For individuals living with disabilities, recreation opportunities and a sense of community may not be easy to come by. That's where the
Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) Division of the
Department of Regional Parks comes in!
One way to provide these individuals with recreational opportunities is through recreation therapy, which utilizes activities such as arts and crafts, dance, exercise and more to improve and maintain cognitive, physical and emotional functioning in order to facilitate full participation in life. TRS is in the business of delivering recreation therapy, and they have been since 1975.
“Providing Recreation Therapy is so impactful because everyone likes to have fun, feel included and feel capable," said Jenn Wilson-Marchino, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with TRS. “Recreation therapy gives people the opportunity to try new things in a safe and supportive environment, be with people that accept them for who they are, and push themselves to be independent!"
February is recognized as Recreational Therapy Month, and TRS is celebrating the role that recreation therapy has played in the lives of its participants by reflecting on what they enjoy most about TRS.
Ryder, TRS Participant“I love TRS because it gives me the opportunity to be silly with my peeps!"Tess, TRS Participant“TRS makes me feel like I am part of a group. I really like that feeling."Josh, TRS Participant“Because of TRS, I get less screen time and more people time with my friends."
Dylan, TRS Participant“With TRS, I like hanging out with my new friends and learning to become more independent."
Hermanda, TRS Participant“I really like that with TRS, I get to see new places, have fun and be myself without being judged."TRS programs focus on abilities while encouraging people to attain their highest level of independent leisure functioning by increasing leisure skills, improving social skills, increasing independence and increasing their awareness of and involvement in community recreational activities.
For more information on the great programs TRS provides and how you can get involved with, volunteer with and support TRS, visit the TRS webpage. For more testimonials, check out their YouTube channel.
