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
  •         Community Garden  
                              (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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
  • Community Garden


    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
  • Community Garden
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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.

    VRRI: (403) 284-2231
    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
  • Community Garden
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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)
  • Horseback riding
    (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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.

      Contact the CPAA Calgary office at (403) 543-1161 for schedule and location details



  • Members Support Group

            
                                (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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


  • (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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
  • PALS vist
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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
  • Dance Mentor
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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
  • Water Play
    (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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

    Places:

    Mondays: Cardel Place, 11950 Country Village Link NE
    Wednesdays: YMCA Shawnessy, 333 Shawville Blvd. SE

    Cost: $30 per individual
    Notes: Contact the CPAA Calgary office at (403) 543-1161 for further information



  • Massage Therapy
  • Massage Therapy
    (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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
     
    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

    For More Information or to Register Contact
    Kim Henye at:
    kim@cpalberta.com
    477-8030

     

  • Members Support Group


    (Click on Image to Enlarge)

    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


    For more information and details please contact Members' Support Group Coordinator Ralph Leibo at 433-4863



  • Computability Program


    (Click on Image to Enlarge)


    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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