ADAPTIVE & INCLUSIVE PROGRAMMING
Federal Way Parks and Recreation is a cornerstone of adaptive & inclusive community engagement, offering a wide range of innovative and impactful inclusion programs. With a strong commitment to diversity and accessibility, we strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents to enjoy.
New to our programs? Click here to see our FAQs and learn more!
OUR MISSION
The Federal Way Inclusive Recreation Department is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and accessible community where people of all abilities can engage, connect, and thrive through inclusive recreational opportunities. We strive to remove barriers, promote diversity, and ensure that every individual has the chance to participate in enriching experiences that enhance their quality of life. We are committed to making all programs adaptive and accessible while creating opportunities for participants to try new things in a supportive environment.
Learn more by viewing our Inclusion Policy Here.
If you have any questions about accessibility in any of our programs, contact Sabrina Bates, Inclusion Coordinator, at
We want to hear from you!
Your feedback helps us improve. Please take a moment to share your thoughts in our adaptive feedback survey.
NEW TO OUR PROGRAMS? LEARN MORE BELOW!
If you are new, please follow these steps in order to get involved in our programs!
STEP 1: Complete an Inclusion Intake Form
If you are new to our programs and interested in participating, please complete an Inclusion Intake Form and review the steps below. This form helps us better understand your needs so we can provide a welcoming and supportive experience.- You may complete the form digitally or print and email it to Sabrina. Please allow 3–5 business days for processing.
- STEP 2: Set Up Your Online Account
All participants must have an online account to register and pay for programs. Once your intake form is received, Inclusive Recreation staff will create a City of Federal Way account for you.- You will receive an email with your username and instructions to reset your password once your account has been created. If you need assistance accessing your account, please visit the Federal Way Community Center front desk.
- STEP 3: Using DDA Respite Funds (If Applicable)
To use DDA respite in community settings funds for Federal Way Parks & Recreation programs, please contact your DSHS Case Resource Manager and let them know you plan to use the City of Federal Way as a provider.- Ask your case manager to send your participant’s updated Person-Centered Service Plan to Sabrina.Bates@federalwaywa.gov for signature, with the City of Federal Way listed. Once the plan is signed, Sabrina will follow up with the participant for next steps in registering using DDA funds.
- STEP 4: Register for Programs
You may register for programs online or in person at the Federal Way Community Center front desk. Please note that registrations are not accepted by phone or email. For a full list of available programs, visit our website or use the green button at the top of the page.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN OUR PROGRAMS
Our year-round programs offer a welcoming space for personal growth, social connection, and community involvement. Our programs run year-round with new catalogs and activities released each season: Seasonal Schedule: January–April, May–August, and September–December. Every program features new activities designed to enrich lives and foster independence. Programs are primarily held in the evenings for now.
Key Highlights:
- Staffing & Support: Our team maintains a 1:6 ratio for trips and a 1:8 ratio for in-house programs, ensuring quality supervision and guidance.
- Accessible Transportation: Convenient city shuttles provide transportation from the Community Center to all outings.
- Affordability: We aim to keep program costs low, and as a contracted Respite Service Provider through the Developmental Disabilities Association under DSHS, we accept individual respite funds to cover costs. Inclusion scholarships are also available to assist with fees.
Our programs encourage participants to build lasting relationships, develop life skills, and actively engage with the community, promoting a sense of autonomy and well-being.
What PROGRAMS We Offer
We offer an array of life-skill courses aimed at promoting independence, enhancing social skills, educating participants, and promoting a healthy life style. Course offerings include: Arts & Crafts, Therapeutic Drumming, Fitness, Theatre, Cooking, Special Olympic Sports, Social Clubs, Day Trips & Overnight Trips, Nutrition, Personal Safety, Job Skills, Personal Finance, Therapeutic Gardening, Reading Clubs, and more!
Browse the tabs below to learn more about our rotating programs.
You can also browse previous Activity Calendars below.
Program Registration Dates
- Summer Programs 2026: Registration opens March 10, 2026
- Fall Programs 2026: Registration opens August 11, 2026
- Winter/Spring 2027: Registration opens November 17, 2026
Note: Inclusion Programs fill up extremely fast on the day registration opens. We strongly encourage you to plan ahead and register as soon as possible to secure your spot.
See our Programs below!
All trips and outings are staffed with a 1:6 ratio. Transportation via our accessible City shuttle bus is provided from the Community Center to and from the destination.
Day Trips
Join us for exciting day trips around the Puget Sound! Explore scenic parks, museums, and local landmarks. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure. All fees include admission, and don’t forget to bring a sack lunch for the day’s adventure! Day Trips are staffed with a 1:6 ratio. Due to high demand, participants are only eligible to register for 6 trips. See trip descriptions below.
Dinner + A Movie
Spend your Friday night with good food and a great movie! We’ll begin the evening with dinner at a local restaurant or food court where you can choose from a variety of tasty options to satisfy your appetite. Afterward, we’ll head to the theater to enjoy a newly released movie. It’s a perfect way to unwind after a busy week! Bring $20 for dinner, and we’ll take care of the rest. Dinner and a Movie are staffed with a 1:6 ratio.
Brunch + A Movie
We’ll begin with a leisurely brunch at a local spot, where you can enjoy a relaxed meal and good conversation. Afterward, we’ll head to the movie theater for a fun afternoon film. Bring $20 for brunch and come ready to enjoy both a delicious meal and a great movie! Brunch and a Movie are staffed with a 1:6 ratio.
Join the Federal Way Thunder! Our Special Olympics programs offer exciting opportunities for individuals to participate in a variety of sports, develop their skills, and compete in local and regional competitions. See the list of offerings below.
Bowling (Ages 16+)
Offered: Year-round
Competitions: Fall
Basketball (Ages 16+)
Offered: November – February
Competitions: Special Olympics Youth Individual Skills
Swim Team (Ages 16+)
Offered: March – June
Competitions: Special Olympics
Soccer (Ages 16+)
Offered: March – June
Competitions: Special Olympics Youth Individual Skills
Flag Football (Ages 18+)
Offered: July – October
Competitions: Special Olympics Team Competitions
Golf (Ages 16+)
Offered: March – June
Competitions: Special Olympics Individual Skills
All participants that intend to participate in Special Olympics competitions must have a Special Olympics Athlete Portal with up to date medial information and waivers. See websites below for more information.
athlete portal: www.portals.specialolympics.org/
Programs are staffed 1:6 for trips and 1:8 for in-house programs or athletics.
Aktion Club
FREE self-advocacy club that has guest speakers every month!
Learn 4 Life Educational Classes
This classroom-style program focuses on different life-skills each month. Join as we learn to become more independent and gain crucial skills for our ever-changing world!
F Dub Social Club
Join our social club as we hang out on Friday evenings. We will have a different theme each week such as Bingo, Movie Night, and more. Light snacks will be provided.
Themed Dance Events
Featuring seasonal and holiday-inspired themes! Celebrate the spirit of each season or special occasion with lively music, dancing, and great company. Light snacks will be provided.
Pizza Pals Club
In-house pizza party with friends! Enjoy a movie and various other activities once a month. Pizza meal and refreshments are included.
Library Club
Explore the shelves of your local library once a month!
Programs are staffed 1:6 for trips and 1:8 for in-house programs or athletics.
Fitness Fundamentals
Let’s get fit together by joining today! We will work on our stability, strength, balance and more! Held at the Federal Way Community Center in the fitness area.
Sit n’ Fit
Move your body in our inclusive group fitness class! Options for seated or standing variations through a variety of low-impact exercises.
Path Explorers Walking Club
Join our all-abilities walking club during the summer! We will explore various trails and parks around Federal Way!
Adaptive Dance
Join our exciting dance class where fun and upbeat music sets the stage for individualized and group dance movements! Students will learn choreography, stage presence, and performance skills tailored to their unique abilities. Our goal is to make every dancer shine in a way that’s comfortable and inspiring for them.
Adaptive Water Aerobics
Join in for our integrated high energy aerobics class done in the Leisure Pool! Pool depth ranges from 3 ½ feet to 4 ½ feet. This class is open to the general public and is listed as a standard fitness class. Inclusion instructors will accompany participants during the class to provide extra support. Participants must be independent in changing needs or be accompanied by a caregiver.
Inclusive Open Swim
Open swim time and water walking in our FWCC Leisure Pool. Inclusion instructors will accompany participants during this time to provide extra support. This happens in a shared space during general public open swim times.
Rock Climbing Club
Join us at the FWCC Rock Wall and learn how to rock climb with skilled instructors.
Programs are staffed 1:6 for trips and 1:8 for in-house programs or athletics.
Crafts + Creativity
Unleash your creativity with new craft projects each month! Whether you’re experienced or a beginner, our sessions offer a fun, relaxed environment to explore your artistic side. Each month features exciting projects like painting, jewelry making, and DIY decor. All materials are provided, so just show up and create!
Friendship Theatre
Come try out for a role in our adaptive performances of known theatre shows such as Shrek, Little Mermaid Jr. and Annie Jr!
Summer 2026 Day Trips
Bonsai Fest
Experience the Pacific Bonsai Museum for their annual event. Enjoy hundreds of living works of art featuring four bonsai exhibitions, live bonsai-making demonstrations, a guided tour, games, food trucks, shopping, and more.
Pinot’s Palette
Join us for a creative outing where participants will follow a private guided, step-by-step painting experience and leave with their own masterpiece in a fun studio setting.
Climate Pledge Arena Tour
Discover behind-the-scenes at Climate Pledge Arena with a guided tour that takes you through exclusive areas like locker rooms, press bridges, private suites, and more while learning how this iconic Seattle venue operates and hosts world-class events.
Pierce County Planetarium
Explore the universe like never before at the 38-foot Science Dome, Washington’s largest planetarium. Be immersed in a 4K digital show that takes you through the night sky, the Solar System, and beyond.
Puyallup Farmers Market
Browse artisan foods, flowers, crafts, live music, local produce and tasty bites while soaking up the lively Saturday market atmosphere at downtown Pioneer Park. Bring shopping money to pick out some goodies.
Fall City Wallaby Ranch
Connect with kangaroos, wallabies, and adorable baby joeys up close during this interactive experience.
Zoo & Ice Cream
Spend the day visiting a variety of zoo animals and enjoy an ice cream treat after.
Lake Meridian Beach Day
Bring your lunch, swim suit and towel and enjoy the summer weather by the lake. Swim at a sandy beach, play lawn games, have a picnic and spend time with friends.
Sunflower Days Festival
Explore endless fields of bright sunflowers, pick your own blooms, visit farm animals, play games, enjoy photo spots, rides, and more at Knutson Farms.
Museum of Pop Culture
Dive into pop culture. Explore interactive exhibits celebrating music, science fiction, video games, film, and more inside a striking museum full of hands-on fun and iconic memorabilia.
Adaptive Kayaking
Experience the joy of tandem kayaking on a serene lake with our adaptive kayaking outing, in partnership with Outdoors for All. This inclusive adventure is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature on a summer day.
Tacoma Rainiers Game
Cheer on the Triple-A affiliate of the Seattle Mariners at Cheney Stadium for an evening game. Hot dog meal included.
Previous Activity Calendars
Nourish Network
Nourish Network a new initiative dedicated to building connection, compassion, and care in our community.
Meals in a Bag
Meals in a Bag is part of the Nourish Network initiative, providing monthly food support for individuals with disabilities and families experiencing financial hardship. By bringing donations and distribution directly to the Federal Way Community Center, the program removes transportation barriers and ensures access to nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals.
How Can I Help?
Donate non-perishable food items to the collection bins in the Federal Way Community Center lobby.
Contribute grocery store gift cards (Walmart, Safeway, WinCo, Fred Meyer, Target). Please drop off gift cards in an envelope labeled “Nourish Network” at the Community Center front desk.
Volunteer with Helping Hands to help pack and distribute meal bags.
Looking for Help?
If you or your family need food support, you can sign up through our online form or request assistance at the Community Center front desk.
Each meal bag includes simple, ready-to-prepare ingredients that promote independence and nutrition.
Helping Hands Volunteer Services
Helping Hands is a volunteer team made up of individuals with disabilities who give back to their community through service projects, events, and cleanup efforts. Participants gain job and social skills while building inclusion and pride through teamwork.
How Can I Help?
Community organizations or events needing volunteer support can submit a Helping Hands Volunteer Request Form to partner with the program. You can also support by donating supplies or recognizing volunteers at upcoming projects.
Looking for Help?
Individuals interested in joining Helping Hands can register for the summer session of the Inclusion Program to learn job and volunteer skills. Graduates are invited to participate in year-round volunteer projects. Watch for registration details on the Federal Way Parks & Recreation website.
Wishing Tree
The Wishing Tree is a seasonal giving program that connects generous community members with local families and individuals facing financial hardship. Each tag on the tree represents a wish from someone in need, helping make the holiday season brighter and more inclusive for all.
How Can I Help?
Take a tag from the Wishing Tree in the Federal Way Community Center lobby and purchase 1–3 requested items (up to $75 total).
Donate gift cards to local stores and drop them off at the front desk labeled “Wishing Tree.”
Return all gifts unwrapped with the original tag by December 16 so they can be wrapped and distributed before the holidays.
Looking for Help?
Requests have closed for the 2025 season.
Inclusion Scholarship & Friendship Theatre
The Inclusion Scholarship Program helps individuals with disabilities participate in City of Federal Way recreation programs by removing financial barriers.
Donations also support Friendship Theatre, an inclusive annual production that celebrates creativity and talent through performing arts.
How Can I Help?
Donate to the Inclusion Scholarship Fund by check (payable to Inclusion Scholarship Fund, cc: Sabrina Bates).
Drop off or mail to:
Federal Way Community Center
876 S 333rd St, Federal Way, WA 98003
Sponsor Friendship Theatre!
- Presenting Sponsor – $2,500
- Gold Sponsor – $1,000
- Silver Sponsor – $750
- Bronze Sponsor – $500
All sponsors receive recognition, ads in event materials, and complimentary tickets.
Looking for Help?
If you or a family member has a disability and would like to participate in recreation or theatre programs but face financial hardship, you may fill out this form.
Request for Accommodations
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
No, you do not need a Community Center membership to join most programs and activities. Our inclusive recreational programs, fitness classes, and special events are open to all, regardless of membership status. However, certain amenities at FWCC that are not apart of our inclusive programming , such as open swim in the pool, the fitness center, and some exclusive programs, may require a membership if you wish to participate on your own time. We encourage you to check the specific program details to see if a membership is necessary. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us for more information!
If you are new, please follow these steps in order to get involved in our programs!
STEP 1: Complete an Inclusion intake form. If you’re new to our programs and looking to get involved, we please ask you to fill out our Inclusion Intake Form and follow the steps listed below. This form helps us learn more about you and your specific needs, so we can ensure you have a welcoming and supportive experience in our programs. Please fill out the form digitally OR print and email to Sabrina.
STEP 2: Create an online account. All participants must have an online account in order to register and pay for programs, if you need additional assistance in creating an account please contact our front desk at 253-835-6900. Click here to learn how to make an online account.
STEP 3: Set up Federal Way Parks and Rec as a Provider if you plan to use DDA Respite Funds. To use DDA respite funds for Federal Way Parks and Recreation programs, list Federal Way Parks and Rec as a provider with your DDA representative. This setup ensures that your respite funds can cover program fees for eligible inclusion activities.
STEP 4: Register for programs online or at the FWCC front desk. To register for inclusion programs, visit the Federal Way Community Center front desk or register online. Please note that phone registrations are not accepted. For a full list of available programs click here or click the green button at the top of the page.
Registration for our programs opens per season (Winter/Spring, Summer, and Fall). Specific registration dates and access to our digital program catalog will be announced 1-2 weeks prior to the opening. Registration is first-come, first-served, and all participants can register at the same time when it opens. Be sure to check for updates to stay on top of upcoming registration opportunities!
To register for inclusion programs, visit the Federal Way Community Center front desk or register online. Please note that phone registrations are not accepted. For a full list of available programs click here or click the green button at the top of the webpage.
Click Here for a Guide on How to Register
The majority of our inclusive programs are designed for adults aged 18 and older. However, please check out our Special Olympics sports programming for programs available to those aged 12 and older.
We are excited to offer our participants the option to utilize our DDA Respite Billing program at the City of Federal Way Parks & Recreation Department. Through this program, individuals who have authorized respite care through DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration) can participate in our inclusive activities.
- Complete an Intake Form:
- Ensure you have an intake form on file. If you are new to our programs, please fill out the form here: Inclusive Intake Form.
- Contact your Case Resource Manager:
- Ask your DDA case resource manager to contact our Inclusion Coordinator, Sabrina Bates, at Sabrina.Bates@FederalWayWA.gov.
- Your case manager must provide an updated Person Centered Service Plan (PCSP) that lists Federal Way Parks & Recreation as a provider.
- Verify Your DDA Status with Federal Way Parks & Recreation:
- Reach out to Sabrina Bates to confirm your DDA funding status with FW Parks & Recreation and discuss the next steps for enrollment.
- Register for Programs
- Once your Federal Way Parks & Recreation account has been switched to DDA payment, please refer to the How-to Guide (page 8) for instructions on processing DDA enrollments online.
Please be aware that participation in activities beyond the authorized amount through DDA will require payment out of pocket for any additional costs. We aim to provide an inclusive and accessible environment for all participants, and this program allows us to support individuals with DDA funding to engage in recreational opportunities.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Inclusion Coordinator, Sabrina Bates, at 253.835.6927 or Sabrina.Bates@FederalWayWA.gov
Programs are staffed 1:6 for trips and 1:8 for in-house programs or athletics.
Bowling (Ages 12+); Year-round
Basketball (Ages 12+); November – February
Swim Team (Ages 12+); March – June
Soccer (Ages 12+); March – June
Flag Football (Ages 18+); July – October
Golf (Ages 16+); March – June
All participants that intend to participate in Special Olympics competitions must have a Special Olympics Athlete Portal with up to date medial information and waivers. See websites below for more information.
athlete portal: www.portals.specialolympics.org/
The Federal Way Thunder is the official league name for our programming within Special Olympics Washington sports programs. We provide athletes of all abilities the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports, develop their skills, and compete at local and regional levels. Our league is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every athlete can shine and reach their full potential.
Click here to browse our merch store!
For more information on Special Olympics: www.specialolympicswashington.org/portal-resources/
- Cancelations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the beginning of the program for full refund
- Cancelations and refunds can only be processed via cancelation email to Sabrina
- Late cancelation and no shows will result in no refunds
- If using DDA, late cancelations and no shows will result in using out of pocket pay to cover the missed activity
- Refunds will be credited to the original payment or placed as a balance on the participant’s account, depending on the program
Please view our Refunds page for more information: itallhappenshere.org/visit/refunds
Federal Way Parks and Recreation Inclusive programs and operations are intended to be inclusive and accessible for all participants. If at any time, you have a need or concern please contact us so we can help you! If you are new please list all accommodations needed on your Intake Form.
Here at the Federal Way Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services, we believe that every person, no matter age, race, gender, and ability has the right to participate in recreation and life-enriching programs. We also know that many persons with disabilities have different economic hardships that may prevent participants from affording these programs. We have developed the Inclusion Scholarship Fund to help individuals pay for our Inclusion Programs. Successful applicants can use these funds to pay for Inclusion Programs.
• Award per participant is $150 per year (Amount will be revisited each year).
• Award can be used at once, or be used for multiple courses.
• Participants are eligible to apply once per year any time during the year.
• Please allow 7-10 business days for processing.
• Scholarships will only be given out when funds are available.
• Participants on Respite Care are not eligible for scholarships.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our Inclusive Recreation programs! Please note that our program schedules are consistent throughout the year, with specific times that rarely change. We encourage you to review our recreation calendar and upcoming events to find opportunities that best fit your availability. This helps ensure a rewarding experience for both you and our participants!
CHECK OUT OUR PHOTO GALLERY!
LOOKING TO VOLUNTEER WITH US?
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with our Inclusive Recreation programs! Our programs run on set schedules throughout the year with specific times that rarely change. Before applying, please take a moment to review our recreation calendar and upcoming events to find opportunities that best match your availability. This will help create a rewarding experience for both you and our participants. If you’re ready to get involved, please fill out the form linked below.