March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, so we are giving special attention to sharing stories, resources and support for the this community.
I am a Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist and currently work for the City of Scottsdale. This means that I provide services to those with various disabilities including physical, mental, and intellectual.
As a therapeutic recreational specialist, I use recreational activities such as sports, games, and crafts to help my participants find joy in their life. We come up with adaptations of regular activities to meet the needs of the participant.
My goal is to help them realize that even though they may have a disability, they can still enjoy their favorite activities and have a great quality of life! I also help with life skills, community integration, behavior modification, and social skills is a big area with my teens.
Special Olympics Arizona
Special Olympics Arizona provides year-round sports and athletic training in multiple Olympic sports and competitions for children and adults with disabilities. Each valley city has its own team!
Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center
Ability 360 Sports & Fitness Center provides adaptive sports, recreation, aquatic, and fitness programs to those with disabilities.
City Adaptive Programs
Each East Valley city provides adaptive programs or Therapeutic Recreation to meet the needs of children and adults with various disabilities. The programs include sports, arts, life skills, and community outings.
Special Needs Planning LLC
Special Needs Planning, LLC helps families navigate the maze of legal and financial complexities associated with planning for the financial future for children or dependents with special needs.
Arizona Autism Coalition
The Arizona Autism Coalition supports Individuals on the Autism Spectrum and their families by providing resources, collaboration, and advocacy.
The Arc of Tempe
The Arc of Tempe is an organization that creates community-based programs for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
STARS
STARS is a facility catering to individuals with intellectual and development disabilities by providing creative classes and community field trips. They also help participants develop real-life job skills and help place them in jobs throughout the valley.
Raising Special Kids
Raising Special Kids is an organization that supports families with training, information, and individual assistance so parents can become effective advocated for their children with special needs.
Civitan
Civitan Foundation provides services such as the Adult Life Learning Program that teaches independent living skills, helps pursue individual passions, and integrate into the community. They also offer week longer camp sessions throughout the summer. They also provide employment training and help individuals with disabilities find a job that best fits their needs.
School Support Services
All schools support Individualized Education Program (IEP). Each school has an IEP Team that includes the student, parents, faculty, teachers, and counselors. The team considers the individuals strengths, skills, needs, and goals when determining the appropriate needs for each child. Contact your school for more information about what is offered through your district.
Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)
This division is a part of DES (Department of Economic Security). They provide support and services to those with developmental disabilities including Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, and other intellectual disabilities.
If you would like to know more or have questions, comment or send a message on my Instagram!
