VISION

Description:
Kinetic Kids are children from all walks of life who experience the daily struggles of life-long challenges including but not limited to cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Down syndrome, autism, Asperger?s syndrome, brain tumors, cancers, or other neurological disorders. These children have the desire to perform age-appropriate recreational and sports activities like their typically developing peers. They are children who may use wheelchairs as their primary mobility or they may use a walker or crutches. They may also be independent with mobility but for other reasons, are limited in their participation from recreational activities with their peer group.

Our organization was established to provide health, recreational, and educational services to these children and their families. Our mission is to provide unique experiences through physical and creative activities in a supportive environment to children with special needs who may otherwise be excluded. We do not have a specific facility or location. Our programs are offered throughout the city at a variety of locations.

Our organization was developed by and is run by licensed therapists (Occupational and Physical)and qualified experienced instructors. Kinetic Kids succeeds with volunteers. We strive to provide a one-on-one buddy/volunteer system for every program provided to ensure a quality experience. YOUR ROLE AS A VOLUNTEER: to assist ?Kinetic Kids? in reaching their highest potential in the activity they are participating in, while maintaining a safe and fun environment for all. You need no experience or expertise, just a willingness to help and a desire to make a difference!

History:
In 2001, Kinetic Kids was founded by Tracey Fontenot, P.T. and Kacey Wernli, P.T. based on the belief that all children regardless of ability should have access to recreational, group, and individual exercise options to maximize each child?s potential for movement. With a humble beginning of just one program which served 12 children and their families, Kinetic Kids has grown tremendously in six years. We have served over 350 children through 34 programs and anticipate offering 47 programs and serving 850 kids in 2007! Class offerings include t-ball, basketball, gymnastics, cheer leading, swimming, music, Kindermusik, dance, art, outdoor explorer, sign language, wheelchair sports, flag football and Mommy & Me gymnastics. Kinetic Kids also provides the community educational opportunities through our "Try It Before You Buy It" equipment and resource day. Additionally, our staff participate in local elementary schools "discovering disabilities days."

Contact people:

Natalie Weiblen-Henry, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email) Kacey Wernli, Executive Director, (phone), (email) Tracey Fontenot, Executive Director, (phone), (email)

Office fax number: (210) 699-1307

Address:

P.O. Box 690993 San Antonio, TX 78269

Web Site: http://www.kinetickidstx.org

Directions:

This is a mailing address only. Our programs are offered throughout the city at a variety of locations. For specific directions to a volunteer opportunity, please contact the volunteer coordinator.