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(9.29) What kinds of leisure activities does a regional center help people with developmental disabilities enjoy?

(9.29) What kinds of leisure activities does a regional center help people with developmental disabilities enjoy?

The regional center must respect your choices and help you enjoy your leisure time.[1]Section 4502.1. Leisure and recreation are an important part of life. You can do many things, like:

  • Play or watch sports.
  • Play sports with non-disabled people in an event or league.
  • Play sports in the Special Olympics or other league for people with disabilities.
  • Go to a concert or an amusement park or a restaurant.
  • Go shopping or to a gym, park, or beach.

You know best what you need to enjoy your free time. Think about the things you want to do. Include them, with the supports you need, in your IPP.

The regional center does not have to pay for the activity you want. But, it does have to give you the supports you need to do the activity. For example, if you want to go to a baseball game, you need to buy your own ticket, food, and souvenirs. But the regional center can pay for someone to go with you, and for transportation, if needed for your leisure activities goal in your IPP.

If you need a reasonable accommodation, the regional center can help you get it from the person who organizes the activity. If the accommodation is too much of a burden, or if it changes the nature of the activity, the regional center can provide the accommodation. The regional center can also train and teach you social or mobility skills, or provide transportation services, so you can visit with friends.

References
1 Section 4502.1.