NDAD has awarded $7,300 through its Adaptive Recreation Grant to Kalix’s Day Habilitation program in Rolla, N.D. The program provides a wide range of skill-building, sensory, and recreational activities for eligible participants. With this grant, the Rolla location will replicate the sensory room and quiet-space model currently in place at Kalix’s Minot program, expanding access to adaptive recreation in the Rolla community. This grant is one of 12 provided through NDAD’s Adaptive Recreation Grant cycle awarding $60,390 to organizations across North Dakota.

“Many individuals with low vision and autism face significant barriers to participating in traditional recreational activities due to sensory processing challenges, visual impairments, and limited access to appropriate adaptive tools,” said Natasha Desjarlais of Kalix.
NDAD’s grant will support the purchase of specialized equipment to create a safe, engaging, and inclusive recreational environment that meets diverse sensory, motor, and accessibility needs. Funded items include:

• Tactile sensory panels with high-contrast features
• Lighted fiber optics and LED displays for visual stimulation
• Vibroacoustic chairs or mats that provide calming sensory input
• Large-print, braille, and tactile activity books
• Low-vision-friendly coordination tools, such as contrasting obstacle courses
• Adaptive swings, compression vests, and weighted items
• Noise-reducing headphones and sensory fidget tools

“Through our Adaptive Recreation Grant program, NDAD is dedicated to creating inclusive environments that promote independence, participation, and overall well-being for people with disabilities,” said DeAnn Burckhard, Marketing Director for NDAD. “By supporting projects like this, we are not only meeting individual needs, but also strengthening communities by helping them offer welcoming, enriching spaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

“Adaptive sensory equipment provides meaningful therapeutic and functional benefits for individuals with low vision and autism by supporting diverse sensory needs and improving overall engagement,” Wanner added. “We are grateful to NDAD for helping us create an environment that aligns with each individual’s unique sensory preferences and supports their ability to participate fully.”