About the Nonprofit
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KEEN's mission is to empower youth with disabilities and impact volunteer coaches through participation in free, non-competitive, one-on-one programs of physical activity and fun, supporting the overall health and well-being of all participants.
Since 2004 KEEN Chicago programs have provided a community of support to families, disability awareness for volunteers and an opportunity for youth with disabilities to have fitness, fun and friendship at their pace while celebrating their abilities. KEEN Chicago evolved from a small grassroots program serving 20-30 kids with open gym and swim options to what it is today. Currently, we serve 125+ youth annually with ongoing programs in sports, swim, trampoline, jiu-jitsu, yoga, dance, soccer, pickleball, and bowling. We also offer special events such as mini golf, paddling and rock climbing to increase exposure to recreational options and build confidence and self-esteem.
The disabled community is a historically marginalized group frequently excluded from recreational settings due to economic and communication barriers, special equipment and transportation needs, and social stigmas. KEEN works to eliminate these barriers to participation to reach youth who do not have access to other services and impact long term mental, physical, and social wellbeing within the community we serve.
