Highlights from January/February 2026

View our full newsletter, including info about our new programs, here!

Recreational Therapy:

The American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) is the national professional organization that champions evidence-based Recreational Therapy practice — from research, to education, and advocacy. ATRA elevates our profession by promoting interventions that support social connection, meaningful participation, and overall well-being across diverse populations and settings. Recreational Therapists are uniquely positioned to address social isolation and foster community engagement through structured, intentional experiences that help people feel connected, purposeful, and supported. Together, we can elevate the understanding of RT as a vital service that improves lives.

Learn more about ATRA’s role and the social connection focus of Recreational Therapy: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/connecting-socially-disconnected-message-all-health-human-qoble/

Meet Chris! Here’s a little glimpse into his Recreational Therapy journey: Through long-term participation in Recreational Therapy, Chris has experienced meaningful growth in communication, independence, and community involvement. RT has helped him build confidence, make choices, and strengthen his social connections across many areas of his life. Recently, Chris transitioned from his family home to a waiver-supported residential setting. Recreational Therapy played a key role in supporting this transition by increasing his access to community resources, and assisting Chris with structured community integration opportunities. Through intentional, goal-driven outings, he has strengthened communication skills, increased physical activity, and expanded his comfort and independence in community settings. Community-based interventions—including visits to the Fort Wayne Zoo and recreational activities, such as bowling—have supported improved socialization, decision-making, and participation beyond the home environment. With support from his Recreational Therapist, Chris, actively participates in planning outings, reinforcing autonomy and self-advocacy. Recreational Therapy helps individuals build skills, independence, and a meaningful, connected life in their community.

We thank our Recreational Therapy team! In honor of Recreational Therapy Month, we’re excited to highlight the meaningful impact our Recreational Therapy team brings every day. This month, we’re celebrating by sharing the many heartfelt comments we’ve received about two of our outstanding recreational therapists. Their dedication, creativity, and compassion continue to enrich the lives of those we serve—and the positive feedback speaks for itself.

Olivia Kattner CTRS

“Ability to successfully identify activities that will challenge my son and yet hold his interest. Provides a large variety of potential activities. Understands communication methods used by my son. Ability to work well with team members. Offers opinions and suggestions on what might be good for him.” (Guardian)

“She is knowledgeable. Knows client’s needs and implements activities accordingly. Is friendly and is prompt on her schedule.” (Alternate Agency Provider)

“Olivia is professional, she displays a great deal of respect and care for her clients and supporting teams. Olivia is a very effective and positive communicator. She goes the extra-mile to make sure her clients are supported, encouraged, and get high-quality services to help them meet their recreational needs. She is an amazing professional and therapist. The best in the business!!” (Alternate Agency Provider)

Pam Thompson CTRS

“Pam is just amazing at what she does! She is always organized and prepared for meetings and always has an update of all the activities and goals her and the individual have been working on. She is both professional and personable and truly cares about the individuals she works with as well as the family. She also thinks outside the box and is consistently striving to ensure everyone is living their best life!” (Case Manager)

“Pam is highly knowledgeable in her field and answers all my questions regarding therapy. Pam goes well above and beyond to provide services for my son and I cannot thank her enough for all she has done for us.” (Guardian)

“Pam does a great job at communicating and going above and beyond. She is a great team player and is enjoyable to work with. It’s obvious she loves what she does and genuinely cares for the people she works with.” (Alternate Agency Provider)