When most people think of Parks and Recreation, they picture playgrounds, trails, and the beautiful green spaces that make our city shine. While that’s a big part of the picture, the Parks and Recreation Department does so much more than maintain parks—it builds community.
From group sports leagues to social events for all ages, the department encourages connection, fitness, and fun. What truly sets Kyle apart, however, is its commitment to making recreation accessible for everyone.
Through Therapeutic Recreation and Inclusion Services, the department connects people of all abilities together through accessible recreation, promoting independence, confidence, and improving overall quality of life. Therapeutic Recreation Services include both adaptive and inclusive programs, facilitated by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS) and dedicated supporting staff.
At its core, the program offers more than just activities—it creates a welcoming space where participants gain new experiences, develop lifelong skills, and feel a true sense of belonging.
“This is one of the only programs of its kind in our area, and it’s filling a real gap,” said Christel Massaad, Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator. “It gives people opportunities they may not have had otherwise, and the confidence, friendships, and sense of belonging that come from that are truly life changing.”
Beyond adaptive programming, Kyle’s Therapeutic Recreation team also focuses on community integration—because it’s about more than cultivating communities, it’s about connecting them. The city offers modifications to existing recreation programs through individualized requests, reducing barriers to participation and ensuring that everyone can enjoy activities alongside their peers. Inclusive services are also available at citywide events, such as the Sensory Tent, which is a calming space that offers a low-stimulus retreat from the excitement of larger crowds, ensuring events remain accessible and welcoming for all attendees.
A centerpiece of the program is The Social Squad, a social club for individuals (15+) with disabilities that fosters connection, independence, and lifelong leisure skills. The Social Squad is designed to support participants through engaging, purposeful, and socially enriching activities, all within a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Past gatherings have included cake decorating workshops, guided nature walks, and Halloween-themed rug design projects, offering opportunities for self-expression, learning, and friendship. Each meet-up provides a chance for participants to explore new interests, build confidence, and strengthen their sense of community all while having fun and being unapologetically themselves.
Join us for our next Social Squad event:
October 21st: 6:30 – 8:00 PM
- Location: Steeplechase Park
- Activity: Unplug Kyle Event
- Admission Fees: Free
- Online registration Opens Sept 20th. Register here.
Beyond social programming, the department also supports athletes through the Kyle Knighthawks, the city’s Special Olympics team. Offering training in soccer, bocce, swimming, and bowling, the Knighthawks empower athletes of all abilities with opportunities to train, compete, and grow in confidence while building strong bonds with teammates.
This fall marks an exciting season with the first-ever Special Olympics Bowling program, hosted at EVO Entertainment Kyle. Practices are Thursdays from October 2 through November 13, 2025, 6:00–7:30 PM.
This year, the Parks and Recreation Department held their first Adaptive Field Day on July 29, which featured adapted games, creative play stations, sensory-friendly spaces, and plenty of encouragement. The event, designed for individuals with varying physical and cognitive abilities, was made possible through support from Texas State University Therapeutic Recreation students, who helped facilitate activities such as sponge relays, hula hoop races, adaptive archery and more.
“We’ve received such positive feedback from participants and families expressing immense gratitude, and it’s incredibly heartwarming to see the joy these programs bring and to be a part of it,” Massaad said. “Witnessing this community in action serves as a reminder to our team to show up wholeheartedly, to never give up, be ourselves, and to always have fun in everything we do. Not every city has the opportunity to offer programs like this, and it’s such a privilege to help create something so meaningful.”
Another highlight of the program is the Adaptive All Abilities Dance Series, featuring seasonal celebrations that bring community members together for themed gatherings throughout the year. Each dance is carefully designed to meet diverse sensory and physical needs, utilizing accessible venues, sensory-friendly spaces, and activities that encourage engagement at every comfort level. Volunteers and staff help create a joyful and inclusive atmosphere filled with music, dancing, and connection—making these events a favorite among participants and families alike.
The next therapeutic recreation event happens this Friday, Oct. 17. Join us for a spooktacular night at the Halloween Boogie for All Abilities Dance! Wear your best friendly costume and get ready for a night of fun. This event is open to all ages and abilities. Parents and guardians are welcome to drop off participants, while those requiring additional support may bring an attendant. Please note that all participants and accompanying adults must register online before the event. We can’t wait to see you there!
Through programs like the Social Squad, Adaptive Field Day, All Abilities Dances, and the Kyle Knighthawks, the City of Kyle continues to demonstrate that recreation is for everyone—breaking barriers, fostering inclusion, and creating a community where all residents can thrive, play, and belong.
