March will be National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to educate our communities on the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and reflect on the progress made toward improving quality of life for the individuals we serve.
At such a time, I am excited to be leading the Munroe-Meyer Institute Recreation Therapy Department as interim director, and it has been a privilege to witness the growth of the institute and our department over the course of almost 20 years. MMI does a lot to raise awareness of issues surrounding developmental disabilities, and recreational therapy is proud to be part of those efforts.
Being part of the recreational therapy department, and now leading it, has been a fun and exciting journey, with the mentorship of previous leaders Kelley Coutts and Michael Crawford, Ph.D. and especially our team of fellow therapists, rec techs and volunteers. Their dedication and advocacy together helped pave the way for a stronger and more diverse community — a more aware community.
With the support of many community members, including the Hattie B. Munroe Foundation and Meyer Foundation for Disabilities, the department has been able to expand our offerings. We now host more than 20 different programs, including the newly added Millard Social Program, Sports Camp, Art Club and yoga classes.
As we head toward Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, I am grateful for the inspired evolution of services at MMI. I’m proud to be part of the collaborative team that works to overcome the barriers that our participants sometimes face. I look forward to the great things we will do together!
Nicole Giron
Interim Director
MMI Department of Recreational Therapy