TR Month 2024

Feb 1-29th

award voting information

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The Chameleon award - ATRA

This Therapeutic Recreation professional is able to adapt to any challenge thrown at them. Their versatility, flexibility, innovation, resilience, adaptability, and creativity, gives them the ability to meet the diverse needs of their clients. This person demonstrates an ability to use various techniques, technologies, and resources to meet the ever changing individual needs of those they support. This person is able to turn on a dime, and make decisions on the fly. The “Chameleon” is the professional you love having on your team, because you know they have the ability to face challenges head on with their versatility.

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Consistent demonstration of adaptive techniques that create positive outcomes for clients

- Demonstrates resilience in the face of adversity and barriers experienced by clients

- Demonstrates responsiveness to change, and embraces opportunities change may bring

The Chameleon award - ATRA

Nominee: Laura Oldford

Having worked on the same team nearly 5 years now, Laura has been involved in exploring the latest technology to explore new research ideas and is quick to focus on a different skillset based on different needs and goals of the patient. It is great to be on the same team, as we have rich discussions around problem solving new interventions and techniques with patients and how to embrace innovation, resilience, adaptability, and creativity!

Nominee: Shaylene Leibl-Smith

Shaylene's ability to support individuals within physical medicine and neuro rehab, and meet their individual needs and wants, is something I highly admire and aspire too. Shaylene has been able to give those that have experienced life changing diagnoses like spinal cord injuries, strokes, traumatic brain injuries, and more, an opportunity to move past survival and into thriving. Shaylene is a voice for her patients and clients, both in hospital, and in community, and finds a way to support their recreation and leisure. Within rehab, the need to be able to constantly adapt to not only the individual's needs, but also the ever changing complexities that are being seen in our healthcare systems, is integral ... but Shaylene takes it a step further. Not only is it Shaylene's knowledge of adaptive equipment/activities, or social/community supports for clients, but it's also her unwavering work in being a voice for client's and reducing barriers so they can thrive.

Life of the party - bctra

This Therapeutic Recreation professional gives no doubt in your mind that they are “The Life of the Party”. This award is for the professional who exudes fun, joy and a positive energy in all that they do. Their infectious enthusiasm brings their clients and colleagues from the sidelines to the dance floor. They may be known for their wild holiday sweaters, or their ability to always bring a smile to someone's face. They can turn any situation into an opportunity for joy, laughter, excitement, and connection.

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Demonstrates consistent ability to bring warmth into any room they enter

- Demonstrates a “can do” attitude and positive energy

- Nominator has worked with nominee for at least 6 months

Life of the party - bctra

Nominee: Ashley Burge

Ashley, a Recreation Therapy Worker in Long-Term Care, radiates an infectious energy that transforms any gathering into a lively celebration. Her unwavering positivity, boundless joy, and ability to turn every moment into an opportunity for laughter and excitement make her truly deserving of this recognition. In every interaction, Ashley brings a unique blend of fun and enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere of joy that resonates with everyone around her. Her vibrant personality is not just a source of entertainment for all to enjoy but also a catalyst for building strong connections and fostering a positive community within our facility for all collogues, friend/family members, and residents that we serve. Whether she is playing the role of Santa Claus, Pat Sajack in Wheel of Fortune, or Bob Parker hosting the Price is Right, she truly transforms herself into any role necessary to make the experience for others out of this world. I believe Ashley embodies the spirit of the "Life of the Party" award, and her contribution to spreading happiness and creating memorable experiences should be celebrated. I whole heartedly recommend her for this well-deserved honor.

Life of the party - bctra

Nominee: Samantha Beskorovayny

Sam's infectious and positive energy is something that truly lifts people up. Seeing her work with individuals experiencing mental health crisis, and how she is able to lift them up when many are in a truly low place, is an amazing thing to see. Whether it's having the right music to give patients an opportunity to calm themselves if the need it, or to dance ... or the ability to draw patients into a group when others have not been able too, giving them the opportunity to explore recreation. Sam consistently brings smiles to her patients faces, as well as those she works with. If a party is faltering ... Sam is what will bring life back into it!

Nominee: Chelsea Crockford

Chelsea lights up a room when she enters....or a zoom call! Her positive energy and enthusiasm makes you want to be part of her group. Always up for a challenge, Chelsea leads by example with an active social media presence encouraging others be be active in recreation and leisure.

Life of the party - bctra

Nominee: Natasha Gunn

I believe Natasha Gunn is in fact the life of the party. I cannot imagine a better person to win this award. Natasha truly lights up a room. She makes everyone she meets feel instantly better with her huge bright smile and infectious laugh. Natasha always brings the fun to her work while holding her practice to the high standard it always meets. Recently Natasha told me “We do really good work, and it is important work, but we have to remember to bring the fun to that work”. Natasha consistently demonstrates a ‘can do’ attitude with her positive approach to every situation she faces. Natasha would see a barrier as an opportunity for a creative solution. With her amazingly positive personality she can get anyone on her side and make improvements for everyone she works with. Natasha loves to celebrate the big wins and the small victories. Natasha is a “lady of leisure” who likes to find opportunities in her own life for recreation/leisure and a new adventure. Being Natasha’s colleague means you always have a positive, upbeat, energetic ally. She is the life of the party!

Nominee: Audrey Wheeler

Audrey brings an enthusiasm like no other. Her genuine passion for seniors living is noticeable every day and has ripple effects on our nursing staff. She regularly tells me that she loves her job and it's a delight to see her bring such genuine care and connection to the residents at our lodge. Whether it's exercise class, baking, bingo, arranging entertainment, trivia, or one on one visits, Audrey bring her whole self. Our organization seeks to bring hope and happiness to our residents and Audrey is the perfect embodiment of these values. Our staff and residents are so lucky to have Audrey as part of our dynamic team.

The cheerleader Award - TRo

This Therapeutic Recreation professional is their team’s biggest fan. They embody a unique combination of positivity, encouragement, and camaraderie that keeps the team going through thick or thin. Through gestures small or large, this person boosts their team’s energy and passion. The “Cheerleader” never shies away from sharing and celebrating the successes of those around them, whether it’s a client or a team member. This person may not walk around with pom-poms (or they might), but you know they are someone that you can count on to rally the team together.

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Actions have impacted their team in a positive way

- Demonstrated ability to instill confidence and “get-er-done” attitude in their team

- Nominator has worked with nominee for at least 6 months

The cheerleader Award - TRo

Nominee: Ashley Burge

Ashley Burge is a Recreation Therapy Worker working in LTC in NLHS and is an active member of the NLTRA. Wherever Ashley goes, no matter if words are spoken or not, Ashley radiates nothing but positivity. She is a beacon of liveliness, igniting our team with energy and passion and is always there to scream out other people's successes whether it be a coworker, a team member, a resident, a resident’s family member, or even a complete stranger. Her enthusiasm is contagious, creating a vibrant and supportive environment for everyone around them. Anyone who has worked alongside Ashley is truly lucky. Ashley is your go-to person for hype and support when needing an extra hand. Whenever things get tough or stressful in the department, you can always count on Ashley to drag all team members out of their dark holes and make everyone dance through their challenges together with laughter. Ashley is truly deserving of this honor and I am forever grateful that I am able to work alongside her.!

Nominee: Kelley Arnott

Kelley embodies the cheerleader as she supports her team like no other leader I have worked with. Will celebrate our individual successes through shout outs in team meetings and with our manager. When times are tough Kelley always ensures everyone is doing okay and when help/support is needed, she will lend a hand without batting an eyelid even though she has a thousand other things on her plate. She has created a work environment that I look forward to coming into work knowing I have her in my corner!

The cheerleader Award - TRo

Nominee: Amanda Ervin

I am nominating Amanda Ervin for the Cheerleader Award since she passionately supports our professional association in Alberta. Amanda makes every ATRA delegate feel heard and takes time to understand when supporting others. Amanda listens and follows up with ATRA member feedback to ensure that she and the ATRA BOD carefully considers any way to help. Working alongside the regulation committee, Amanda works attently to make steps to better TR in Alberta through recognition and regulation. It is only appropriate that as the leader of ATRA, she receive the Cheerleader Award through all her effort and support of TR in Alberta. Thanks for all you do, Amanda!

Nominee: Vallyn Sielski

Vallyn is the person you want in your corner. She will sit and listen while you need to vent about the frustrations of working in healthcare. She will give you that push, or that little balancing hand, that will get you through one challenge and gives you confidence to face the next. She is steadfast as a colleague, giving support when you need it, but also laying out the truth when you need to hear it. She does not need to come into the room with pom-poms in order to rally you and your co-workers; her calm demeanour, willingness to listen when needed, and willingness to give sage advice when asked, is what makes Vallyn a true cheerleader.

The cheerleader Award - TRo

Nominee: Jaclyn England

Jaclyn was my instructor at NorQuest for two years while I completed my TR diploma. She was also a beacon of light and positivity while myself and other students struggled through various assignments and courses. While seeing so many students pass through her door, she still made the time to celebrate our accomplishments and show up when we needed her most. The cohort I finished school with were all so appreciative that we had a Jaclyn in our corner. She even dropped by on our final week of labs to rally the troops and offer one last piece of encouragement before we crossed that finish line into graduation. She was the cheerleader I never knew I needed but am so grateful that the TR world is small so that we can cross paths again some day. She doesn’t just have the energy of a cheerleader, she has the energy of an entire cheer squad. I couldn’t think of anyone else who deserves this award as much as Jaclyn. It was meant for her.

master of minions - NLTRA

This Therapeutic Recreation professional is the Yoda to Luke. They are the Mr. Miagi to the karate kid. This individual is committed to mentoring, supporting, and molding the next generation of TR professionals. Whether it is in the classroom, or through fieldwork supervision, this person is willing to challenge students to think critically, and to put theory into practice. The “Master of Minions” has helped students grow both professionally and personally, and has given students an opportunity to build from their foundation of learning.

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Has supervised a minimum of 5 student fieldwork/internship placements

- Open to CTRS or Diploma fieldwork supervisors

- Demonstrates consistent commitment to the growth of future TR professionals

- Demonstrates quality fieldwork placements

- Nominator has either been supervised by nominee, or has worked

with nominee for at least 6 months

master of minions - NLTRA

Nominee: Cara Snow

Cara is truly a Yoda for anyone needing advice or guidance in the TR field. She may be young, but she is truly wise beyond her years. She is truly like an owl you would find in a Disney or Pixar film, she always has the most valuable insight to give and she always provides it with a smile, and without any hesitation. She is always exceptionally kind and positive, I fully suspect she will one day confess to us all that she is, in fact, Mary Poppins. I have another theory, that she has small birds dress her each morning. She is truly a unicorn in this world, and there is truly no one else quite like her. She may not have had 6 work term students, but she has had 3 and has certainly left a remarkable impact on each of them. This shouldn't be about quantity, but the quality of the guidance she has provided to the students she has taken under her wing. She is the present of the NLTRA, her phone is constantly ringing off the hook, and her office door is a revolving door of people requiring her impeccable assistance. She is always readily available without any hesitation to help anyone she can. There is truly no one more deserving of this award than the immortal C.Snow.

Nominee: Mary Bourgeois

Mary has been an ongoing advocate for the field of TR and often steps up to the plate to be a mentor for those involved. She has well surpassed her contribution time to be on the Chapter board, but has been committed to not have it crumble, that she stayed and extra two years to mentor and guide new members of the board (including myself). I know of many students she has mentored and offers a wealth of knowledge.

master of minions - NLTRA

Nominee: Jennifer Berger

Jennifer provides excellent guidance in providing person centered approaches in long term care. After completion of my internship, Jennifer’s teachings did not stop here, she continued to provide me with support and guidance throughout my recreation therapy journey. She is a leader in culture change and continues to educate not only her students but all individuals in long term care. Jennifer’s style of teaching allows her students to be their true selves, she highlights their strengths and uses these to help them discover how they can best provide recreation therapy services to those in need. Jennifer helps build the confidence of her students by teaching and demonstrating the importance of advocating for recreation therapy. Jennifer provides a safe place to try new things, you do not fail with Jennifer, instead you figure out how to reach the finish line by making adaptations. Jennifer’s passion for recreation therapy is contagious, you can feel it when in the same room as her or when simply speaking to her over the phone. She never gives up and always keeps going despite the challenges present which is an important skill for all recreation therapy professionals to possess. If you ever have the opportunity to work with Jennifer or to have Jennifer be your preceptor, I encourage you to take on that opportunity.

master of minions - NLTRA

Nominee: Jennifer Greene

Jennifer Greene is a strong leader in the field of Therapeutic Recreation in Newfoundland & Labrador. She is a Recreation Therapist who is known to be empathic and hardworking but her fun personality radiates so much joy in others. Jennifer has several strengths, but her main strength from my experience is her ability to motivate her interns. Jennifer is extremely knowledgeable and compassionate in her role as a Recreation Therapist and she inspires her interns to be the same. Jennifer challenges her interns to think critically, connect theory to practice while also providing interns with a safe place to ask questions. Jennifer’s professionalism and ability to work cohesively with colleagues while also educating them on Therapeutic Recreation is admirable. Jennifer has taught interns how to advocate for the profession while also showing them the importance of healthy boundary setting and self care. Jennifer cares deeply for her interns in their professional and personal lives. Her mentorship continues far beyond an intern’s placement. Jennifer is someone who always allows space for other clinicians to ask questions and share knowledge. She has presented at her provincial association’s conferences several times providing education to others while strengthening the overall field. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning from fellow TR practitioners as well as other interdisciplinary team members. Jennifer’s positive attitude and funny personality allows her to build rapport easily with clients, students and colleagues which is invaluable for the field of Therapeutic Recreation.

master of minions - NLTRA

Nominee: Gillian Batten

Gill has over a decade of experience in recreation therapy, working across diverse populations, and has demonstrated a commitment to promoting health and well-being to all she serves. Gill has played a vital role in shaping the future of recreation therapy by providing preceptorships to various students. Gill provided her students with valuable knowledge, skills, and a genuine passion for the profession of recreation therapy. Her mentorship has left an indelible mark on future CTRS professionals, influencing their approach and dedication to making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Gills's commitment and dedication to mentoring students go beyond her front-line work as a CTRS. Her commitment to advancing the field has been evident as an NLTRA board member for numerous years in various positions, and she has recently transitioned into the role of an instructor for the Memorial University Therapeutic Recreation Program. This position allows her to apply her knowledge, skill and experience to an educational setting, moulding and educating the future leaders of recreational therapy. Gill’s instructional skills, combined with years of practical experience, create a learning environment that is creative and practical, which prepares students for the complex and rewarding field of therapeutic recreation.

master of minions - NLTRA

Nominee: Monica Almas

I have had the honor of knowing Monica Almas for over 13 years. Monica Almas was my internship supervisor in the summer of 2011 at St. Josephs Healthcare Hamilton, working on an inpatient acute mental health unit. She is the one who showed me what it means to be a TR and how specific therapeutic interventions can positively impact an individual’s recovery and overall wellness. She truly cares about her students and will advocate in their best interest both when supervising them directly and for years to come. Now, as a professor at Mohawk College, she continues to shine her bright light and extensive experience with students in the TR program. Not only does she support current students in the program, but she offers opportunities for graduates of the TR program to come back to the classroom to share their lived experiences following graduation with those in the program. Monica genuinely has the kindest heart, makes all those around her feel valued, appreciated, and encourages a safe space for all to share their ideas. Additionally, Monica is one of the biggest advocates for recreation therapy. She has a great deal of both clinical and academic experiences, and makes sure she is personally educated and endorses TR best practices and evidence-based interventions. I could not think of a better person deserving of this Masters of Minions award. Monica makes mentoring and teaching look effortless, however I personally know how hard she works to be successful.

Practice what you preach - nstra

This Therapeutic Recreation professional is not the type to “do as I say, not what I do.” They prioritize their leisure and recreation, and lean on the benefits of recreation to support their own social, physical, cognitive, spiritual, and emotional well-being. This person is willing to say “no” to things that drain their cup, and “yes” to things that will fill it. They are not afraid to lean into past interests, or explore new ones. This professional will scream the benefits of leisure and recreation from a mountaintop, but they will also make sure they reap those benefits too.

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Demonstrates consistent healthy leisure and recreation choices

- Demonstrates an ability to use leisure and recreation to support the domains of wellness for themselves

Practice what you preach - nstra

Nominee: Ashley Burge

When it comes to "Practicing what you preach", a name that immediately comes to mind is Ashley Burge. She is an incredible Recreation Therapy worker in long term care, and she always does a marvelous job of taking her own advice. She always stresses to everyone around her that we should "always lead with kindness" and that there is "never a need to be rude or disrespectful to another" and she certainly encompasses this and lives by it as anyone that is ever in her presence is always amazed at how kind, caring, thoughtful, warm and compassionate she is, even if they just met her.

Nominee: Holly Drake

Miss holly is a wonderful asset to this community and the Blue Crest Home!!! The residents , and workers love her!!! She goes above and beyond , with no question!!! She deserves this award fully!!!!!!!

Practice what you preach - nstra

Nominee: Amanda Harder

When I sit back and think of my colleagues, and who comes to mind when I think "ya, they practice what they preach", my first thought is Amanda. During the many years I have known Amanda, I have always admired her ability to put her leisure and recreation where it should be ... actually in her schedule! Whether it's playing soccer, going fishing with her husband, baking with her daughters, gardening, sharing her favourite new reads, chatting with friends, spending copious amount of time in nature when she can .... Amanda ticks off the domains of wellness like it's a grocery list, hitting up the things that matter. I truly admire her willingness to practice what she preaches, because many of us know it's usually easier said then done.

Nominee: Rebecca Hill

This individual knows how to fill her leisure lifestyle- no matter what the weather is, she has lots of activities and she sets her boundaries in a kind and respective way to others. She is very content to be alone and engages in her own leisure, however when she is around friends and co-workers she is a blast and always willing to go on an adventure. She understands that rest is crucial to her self-care, and she is always seeking out new opportunities and activities to learn. She is passionate about her work that she does and she loves to have a leisurely time.

Practice what you preach - nstra

Nominee: Brittany MacKeen

I believe Brittany MacKeen is more than deserving of the Practice What You Preach award. Brittany leads by example and participates in recreation/leisure pursuits anytime she can. Brittany is deeply committed to her work as a Recreation Therapist and shares the benefits with everyone she meets. She also takes every opportunity she can to reap these benefits herself. From taking a leap and joining a curling team for the first time to her annual "earth day clean up" Brittany makes her life and the lives around her better with her practice. Brittany knows that her recreation/leisure pursuits are what contribute to her good health and that is what allows her to be the best Recreation Therapy professional to her clients. Not only does Brittany practice what (she) preaches, she created the annual “Practice What you Preach” TR month activity! She is one of the best Recreation Therapist and human I know. Just in case you wanted more information on the kinds of recreation/leisure pursuits Brittany participates, here are a few: plays guitar, volunteers, active board/committee member, plays softball, participates in a queer curling league, enjoys aquafit, is an expert gardener, a proficient puzzler, super soup maker, and an out of the world friend, mentor, and colleague.

above and beyond - SARP

This Therapeutic Recreation professional significantly exceeds expectations and rises above the call of duty. This individual displays resourcefulness, inspires others with their actions, and is dedicated to seeing the therapeutic recreation field move forward. They embody a unique combination of creativity,

perseverance, and cooperative spirit to transform perceived barriers into opportunities. When things get tough, this person takes the bull by the horns and goes for it!

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Demonstrates independent initiative and cooperative teamwork

- Actions have had a positive impact on clients and/or team

- Actions reflect investment of time into forwarding the profession

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Cara Snow

I am pleased to submit a nomination for the "Above and Beyond" Award on behalf of Cara Snow. It is with great enthusiasm that I put forward Cara as a deserving candidate for this esteemed recognition. She has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment and dedication to her responsibilities in the field of TR in general, and to her specific work site in Long Term care, and her contributions have significantly impacted her residents/clients as well as her coworkers and other TR professionals. Here are a few compelling reasons why Cara deserves to be honored with the "Above and Beyond" Award: She is proving to be a very successful and competent President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Therapeutic Recreation Association, She is constantly a wealth of knowledge for her colleagues and residents alike even if it isn't always directly related to the field of TR. She often stays late at work to ensure her tasks are accomplished and that any support that her residents or colleagues may require is tended to. She often provides orientation for new hires, even staff from other disciplines. She also advocates for creation of more jobs for TR professionals and gathers all appropriate data and stats to ensure others are educated in the gaps that currently exist in TR. For such a young Recreation Development Specialist, Cara's knowledge and wisdom of the importance of Leisure Education is truly beyond her years.

Nominee: Monica Almas

Monica always goes above and beyond for all her students. She puts everything in her teaching and helping others. She has guided me as an instructor teaching in the Rec Therapy Program. She is organized and extremely resourceful!

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Nicole Stroh

Nicole is one of the hardest and most dedicated professionals that I know. She is constantly encouraging others to do the best that they can and continually improving her skills. She goes above and beyond at her facility to educate others. She shows compassion to those around her. She’s been such an inspiration and great mentor for those around her. She is never scared of a challenge and will always advocate for what recreation needs. Nicole deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated for all her hard work over the many years she’s been in this field!

Nominee: Ashley Burge

Ashley truly personifies the "Above and Beyond" mantra. She often stays after hours at work to sit with residents who may not have family or friends, or who may be feeling down, she offers help and advice to anyone she works with, even if it's something that's completely outside of her job description, if she's able to help, she will. She will do whatever in her power to ensure her residents get everything they possibly can from her programs. She always helps her coworkers and is readily available for any friends or colleagues who may need advice or assistance, she often stays late at work to ensure tasks are complete adequately. Ashley has always went above and beyond for everything and everyone, it's one of the many reasons she is truly meant to be a TR professional.

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Bailey Fry

Bailey goes above and beyond in all aspects of her job. She always goes above and beyond for our residents. She ensures that programs are planned, that she implements them to the best of her ability, that she includes everyone and considers their needs. She always achieves her goals and has done amazing things for our home, department and for our residents in the short time she has been in her role. It's been an honour working alongside Bailey. I am so proud to have her on my team.

Nominee: Serena Maltais

Serena is amazing! She has helped grow and develop the knowledge and appreciation of Recreation Therapy in my rural/remote city. She has been helping bring forward my team from an activity department to a recreation therapy department over the past year. She was instrumental in the success of the creation of 3 new Recreation Therapist positions in Powell River in the course of one year. Her knowledge feels unlimited, her energy unwavering and her encouragement boundless. She inspires me to be a better recreation therapist.

Nominee: Danielle Broomfield

Danielle goes above and beyond for her residents every single day! Nothing is too much or impossible for her! She truly makes magic happen, finding ways around bringing her residents to hockey games, family outings and so much more! Her passion and her pride in her TR role can be seen every single day in her work!

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Haley Wilde

Haley truly shines in the world of Therapeutic Recreation! Her unwavering commitment to going above and beyond is remarkable. She consistently creates innovative programs that align with our residents' goals and interests and easily tackles challenges. Haley's blend of independence and teamwork is perfect - she leads confidently but is always willing to collaborate and support others. Haley has made a significant impact in her role and has been making a difference. Our residents adore her! She has this knack for turning obstacles into opportunities, and her commitment to pushing our field forward is inspiring. I feel fortunate to work alongside Haley and have her as a mentor in the field. She offers unparalleled guidance and support to team members pursuing their education in Therapeutic Recreation. In summary, Haley is a true game-changer in Therapeutic Recreation. She doesn't just meet expectations - she surpasses them with her creativity, passion, and all-around awesomeness. She embodies the spirit of our field, and I couldn't think of anyone more deserving of recognition.

Nominee: Michelle Wingfield

Michelle exemplifies “above and beyond” in all that she does! She was a longstanding volunteer for the BCTRA Board in addition to being a RecT in Interior Health. She goes out of her way to make her team feel appreciated for their birthdays, anniversaries, or other special events in their lives. Additionally she works tirelessly to positively impact her Residents and is a life long learner in her practice. She is a wonderful team mate and goes above and beyond for all the people in her world. And that is why I nominate Michelle for this award.

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Sarah Moore

I first met Dr. Sarah Moore during my undergrad degree at Douglas College (DC). I recognized her passion and determination for the TR field. She always went the extra mile for her students, making sure that her courses had practical components so we could gain that real world experience. During my practicum in second year, Sarah supported my site supervisor in learning about TR in an effort to make the experience more worthwhile for me as they didn’t have a background in TR. Throughout the pandemic, Sarah connected with students both at DC and Dalhousie University, managing crazy hours to ensure that we all felt supported and facilitated a virtual self-care support group amongst DC students while we were all social distancing. Sarah’s supportive nature and encouragement led me to follow her to Dalhousie to pursue a masters degree. Within her Paraplay Hub, she supervises and supports two PhD students, four masters students, and 3 honours students with their research while also teaching. In her time away from academics, she coaches and organizes five different adaptive programs for people living with disabilities through Easter Seals NS: sledge hockey, dancing, power soccer, wheelchair basketball, and horse-riding. She connects these programs to her students through practicums, where students get first-hand experience during their third year. Somehow Sarah still manages to raise her two children along with being a leader in the field of children’s movement research and knowledge translation. There is no one else I know who goes so above and beyond!

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Alicia Kuhr

I would like to enthusiastically nominate Alicia Kurh for the Above and Beyond award this TR month. Alicia Kuhr is a certified therapeutic recreation specialist whom consistently advocates for the profession and encourages others to be the best TR they can be. She is someone who strives to provide the most up to date, evidence-based interventions that will support her patients’ goals and recovery. Alicia is always looking to collaborate with other TRs to work on projects that will help the profession shine. Alicia’s enthusiasm for research is inspiring. Whether that be, publishing articles on best practices, creating user friendly assessment, presenting at conferences, educating herself through ongoing research and joining committees to positively contribute the field of TR. Alicia thinks outside the box and encourages others to work on initiatives that will advance the profession, keeping all those around her inspired and motivated. Although early in her career as a TR, she is someone who is making her mark and is invested in contributing to the research and evidence-based practices in TR.

Nominee: Donna Boser-Kelly

I am nominating Donna because she is my sister in law, and I've never met anyone kinder than her. I've known her for many years even before she became family, and her dedication to her position has grown to become her business from working with elderly people in long term care! I also know alot of the people she takes care of, and anyone would tell you the exact same thing about her passion for her job, and her genuine caring and compassion!

above and beyond - SARP

Nominee: Sherri Steffen

Sheri Steffen's dedication to advancing the profession of therapeutic recreation is evident through her continuous efforts to push boundaries, introduce innovative practices, and advocate for the importance of recreation therapy in enhancing individuals' lives. Additionally, her willingness to mentor and support students and colleagues by sharing her wealth of expertise and experience demonstrates her commitment to nurturing the next generation of professionals and fostering a supportive community within the field.

Nominee: Dawn MacDonald

Dawn MacDonald has been going above and beyond the call of duty in NS for years, and in recent weeks has been tackling (another) task force, focusing on Long Term Care in our province, opening conversations (alongside our advocacy chair) to government officials discussing topics such as diversional activities vs therapeutic recreation. Her vision of what TR can look like in LTC is sparking new energy in our profession as she sees how TR can be the answer in so many ways to our healthcare system. She is currently the Past President of NSTRA, as well as an educator and mentor to many, volunteering endless hours to go above and beyond in Nova Scotia.

jack/jill of all trades - nb CTRA Chapter

This versatile Therapeutic Recreation professional is a true maestro of diverse recreation! They are the “artist”, the “musician”, the “chef”, the “ athlete”, the “card shark”, the “handy-person”, the “tech specialist”, the “team confidante”, the “shoulder-to-cry-on”, and more! If they see a need for a recreation activity skill or team support skill, they are jumping head first into learning! They seamlessly wear multiple hats, all with the confidence and enthusiasm like Oprah Winfrey giving away a car! From scheduling to troubleshooting, note-taking to decorating, and leading with charisma, they embody the essence of a "Jack/Jill of All Trades." This person surprises you with their toolbelt of skills, and you feel like they are an asset in every outing, meeting and intervention!

Criteria:

- Active member of provincial and/or national TR association

- Demonstrates valued skills in multiple areas

- Demonstrates investment of time into continued education

(from CEU approved education to learning how to play cribbage on youtube!)

- Nominator has worked with nominee for at least 6 months

jack/jill of all trades - nb CTRA Chapter

Nominee: Cara Snow

Cara wears multiple hats within the TR field, both on a provincial level, and within her own specific site. Not only does she wear these hats with grace, kindness and patience, she wears them with great skill and knowledge. Cara is currently the president of the NLTRA and is always readily available to assist anyone in the field of TR at a moment's notice. If she doesn't know the answer to a question(which is very rare) she will see to it that she finds that answer. At her own specific work long term care site, Cara wears numerous hats such as using her brilliant IT skills(assisting residents with any WIFI related issues, and setting them up with iPad, tablets etc. As well as helping her coworkers with such things. She also provides orientation to many other disciplines within the site such as Nursing, Support Services etc. Cara is also readily available to provide moral support and guidance and a listening ear to any college or resident that may knock on her door needing an ear or a word of encouragement. I feel that Cara deserves this award as she truly personifies the "Jill of all trades" qualities.

Nominee: Megan Campbell

Megan is an amazing recreation therapist who is an inspiration. I had the pleasure of working with her and she has made such a change to the patients she works with (mental health) She has created several programs that have been designed for her patients. She can do everything and anything and the clients are lucky to have her!

jack/jill of all trades - nb CTRA Chapter

Nominee: Katelyn Scott

Katelyn is an instructor at the University of Lethbridge, CTRS, and a close friend. Since starting our journey together at the diploma level all the way to masters level of education together, Katelyn has exemplified passion for TR. As an instructor she shares her passion with her students and creates an incredibly welcoming and warm environment for learning. With her background in education she uses her skills and flexibility of TR in personal leisure (helping plan friend games like jeopardy), volunteerism (with Streets Alive, Lethbridge, Therapeutic Riding Association, ATRA, and SO many more), and with her students. Katelyn strives for excellence and shows her hand in proving that recreation can be for anyone. She is well deserving of the Jack/Jill of All Trades Award.

Nominee: Ashley Burge

I wish to nominate Ashley Burge for the "Jack/Jill of all trades" award, as she truly has a diverse set of skills and talents, and continuously displays them at the long term care facility that which she works. She displays this through impeccable theatrics, dynamite dance moves, insightful knowledge and wisdom with everyday issues, superb comedic timing, amazing time management and organizational skills etc.

Nominee: Jessie Jones

Jessie is fostering human connections in the community on all facets of possibility. She is a certified chef, a practicing musician, and a true believer in therapeutic recreation. Her education and life experiences allows her to share invaluable leisure activities for anyone and everyone.

jack/jill of all trades - nb CTRA Chapter

Nominee: Jessica Johnson

Where to start, Jessica is one of the most down to earth people who is a strong advocate for those we work with and those who do not have a verbal voice. Her passion is what keeps me as her supervisor going. When she is here she puts her best effort in for the residents no matter what is going on in the background. She has been a wonderful professional to have here at Providence Place in Moose Jaw. She has such a good spirit. My hopes for her is that she will land the therapist roles as she will succeed greatly. Residents are number 1 for Jessica

Nominee: Colleen Bateman

Colleen Bateman is a ‘Jill of all Trades’ showing off her skills by jumping in to support in any way that she can. Colleen brings many life skills alongside her work as a recreation therapist and long time volunteer with the NSTRA, and has jumped in to help with registrations at conferences and events, website and marketing, networking and social events just to name a few. She values her friends and colleagues and advocates to anyone that will listen, with an elevator pitch in her ‘tool belt’ ready at all times.

Nominee: Janet Crealock

Janet is my go to for any technical advice! A circuit project or an innovative way to knit on a loom, Janet is only a call away. Her friendly , kind personality puts her clients at ease as they discover new ways to enjoy recreation & lesiure.

Voting Platform:

Please Note: The TR Month Committee will make the final decision in cases of a tie, or individuals winning in multiple categories