On and off the field, the friendships that develop between children with and without disabilities form the heart of ODS' community. Kids with disabilities and from low-income households are often left out of the play and confidence-building that after-school sports programs provide. At no cost to families, ODS offers weekly adapted sports classes year-round in which each child is paired with a middle or high school volunteer peer buddy to play soccer, basketball, and bocce. Across warm-up activities, skill development drills, and scrimmages, players improve their self-esteem while having fun in an inclusive and supportive environment. A competitive Game Day League allows more skilled players to experience a real game environment, complemented by kids' nights out where everyone enjoys social activities together. From birthday party invitations to high fives in school hallways, ODS players and peer buddies become true friends.
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