Monday, November 25, 2024
Milwaukee Recreation has proudly served all members of the Milwaukee community by providing safe and inclusive recreation programs for all ages and abilities. Part of Milwaukee Recreation’s commitment to serving all members of the community includes developing specific activities and programs designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Throughout the year, participants have the opportunity to engage in a variety of social activities including yoga, computers, dance, arts & crafts, aquatics, cooking, and more. Each program offered is led by trained staff and leaders who aid in facilitating active participation, while also creating a safe environment for participants to socialize and express themselves.
“Milwaukee Recreation is proud to enrich and strengthen the community by promoting healthy lifestyles, personal development, and fun through memorable recreational and educational experiences for all people of all ages and abilities,” Laura Mooney, the supervisor of Milwaukee Recreation’s therapeutic recreation program, said. “Our classes provide opportunities to socialize and build lifelong friendships, in addition to physical fitness, increased self-confidence, cooperation, and positive use of leisure time.”
One of the most transformative and memorable aspects of the therapeutic recreation program is the sense of community it creates for both participants and staff members. Every Friday evening at Milwaukee Recreation’s OASIS Community Center (2414 W. Mitchell St.), participants gather for a night of laughs, games, and cooking activities. Alongside staff, members of the Friday night Diner’s Club work together to create a balanced meal for the group, followed by a movie night or dance party.
Programs like the ones offered at the OASIS have consistently provided participants with disabilities the opportunity to engage in safe and meaningful social interactions. However, for many participants and community members, the impact of therapeutic recreation programming is more significant than a weekly activity; it is a chance to build their confidence and create positive social connections.
“For some of our participants, when they first start coming here, it’s hard to get them to participate in anything,” Becky Flagg, a part-time staff member with the therapeutic recreation program, said. “But once you make that connection with them, then you can really get to know them, and we see them branch out and participate in anything.”
Flagg has worked with Milwaukee Recreation for over six years, and during that time, has built many strong relationships with both participants and staff within the therapeutic recreation program. After working with students with disabilities for over 37 years in Milwaukee Public Schools, Flagg decided to continue offering her expertise to the community through Milwaukee Recreation’s programming.
“There’s something about this program that really makes me feel good,” Flagg said. “That’s one of the reasons I continue to do it after I retired from MPS, because of how the kids make me feel. I really enjoy being with them, they make me feel good. I could be having the worst day, but when I come in here, I can’t stop smiling.”
In addition to providing participants with safe and inclusive recreation activities, staff also work to foster strong relationships with families in the community. Staff members work directly with families to not only understand the needs and goals of each participant, but to also ensure parents are receiving the additional support they need.
“Our programs are a place [parents] can be sure their child is treated well and accepted,” Mooney said. “Our staff members genuinely care for the participants and will be creative in planning to ensure all have a great time. Additionally, [our programs] provide a respite for you and your family members, while knowing your loved one is safe, cared for, and having a wonderful time.”
As the therapeutic recreation program continues to grow, its importance and significance to the community becomes increasingly apparent. For many participants, the programs and services offered by Milwaukee Recreation serve as more than just a weekly activity; they offer a space where every member of the community can feel comfortable expressing themselves and their skills, while also building meaningful relationships along the way.
Whether you’re a participant, staff member, or family looking for additional support, there is always an opportunity to get connected with Milwaukee Recreation’s therapeutic recreation program. Visit mkerec.net/guide for more information on how you can stay involved this winter and spring season, or visit mkerec.net/therapeutic for additional resources!