Blog

Building Community through Virtual Group Programs December 2025 Authored by Brandon Cowles, Community Engagement Provider, Recreational Respite. Brandon is a graduate of Canadore College with a Recreation Therapy diploma, and is an enthusiastic Community Engagement Provider at Recreational Respite, developing and delivering meaningful virtual group programs to youth and young adults, and providing tailored one-to-one virtual […]

Inclusive to all abilities, ages 12 – 17 Registration is NOW OPEN for our virtual groups for youth ages 12-17!  This fall, join our safe and inclusive online  community to explore your interests and build new peer friendships with Canadian youth of all abilities!  The Virtual Friend Den, guided by Kelsey!Tuesdays @ 6:30-7:30pm ET. For more information

A Lifespan Approach to Social Engagement June 2025 Authored by Zachary Pencarinha, Community Engagement Provider, Recreational Respite. Zach possesses an honours degree in Psychology & Criminology, with a minor in Sociology. He currently works at Community Living Essex County, and as a Community Engagement Provider at Recreational Respite, while he completes his master’s in Counselling Psychology

How Recreation Breaks Down Participation Barriers and Improves Upon Mental Health for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities April 2025 Authored by Zachary Pencarinha, Community Engagement Provider, Recreational Respite. Zach possesses an honours degree in Psychology & Criminology, with a minor in Sociology. He currently works at Community Living Essex County, and as a Community Engagement Provider at

Engaging older adults with dementia in recreational activities February 2025 Authored by Lisa Kikuchi, Community Engagement Provider, Recreational Respite. Lisa is a graduate of Canadore College with a Recreation Therapy diploma, and is an enthusiastic Community Engagement Provider at Recreational Respite, providing tailored one-to-one respite support. She is passionate about her work with older adults with

January 2025  A new chapter begins at Recreational Respite, as we welcome Allison Reis as our new Owner and Chief Executive Officer. Allison has been an instrumental leader at Recreational Respite for six years, leading innovative partnerships, increasing efficiencies as our organization grew to a national scope, developing quality control measures, strengthening our pandemic response,

Recreation Knows No Limits: How Recreational Respite Promotes Inclusive Recreation At Recreational Respite, we believe that recreation should be accessible and enjoyable to all, regardless of age, ability, or background. That’s why we’re recognizing Inclusive Recreation Day on June 19, 2024! What is Inclusive Recreation? Inclusive recreation goes beyond simply providing access to facilities and