About

A Mother’s Mission

Jack Clarke is the inspiration behind Can Play Adapted Programs. At age eight, Jack had to undergo a routine procedure for a non-life-threatening condition he was born with, and within days of his procedure, he had multiple strokes which left him unable to walk and talk. Today, Jack lives a fulfilling life while living with physical and cognitive disabilities.

Some individuals are born with disabilities, others have life-altering events - either way, these children and adults need a place to be active and social on a regular basis. Can Play Adapted Programs believe you can “Play Without Limits” - in a safe environment without fear of judgment, and that is why Melissa Clarke-Wharff (Jack's mother) started Can Play programs.

Hear our CEO and Founder’s story of the journey to bring Can Play a mission in action.

A Mother’s Mission

Our Team

The Can Play team is comprised of passionate professionals with expertise in adaptive sports programming and community engagement. Our diverse backgrounds and shared commitment to inclusivity enable us to develop and deliver high-quality programs that make a real difference. We work tirelessly to ensure that every participant has the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from our adapted recreational activities.

Melissa Clarke-Wharff

Co-Founder

melissa@can-play.org

Amanda Oleson

Licensing and Curriculum Manager

amanda@can-play.org

Amanda serves as the Licensing and Curriculum Manager at Can Play, specializing in the development of adapted recreational sports and programming for children and adults. With 25 years of educational experience, Amanda is passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on her community. When Amanda isn’t at work, you’ll catch her outdoors hiking or spending quality time with her family. For inquiries on promoting adapted recreational sports and programming in your community, feel free to reach out to her.

Book Melissa for Your Next Speaking Event

Feleecia Watkins

Adapted Program Manager

feleecia@can-play.org

Feleecia is a dedicated mom, passionate animal lover, and nonprofit leader with nearly 20 years of experience in youth development. With a Masters in Curriculum and Instructional Leadership and a background in Graphic Design, she is committed to creating a positive impact in the lives of others through meaningful connections, compassion, and creativity. Beyond her professional role, she extends her impact through volunteer work with Girls on the Run of Central Iowa and serves as a youth mentor for YSS. In her free time she enjoys cheering on her son, Graysen, bike riding, supporting the arts, and spending time with her chihuahua Izzy.

Book Melissa for Your Next Speaking Event

Tiffany Barlow

Director of Development Adapted Programs

Tiffany@can-play.org

Tiffany serves as the Director of Development and Marketing for Can Play Adapted and brings 25+ years of marketing expertise to the team. Outside of crafting strategic marketing initiatives, you’ll find Tiffany supporting Eleanor’s activities or planning the next family vacation somewhere tropical to scuba dive with her family.

Tiffany is dedicated to giving back to the community, volunteering her time wherever needed.

Rounding out her happy crew are her husband, John, their dog, Rocky, and her daughter, Eleanor.

Book Melissa for Your Next Speaking Event

Our Blog

Unlock Inclusive Recreation: How to Bring Adapted Programs to Your Community

For over a decade, Can Play has been Iowa’s established and trusted leader in safe adapted recreational sports. Can Play’s Adapted Licensing aims to empower...

A Mother’s Mission

As a mother, there are moments in life that test the very core of your being—moments that push you beyond the limits of what you...

The Importance of Adapted Recreation for Individuals with Special Needs: How Can Play is Making a Difference

The Importance of Adapted Recreation for Individuals with Special Needs: How Can Play is Making a Difference Physical activity is vital for maintaining good health,...

Creating Forever Friends: How Can Play’s Adapted Recreation Programs Foster Friendship and Inclusion for Special Needs Families

Creating Forever Friends: How Can Play’s Adapted Recreation Programs Foster Friendship and Inclusion for Special Needs Families One of the most fulfilling aspects of life...

Can Play and their Courage League programs not only provide opportunities for physical activities but also inclusion and friendships. The activities are creative and fun. The staff is genuinely interested in supporting all participants. Courage League programs have made a huge positive impact on our daughter and our family!
read moreread less

Denise Koester 4/27/2022

Can Play is an amazing organization. We've seen Can Play evolve over the years into something incredibly special for our kids and our communities. The team and volunteers at Can Play show tremendous patience, knowledge and more importantly just a love for our son and his gifts.

Our son has been participating for years in a variety of sports (including soccer, baseball, bike camp, etc.) and activities with Can Play and over the years he's made friends, gained a huge amount of confidence and literally has overcome some of his mental and physical challenges -- just by playing and participating. Our daughter even participates sometimes because she sees her brother out there having fun and doesn't want to miss out.

We love seeing the growth and seeing smiles on parents and participants faces each week and look forward to participating long into the future.
read moreread less

Paul Burger 4/27/2022

Can Play is an amazing Organization and a great place to volunteer to earn Silver Cord hours. The staff are always friendly and the people you get to work with are all amazing as well.
read moreread less

Brennen Matthews 7/05/2022
We have had wonderful experiences with Can Play over the last several years. The team has given our family a place to belong and they truly understand what works for people with disabilities. The programming options are growing each year and we are so glad. Engagement and joy are present for participants and volunteers alike. Those interacting with the kids are so genuine and interested in helping them learn and grow through the activities. Our family is grateful for Can Play ♥️
read moreread less

Jen Jacob 7/03/2024

What an awesome organization! My daughter participated in the volleyball at Cornell tonight and had a blast!.The kiddos were happy. The vibe was positive and motivating. Kudos to you all for creating smiles and memories for so many!
read moreread less

Bridget Ann 9/08/2022

Staff and volunteers are great at making my son feel comfortable as he learns new skills!
read moreread less

Crystal Buldhaupt 4/08/2024
Great organization with a great purpose! Melissa and Dylan are truly making a positive difference in the communities they serve.
read moreread less

Luke Hartke 7/05/2022

Outstanding programming for all abilities!
read moreread less

Jaimi Bird 8/10/2024

Can Play is a great organization offering opportunities for children and adults can enjoy building friendships while staying active.
read moreread less

Jami Haberl 7/05/2022
Can Play is an AMAZING organization. Kids of all all ages can play in an organized and fun environment. My daughter has participated in many programs and has loved all of them. The staff and volunteers are are outstanding. I highly recommend!
read moreread less

JULIE HUBBARD 4/27/2022