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 those with disabilities. 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 independent and autonomous. 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 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 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 in the 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, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Palm Park. Friday Night Dances are held September through June.

Saturday Excursions

The 2nd Saturday 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, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Friendly Hills Bowl, $6.50/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 24, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

For more information on Therapeutic Recreation programs, please call (562) 464-3365.