Can Play

Where play has no limits.

Our Mission

Can Play brings adapted and no-cost recreational programs to our communities by removing barriers to play.

Our Focus

• Inclusion: We ensure that everyone has access to play.
• Community: We bring people and communities together to play as one.
• Play: We use sports and recreation programs to inspire and empower people to achieve their goals on and off the field.

Can Play provides access to sports and recreation programming for thousands of underserved youth in central Iowa with financial, physical, cognitive, emotional, or chronic health care barriers to play. Our mission empowers us to decrease the participation gap in sports and recreation that affects underprivileged youth not just physically, but also on a social, emotional and developmental level. We serve approximately 4,500 participants a year through our Victory (no cost programs) Adapted (special needs) and our H.E.R.S. program.

Adapted Programs

Can Play provides adapted recreational sports and skills programs suitable for all ages and abilities. These programs are designed to meet the unique requirements of individuals with disabilities, including physical, cognitive, emotional, developmental, and neurodiverse conditions (autism), as well as those utilizing wheelchairs or walkers. Can Play’s programs modify pace, equipment, and structure to establish a secure, positive, and accessible environment. Participants will enhance their social engagement skills and improve their confidence by enjoying activities with teammates and coaches.

Victory Programs

Can Play’s Victory programs strive to serve our communities by providing no-cost athletic and youth development opportunities for our participants. Our goals are to teach valuable athletic skills and techniques, provide positive role models, instill life-long values, and promote diverse communities amongst youth.