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1. What is 'Therapeutic Recreation'?

Therapeutic Recreation, also known as "TR", is Canton Leisure Services' inclusive programming effort which aims to allow for individuals with challenges or disabilities the opportunity to participate as fully as possible, while providing some reasonable accommodations and adaptations. Accommodations include individualized techniques and resources that enhance program participation without fundamentally altering a program. Canton Leisure Services currently serves participants with a broad range of abilities/disabilities.

2. How old do participants need to be in order to participate in Leisure Club programming?

Eligible Leisure Club participants must be 15 years of age or older. During the summer season, Canton Leisure Services offers a Therapeutic Recreation experience for youth with disabilities between the ages of eight and 14, called "Camp A.B.L.E." Registration for this program takes place each March at Canton's Annual Camp Fair. Leisure Club programming operates year round, and registration follows the same timeline as other Leisure Services programs, (typically March and August annually).

3. Are Therapeutic Recreation programs available to individuals residing outside of the Canton community?

Yes. Special pricing is available to both residents and non-residents because of a generous Western Wayne County Therapeutic Recreation Grant. Programming is geared to serve residents residing in the communities of Western Wayne County, however, all eligible Wayne County residents are welcome to participate.

4. How do I request a reasonable accommodation?

1.) Written notification is required two weeks prior to the registration deadline for each program. In some cases, reasonable accommodation may take longer.
2.) The requester will be contacted within four business days by appropriate staff.

5. Are there personal requirements that individuals must be able to accomplish in order to participate?

Yes. All participants must be able to accomplish the following personal skills: Feeding, Toileting, and Dressing/Clothing themselves. An aide, family member, or other resource may attend alongside a participant in order to help them accomplish any or all of these personal skills while still enabling them to take part in the program. Additionally, it is important to note that for the safety off all participants, Canton's Therapeutic Recreation Program has adopted a zero tolerance policy regarding behaviors that are violent in nature; this includes, but is not limited to, hitting, kicking, biting, pinching, etc.

6. If an aide will be attending alongside a participant, should they register for the program too?

Yes. Please make sure that the aide/parent/resource gets registered for any and all programs that they plan to attend. This helps Therapeutic Recreation Staff better plan & cover any additional expenses that may be incurred, especially in regards to trips or programs that include transportation or tickets.

7. How can I help support the Therapeutic Recreation (TR) program in Canton?

Thanks for asking! There are several ways to support programming that serves individuals with special needs in Canton and Western Wayne County. Each November-December the Summit on the Park Lobby plays host to a TR 'Holiday Wish Tree'. It is decorated with festive gift tags for items, both small and large, that will benefit Canton's inclusive recreation programs. Items like sensory toys, antibacterial wipes, and other important supplies are always in demand. Taking one (or more) of these tags and donating the listed items is a wonderful way to show local support for individuals with disabilities.

Additionally, a special fund was a established through the Canton Community Foundation to serve Canton's Camp A.B.L.E. program, which serves area youth with special needs each summer. Financial donations can be made directly on the Canton Community Foundation's Website. Simply 'select a fund', and choose "Camp A.B.L.E. Fund" to make a tax deductible donation.

Or, if you have a better idea regarding how you might like to help, please let us know! We appreciate your interest and support!