The
Therapeutic Recreation program provides an opportunity for physical
activity, emotional release, social involvement and creative expression
for individuals with disabilities. The City of Whittier offers a
diversified program for persons of all ages and with various disabilities
living in the City of Whittier and surrounding cities. All programs
are offered at local parks or City facilities on a year-round basis.
Program
Goals
The Therapeutic Recreation program looks to provide constructive,
enjoyable and creative leisure activities for the disabled. It helps
participants develop a positive self-image and feelings of individual
worth. The program encourages participants to develop healthy and
continuing relationships. Activities increase physical condition
and coordination. The program also helps to improve the morale and
quality of family living by helping each individual become an independent
and autonomous person. It provides resources to participants and
family members for activities and organizations available in the
City.
Programs
New Frontier Players
A drama class for individuals ages 12 years and older who are developmentally
disabled. Class is offered in ten week sessions, culminating in
a one-act play. Acting and technical skills are taught.
Tuesday
Game Night
A weekly program for persons 15 years and older who are developmentally
disabled. Activities include fitness, cooking, crafts, indoor and
outdoor games, self-improvement classes, swimming and other special
events. Family potlucks are scheduled throughout the year. Game
Night is held Tuesdays from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Palm Park.
Special
Arts Program
An art class for persons 12 years and older who are developmentally
disabled. This class gives participants an opportunity to mold,
fold and be bold with your creativity through different kinds of
art. Class is offered for 6 weeks in the summer, and 10 weeks, fall,
winter, and spring sessions at the Whittier Community Center.
Friday
Night Dances
Rock n’ Roll, Disco, Hip-Hop, Oldies! Bi-monthly dances for
persons 15 years and older who are developmentally disabled. Come
dance to your favorite tunes the first and third Fridays of each
month, 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Palm Park. Friday Night Dances are
held September through June.
Saturday
Excursions
The 2nd Saturdays of each month an excursion is planned for persons
15 years and older who are developmentally disabled. Come venture
with us to sporting events, amusement parks, museums, fairs, and
much more. Fees vary with trips.
Sunfish
Swim
This 10 week program for persons of all ages and disabilities offers
recreational swimming lessons during the hot summer months of June,
July and August at Palm Park Aquatics Center.
Special
Olympics
A weekly sports program for persons 8 years and older who are developmentally
disabled.
Bowling September – May
Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Friendly Hills Bowl, $5.50/week
Aquatics January – June
Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Uptown YMCA
Whittier
Club of the Deaf
A monthly social and education program for persons 18 years and
older who are hearing impaired or deaf. Club meets the first Friday
of each month, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. at Parnell Park.
Annual
Halloween Costume Party and Dance
The annual Halloween celebration features dancing, games, contests
and refreshments for persons of all ages and disabilities. Family
and friends are also welcome. This year's Dance will be at the Community
Center on Saturday, October 28, 2006 from 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.
For more information
on Therapeutic Recreation programs, please call (562) 464-3365.
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