The morning started with a drizzle—but that didn’t stop the magic. On May 17, more than 50 community members gathered at Hunter Hobby Park for Inland Regional Center’s second annual Field Day—a joyful celebration of connection, inclusion, and springtime spirit for individuals of all ages and abilities. What began as a gray, cloudy day quickly turned bright with laughter, movement, and shared moments of belonging.

From the thwack of pickleballs on paddles to the giggles of children playing games on the grassy field, the park buzzed with warmth and welcome. A face painter added rainbows and butterflies to smiling cheeks, completing the festive scene. This wasn’t just a day of games—it was a living, breathing expression of what it means to belong.

Creating a Space for Everyone

At the heart of Field Day was a mission to create a space where every participant felt seen, heard, and included. The IRC planning team prioritized accessibility from the start, ensuring all activities could be enjoyed by people with diverse abilities and needs. Games were adapted to be inclusive, with sensory-friendly play options and wheelchair-accessible areas.

Sign language interpreters were available throughout the event, and IRC staff and volunteers actively engaged with attendees to offer support, encouragement, and connection. Every detail—from the layout of the park to the structure of each activity—was thoughtfully designed to make sure no one was left out.

Fun, Food, and Friendship

The day was packed with fun at every turn. Families and individuals joined several rounds of Pickleball, led by a certified coach who is Deaf providing instructions in ASL. A wide variety of interactive games gave participants the chance to show off their skills, cheer each other on, and shared plenty of smiles and laughs.

Kids and adults alike lined up for colorful face painting, which added a creative touch to the event. Whether racing through the field, bouncing on giant balls, or tossing foam axes at targets, guests of all ages got in on the action.

And of course, no community gathering is complete without good food. Registered guests were treated to tasty sandwiches and refreshing beverages, with shaded seating available to relax, recharge, and connect with others. Whether you came for the games or the good vibes, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Building Community and Raising Awareness

While the day was filled with light-hearted activities, Field Day also carried a deeper purpose. It was an opportunity to strengthen community bonds while increasing visibility and awareness of the experiences of individuals with developmental disabilities, as well as those who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Through shared activities and open conversations, attendees connected in meaningful ways, gaining greater empathy and understanding. Events like Field Day help break down barriers, highlight the importance of accessibility, and remind us of the power of inclusive spaces.

Looking Ahead

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and helped make Field Day a success. Your energy, enthusiasm, and support brought our vision to life. As we look forward to future events, we remain committed to creating inclusive spaces that celebrate every member of our community.

To stay connected and learn more about upcoming events and initiatives, follow Inland Regional Center on social media or visit our website. We can’t wait to see you next year!

Posted by:

Estefania Pena

Estefania Pena is a Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (D/HH) Cultural Specialist. She is a part of IRC’s Community Engagement team where she advocates for clients who are deaf, deafblind, and hard-of-hearing. Estefania supports the expansion of deaf service resources, provides training and expertise to IRC staff, and coordinates with DDS on statewide efforts. Estefania is a proud Deaf Latina and is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL). During her free time, Estefania enjoys traveling, cooking, and tending to her growing collection of plants.