Abstract

Inclusion involves individuals with and without disabilities interacting together in various aspects of community life. Inclusive participation has received significant attention in areas of physical activity and recreation in community settings. Although the positive health outcomes, such as improved quality of life, increased physical fitness, enhanced social relationships, and increased appreciation for diversity have been well documented, barriers to community-based inclusion still exist. Negative societal attitudes related to disability and physical activity may continue to pose challenges to promoting messages of health and participation. Employing a qualitative case study method, we explored meaning of inclusion among community and staff members of an inclusive community recreation facility in Ontario, Canada. Study findings revealed that inclusion is a highly complex phenomenon, particularly when multiple perspectives among people with and without disabilities are taken into account. Social change is a process that builds over time and examining responses to inclusion plays a pivotal role to determine how to best promote and encourage participation in community recreation for individuals with and without disabilities.