Therapeutic Recreation

About Therapeutic Recreation

Therapeutic Recreation Programming
Isle of Wight Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Recreation division provides specialized programs, services, opportunities, and events for individuals with disabilities. In addition, we provide reasonable accommodations (upon request), support, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities in our general recreation programs. The Therapeutic Recreation staff will work with participants, parents/guardians, and staff to help ensure an enjoyable recreational experience. Our certified staff is dedicated to maintaining an atmosphere that empowers participants to enjoy life and reach their goals every day. 

For more information, please email Jaimie Belch at jbelch@isleofwightus.net or call (757)-365-1663

What is Therapeutic Recreation? 
Therapeutic Recreation, also known as Recreational Therapy, uses recreation and leisure activities to help people with disabilities improve their skills, abilities, quality of life, overall health and well-being.

What do Recreational Therapists do? 
Recreation Therapy services are provided by Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialists (CTRS), also referred to as Recreational Therapists. The CTRS is the qualified provider who works with the participant and their family to incorporate specific interests and needs into therapy-based interventions to achieve optimal outcomes that transfer to everyday life. The Recreational Therapist has a unique perspective regarding the social, cognitive, physical, and leisure needs of the participant. The therapy process provided by the Recreational Therapist incorporates the individual’s interests, family, and community, making the practice meaningful and relevant. 

* Therapeutic Recreation programs promote community recreation and participation and are not intended to provide behavior therapy interventions. Participants will be expected to manage their own behavior with minimal staff intervention and must have a desire to participate in programming. Participants requiring 1:1 assistance are welcome with their own personal aide at no extra cost.

Upcoming Events

Isle of Wight County Parks and Recreation is excited to launch their first ever Therapeutic Recreation Program and would love to welcome all individuals with disabilities ages four and up and their parent/guardians to the “Therapeutic Recreation Launch Party.” The goal of this event is to promote awareness of Therapeutic Recreation, receive participant feedback concerning the needs of the population served, inform participants and their parents/guardians of the assessment/participation process, and celebrate the launch of Therapeutic Recreation Programming at Isle of Wight County Parks and Recreation. We hope you can come out and join us as we move forward toward the goal of providing inclusive recreation opportunities for all individuals within our community!

Summer Blast - NO LIMITS!
Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp for individuals with disabilities ages 5-17. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in arts and crafts, group games, outdoor activities, field trips, physical activities, and much more!
Dates & Times: Monday - Thursday, June 26 - July 20, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Location: Carrollton Elementary School (14440 New Towne Haven Ln., Carrollton, Va 23314)
Registration Dates: April 17 - until filled
Cost: $50 per child per week

Sunny Smiles Day Camp
Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp for adults with disabilities ages 18 and up. This program will promote socialization and opportunities to participate in activities with a group that shares common goals and abilities. Activities include games, crafts, trips, outdoor and physical activities, and much more!
Dates & Times: Monday - Thursday,  July 31 - August 10, 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Location: Nike Park (13036 Nike Park Rd., Carrollton, Va 23314)
Registration Dates: April 17 - until filled
Cost: $50 per week

Therapeutic Recreation Brochure