Business Details
31 Years
experience
Empowering Individuals with Disabilities Through Sports & Recreation
Founded in 1995, Kids In Disability Sports (K.I.D.S.) has dedicated three decades to transforming lives through inclusive sports and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities aged 6 and up. Our volunteer-driven model fosters community integration by offering 15 specialized athletic programs, social events, and therapeutic activities across the Merrimack Valley and Southern New Hampshire. With a focus on building confidence and independence, we create safe spaces where participants develop lifelong skills while families find vital support networks.Our board-certified leadership team ensures program quality through structured partnerships with local organizations, maintaining strict compliance with non-discrimination policies. By combining adaptive sports with social development opportunities, we empower participants to achieve personal growth while promoting healthier lifestyles through accessible, year-round programming.
Services
Baseball
Basketball
Bowling
Flag Football
Floor Hockey
Golf
Gymnastics
Horseback Riding
Karate
Swimming
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 30 years of experience serving individuals with disabilities since 1995
- Completely volunteer-staffed with dedicated board-certified leadership
- Offers 15+ specialized athletic programs and social activities
- Proven track record of community integration and family support
- Partnerships with local organizations for expanded program offerings
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Organization
What people say
Amazing organization
Lifelong friendships
Valuable resource
Safe environment
Dedicated community organization
Services
Adaptive Baseball
Our baseball program accommodates varying abilities with two teams that meet weekly for 60-75 minute sessions over 6-8 weeks. Participants develop teamwork skills through modified rules and equipment while enjoying structured competition in a supportive environment.
Therapeutic Swimming
Eight-week swimming programs at Lowell Technical High School feature two-hour weekly sessions open to both participants and their immediate family members. Certified instructors provide personalized instruction to improve physical coordination and water safety skills.
Social Dances
Specialized dance events focus on building confidence and social skills through structured activities that address physical, emotional, and developmental needs. These events create opportunities for meaningful peer interactions in a welcoming atmosphere.
Equestrian Therapy
Partnering with Ironstone Farm in Andover, MA, our horseback riding program offers seasonal eight-week sessions with professional therapeutic riding instructors. Participants develop balance, coordination, and emotional connections through equine-assisted activities.
Winter Sports Clinics
Through partnerships with New England Healing Sports Association, we provide ski and snowboard lessons at Mt. Sunapee for all ability levels. Half-day sessions include specialized equipment and trained instructors to ensure safe, enjoyable mountain experiences.
People
Marc Allison
President
Serving as President since 2015, Marc Allison leads K.I.D.S. with 28 years of nonprofit management experience, focusing on expanding program accessibility and strengthening community partnerships across the Merrimack Valley.
Angela Busby
Vice President
Vice President Angela Busby has directed volunteer coordination since 2011, organizing over 200 annual volunteers who support K.I.D.S. programs through coaching, event planning, and administrative assistance.
Nancy Gray
Treasurer
As Treasurer since 2012, Nancy Gray manages K.I.D.S.'s financial operations with 25 years of nonprofit accounting experience, ensuring fiscal responsibility while maintaining program affordability for participants.
Denise Mercier
Secretary
Secretary Denise Mercier has maintained organizational records since 2004, coordinating board communications and ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations for this 501(c)(3) organization.
Walter McGrail
Board Member
Board Member Walter McGrail contributes 12 years of experience in adaptive sports programming, focusing on expanding therapeutic activity offerings and developing new community partnerships since joining in 2012.
Questions
What is K.I.D.S.'s primary mission?
We improve quality of life for individuals with disabilities through inclusive sports, social programs, and therapeutic activities that build confidence and foster community integration.
What age groups do you serve?
Our programs cater to individuals aged 6 and up with all types of disabilities through age-appropriate activities and adaptive instruction.
How can I volunteer with K.I.D.S.?
Complete our volunteer application available on our website and mail it to our Lowell, MA address. Our coordinator will contact you within weeks.
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes, as a 501(c)(3) organization, all donations to K.I.D.S. are fully tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
What geographic areas do you serve?
We primarily serve the Merrimack Valley region and Southern New Hampshire through our Lowell-based programs and community partnerships.
What types of programs do you offer?
We provide 15+ adaptive sports programs including baseball, basketball, and swimming, plus social events, therapeutic activities, and annual awards banquets.
