Dreams is a modified, therapeutic dance program, facilitated by a dance instructor who is an Occupational Therapist. Available also for consultation, is a physiotherapist and a dance choreographer.
Dance classes will begin April 5, 2008, with an orientation for families, dancers, mentors and instructors. There will be an opportunity to share information, discuss the program and answer any questions. The session will take place at DanceCo Ltd, 9030 McKenney Ave in St. Albert.
Dance classes will be held on Saturday’s at 2:00pm starting April 12 and run for 8 weeks. The classes will be approximately 45-60minutes in length.
We would like to thank “DanceCo Ltd” for their generous donation of the studio space and their ongoing commitment to the dance program.
For more information on this program feel free to visit the
Ballerina Dreams Website
To Register of for this program plese print out, fill in, and then submit the Ballerina Dreams registration form to:
Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta
17231 105 Ave.
Edmonton, AB
T5S 1H2
Ph: (780) 477-8030
Fax:
(780) 471-0855
- Art Expressions
The Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta has started a new art program for members. The next session starts September 3, 2008. Come out and express your artistic side.
| Time: |
2:30 p .m. - 4:30 p.m. |
| Dates: |
Wednesdays, September 3, 2008 through October 15, 2008 |
| Place: |
The Art Gallery of Alberta (10230 Jasper Ave.) |
| Fee: |
$5.00 |
- Members Support Group

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The goals of our Members Support Group are to build positive
friendships while offering support in an enriching environment,
to encourage our members to live empowered lives, and to promote
awareness of cerebral palsy in the community to help break down
barriers.
The Members Support Group meets 3 to 4 times per month to listen
to guest speakers, to go bowling, or go out for dinner. For more
information check out Member's Support Group Schedule for January through March 2008 .
| Times: |
Bowling Nights Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Dinner and Meeting Nights Thursdays 6 p.m. 8:30pm |
| Dates: |
Ongoing January 10th - December 5th, 2008 |
| Place: |
Varies depending on the event |
| Fees: |
There may be minimal costs depending on the activity
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For more information and details please contact Members' Support Group Coordinator Ralph Leibo at 433-4863 |
- Computability Program

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| Times: |
Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. |
| Dates: |
ongoing |
| Place: |
CPAA Office (17231 - 105 Ave) |
| Fee: |
No Cost! |
Come and learn a new skill! The Computer Access Program is open
for people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. You can
learn new things like: the Internet, Email, Word Processing, or
just the basics of the computer. We have assistive technology
to help you use the computer to the best of your ability!
Call Michael at 477-8030 for more information or email him at michael@cpalberta.com.
- Volunteer Opportunities
There are many volunteer opportunities available with the CPAA in Edmonton. If you are interested in volunteering or want to find out more about available opportunities check out the volunteer page or contact :
Eve Hughes, Volunteer Coordinator
Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta
17231 105 Ave. Edmonton, AB T5S 1H2
Ph: (780) 477-8030 Fax: (780) 471-0855
Email: eve@cpalberta.com
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Recreation and Leisure Partners
Between
Friends Club
Bingo Dome Lounge
Calgary Cerebral
Palsy Association
Cara Stables
Carewest Fanning Centre
Clayburn Bowl
Disabled
Sailing
Easter
Seals Camp Horizon
Edmonton
General Community Outreach Program
Fairview Bowling Alley
Hillhurst
Sunnyside Community Association
Little
Bits Therapeutic Riding Association
Pace Kids
PALS
Rotary
Challenger Park
Southland Bus
Service
Stage Left
Productions
The
University of Calgary
Talisman
Centre
United
Way of Calgary and Area
Vocational Rehabilitation
Research Institute
Volunteer
Calgary
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