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, our in person sessions are paused due to COVID-19. However, we are maintaining an online community. Below is a summary of our virtual and in-person offerings; the first four programs are our current virtual offerings. For specific dates and times, please check the Current Schedule.
 

 

During our weekly KEEN Chicago Online programming, athletes participate in a variety of art, music, and exercise activities. The activities have a regular rotation throughout the month.
FIRST SUNDAY: Chair Zumba + Art/Interactive Games!
SECOND SUNDAY: Buddy Session/Small Group Interactive Activities
THIRD SUNDAY: Activities...

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

KEEN Athletes are invited to join us in KEEN Performs, which will include a variety of accessible music and theater activities led by Amy Bosko. Athletes will have the opportunity to express themselves in an accessible manner, with the opportunity to debut their talent at a later date

Ages: 5-21
 

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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

We invite you to join us for an exciting new virtual program - KEEN Gymnastics! Cartwheel and somersault right alongside KEEN athletes from across the United States! This is a national KEEN program hosted by seven KEEN affiliates.

Our instructor, Elizabeth Crawford, will lead us in 45 minutes of fun including a warm-up, gymnastics...

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Emergency Phone Number: 312-876-2535

Caregivers are invited to join us in the KEEN Zoom room to connect as well as share experiences and resources.
 

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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