Getting Involved in the Community Definitions Getting involved in the community looks different for everyone. Not everyone aspires to be a community group leader or even participate in these activities. Some people like to attend a local coffee shop once a week to meet some friends, while others want to attend the gym and informally chat with other users. It is also known that many individuals would like to participate more in their community, but they are unsure of the resources in their local area, transport options, and who to reach out to when aiming to join a new group. Getting involved in the community is specific to an individual’s wants and needs. Knowing what you would like to do is a great place to start and then researching the local community to see what is available.
Recreation and Leisure is often only thought to be involved in sports, although this encompasses so much more. Recreation does include sports or activities such as swimming, running, dancing, and beep ball. This also includes less physically demanding recreation options such as reading, meditation, playing games, and walking. Leisure refers to free time. This is mostly associated with free time away from everyday tasks such as work, chores, etc. Leisure time can include recreation activities, but can also include relaxing, going to the movies, going clothes shopping, etc.
Guiding Questions Are you happy with your social network or are you looking for ways to meet new people? What does being involved in your community look like to you? Are you involved in any clubs/teams at school? Do you participate in any volunteer or advocacy groups in your community? What do you like to do for fun? Are there any activities you’ve never done but always wanted to try (e.g., ice skating, gymnastics, horseback riding, swimming)? How can you find local opportunities to try new activities? Resources Community Mapping and Making Connections (Perkins) This resource from Perkins School for the Blind explains how to use community mapping to find places, people, and activities in your area that match your interests. It also shows how building connections can help you get involved, try new things, and work toward your goals.
Recreation and Leisure if Blind or Low Vision (APH) This resource shares ideas and strategies to help people who are blind or have low vision to explore hobbies, sports, and other activities they enjoy. It explains that with the right tools, adaptations, and support, you can stay active, try new things, and participate fully in recreational activities.
Recreation Exploration Workshops (Hadley) This resource introduces different hobbies and leisure activities that people who are blind or have low vision can enjoy, such as art, reading, games, and staying active. It also shares tips, tools, and ideas to help you try new activities, stay involved, and find what you enjoy doing in your free time.
Getting to Know Your Community (Transition Tennessee) – An activity that allows students to explore what is available in their community.
Community Resource Mapping (Transition Tennessee) – An activity that helps students connect to resources available in their community. This can be used as a running log of various resources and recreation opportunities that become available or are discovered.
Planning for Community Living Worksheet (PDF) - A short activity designed to help students identify what community living skills they can do independently, require family support, and may require community service assistance.
Housing Transportation Community Resources Understanding the Law and Recreation – Handbook for Skill Development (PDF) – This resource explores housing, transportation, understanding the law, and recreation. Each topic area includes assessment, skill plan, and skill development activity/resources.
Recreation and Leisure Programs for Blind or Visually Impaired Individuals in TN – This screen-reader-accessible resource provides information on recreation and leisure programs for blind or visually impaired individuals in Tennessee. It also lists some nationwide summer camps for individuals with blindness or visual impairment.
