Special Communities

Manhattan Parks and Recreation offers extensive programs for our special needs populations! Find youth, adult, and integrated age programs and events below.

Special Community Programs and Events Online Registration
- Activity #140124

Download the Special Communities Activity Guide

If you would like this guide sent straight to your door, ask to be put on our Special Communities mailing list! The Special Communities Activity Guide will let you know what is coming up and when to register, so you won’t miss out on any of our activities! Call 785-587-2754 to be placed on the mailing list.

Volunteer Coaches & Buddies

This program wouldn’t be possible without the volunteerism of our community! We are always looking for coaches and "buddies" to work with our special populations. To apply print, fill out, and turn the form below into the Parks and Recreation office.

Volunteer Application

Youth and Adult Programs

We offer an extensive program for our special populations who choose not to participate in the integrated recreation program. These programs provide opportunities to learn from experienced instructors and socialize with peers in a safe setting.

Questions? Contact Zachary Bayless via email or phone at 785-587-2766.

Classes

Challenger Football

Learn the basics of flag football and use your new skills in friendly competition! Ages 5-18

April 19 - May 10 | Sundays | 1-2 pm | Wilson Field in City Park | FREE

Arts & Crafts

Every week, we offer craft choices, a coloring table, and a specialty arts table. Specialty arts include yarn art, ceramics/pottery, watercolor painting, and sewing. Ages 5+

Jan. 30 - May 7 | Thursdays | 4:30-5:30 pm | 1101 Fremont Street | $7.50/class

Gardening Class

Gardening classes will be held outside, weather permitting, as much as possible. In the case of extreme temperatures or inclement weather, classes will be moved inside at the Community House. Ages 16+

Jan. 29 - May 9 | Wednesdays or Saturdays | Wed. 4:30-5:30 pm or Sat. 1-2 pm | Community Garden | $1/class

Bowling Blast

Join in the bowling fun with family and friends every Tuesday! Ages 5+

Jan. 28 - May 5 | Tuesdays | 4-5 pm | K-State Student Union Bowling Alley | $80/semester

Friday Fun Night

Friday Fun Nights offer gym sports, card games, puzzles, coloring, line dancing, and more! If games aren’t your thing, it’s also a great time to sit back, relax, and visit with friends. Ages 5+

Jan. 31 - May 8 | Fridays | 4:30-5:30 pm | Peace Memorial City Auditorium | FREE!

Cooking Class

Cooking classes are hands-on and teach skills in basic preparation of healthy, budget-friendly recipes. Recipes follow a new theme each month! Ages 5+

Jan. 27 - May 4 | Mondays | 3:34-4:45 pm | Hy-Vee | $7.50/class or $82.50/semester

Special Events

K-State Women’s Basketball Game

Game will be KSU vs. Texas. We will meet at the North West corner of Bramlage Coliseum at 1:30pm. Ages 15+

Jan. 19 | 2 pm | Bramlage Coliseum | $10

Night to Shine Prom

Night to Shine is a prom for individuals with special needs 14 years or older. This prom is a partnership between Park & Rec and University Christian Church sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Ages 14+

Feb. 7 | 7:00 pm | University Christian Church | FREE

Valentines Ice Cream Social

Come join us for our Valentines Ice Cream Social at the Peace Memorial City Auditorium. Ages 5+

Feb. 15 | 7 pm | Peace Memorial City Auditorium | $15

St. Patty’s Day Dance

Come dance the night away at our St. Patty’s Day Dance on March 14 starting at 7 pm for ages 15+.

March 14 | 7:00 pm | Peace Memorial City Auditorium | $15

Easter Brunch Picnic

Easter Brunch Picnic will be at the shelter in City Park on April 11 beginning at 10 am. 15+

April 11 | 10 am - 2 pm | City Park | $15