Adaptive Recreation

recreation programs

adaptive recreation

community & recreation facilities

neighborhood connections

neighborhood parks

career services

human services

publications

upcoming events

park permits

divisions & programs

dept. home

Endorsements/Accreditations
AbilityFirst carries the endorsement of the Social Service Department of the City of Los Angeles. All centers are licensed by the State of California Department of Social Services. Vocational Services programs are accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities(CARF) and the Resident Camps are accredited by the American Camping Association (ACA).

Background
The needs of children with physical disabilities in California were first recognized by the Rotary Clubs at their International Convention at Los Angeles in 1926. Resolutions were adopted to form and support a California Crippled Children's Society and legislation, known as the Crippled Children's Act was introduced into the State Legislature to protect the interest of children with disabilities. In 1931, a small office at 4th and Hill Street in Los Angeles was the first home of Crippled Children's Society of Los Angeles (CCS). Lawrence L. Frank and Paul Dietrich, both Rotarians, were two of the original founders of the organization and they continued their loyal support throughout their lives. The name of Lawrence L. Frank still stands on the Pasadena Center and on the first adult vocational training center of the Society located in downtown Los Angeles.

An independent agency, AbilityFirst relies on its direct mail campaigns, program fees, support from United Way, fund raising efforts of its many support groups, and the generosity of many individuals. Costs of buildings and renovation of existing facilities are provided by wills and bequests. Persons with physical/developmental disabilities receive services offered by AbilityFirst regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex or handicapping condition.

For more information, please visit http://www.abilityfirst.org

AbilityFirst events:

The Adaptive Recreation program cooperates with Ability First in Pasadena to provide monthly dances/ socials for adults with disabilities. Please contact Jackie Scott ( Adaptive Recreation Specialist with the City of Pasadena) at (626) 744-7257 or Michael Barkyoumb, Director of Ability First at (626) 449-5661 to obtain a schedule and to sign up in advance. No tickets are sold at the door for these events.

For more information call (626) 744-7257 or email Jackie Scott jackiescott@cityofpasadena.net