Somerset County Park Commission

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Franklin Township is now a TR participating municipality. As of January 1, 2008, residents eligible for TR services may register for programs.

The Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Department is dedicated to providing year round recreation and leisure opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. The goal of the TR department is to promote an active leisure lifestyle that improves social, physical, cognitive and emotional functioning and health while enhancing each participant’s abilities. With highly qualified staff at programs, participants can register for many types of programs. By providing a variety of social, cultural, artistic, culinary, sports, fitness, community outings, horticulture, and special events, participants can recreate in the day, evening, or weekend.

Benefits to participation may include improving social skills, enhancing self–esteem, improving overall health and well-being and physical ability, enhancing communication skills, constructive use of leisure time and eliminating boredom leading to reduction of stress and anxiety. Come discover the benefits with us.

The program is a cooperative effort between the Park Commission and various municipalities. Participating municipalities include:

If you would like to be included in local recreation programs offered by your municipality, call us and we will assist with the inclusion process and help with activity modification or adaptation.

To be placed on our mailing list, find out about registration, or obtain more information about these programs, please contact the Therapeutic Recreation office at 908 526-5650. We are here to help you recreate! Individuals with a hearing/speech impairment, please call the Relay Service @ 711. Click here for the Therapeutic Recreation Brochure. (PDF)

Inclusion Services
The Therapeutic Recreation Department recognizes that some people with disabilities may choose to participate in local recreation programs and/or camps with persons without disabilities. The TR staff is here to help support inclusion by assisting other Somerset County Park Commision departments and municipal recreation departments with program adaptation or modification, behavior management support, and staff training. When a referral is made, TR staff will conduct an assessment of a person’s abilities and develop then develop a written accommodation plan that includes supports necessary in order for the person to successfully be included in a program or activity. Call Dina Trunzo, CTRS at 908 526-5650 for more information. Remember, inclusion benefits everyone!

Winter/Spring 2008 Programs
Don’t let the cold weather keep you at home. There are plenty of programs being conducted for both the young and young at heart. Register and become a part of the fun at the TR Activity Center. Participants must reside in a TR participating municipality.
Program offerings are divided into specific age groups.
Adults ages 18 and older (PDF)
Teens ages 13-17
Children ages 8-12
Young Children ages 4-7
Call the TR office find out what programs are being offered for your age group. If you have questions or want to receive a flyer/brochure, please call the TR department at 908 526-5650 or visit us on the web at www.somersetcountyparks.org. Individuals with speech or hearing impairments, please call the Relay Service @ 711.

T.R.A.I.L.S. (PDF)
Therapeutic Recreation Adapted Instruction at Lord Stirling. An adapted horseback riding program run in conjunction with Lord Stirling Stable for children and adults ages 9 and older who have a developmental disability. Classes are held on Tuesdays, beginning April 1, 2008 and run for 10 weeks. Two classes are offered:
Class 1 ages 9 - 13 6:30-7:30 pm
Class 2 ages 14 and older 7:30-8:30 pm
Acceptance and class assignment is at the discretion of the instructor and TR staff and will be based on the rider's ability. Additional classes may be added if there is a need. All riders must provide a volunteer each week. Open to Somerset County residents only.
Cost for a 10 week session: $185.00
For more information, please call 908 526-5650.

Kids Tee Ball
Summer is just around the corner and so is your chance to have fun while learning to play tee ball. Join us as we teach the basics of this sport and improve your skill level. The program will be held at the Branchburg Township Challenger Field.
Open to: Children ages 8 - 12 that have a developmental disability
When: Thursdays: June 12, 19, 26
Time: 5:45-6:45 PM
Cost: $ 15.00
Call the TR department to register now.

Camp Okee Sunokee is full, however, the TR Department is accepting applications from in county residents for the wait list. No deposit needed.

Camp Okee Sunokee
A six-week day camp for children with learning disabilities or Asperger’s Syndrome, ages 6-12, that encourages the development of recreation, leisure, and social skills through the participation in a variety of activities including arts & crafts, sports & games, music, cooking, swimming, and trips. Self-confidence and educational growth are enhanced through participation in the many activities offered. The camp will begin on June 30. For additional information, please call 908 526-5650.

Camp Okee Sunokee 2008 Brochure

Summer Teen Scene
In this fun and exciting two week summer program, learning leisure skills and having fun are the name of the game. The goal of this program for teens, ages 14-17, is to build self-esteem and confidence, develop friendships, encourage team building, teach independence, and improve life skills. Through outdoor activities, trips, crafts, and cooking, this will be a great way to experience new recreation opportunities. There may be additional costs for activities during the two weeks. The program will be conducted August 11-22, 2008 and is open to teens who are receiving special education services due to a learning disability, cognitively impaired-mild (EMR), or Aspergers Syndrome. Participants must reside in a participating municipality in Somerset County. (Call the TR office to verify municipal eligibility). There will be a limited number of teens accepted. For more information or to make sure you are on our mailing list, please call the TR department at 908 526-5650.