Riverwalk’s Recreational Services program is a vibrant weekday community for adults ages 18–59 living with neurodiverse, intellectual and developmental disabilities — including Down syndrome and autism. Through outings, arts, movement, volunteering, and friendship, participants build life skills, confidence, and belonging, while their families gain trusted support and respite. It’s a place to grow, connect, and simply have a great day.
Why Choose Our Services?
We ensure both physical and cognitive stimulation through a diverse range of activities. From outings and musical entertainment to arts & crafts and daily exercise, every moment is designed to enrich lives.
Experience a spectrum of enriching activities designed to inspire and uplift adults.
Join a community that fosters socialization and a sense of belonging. Our trained staff of activity coordinators and assistants, create a vibrant atmosphere where your loved ones thrive.
Who Should Consider Our Services?
This program is built specifically for adults ages 18 to 59 with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome and autism spectrum disorder. It’s a supportive, peer-appropriate community designed around socialization, engagement, and independence. Families and caregivers looking for meaningful daytime programming and reliable respite find a real home here.
Life after 22: a meaningful next step
When school-based services end around age 22, many families feel a sudden gap — and a hard question: what now? Riverwalk’s recreational program is a warm, purposeful answer. Instead of long, unstructured days at home, your family member spends the day among friends, exploring the community, learning skills, and doing things they love. We’ll help you plan the transition and understand every step.
What to Expect
Activity Calendar
A Glimpse of Our Daily Program
What do participants do each day?
Days blend fun and growth, with a rhythm of activity that keeps everyone engaged and connected. Programming emphasizes socialization, cognitive engagement, emotional and spiritual well-being, and plenty of joy. Favorites include:
- Active games and wellness activities that get everyone moving
- Community outings and field trips that broaden horizons
- Arts and crafts that encourage self-expression
- Rhythmic music and dance sessions that lift spirits
- Interactive games that build connection and teamwork
- Volunteering that fosters purpose and community pride
- Pet visits and other enriching, feel-good experiences
→Daily Activities
- Engaging active games that promote physical and mental well-being.
- Thoughtfully planned community outings to broaden horizons.
- Opportunity to bring a sack lunch from home, ensuring dietary preferences are met.
- Enrichment activities that inspire growth and discovery.
→Elevated Enrichment
- Fascinating field trips that broaden perspectives.
- Entertaining sessions that spark joy and laughter.
- Interactive games that foster connection and camaraderie.
- Creative arts & crafts that encourage self-expression.
- Rhythmic music and dance sessions that lift spirits.
- Meaningful community volunteerism to give back.
- Heartwarming pet visits that bring comfort and companionship.
Program Structure and Cost
The recreational program runs as a five-hour day from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, with scheduling arranged monthly so families can plan ahead. The cost is $80 per day and includes transportation to outings, beverages, and all activity supplies. Participants bring their own lunch each day.
| Detail | What to know |
|---|---|
| Ages served | Adults 18–59 with intellectual and developmental disabilities |
| Hours | 5-hour day, 9:30 AM – 2:30 PM |
| Cost | $80 per day |
| Included | Transportation to outings, beverages, activity supplies |
| Bring | A packed lunch each day |
| Scheduling | Arranged on a monthly basis |
Ask our team about financial assistance you may qualify for.
How is this different from your senior program?
They’re two separate programs for two different communities. Senior Day Services supports older adults, often living with dementia or other age-related conditions, with nursing oversight and a slower-paced day. The recreational program is built for adults 18–59 with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with age- and interest-appropriate activities, community outings, and its own daily structure. Each is designed so participants are among true peers.
Getting to the program and what to bring
Transportation to program outings is included, and our team is happy to talk through getting to and from the center. Each day, participants bring a packed lunch; we provide beverages, and everything needed for the day’s activities. If your family member has specific dietary or support needs, let us know and we’ll plan together.
Local resources for families
Navigating disability services in DuPage County can be a lot. Alongside our program, these trusted organizations can help — and we’re glad to point you in the right direction:
- Illinois DHS – Division of Developmental Disabilities (PUNS registration)
- The Arc of Illinois and local chapters
- DuPage County Health Department — developmental services
Why families choose Riverwalk
Riverwalk has served the Naperville community since 1983, and in 2023 we launched this recreational program to meet a clear, unmet need for adults with disabilities — especially those who had aged out of school services. As a trusted local nonprofit recognized by the Illinois Department of Human Services and partnered with the Naperville Park District, we bring decades of care experience to a program built entirely around your family member’s growth, joy, and belonging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about our Day Program for Adults with Disabilities
Who is the recreational day program for?
It’s a daytime program for adults ages 18–59 living with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome and autism. It’s built for socialization, life-skills growth, and community engagement — a supportive place to spend the day while caregivers work or rest.
My child is aging out of school at 22 — what comes next?
Many families feel a gap when school-based services end at 22. Our program offers a meaningful weekday option: outings, arts, life skills, volunteering, and friendship in a supportive setting. Schedule a tour and we’ll help you plan the transition and explain enrollment.
What does the program cost and what's included?
The program is $80 per day for a five-hour day (9:30 AM–2:30 PM), and includes transportation to outings, beverages, and activity supplies. Scheduling is arranged monthly. Ask us about financial assistance you may qualify for.
Is transportation provided, and do participants bring lunch?
Transportation to program outings is included. Participants bring their own lunch each day, while beverages are provided. If you have questions about dietary needs or getting to the center, our team is glad to help you plan.
How do we enroll or visit?
Call 630-357-8166 or complete our contact form to book a tour. You’ll meet the team, see the activities, and get details on scheduling, cost, and any assistance. We’ll guide you through registration so the first day feels welcoming.
Enroll in Recreational Services
Thank you for your interest in our Recreational Services.
1. Intake Appointment
Once you have scheduled your appointment, please complete the Intake Form in section 2 below.