Adaptive Sports Intern
Boulder Parks And Recreation
Boulder, Co
EXPAND stands for Exciting Programs Adventures and New Dimensions. It provides opportunities for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities to explore the world around them through recreation and leisurely activities. As an intern, I was fortunate enough to interact with a wide range of individuals who had varying types of disabilities and abilities. Some of the disabilities I came in contact with included: cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, spinal injuries, brain injuries, Down syndrome, autism, behavioral disorders and emotional disorders. I assisted with a water skiing program for individuals with physical disabilities and was responsible for equipment management and fitting, transporting participants to and from a wheel chair, sit ski or boat. Out on the water, I rode on the back of a jet ski behind the skier and jumped off to rescue skiers when they crashed and got them started again once they were situated back in their ski. Another program I assisted with was a day camp for young adults with developmental disabilities in which I accompanied participants in the swimming pool, educated them in personal hygiene and health, and worked on their social and interpersonal skills. Other programs I assisted with included: golf lessons for individuals with mild-traumatic brain injuries, yoga, bowling, softball and stand up paddle boarding for individuals with developmental disabilities. As well, I was assigned as an individual swim instructor for a 6 year old girl with autism. I was trained in proper transfer techniques as well as water rescue for individuals with physical disabilities. Problem solving was a skill that I developed and utilized throughout my internship as well as conflict resolution in social interactions. I was constantly in contact with people which allowed me to develop a greater awareness of the diversity in behavior and personal differences among individuals.