Guide: April IDD-Friendly Activities
Welcome to April with UESL! This month, we're excited to highlight a variety of inclusive events across San Diego County that celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and offer opportunities for community engagement. Whether you're interested in adaptive sports, artistic expression, or virtual adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we explore these enriching activities designed to connect and empower individuals of all abilities.
Experience the Future of Inclusive Gaming at the UESL Bonsall Gaming Center Open House!
Join us on April 10th, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Sullivan Middle School for an unforgettable evening celebrating the opening of the Unified Esports League's newest gaming center in Bonsall! This event is open to everyone—families, gamers, educators, community leaders, story tellers, and anyone passionate about inclusive, innovative gaming experiences.
Discover the cutting-edge games and groundbreaking technology that set UESL apart. Test your skills and immerse yourself in the excitement of our latest games designed specifically to empower and enrich the lives of all players, especially those within the IDD community.
Meet our dedicated and inspiring coaching staff and leadership team who make our mission possible every day. They're ready to share their stories, answer your questions, and show firsthand how gaming can foster personal growth, community connection, and endless opportunities for individuals of all abilities.
This is your chance to see firsthand how UESL is redefining what gaming means, breaking down barriers, and building a future where everyone belongs and thrives.
Don't miss out—mark your calendars now and be part of the excitement!
Event Details:
When: Thursday, April 10th, 2025, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: Sullivan Middle School, 7350 W Lilac Rd, Bonsall, CA 92003
Together, let's level up inclusion, innovation, and community. See you there!
Your UESL Community Guide for Inclusion + Fun!
1. All-Inclusive Day of Play: Starry Cinema & Resource Fair
Experience a day of fun and resources at the Annual All-Inclusive Day of Play: Starry Cinema & Resource Fair. This event offers activities and information tailored for individuals with disabilities and their families, fostering a supportive and engaging environment.
The Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego connects families with resources, services, and events that support individuals with special needs, promoting inclusion and community engagement.
Date: April 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Salvation Army Kroc Center Corner Zone, 6845 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92115
Link: Event Details
2. ANCOR Connect '25 Conference
Join the national community of service providers at ANCOR Connect '25, a conference dedicated to exploring new ways to navigate changes and opportunities in the field of disability services. Engage in sessions, networking, and discussions aimed at enhancing support for individuals with disabilities.
ANCOR (American Network of Community Options and Resources) is a national association advocating for and supporting organizations that provide services to individuals with disabilities, promoting best practices and innovation in the field.
Date: April 7–9, 2025
Location: Sheraton San Diego Resort, San Diego, CA
Link: Event Details
3. Lights! Camera! Autism!
Attend the 7th annual Lights! Camera! Autism! event, showcasing the talents of autistic adults in art, film, and music. This celebration provides a platform for artists to display and sell their work, fostering appreciation and understanding within the community.
The Autism Society San Diego is committed to improving the lives of all affected by autism, providing support, resources, and opportunities for community engagement and awareness.
Date: April 26, 2025
Location: Comic-Con Museum, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA
Link: Event Details
4. Best Buddies Friendship Walk
Participate in the Best Buddies Friendship Walk, the leading event in the country supporting inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Join thousands of participants to support Best Buddies programs in schools, workplaces, and communities, making the world more welcoming to people with IDD—one friendship, one job, and one life-changing connection at a time.Best Buddies International
Best Buddies International is a nonprofit dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, leadership development, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.Best Buddies International
Date: April 12, 2025
Location: San Diego, CA (specific location to be announced)
Link: Event Details
5. Odi Buddies at the Rancho Peñasquitos Library
Children aged 0-5 and their caregivers are invited to Odi Buddies, a program featuring songs, rhymes, fingerplays, and fun activities. This event provides an opportunity for socialization and connection in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
The San Diego Public Library system offers diverse programs that promote literacy, learning, and community engagement for individuals of all ages and abilities.
Date: April 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2025
Location: Rancho Peñasquitos Library, San Diego, CA
Link: Event Details
6. Challenged Sailors San Diego Weekend Sailing
Description: Experience adaptive sailing with Challenged Sailors San Diego, offering weekly opportunities for individuals with disabilities to enjoy sailing in San Diego Bay. Utilizing specially adapted sailboats, participants can learn and engage in sailing activities in a supportive environment.
Organization: Challenged Sailors San Diego is a nonprofit organization providing adaptive sailing opportunities for adults and children living with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and the therapeutic benefits of sailing.
Date: Every Saturday and Sunday in April 2025
Location: Harbor Island, San Diego, CA
Link: Event Details
7. San Diego EarthFest
Description: Celebrate Earth Day at San Diego EarthFest, a free event featuring over 100 eco-friendly vendors, environmental groups, and activities. Enjoy live music, educational booths, and family-friendly fun, all promoting sustainability and inclusion.
Organization: Viridian Productions creates sustainable events that cultivate community and inspire healthy living, emphasizing environmental awareness and inclusivity in all their productions.
Date: April 19, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Balboa Park Boulevard and Presidents Way Lawn, San Diego, CA
Link: Eventbrite
8. Inclusive Art Workshop Series
Join a series of inclusive art workshops tailored for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These workshops focus on various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and mixed media, providing a platform for creative expression in a supportive environment. Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their work in a community exhibition at the end of the series.
Organization: ArtReach San Diego is committed to increasing access to visual arts education by connecting teaching artists with communities throughout San Diego County. They focus on providing free or low-cost programs to underserved communities, ensuring that art is accessible to all.
Date: Every Saturday from April 5, 2025
Location: ArtReach Studio, San Diego, CA
Link: Event Details
9. San Diego Craft Collective Workshops
Participate in inclusive craft workshops designed for individuals of all abilities. The San Diego Craft Collective offers a variety of classes, including wheel throwing, handbuilding ceramics, and stained glass, providing opportunities for creative expression and skill development.
The San Diego Craft Collective is committed to fostering a community that values craftsmanship, creativity, and inclusivity through hands-on workshops and events.
Date: Various dates throughout April 2025
Location: 2590 Truxtun Rd., Suite 106, San Diego, CA 92106
Link: Event Details
10. Art Alive 2025 at The San Diego Museum of Art
Celebrate the return of Art Alive with an astonishing array of colorful floral interpretations and four days of fun-filled events. This annual fundraiser provides essential support for the Museum’s exhibitions, education, outreach, and public programs.
The San Diego Museum of Art is dedicated to inspiring, educating, and cultivating curiosity through great works of art. They strive to make art accessible to people of all abilities through various programs and events.
Date: April 24–27, 2025
Location: The San Diego Museum of Art, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA
Link: Event Details
Get Involved and Make a Difference!
April is a month filled with opportunities to connect, learn, and grow within our community. We invite you to participate in these enriching events, meet new friends, and experience the joy of inclusion firsthand. Don't miss out on our UESL Bonsall Open House event on April 10th from 5:30–7 PM, where you can explore our programs, meet our team, and learn how you can join our vibrant community. Let's make this April a month to remember!
