The Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities convened on June 13, 2025, to address a pressing community need: the establishment of a therapeutic recreation program in South Austin. Yvette Gonzalez, a local resident, presented a proposal aimed at filling a significant service gap for adults with disabilities in the region. Currently, therapeutic recreation services are primarily located in Central and East Austin, serving only a limited number of individuals. Gonzalez emphasized that residents of South Austin face long travel distances to access these essential programs, which hinders equitable access.

The proposed program would utilize existing recreation centers, such as Dittmar and Dove Springs, to provide local services. Gonzalez noted that the estimated budget for this initiative would align with current therapeutic recreation programs, ranging from $60,000 to $180,000 annually, making it a feasible request for city funding. She highlighted that approximately 9 to 10% of South Austin's population could benefit from such a program, based on census data indicating a growing population of individuals with disabilities.

The committee members expressed support for the proposal, with plans to collaborate with the Parks and Recreation Department to explore the feasibility of implementing the program. Sarah Carlson, the Recreation Program Manager, provided an overview of existing therapeutic recreation services, which include adaptive sports, social skills groups, and community events. However, she acknowledged the need for expanded services in South Austin.

The discussions underscored a commitment to improving geographic equity in access to recreational services for individuals with disabilities. The committee's next steps will involve further engagement with the Parks and Recreation Department to assess how best to implement the proposed program and meet the needs of the community. This initiative reflects a broader goal of ensuring that all residents, regardless of their abilities, have access to vital recreational opportunities within their neighborhoods.