Recreation for All - Supporting Special Olympics

While the holiday season is a jovial time for many, it can be a time of stress for others dealing with financial hardships or being away from loved ones. To help alleviate some of these stresses, the Park District operates various charitable initiatives during the holidays. Stacey Fontechia and Joel Wallin of the Naperville Park District join the ParkTalk Podcast to discuss some of these charitable initiatives to help residents celebrate with the holiday season.

Traditions make holidays feel special, and there is nothing better than having fun events to look forward to every year. Join Danny Rehm, Becca Oster, and Erika Rubo as they discuss the connection between the Naperville Park District's annual events and the wonderful memories families create with one another.

Program Managers Stephanie Ainslie and Fred Gusel join the ParkTalk Podcast to discuss the Naperville Park District's youth athletic programs and the foundation they provide for different skillsets and a love for the sport.

Since 2016, Fort Hill Activity Center has provided the community with a high-quality facility to accomplish health and wellness goals. In this episode of the ParkTalk Podcast, Superintendent of Facilities Sue Buziecki and Fitness Manager Kristina McGrath discuss the impacts the facility has made on the community the past 10 years and what the future has instore.

The Naperville Park District's popular Beach and Paddleboard Yoga programs bring yogis the cool waters of Centennial Beach. Yoga instructors Meg'n Braida and Anne Gasperec join the ParkTalk Podcast to discuss why these programs are so unique and special to participants.

Special Olympics supports athletes with special needs across the country. Learn how Naperville Park District and their partners at Western DuPage Special Recreation Association support Special Olympics Illinois and their participants in recreational programs.

Providing the community with opportunities to live a healthier life, both physically and mentally, is one of the goals of the Naperville Park District. Clinical therapists Christina Mondragon Schrader and Bryce Goll join the ParkTalk Podcast to discuss the connection parks and recreation has with mental health.

Adult recreation leagues are a great way to stay active and social with friends and other members of the community. Naperville Park District Program Manager Brock Atwell and long-time participant of the Park District adult softball league Mark Knoll discuss the benefits adult recreation leagues provide and the joy they bring to participants every season.

As the Naperville Park District celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Naperville Youth Soccer program, Soccer Coordinator Betsy Nyman discusses program traditions, how it has evolved, and her own personal connection to the program.

2026 State of the Naperville Park District by Naperville Park District