FROM the DIRECTOR

Mission

To strengthen community through play! Bringing residents, community members, and stakeholders together by creating partnerships, activities, and services that ehance camaraderie, culture, and wellbeing for all.

Vision

To be the preferred provider for all things recreation in Rochester and Rochester Hills.

Core Values

Inquisitive

Compassionate

Inclusive

Adventurous

Our motto is: Enhancing lives and enriching community through culture, camaraderie, and wellbeing.

We take our job pretty serious here! Our intent is to give you as many ways to play and develop relationships in this amazing community as possible. We are always asking questions and our staff has been given the task of asking “How can we serve you better?”

We want to be your resource for getting out of the house and finding something fun to do at every stage of life. Hopefully you can find it with us, or with one of our many partners!

So take a look at our magazine, see if we have something for you this season. If not...send me an email and I will get to work! We have an awesome team of recreation professionals who are working on new ideas right now while you read this! See you soon!

Dave Word, CYSA CPRP Executive Recreation Director Dave@RARArecreation.org

What’s New?

If you haven’t been to RARA lately you should stop in and check us out. We have been quite busy improving the community center @500 E. 2nd St. and we have a lot more planned for 2023-2025!

Here are a few highlights of what we have done and what is to come:

2022

• Roofs - All four roofs on 500 E. 2nd St were replaced.

• Painting - Exterior and Interior have been completely repainted.

• Dance Studio viewing monitors and cameras have been upgraded to 65” monitors with 4K viewing cameras.

2023

• Enhanced security systems upgrades to ensure a safer enviroment for guests.

• Main office reception is moving across the lobby to create an additional classroom space for programming.

• ADA automatic doors are being installed on the bathrooms and main entrance to allow wheelchairs and strollers better access.

• Indoor playscape is being replaced and expanded, creating more opportunities for play on the 1st level with features directed at 6M - 3Yr olds.

• Wayfinding signage is being installed throughout the community center.

• Covered front porch area will be installed to allow for quicker pickup & transition for guests.

• New RARA website will be finished with some cool new features like the community calender, sign up for text notifications, and the ability to change the website into a 100 different languages or use ADA modifiers to make it more accessible for your use.

• Purchase outdoor movie system to begin the summer Movies in the Park series.

2024

• Parking lot renovations to increase capacity and traffic flow.

• Lighting upgrades inside and out.

• Improvements to Halbach and Jaycee Fields.

2025

• Fieldhouse upgrades including air conditioning, batting cages, and outside deck seating.

Iplay@RARA Scholarship Fund

As the community provider for recreation our goal is to offer opportunities for all. In 2023, we have added a 1% fee to all transactions to help build our scholarship fund. This will allow us to set aside approximately $15,000 per year to help at minimum 130 community members who are experiencing hardship participate in activities we offer. You can view quarterly the scholarship revenue earned and the awards given by clicking HERE. On behalf of RARA and the community we serve, these funds provide much more than monetary subsidy. They are the foundation that builds community and creates memories that span a lifetime. We sincerely thank you for this investment in equity and inclusion for all of the residents of Rochester and Rochester Hills.

Hours of Operation

RARA Recreation Complex

500 E. Second Street, Rochester, MI 48307 Phone: 947-886-0007

Registration Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 10am - 7pm Saturday: 9am - 3pm/Sunday: 12pm - 4pm Click here for our Printable Registration Form

Staff Contacts

Dave Word, CYSA CPRP Executive Recreation Director Call 947-886-0089

Dave@RARArecreation.org

Sam Lunt Assistant Recreation Director Call 947-886-0040

Sam@RARArecreation.org

Michelle Hale Administrative Assistant Call 947-886-0038

Michelle@RARArecreation.org

Kori Word Customer Service Manager & Facility Reservations Call 947-886-0081

Kori@RARArecreation.org

FacilityReservations@ RARArecreation.org

Jim Marshall Facility Maintenance Supervisor Call 947-886-0094

Jim@RARArecreation.org

Executive Board

John Muenk, Chairperson Rochester Hills

Mark Albrecht, Vice Chair CityofRochester

Theresa Mungioli, Secretary Rochester Hills

Lyndsey Ramsay, CPRP CTRS Adaptive Recreation, Early Childhood Programs, & Party Rentals Call 947-886-0084

Lyndsey@RARArecreation.org

Matt Higley, CYSA Sports & Programs Supervisor Call 947-886-0088

Matt@RARArecreation.org

Makayla Kroening, CPRP Events, Day Camps, & Enrichment Call 947-886-0082

Makayla@RARArecreation.org

Liz Walker-Kreutziger Performing Arts, Dance, & Fitness Call 947-886-0093

Liz@RARArecreation.org

Jake Kroening, CYSA Recreation Coordinator Call 947-886-0087

Jake@RARArecreation.org

Dan Trudel Avondale Schools

Matthew McDaniel Rochester Schools

Jill Sorensen CityofRochester

Emily Morlan Rochester Hills

The RARA Board is a policy making board comprised of 7 members, representing the governmental agencies that established our interlocal agreement, and individuals from each of the communities in which we serve.

The board meets on the third Wednesday of each month, 5:00PM at the RARA offices, 500 E Second St. Rochester, MI 48307.

Meeting/agenda minutes are available on our website at www.rararecreation.org and are updated monthly.

Americans with Disabilities Act

This landmark civil rights act went into effect in 1992. It is a significant step forward to make our society’s services and opportunities fully available to all Americans by combating barriers and prejudices that confront those of us with disabilities.

RARA is committed to implementing the intent and spirit of this legislation. Those who may need assistance in order to participate and enjoy our programs should contact our staff at least two weeks in advance of registration to discuss any necessary accommodations or concerns. Persons with disabilities are invited to participate in all programs offered through RARA. We hope that with our assistance, you will be able to create lifelong memories in our community.

About Us

Resident/Non-Resident:

To receive the resident rate you must reside within the cities of Rochester or Rochester Hills. RARA is funded through a millage collected in the city of Rochester Hills and a comparable fee in the city of Rochester. Please see the map for what is considered “resident” for RARA’s purposes.

Residency is not connected with the Rochester School District. Residency is determined by where you pay your city taxes. Non Residents pay an additional 20%, capped at $20 per program in addition to the resident rate.

Notice to Participants:

Participants must recognize that all activities of a physical nature involve some risk, and by registering for a class/activity of this nature there is an assumption of risk by the participants. RARA is dedicated to providing safe equipment as well as qualified staff for all participants. In the event of a serious accident or illness, it is the policy of RARA to:

Contact emergency medical services to perform first aid, and when necessary, recommend transport of the victim to the hospital. Reach the parent/guardian/emergency contact as soon as the situation allows.

Cancellation of Activities: RARA activities at community schools are canceled when school activities are canceled. Activities at 500E 2nd St along with other offsite locations will continue as scheduled unless otherwise posted. In addition, cancellation of programs will be determined by program supervisors as seen fit.

Cancellations will be posted at: www.rararecreation. org, Facebook/Instagram/Twitter (@RARArecreation), and for some programs, registered participants will be notified via email.

Introducing RARA Sponsorship Opportunities: Unite with Us to Strengthen Our Community!

The Rochester Avon Recreation Authority (RARA) is committed to its mission of fostering unity and growth through play. By building partnerships and providing activities and services that enhance camaraderie, culture, and well-being for all, we aim to unite residents, local members, and stakeholders to create a flourishing and inclusive environment.

We are thrilled to offer sponsorship opportunities for businesses and individuals who share our passion for cultivating a thriving neighborhood. By collaborating with RARA, you will directly contribute to our diverse range of recreational programs, making a positive impact on people of all ages and promoting health and happiness in our neighborhood.

Sponsorship brings numerous benefits, such as increased brand recognition, association with a respected organization, and the satisfaction of knowing that your support truly enriches the lives of those in our neighborhood.

We invite you to explore our sponsorship packages and discover the various ways your contribution can make a lasting impact. With your support, we can work towards becoming the premier recreation provider in Rochester and Rochester Hills, fostering a neighborhood that excels in culture, camaraderie, and well-being.

For more information on our sponsorship opportunities and to learn about the different packages available, please refer to our Sponsorship Packet. We look forward to joining forces with you in our mission to empower and enhance the lives of those in our neighborhood.

A big THANK YOU to all of our past partners and sponsors who team up with us each season here at RARA to create recreational opportunities for all of our residents and guests! Together we make this community a top destination to live, work, and play!

Adaptive Programs

RARA offers a variety of recreation adaptive programs are designed to promote physical, social, and emotional well-being for individuals with special needs. These programs include art, diners club, movie night out, WERQ, music, fitness, sports and more. Art programs provide opportunities for creative expression, while diners club and movie night out offer social opportunities. WERQ provides physical fitness and skill development through dance and exercise. Music programs provide a supportive environment for learning and playing instruments, while fitness and sports programs offer adaptive equipment and instruction for physical activity and skill development in various sports.

Art Programs

Paint a Miracle Art Studio is uniquely designed to offer people living with disabilities and other challenges rich art opportunities developed to ignite the artist’s imagination and self-discovery. Studio classes are offered for ages pre-primary through adult. Emphasis is placed on individual process, creativity, and expression. Parents/aides are welcome to attend to help.

Diner’s Club

Participants pay for their own meal, beverage, and tip.

Program: Diners Club May

Course #: 8929

Date: Monday, May 1

Time: 5:00-6:30

Location: TBD

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: Diners Club June

Course #: 8930

Date: Monday, June 5

Time: 5:00-6:30

Program: Colorful Paper Picture Making

Course #: 8901

Date: Saturday, June 24

Time: 11:00-12:00

Location: Paint a Miracle

Ages: 12+

Fee: $45 (resident), $54 (non-resident)

Program: Creative Canvas Painting

Course #: 8902

Date: Saturday, July 22

Time: 11:00-12:00

Location: Paint a Miracle

Ages: 12+

Fee: $45 (resident), $54 (non-resident)

Program: Colorful Cardboard Sculpture

Course #: 8903

Date: Saturday, August 19

Time: 11:00-12:00

Location: Paint a Miracle

Ages: 12+

Fee: $45 (resident), $54 (non-resident)

Location: TBD

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: Diners Club July

Course #: 8931

Date: Monday, July 10

Time: 5:00-6:30

Location: TBD

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: Diners Club August

Course #: 8932

Date: Monday, August 7

Time: 5:00-6:30

Location: TBD

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Movie Night Out

You will pay for your own ticket and concessions. Movies and times are based on the current theater schedule. Movie selected will be emailed the week of the program.

Werq

WERQ Instructors build a playlist based on trend setting, appropriate music. This is an exercise class. The workout is nonstop with repetitive athletic moves and fresh dance steps, so you get the best sweat.

Program: Movie Night Out May

Course #: 8938

Date: Wednesday, May 17

Time: 6:00-8:00 Approx - TBD

Location: Emagine Theater

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: Movie Night Out June

Course #: 8939

Date: Wednesday, June 14

Time: 6:00-8:00 Approx - TBD

Location: Emagine Theater

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: Movie Night Out July

Course #: 8940

Date: Wednesday, July 19

Time: 6:00-8:00 Approx - TBD

Location: Emagine Theater

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: Movie Night Out August

Course #: 8941

Date: Wednesday, August 16

Time: 6:00-8:00 Approx - TBD

Location: Emagine Theater

Ages: 14+

Fee: $6 (resident), $8 (non-resident)

Program: WERQ Exercise Class Session 1

Course #: 8959

Date: Tuesdays June 20-July 25 (OFF July 4)

Time: 4:45-5:30

Location: Studio B

Ages: 14+

Fee: $60 (resident), $72 (non-resident)

Program: WERQ Exercise Class Session 2

Course #: 8960

Date: Tuesdays August 1-August 29

Time: 4:45-5:30

Location: Studio B

Ages: 14+

Fee: $60 (resident), $72 (non-resident)

Adaptive Softball

This softball league is designed for high functioning persons with developmental disabilities. The team will begin with practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Then, they will transition to games against neighboring communities on Thursdays. This is slow pitch softball rules with low impact/injury balls, tees are available if needed. Players and responsible for their own transportation to practices and games. Shirts and hats will be given. A detailed scheduled will be provided when the season gets closer, but our first day of practice will be on May 2. Home field is Halbach Field.

Course #: 8904

Date: Tuesdays & Thursdays

Time: 6:30-8:00

Location: Halbach Field

Ages: 14+

Fee: $160 (resident), $180 (non-resident)

Social Skills Workshop: Understanding and Setting Boundaries

May’s class will focus on understanding and setting boundaries. The following topics will be addressed: Identifying appropriate and health communication in relationships as well as inappropriate and unhealthy communication in relationships (friendships, coworkers, parents, caregivers)

Course #: 8935

Date: Monday, May 22

Time: 6:00-7:00

Location: Therapeutic Concepts

Ages: 14+

Fee: $28 (resident), $34 (non-resident)

Music, Rhythm, and Exercise

Join us for an energizing hour of exercise! Don’t worry, we even make exercise enjoyable. With a variety of music, we incorporate yoga, dance, cardio drumming, and more into these rhythmic routines. Basic music education via instrument exploration, note reading, and tempo skills are addressed. Seated or standing per individual need.

Course #: 8936

Date: Monday, July 24

Time: 6:00-7:00

Location: Therapeutic Concepts

Ages: 14+

Fee: $28 (resident), $34 (non-resident)

Fitness Walk

This 4-week group will be led by Ms. Wendy on the Paint Creek Trail for a good cardio fitness walk. Parents are welcome to participate too! Wear gym clothes and shoes. Bring your water bottle. We will meet at the West Entrance of the Rochester Hills Library.

Course #: 8995

Date: Tuesdays May 2-May 23

Time: 5:30-6:30

Location: Rochester Hills Public Library

Ages: 14+

Fee: $25 (resident), $30 (non-resident)

Cinco de Mayo Dance

This dance is designed for persons who have special needs. Come boogie down with great music and dancing, while enjoy a fun evening with friends with a Cinco de Mayo theme. Food and drink will be served.

Course #: 8980

Date: Friday, May 5

Time: 6:00-8:00

Location: Rochester Community House

Ages: 14+

Fee: $20 (resident), $24 (non-resident)