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 Communities Fall 2019 Guide image Opens in new window


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



  1. Adult Programs
  2. Youth Programs
  3. Programs for All Ages

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.

Register online with activity #240124.

Classes


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 16+

Sept. 13 - Dec. 5 | Thursdays | 4:30-5:30 pm | 1101 Fremont Street | $7.50/class


Bowling Blast

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

Sept. 3 - Dec. 3 | Tuesdays | 4-5 pm | K-State Student Union Bowling Alley | $80/semester


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 16+

Sept. 9 - Dec. 2 | Mondays | 3:34-4:45 pm | Hy-Vee | $7.50/class or $82.50/semester


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+

Sept. 4 - Dec. 7 | Wednesdays or Saturdays | Wed. 4:30-5:30 pm or Sat. 1-2 pm | Community Garden | $1/class


Special Events

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 15+

Sept. 13 - Dec. 6 | Fridays | 4:30-5:30 pm | Peace Memorial City Auditorium | FREE!


Horseback Riding

Program will run in groups of 4.  We will meet at the Roundhouse and transport individuals to Hope Ranch that day. Ages 18+

Sept. 7 & 14 | 2 pm or 4 pm | Hope Ranch | $40


KSU Insect Garden

Come join us as we explore the K-State garden and learn about the importance of the insects that live there. Ages 15+

Sept. 21 | 12:30-2:30 pm | KSU Gardens | $10


Halloween Dance

Come join us for our Annual Halloween Dance! There will be plenty of music, treats, costumes, and fun! Ages 15+

Oct. 26 | 7-9 pm | Peace Memorial City Auditorium | $15


Thanksgiving Dinner

Come hungry, leave happy! Join us for our Annual Thanksgiving Dinner! Turkey, dressing, and the fixings. Ages 15+

Nov. 24 | 5:30-6:30 pm | Peace Memorial City Auditorium | $15


Barrier-Free

Theatre program that is imagined, created, and performed by those enrolled.  18+

Sept - May | 4 - 6 pm | Purple Masque | $75


Ice Skating 

Dress warm and get ready for a morning of fun ice skating with all your friends in the Special Community! Ages 15+

Dec. 7 | 10:30 am-12:30 pm | Ice Rink | $10


Adaptive Dance