STRIVE Recreation: Building Valuable Life Skills

Every year, our community recreation program offers a wide range of enriching activities for adults aged 21 and older with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These daily activities are more than just fun and games; they help build valuable life skills in a supportive and social setting. From cooking and fitness to music, sewing, and movies, each activity is designed to promote growth in socialization and motor skills.

“We’ve expanded our activities this year to better support each member’s unique background, skills, and interests,” says Magdalene John, Recreation Manager. “With a variety of activities, we ensure that we meet individual needs and create a space where all members can thrive.” Whether it’s learning how to thread a needle, follow choreography, or take turns during a game, our members gain confidence and independence in a space that encourages teamwork and connection.

Recreation Associate Sandra Dixon, who has worked closely with many of our members, plays a key role in creating that environment. “We meet them where they are,” she says. “Every person learns in their own way, and I try to make each moment an opportunity to grow while having fun.” Her patience and positive energy have helped create strong bonds, making her a trusted and familiar face in every activity. Sandra also encourages positive peer-to-peer connections. “Because some individuals have social anxiety, I encourage everyone to socialize with each other and build relationships while we do our daily activities,” she explains. “Even small interactions can lead to new friendships.”

Recently, the group tackled a new challenge: making pizza from scratch. Members were involved in every step, from prepping the dough to choosing toppings, learning oven settings, and even cleaning up after baking. “We give them a sense of what it’s like to make a meal,” Sandra explains. “While the pizza is baking, we practice cleaning up together. It’s fun, hands-on learning that gives them real-world skills.”

Magdalene says, “What sets our program apart is the individualized attention, the welcoming atmosphere, and the relationships that form between members and staff.” With no more than 20 individuals per class, participants benefit from more one-on-one support, giving them the chance to refine and improve their skills in a more personal setting. “Watching our members thrive while having fun is the most rewarding part of what we do,” she adds. “Seeing them reach their milestones and express themselves is what drives us forward. At STRIVE, we aim to make everyone feel like they truly belong, where their abilities are celebrated and their self-esteem grows.”