Brooklyn Park Embraces Winter With Food Aid, Aquatic Programs, And Focus On Inclusivity

Brooklyn Park Embraces Winter With Food Aid, Aquatic Programs, And Focus On Inclusivity

Brooklyn Park is gearing up for a bustling January, filled with community events that aim to foster inclusion, nourishment, and plenty of recreational fun. The Zanewood Recreation Center hosts 'Good in the 'Hood' on January 14, offering up to 30 pounds of food per individual and 15 pounds per dependent, ensuring that everyone, irrespective of age or situation, gets access to fresh dairy, produce, and meats. "Access to quality food is crucial," claims the official announcement, and with no sign-up required, it's a straightforward operation for those in need.

Registration is underway with adaptive swim programs like Aquafinners and Aqua, Fun, Fit kicking off in mid-January for different age groups. And for the frost-resistant, winter swim lessons are on the calendar, starting with registrations on January 9. Opportunities, however, are "first come, first serve," as spots in these popular programs tend to fill up faster than the pools.

The city's Recreation & Parks department is also looking to expand its team, with a hiring call for Adaptive Skating Specialists. As the Zanewood Recreation Center expands its program offerings, these specialists will play a crucial role, in helping kids and adults with developmental disabilities glide confidently on ice. The hiring wage strikes a range between $13.91 and $25.24 per hour, evidence of the emphasis placed on quality inclusion services.

The All Abilities Resource Fair is slated for February 20. This event is the brainchild of a partnership between the city and District 279 Osseo Area School District, showcasing inclusive community resources for residents with unique needs and their caregivers. As Erin Bonikowske, Adaptive Recreation Specialist, told their bulletin, the fair's goal is "to provide individuals with disability-related needs, families, and caregivers the opportunity to learn about inclusive community resources, services, and programs."

SOURCE: hoodline