"Rewriting the Myths, Redefining the Realities"
FORT COLLINS * The Center for Community Participation, in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Colorado State University, in collaboration with the City of Fort Collins Adaptive Recreation Opportunities program, has been awarded a three-year grant totaling $315,000 from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rehabilitation Services Administration. The grant will be used to fund the “Recreation Works” project that will provide people with disabilities enhanced opportunities and support to participate in recreation programs at their greatest level of independence while pursuing employment goals. These experiences are expected to aid in their employment, mobility, socialization, independence and community integration.
As part of the grant, the Parks and Recreation Department, which oversees the ARO program, will receive funding to hire a full-time therapeutic recreation coordinator for three years to administer the program. A job announcement will be posted through the city’s Human Resources Department.
“This is an unbelievable opportunity to enhance our services to community members with disabilities while also cultivating a mutually beneficial relationship with Colorado State University,” said Renée Lee, certified therapeutic recreation specialist for the Parks and Recreation Department.
“I am especially excited about this unique project because of what it means for people with disabilities as they recreate and participate in community activities. The ‘Recreation Works’ project will enhance the partnership between the CSU Occupational Therapy Department’s Center for Community Participation and the City’s Parks and Recreation ARO program, and ultimately will make recreational involvement a reality for everyone who wants to participate.”
The “Recreation Works” program was one of only six programs funded nationally out of 148 applicants. For more information about the program, contact Lee at 970-224-6027.
The City of Fort Collins will make reasonable accommodations for access to City services, programs and activities and will make special communication arrangements for persons with disabilities. For assistance, call 970-224-6027, or TDD/TTY 970-224-6002.
Copyright 2002 A&H Publishing Corporation