DCR Universal Access Program Summer 2024 Schedule

Here, you can see the Summer 2024 edition of the Universal Access Program newsletter and program schedule.

DCR’s Universal Access Program is dedicated to providing outdoor recreation opportunities in Massachusetts state parks for visitors of all abilities. Accessibility is achieved through site improvements, specialized adaptive recreation equipment, and adaptive recreation programs. We publish a program schedule seasonally highlighting adaptive recreation programs at Massachusetts state parks.

Here, you can see the Summer 2024 edition of the Universal Access Program newsletter and program schedule. Please visit our adaptive program schedule to see our current programming. If you would like to receive a copy of the program schedule when it is published seasonally, please contact us to get on our mailing list.

General information

The Universal Access Program (UAP) offers adaptive, accessible programming seasonally at state parks, pools, and rinks. We partner throughout the year with All Out Adventures, Easterseals Massachusetts, Holyoke Rows, and Waypoint Adventure to provide programs statewide. Our structured programs feature adaptive equipment, professional staff, and instruction and support. Friends, family members, and companions are encouraged to take part in our programs alongside participants with disabilities.

Our Spring Program season runs from April through May, our Summer Program season runs from June through August, our Fall Program season runs from September through October, and our Winter Program season runs from November through March.  If you would like to get on our mailing list to be notified of upcoming events and activities, please contact us.

A current release form is required for all of our programs, and you must pre-register with the organization running the program. You must also meet the essential eligibility criteria and follow our program attendance guidelines for the activity. Essential eligibility criteria (EEC) help you understand the skills you need to participate in our programs. For risk management considerations, everyone who attends our programs must complete a release form and meet these EEC, including caregivers and group staff. You can meet the EEC independently, or with the help of a caregiver (family member, friend, or PCA).

Several organizations also offer adaptive programming at DCR locations on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment. These are called supported programs. These supported programs may have their own requirements and release forms. Please contact the providing organization for more information about a supported program.

If you need an accommodation at a program, like an ASL interpreter or a sighted guide, please let the program provider know when you're registering. Please allow at least two weeks (14 days) advance notice for accommodation requests. Program providers may not be able to fulfill last-minute requests.

Rowing with Holyoke Rows

Rowing

This program, operated by Holyoke Rows, is free to individuals with people with disabilities and their families. While receiving instruction and the opportunity to practice, rowers also have the chance to participate in competitions! Our program serves people of all capabilities, from beginners to leisure rowers, to competitive racers!

Connecticut River at 25 Jones Ferry Rd., Holyoke, MA

Thursdays, by appointment only

• June 6
• June 13
• June 20
• June 27
• July 11
• July 18
• July 25
• August 1
• August 8
• August 15
• August 22

Cost: Free

To Register: Call Holyoke Rows at [phone] or email [e-mail]  

Pool Program with Easterseals

Swimming

Join us for an adapted recreational swim program! Led by aquatics instructors and a lifeguard, groups will participate in fun safety activities and water games that maximize independence in the water. This swim program is a six-week, recreational program and does not provide swim lessons. The swim program is open to individuals with disabilities of all ages and their families. This is a special opportunity to swim with new friends before the pool opens to the public!

Bennett Field Pool, 1260 Main St., Worcester

Tuesdays:  Children 5-12 (9-9:45 a.m.); Children 13+ & Adults (10-10:45 a.m.)

• July 9
• July 16
• July 23
• July 30
• August 6
• August 13

Fridays: Children 5-12 (9-9:45 a.m.); Children 13+ & Adults (10-10:45 a.m.)

• July 12
• July 19
• July 26
• August 2
• August 9
• August 16

Cost: Free

To Register: Call Patrick Remy, Easterseals Massachusetts, at  [phone] or email [e-mail]  

Cycling, Kayaking & Canoeing with Waypoint Adventure

Tandem Cycling

During Waypoint Adventure’s Tandem Cycling Program, small groups work together to cycle the back roads and bike paths of Massachusetts. Participants are encouraged to bring lunch and socialize on the trail and during breaks. We have a variety of bikes that offer different amounts of support.  We will match up two riders (a Captain and a Stoker). The Captain will be the leader and the Stoker is the other half of the team, who works with the Captain to enjoy the adventure of tandem cycling.  Some of our bikes are more traditional upright bicycles that require teamwork and balance. We also have other models that are side by side or recumbent, low to the ground, tandems. Some have two wheels and require more balance while others are quite sturdy with three wheels and supportive seats.

Herter Park, Artesani Playground, 1255 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA

Friday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

• July 26

Wompatuck State Park, 204 Union St, Hingham, MA

Friday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

• August 16

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. 

To Register: Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Kayaking & Canoeing

Enjoy small group kayaking and canoeing with Waypoint Adventure!  Join them at historic Walden Pond State Reservation, , on Spot Pond at Middlesex Fells Reservation, at Cochituate State Park, and on Magazine Beach as well as Waltham at the Charles River Reservation.  Experience the fun and serenity of being on the water while being part of a supportive community

Kayaking at Walden Pond State Reservation, 915 Walden St, Concord, MA

Thursdays, 1–3 p.m.

• July 11
• July 18
• July 25
• August 29

Tuesdays, 1–3 p.m.

• August 6
• August 13
• August 20
• August 27

Canoeing at Middlesex Fells Reservation, 4 Woodland Rd, Stoneham, MA

Thursdays, 1–3:30 p.m.

• July 11
• July 18
• July 25

Canoeing at Harold Parker State Forest, Collins Lot, 33 Harold Parker Rd. (east of Harold Parker Rd & Gould Rd. intersection), Andover, MA

Tuesdays, 1–3:30 p.m.

• August 6
• August 13
• August 20
• August 27

Kayaking at Cochituate State Park, 43 Commonwealth Rd, Natick

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1–3 p.m.

• July 23
• August 1

Kayaking at Charles River Reservation, Magazine Beach, 668 Memorial Dr., Cambridge

Tuesday, 1–3 p.m.

• July 9

Kayaking at Charles River Reservation, Waltham, Public Boat Launch, Woerd Ave.

Saturday, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. & 1-3 p.m.

• August 10

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need.

To Register: Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com 

Cycling, Kayaking & Canoeing with All Out Adventures

Cycling

Join All Out Adventures for accessible cycling in Central and Western Mass locations including: the Norwottuck Rail Trail in Hadley, and the Blackstone River Greenway (in Blackstone and Worcester.  We have an array of cycles that can accommodate riders of all abilities from stable, comfortable recumbent trikes to handcycles to tandem recumbent trikes to wheelchair tandems. This program is open to people with disabilities and their families and friends. Instruction, equipment, and assistance as needed are provided. Sign up for a 1 to1.5-hour time slot during the program time.

Blackstone River Greenway, 85 Canal St, Blackstone, MA

Wednesday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• June 19

Blackstone River Greenway at the Blackstone River Valley Heritage Center, 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester, MA

Wednesday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• June 26

Norwottuck Rail Trail, 12 Railroad St., Hadley, MA

Fridays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

• June 14
• June 21
• June 28
• July 12
• July 19
• July 26
• August 9
• August 16
• August 23
• August 30

Cost:  $5 per participant. Scholarships are available for those who need them.

To Register: Call All Out Adventures at [phone] or email [e-mail]

Kayaking & Canoeing

Join All Out Adventures for accessible paddling at various locations across Massachusetts including Cheshire Reservoir (off the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail),  Hopkinton State Park, DAR State Forest in Goshen, Dunn State Park in Gardner, and Quinsigamond State Park in Worcester! Paddlers will travel together in a small pod exploring the lakes and ponds. Instruction, adaptive equipment, and assistance (as needed) provided. Sign up for a 1.25-hour time slot during the program time.

Kayaking on the Cheshire Reservoir at Farnam’s Crossing, 50 Farnams Rd, Cheshire, MA

Saturday, 11:00 a.m.–3 p.m.

• June 29

Kayaking at Hopkinton State Park, 164 Cedar St., Hopkinton

Tuesdays, 10:00 a.m. -3 pm

• July 9
• July 16
• July 23
• July 30
• August 6
• August 13
• August 20
• August 27

Canoeing and Kayaking at DAR State Forest, 78 Cape St, Goshen

Wednesdays, 9:45 a.m.–3:15 p.m.

• July 10
• July 17
• July 24
• July 31
• August 7
• August 14
• August 21
• August 28

Canoeing at Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St., Gardner

Thursdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

• July 11
• July 18
• July 25

Kayaking at Regatta Point in Quinsigamond State Park,  10 N. Lake Ave., Worcester

Thursdays, 10 a.m.-2:45 p.m.

• August 1
• August 8
• August 15
• August 22
• August 29

Cost: $8 per participant. Scholarships are available for those who need them.

To Register: Call All Out Adventures at [phone] or email [e-mail]

ADA Day at Dunn State Park

The Massachusetts Statewide Independent Living Council  invites you to ADA Day at Dunn State Park on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 11a.m.-3 p.m. 

Celebrate 34 years of the Americans with Disabilities Act!!

Hike, kayak, swim, listen to music and hang out with friends.  Light lunch and drinks provided.

DCR's Universal Access Program will host accessible hiking and kayaking with partners from All Out Adventures and  Waypoint Adventure.

ASL will be provided for those needing assistance accessing accessible activities. Parking is limited so carpooling is encouraged!

Location: Dunn State Park,  289 Pearl St., Gardner, MA

RSVP online by July 18^th

Questions? Email MASILC: [e-mail]

Summer Adaptive Ice Skating & BBQ in E. Boston

Monday, Aug. 26, 2024, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Join Universal Access for some cool summer skating at Porrazzo Memorial Rink, and then enjoy a waterfront barbeque just outside the rink on neighboring Constitution Beach (courtesy of FMC).

On the ice you can use your wheelchair, an ice sled, a skate walker, ice grippers, or conventional skates. Spin, slide and play gently competitive games! Admission and equipment are provided free of cost. This program is for individuals with disabilities, their families, and friends.

You will need to pre-register for this program. Call [phone] or email [e-mail] to reserve a time.

The rink is cold, so please dress warmly and bring your winter coat, gloves or mittens, and a hat! Face masks are welcome and appreciated.

Summer 2024 supported programs

Several organizations also offer adaptive programming at DCR locations on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment. These are called supported programs. These supported programs may have their own requirements and release forms. Please contact the providing organization for more information about a supported program. Each providing organization has their own requirements for programming, including EEC and program attendance guidelines. Please check their website or inquire for more details when registering for a program.

Golfing with Massachusetts Para-Golfers Association 

The Massachusetts ParaGolfer Association (MPGA) promotes recreational and competitive adaptive for players with visual impairments, amputations, loss of mobility, and spinal cord injuries.  MPGA provides adaptive golf lessons, recreational programs, and competitive events. Lessons are private and always free and we offer flexible dates and times. Please make a reservation in advance by calling or texting Steve [phone].

Website: mpga.club

Locations: DCR Golf Courses

• Ponkapoag Golf Course, 2167 Washington Street, Canton, MA,
• Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course, 190 Park Rd, Weston, MA

Contact: Steve Kuketz, [e-mail], [phone] 

Golfing with Golf for All

Golf for All runs year-round programming for veterans, people with autism, Parkinson’s Disease, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, cerebral palsy, golfers with amputations, golfers with visual impairments, and more. Golf instruction is tailored to suit the specific needs of each participant and is taught by PGA Professionals who have successfully completed a certification process for teaching golfers with adaptive needs. Golfers of all abilities and gender are welcome, and no previous experience is necessary. During each clinic, golfers are provided with instruction, balls, adaptive equipment, and vehicles, as needed.

Website: golfforall.org

Locations: DCR Golf Courses

• Ponkapoag Golf Course, 2167 Washington Street, Canton, MA,
• Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course, 190 Park Rd, Weston, MA

Contact: Fred Corcoran, Exec. Director,  [e-mail], [phone]

Sailing with Community Boating, Inc. 

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Community Boating allows individuals to take responsibility for their learning, push themselves to overcome challenges, and experience the freedom sailing offers. With top-notch instruction and quality equipment, the program provides support and encouragement to individuals who might not otherwise be able to sail.

For an affordable annual fee, members can reserve Sailing Lessons or Guided Recreational Sails customized to meet individual needs. The time on the water is priceless. One-on-one instruction allows members to progress at their own pace and develop a thorough understanding of sailing as well as track their progress towards goals within individualized curricula. Members include veterans, individuals with visual impairments, children with developmental disabilities, adults with chronic injury or illness, and many more.

Website: community-boating.org/accessible

Location: Charles River Esplanade in the Charles River Reservation, 21 David G Mugar Way, Boston, MA

Dates:  May 1–October 15

Times: Afternoons and weekends: see scheduling page for appointment times

Annual Membership: $50 or reduced fee of $1 upon request

Eligibility:  Any individual who needs additional assistance

Contact:  [e-mail], [phone]

Cycling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Yoga, Yard Games & Golf with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers

Cycling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Yoga & Yard Games

Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) will be offering a variety of adaptive sport programs at the McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports at Nickerson State Park starting May 14^th.  The McGraw Center is a unique partnership between SASC and DCR. Spaulding staff provide equipment, adaptations, and support. Programs are open to individuals of all ages in the community who are living with disabilities. Pre-registration for all activities is required.

Location:  McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports, Nickerson State Park, Brewster, MA

Back on Course-Boston

SASC will also be offering a return to golf program designed for those who are ready to play between 4-9 consecutive holes on the course.  Prior participation in our Back in the Swing (BITS) series is helpful as a pre-requisite. Coaching and golf etiquette guidance provided by SASC Golf Pro. Bring companion if assistance needed with transfers, cart driving or personal hygiene needs. Adaptive golf cart will be provided.

Location: Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course, 190 Park Rd, Weston, MA

Dates/Time: 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

• June 27
• July 25
• August 29

Cost: $40 per session

Visit SASC’s On-line Calendar for McGraw Center and Back on Course Programs

Website: sasc.spauldingrehab.org

Contact:  [e-mail], [phone]

Water sports with AccesSportAmerica

AccesSportAmerica is offering adaptive watersports at Malibu Beach on Boston Harbor in Dorchester. 

• Windsurfing-Seated and standing adaptations with a full range of tandem, catamaran, and single boards
• Hawaiian Outrigger Canoeing-Three, four person canoes with paddle adaptations
• Stand Up Paddling-Single, double and 8-person stand up boards with seats and standers
• Kayaking-Single and double kayaks with adaptive paddles

Each sport is adapted to fit every individual’s unique needs. AccesSport trainers, interns, and volunteers are on site.

Athletes can sign up as an individual or programs can send groups. Individual sessions will include four athletes, and groups will be 6-10. 

Website: goaccess.org

Location:  Malibu Beach,  68 Denny St., Dorchester, MA

Dates & Times: July & August; Tuesday- Friday by appointment

Cost:   Individuals $50/session; Groups $120/session

Contact:  [e-mail]; (978) 7906-2960

Beach:Ability!

Join Triangle, Inc. on Saturday, August 10, 2024

This family-friendly event is accessible, free, and open to the public!  Pack your towel, sunscreen, each umbrella, and sandals and join the Triangle, Inc. community for a fun day in the sun!

When: Saturday, August 10, 2024
11a.m. – 3p.m.
Kayaks will be available from 11am-2pm with our friends from Piers Park Sailing Center!

Where: Constitution Beach
East Boston, MA 02128
Near the Orient Heights MBTA Stop

Register on-line by August 4th

All-Ability Day at Revere Beach Reservation!

You are invited for an accessible day at the beach, featuring sand and floating beach wheelchairs, for all to enjoy a day of fun in the sun!  Lunch will be provided for the first 100 people who register. 

Where: Revere Beach Reservation
Oak Island Bathhouse at 462 Revere Beach Boulevard (Entry #36)

When: Saturday, August 17, 2024
10a.m. – 2p.m.

Register on-line by August 13, to ensure your FREE LUNCH! Register on Community Pass at All Abilities Day Out at Revere Beach Registration 

To Learn More: Visit Revere Parks and Recreation Department:  www.revererec.org

Questions? Call 781-286-8190

Last updated:	June 25, 2024