What is a “Meaningful Day” program?
- Montgomery Parks’ Meaningful Day programs offer adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities free opportunities to stay active and connect with the community while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Family, friends, and community members of the participants are always welcome to join.
- These programs are free, but registration on ActiveMontgomery is always required for participants. Family members, friends, and support professionals do not have to register.
- The programs change on a seasonal basis. Past programs have included: archeology day, bocce, boccia, Trail Trekkers (a hiking program), and Campfire Chats (a social program).
Spring 2026 Offerings
- Join Program Access and the Montgomery Parks Cultural Resources team for a special day learning about archaeology! Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with their friends, families, and community members, will learn about archaeology in Montgomery County and have the opportunity to process and clean artifacts. This program will take place in Needwood Mansion, which is not yet ADA accessible. Participants will need to be able to use stairs to participate in the program. Please contact Program Access at programaccess@montgomeryparks.org for more information on accessibility needs and accommodations.
- Location: Needwood Mansion (6700 Needwood Rd, Derwood, MD 20855)
- Date: 3/17 from 10:30am – 12:00pm
- Registration is free, but required
- Gather around the fire for conversation! Each session features open dialogue, reflective prompts, creative expression, and mindful moments—all in a relaxed, inclusive outdoor setting. S’mores and stories encouraged!
- Location: Maydale Nature Classroom (1638 Maydale Dr, Colesville, MD 20905)
- Dates – Registration is required for each individual program
- Wednesday, 3/25 from 10:30am – 12:00pm: The Beginning of Spring
- Wednesday, 4/29 from 10:30am – 12:00pm: Identifying Flowers and Trees
- Wednesday, 5/20 from 10:30am – 12:00pm: Unfurling Ferns
- Join Trail Trekkers for a 6-week inclusive walking program. Enjoy relaxed walks on accessible trails while Master Naturalists share insights about local wildlife and plants. It’s a great way to learn about nature and connect with others.
- Location: Wheaton Regional Park
- Meet-up location will differ depending on the week. You will be emailed the exact meeting location each week.
- Dates – Series Registration is required. All programs take place from 10:30am – 11:30am
- Tuesday, 3/24
- Tuesday, 3/31
- Tuesday, 4/7
- Tuesday, 4/14
- Wednesday, 4/21
- Wednesday, 4/28
- Join Program Access and Special Olympics MD for a 6-week bocce league at Wheaton Regional Park! Over the course of the program, participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities will have the opportunity to learn the game, build social skills, and improve their personal fitness. On the last day, we will celebrate participants with lunch and awards. Registration for the whole series is required. Objective: Participants will improve fine motor skills, physical fitness, and team building skills. Registration for the full series is required. Please bring a reusable water bottle with you.
- Location: Wheaton Regional Park (2000 Shorefield Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20902)
- Dates – Series Registration is Required
- Thursday, 4/30
- Thursday, 5/7
- Thursday, 5/14
- Thursday, 5/21
- Thursday, 5/28
- Thursday, 6/4
- Location: Black Hill Discovery Center (20926 Lake Ridge Dr, Boyds, MD 20841
- Join our Therapeutic Recreation Kayaking Lesson for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities for a fun and inclusive learning experience on the calm waters of Little Seneca Lake. These lessons are designed for first-time kayakers or participants looking to build skills and confidence, with instruction focused on developing the skills needed to kayak independently. Certified instructors, trained volunteers, and staff will ensure a safe and enjoyable program. Each registered participant can bring one companion with them by answering the custom question during registration. Participants must complete an adaptive sports intake form and consultation before attending. All necessary equipment, including PFDs and paddles, is provided. Registration is free, but required.
- Lesson on 5/6 from 10am – 12:00pm
- Lesson on 5/13 from 10am – 12:00pm
- Location: Black Hill Discovery Center (20926 Lake Ridge Dr, Boyds, MD 20841
- Returning participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are ready to use their kayaking skills to explore the calm waters of Little Seneca Lake are welcome to sign up for our Therapeutic Recreation Kayaking Tour. Participants will enjoy a guided tour, paddling longer distances with breaks to observe wildlife along the way. Certified instructors, trained volunteers, and staff will lead and support participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Each registered participant can bring one companion by answering the custom question during registration. All necessary equipment, including PFDs and paddles, is provided. Registration is required.
- Lesson on 5/26 from 10am – 12:00pm
For more information on Program Access and modifications contact 301-495-2581 or ProgramAccess@MontgomeryParks.org. Se habla Español.