Rec Connect - Program Information

Welcome to Rec Connect!
Rec Connect is brought to you through a Tri-Town partnership between the Northborough, Southborough and Shrewsbury Recreation Departments. Our goal is to offer engaging recreation and social opportunities to our community members with diverse abilities.

This adaptive program structure is designed for participants with disabilities and their families and friends to come together and build meaningful relationships while enjoying recreational opportunities, leisure activities, events and community outings. All Rec Connect programs are staff supported to ensure a structured and welcoming environment.

Rec Connect programs will be offered seasonally, and on an ongoing basis. Check back often for newly added options!

Program categories may include:
Family Nights - These events are designed for the whole family! This is a great opportunity to network with other Rec Connect families while enjoying an activity.
Adaptive Programs - Seasonal activities like gym games, tennis, board game clubs, art or cooking might be offered. Age guidance will apply.
Travelers - Community outings for those ages 16+ will be held in small groups on various days of the week and at varying times. Participants will register for individual events based on their interests and schedule.
Special Events/Socials - These events are a place where people of all abilities can celebrate together and will include dances, holiday parties, themed events and more - like Sneaker Prom.

Guidelines and Expectations for Participation:
Note: Guidelines for participation outlined here are set to ensure the safety of participants and staff members. If you have any questions about the appropriateness of the program for your family member, please contact the Shrewsbury Recreation Department and speak with Carly or Laurel.

Rec Connect participants are able to follow familiar two-step directions; require minimal assistance with activities of daily living including toileting and eating; have the ability to stay with the group and understand/follow safety guidelines; manage their own behavior with minimal to moderate staff intervention and are able to make simple choices. Participants must also have the desire to participate in sessions.

All participants are required to have an up to date participant support questionnaire completed and on file before drop off for the program is allowed. Providing information upfront allows the Recreation Departments to plan proactively for each participant’s successful transition to community programs.

If a participant requires additional support for complex behavioral or medical purposes, their family is welcome to provide a caregiver or therapist to accompany them as a volunteer, after completion of a CORI background check with the Recreation Department. For certain events, attending caregivers may be required to register and cover the cost of a ticket or meal.
The Recreation Department(s) are not able to provide 1:1 support staff at this time.

Registration for programs will be held through the Shrewsbury Recreation Department for ease of communication and a central database for registration tracking. Click Here for Shrewsbury Recreation.

Upcoming Fall Events 2026

Registration Coming Soon!

Apple Picking
Sate/Time: Saturday, September 26th 9:00AM-11:30AM
Location: Tougas Family Farm, Northborough
Let's enjoy a classic fall favorite and pock some apples together! Transportation from Shrewsbury Recreation, small bag of apples and a hayride are included in the cost. Please bring your own money for additional purchases.

Halloween Bash
Date/Time: Saturday, October 31st 6:00-8:30PM
Location: Shrewsbury Senior Center
Come watch a friendly Halloween movie with us while enjoying pizza and ice cream sundae buffet. Costumes encouraged!

Sneaker Prom
Date/Time: Saturday, November 7th 6:00-8:00PM
Location: Shrewsbury Senior Center
Our favorite night of the dinner and dancing is back! Come as formal as you’d like but wear your favorite sneakers!

Friendsgiving
Date/Time: Friday, November 13th 5:30-7:30PM
Location: Southborough Senior Center
Celebrate the season of gratitude with an evening of great food, friendship, and community. Join us as we gather around the table to share a delicious, seasonal meal with friends.

Winter Wonderland
Date/Time: Friday, December 11 4:00-8:00PM
Location: Southwick Zoo, Mendon
Over 4 million lights and dazzling displays turn the zoo into a Winter Wonderland – come with us to check it out! Transportation, entry and one hot chocolate per person included. Depart and return to Shrewsbury Recreation building.

Guidelines and Expectations for Participation:
Note: Guidelines for participation outlined here are set to ensure the safety of participants and staff members. If you have any questions about the appropriateness of the program for your family member, please contact the Shrewsbury Recreation Department and speak with Carly or Laurel.

Rec Connect participants are able to follow familiar two-step directions; require minimal assistance with activities of daily living including toileting and eating; have the ability to stay with the group and understand/follow safety guidelines; manage their own behavior with minimal to moderate staff intervention and are able to make simple choices. Participants must also have the desire to participate in sessions.

All participants are required to have an up to date participant support questionnaire completed and on file before drop off for the program is allowed. Providing information upfront allows the Recreation Departments to plan proactively for each participant’s successful transition to community programs.

If a participant requires additional support for complex behavioral or medical purposes, their family is welcome to provide a caregiver or therapist to accompany them as a volunteer, after completion of a CORI background check with the Recreation Department. For certain events, attending caregivers may be required to register and cover the cost of a ticket or meal.
The Recreation Department(s) are not able to provide 1:1 support staff at this time.

A big Thanks to the Fidrych Foundation, Friends of Southborough Recreation, Shrewsbury Credit Union and Donut NV

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