The Saskatchewan Association of Recreation Professionals (S.A.R.P.) announced the week of June 15-21, 2020 has officially been proclaimed Recreation Professionals Week in Saskatchewan for the third consecutive year, thanks to the Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport, the Honourable Gene Makowsky.
Recreation is the experience resulting from freely chosen participation in physical, social, intellectual, creative and spiritual pursuits to enhance individual and community well-being. Behind parks, open spaces, recreation facilities and other recreation opportunities are a diverse group of hardworking professionals who deliver programs and services designed to meet high standards.
“These professionals work tirelessly behind-the-scenes to help our province’s residents live their best lives,” said TJ Biemans, S.A.R.P. Interim Executive Director. “We will be highlighting one recreation professional every day of this week on our social media channels (@saskrecprof) to celebrate their outstanding contributions that are benefiting Saskatchewan residents, while championing the profession in the process.”
Recreation therapists have worked in numerous settings in the province, including long-term care. Many therapists were challenged to meet the needs of patients and residents who were isolated from family and loved ones due to COVID-19.
“Luckily in this province, from large to small communities and in residential and health care facilities, we have recreation professionals caring for the entire system to ensure it’s ready to respond to the needs of residents,” Biermans added.
The Saskatchewan Association of Recreation Professionals (S.A.R.P.) is a non-profit member driven organization committed to the recreation profession by representing and supporting current and future recreation professionals.
Their work reduces health care and social service costs, increases property values, attracts new businesses, enhances community development and expands tourism opportunities.
Recreation professionals are formally educated, trained and certified.
These professionals deliver programs and services in a variety of settings such as communities, schools, acute care, rehabilitation centres, long-term care facilities and the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation. In addition, they manage large infrastructure used by Saskatchewan residents such as: multipurpose centres, aquatic facilities, soccer centres, parks, trails and open spaces.
Learn more at sarponline.ca.
