| 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. |
