March 2008

Disability Awareness Month at Indy Parks March is Disability Awareness Month in Indiana. Indy Parks is committed to helping people with physical and intellectual disabilities participate at the optimal level of independence and desire. Our Therapeutic Recreation division uses treatment, education, and recreation services to help people with disabilities to develop and use recreation and leisure to enhance their quality of life. This spring, check out new programs geared especially to families, adults and children with disabilities. Sign with Nature at Eagle Creek Park – Join speech Pathologist Julie every Friday (March 7 – April 11) for a fun day of learning basic signs while exploring native Indiana wildlife through stories, crafts and live animals. The cost is $7 per class for each child. Motor Gym Time - Visit Bethel Park (Tuesday, Thursday at 7 p.m.) and enjoy activities such as volleyball, basketball, relay races, wall ball, bowling, soccer and more! Activities are geared for adults ages 18 and older with intellectual and or physical disabilities accompanied by staff. Cost: $1 per participant. For information about inclusive recreation programs and services, please contact Paula Hartzer, (317) 327-7251 or click here.
2008 Junior Golf Program Take advantage of Indy Parks' free junior golf program this summer! The introductory golf program is designed to teach all junior participants ages 8 - 16 the basic fundamentals of golf. Instruction includes: grip, posture, stance, ball position, putting, chipping, pitching, bunker play and full swing progressions. Learn some basic rules of the game and golf etiquette as well as how these skills can be applied to everyday life. Classes will be Monday through Friday at Whispering Hills Golf Academy. Equipment is available at no charge.  Registration will take place March 5 – May 31, 2008. Sign-up is a first-come, first-serve basis and all classes will be maintained to 25 participants per section. The program is from June 16 – August 8. Times/schedule varies and will be available following registration. For additional information, please contact Lou Hurrle, (317) 327-7434 or click here.
Spring Blooms at the Conservatory Enjoy the colors of spring at the Garfield Park Conservatory!  Our annual Spring Bulb Show will be in full bloom beginning March 28 through April 4.  Celebrate spring and view your classic favorites or unique hybrids of tulips, hyacinth, daffodils, muscari, and more!  This display is set against the backdrop of our permanent tropical collection. The show will be open to the public from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Admission for this special event is $3 for adults, $2 for youth and seniors, or $5 for the family. The entire bulb show collection will be for sale to the public beginning April 5 at 10AM.  Prices will vary and plants will be sold on a first come, first served basis.  Admission to the sale is free.  For additional information about upcoming flower shows at the Garfield Park Conservatory, please call 317.327.7184 or click here.
Summer Employment Opportunities at Indy Parks Looking for a way to earn extra money this summer? Indy Parks and Recreation is now hiring for seasonal positions in its aquatics, day camp and maintenance divisions. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age, however prior work experience is not necessary in most cases except for head lifeguard positions. High school and college students are encouraged to apply. Spanish-speaking applicants are highly desirable. Indy Parks will provide training for all qualified candidates. Pay rates, based on experience and position, range from $8 to $9.50 per hour for lifeguards, $7 to $8.75 for day camp staff, $8 - $8.75 for facility attendance and maintenance (Chuck Klein Softball Complex, Kuntz Soccer Stadium and Major Taylor Velodrome) and $9 for park maintenance. Specific job descriptions, salary information and a seasonal employment application are available online or at Indy Parks' facilities. The City of Indianapolis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For additional information, please call 327- PARK or click here.