As I renewed my membership with the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) this year, I took a moment to reflect on my journey with this incredible organization.
I discovered the profession during the summer of 1999 while completing volunteer work. Since 1999, I have proudly been an active member, eventually earning the honor of becoming a lifetime member.
My involvement with ATRA has provided me with numerous opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
In 2004, I was deeply honored to receive the Peg Connolly Scholarship in Kansas City as a graduate student at Indiana University, which gave me a solid foundation and fostering my commitment to therapeutic recreation.
The following year, I was recognized as the Advocate of the Year in Washington D.C., an accolade that further solidified my dedication to the field.
One of the most gratifying experiences was assisting with the training of the 2009 Peg Connolly Student Scholarship winners in Minneapolis. Seeing the next generation of recreational therapists nurture their passion and skills was truly inspiring.
Moreover, I have contributed to our profession by writing articles for the ATRA newsletter and presenting at numerous national conferences, including those in Pittsburgh and Chicago.
In 2017, receiving the Certification of Recognition was a milestone that celebrated my continuous effort and passion for therapeutic recreation.
Engaging with the broader community and promoting our field has always been a priority, exemplified by my involvement with the Recreational Therapy Month promotion team for a year.
My engagement with ATRA extends beyond personal accolades. By no means am I a hired spokesperson for the organization, nor have I been elected to the board. However, my experiences and the value I’ve received from my membership fuel my desire to encourage others to join our association.
ATRA has been pivotal in shaping my career and ensuring continuous professional development. It offers an incredible platform for learning, networking, and advocating for therapeutic recreation. For those considering a membership or deepening their involvement, I can assure you that the benefits are substantial and far-reaching.
Let’s continue to build a robust community of recreational therapists dedicated to improving lives through therapeutic recreation. Renew your membership, if you haven’t already, and join me in celebrating the impactful work that we do through ATRA. Together, we can make a significant difference.
Click here to go to the ATRA page to view membership benefits