Passport to Recreation and Work Project
Funder: U.S. Department of Education – Rehabilitation Services Administration
City of Fort Collins Adaptive Recreation Opportunities
| Passport Key Personnel: | |
|---|---|
| Cathy Schelly, M.Ed., OTR; Assistant Professor, CCP Director | Principal Investigator (PI) |
| Renee Lee, CTRS; Director, Adaptive Recreation Opportunities, City of Fort Collins | Co-PI |
| Cindy Sharpe, CCP Transition Specialist | Employment Specialist |
| Deb Spotts, CCP Job Developer | Employment Specialist |
| Alison Cope, MS, OTR | ARO Recreation Specialist |
Project Synopsis:
The Center for Community Partnerships (CCP) in the Department of Occupational Therapy at Colorado State University, in partnership with the City of Fort Collins Adaptive Recreation Opportunities (ARO) Program, has been awarded a $315,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration. The CCP and ARO are implementing the Passport Project in collaboration with the Poudre School District, guiding transitioning youth with disabilities as they participate in recreational programs in the community and develop independent living, community access, socialization and employability skills in preparation for high school graduation. Participating youth with disabilities complete recreation passports as they ‘travel’ through numerous community activities and, eventually, finish their travels with completed professional portfolios that outline their skills, abilities and unique employment interests. Occupational therapy graduate students, as well as CSU students from a variety of majors, participate in the Passport Project, helping guide transitioning youth through their travels and mentor them as they develop their professional portfolios. Youth finish their travels and are prepared to make the important transition from high school to adult life.
