Programs

All of KEEN's programs are based on a single principle: pair a trained volunteer with an athlete and let them discover together how much they can do. Programs are all open and unstructured, allowing athletes facing significant challenges to have fun and be successful. KEEN programs are open to all youth ages 5-21 with physical or developmental disabilities. Certain programs are for select age groups only.

  • Absolutely Free
  • Volunteer-Run
  • Age Appropriate & Non-Competitive
  • Open, Unstructured and Flexible
  • Tailored for Each Athlete's Needs
  • Inclusive, Regardless of Severity of Disabilities

Currently, most of our in person sessions are paused due to COVID-19. We are going to begin opening some in-person sessions on a trial basis in summer 2021 along with maintaining our online community. Below is information on the programming we will be offering in summer 2021, followed by our typical schedule when we meet in-person. Check back later this summer for more information about what we will be offering in the fall.  For specific dates and times, please check the Current Schedule.
 

 

During summer 2021, all of our programming will be camp related. We are offering virtual, in-person, and on-demand options to make sure options are available to all interested Athletes.

CAMP KEEN in person: Four sessions in July, locations in Rogers Park and Chicago's Near West Side
Virtual KEEN Campfires: Biweekly, Sundays at 3:30...

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

We invite our Athletes to work with us to create their very own podcast episode, during which they will be the experts on a topic of their choice!

Ages: 5-21
 

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

Join us for the first-ever nationwide virtual tennis program in collaboration with ACEing Autism!  Athletes will learn tennis drills and practice a number of tennis skills from their home. To register, email info@keenchicago.org. Early registrants will receive a tennis racket and ball which will be...

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

During the Sports Program, athletes and volunteers come together for one-to-one activities. They have a group warm up, and then move to individual activities which are tailored solely to the needs of the athlete. They may throw a basketball or kick a soccer ball. Many love to bounce on 36” balls or be pulled along the floor on a flat wheeled...

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

KEENquatics brings the KEEN formula to the swimming pool. A large variety of inflatable equipment makes even the most cautious athlete eager to get in the water and splash about. Swimmers who are able are encouraged to swim a lap or two. 
Ages:  5-21

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

Held between the two sessions of Sports at Loyola, KEEN Art gives KEEN athletes an opportunity to explore their creative side. A variety of Arts and Crafts projects are available, provide a good warm-up or cool-down for the athlete.
Ages: 5 - 21

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

During the Dance Program, athletes and volunteers will explore music an movement at the Intrigue Dance and Performing Arts Center.

Ages: 5-21
 

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

In addition to bouncing to their heart's delight on the giant padded trampolines, KEEN athletes can dive into foam block pits and swing from ropes!
Ages: 5 - 21

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535