Provincial Recreation Director

2018 CPAA Programs

CPAA offers programs to people with cerebral palsy and other disabilities that provide essential social interaction and healthy activities in nurturing environments. We believe that sport, recreation and leisure activities foster a balance between mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. We have developed and adapted all our programs to:  Increase social interaction and encourage friendships  Create opportunities for meaningful community participation and community building  Promote positive self-esteem and self-confidence  Foster self-sufficiency  Foster a sense of belonging and an enhanced quality of life  Improve emotional well-being and reduce stress  Develop sport and recreation skills to encourage lifelong participation  Encourage exploration of new activities

Art FUNdamentals Art therapy allows clients self-expression using art and increased self-confidence through learning new skills. Participants explore a variety of materials and art making techniques, such as pencil on paper, acrylic paint on canvas, sculptures using wood, plaster and clay. Clients are encouraged to have fun and be creative while experiencing a sense of accomplishment when their projects are completed. Social integration engages participants with others and builds social connections. Registration is required.

Music Therapy Music Therapy empowers clients with self-expression and increased self-confidence and is also used to decrease signs and feelings of depression, boost overall mood and reduces the perception of pain. Participants increase their sense of wellbeing through learning new songs and playing different instruments. Social integration helps clients engage with others and build relationships. Registration is required.

For program registration, please visit www.cpalberta.com / or contact Christy Bangen, Social Inclusion Coordinator, Phone: 403.543.1164 Cell: 587.585.6673 Email: [email protected] Horticultural Therapy Horticulture Therapy explores the use of plants, activities and the natural world to promote an understanding of how plants grow and provides excellent stimuli for the senses - sight, taste, touch and smell. Clients experience selecting, sowing and harvesting a variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers while intermingling within a group setting. Participants take part in activities that stimulate thought, exercise the body and encourage awareness of the external environment. Registration is required.

Calgary Meet Up Group (CMUG) Clients meet and engage in different social activities each week, which include dinner nights, movies, trips to the zoo, science centre, community attractions etc. as well as a personal development workshop once per month. The meetup group is held on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 to 8:30 pm at various locations throughout the City of Calgary and is facilitated by the Cerebral Palsy Association in Alberta’s Social Inclusion Coordinator / Social Worker. The cost for the program varies based on the activity. This is a year-round program. Membership is required.

Little Nemos & Finding Dory Our weekly swim programs are open to children aged 3-10 with any disability, not only cerebral palsy and begins with basic swimming skills to encourage participants to feel comfortable in the water. The facilitator will modify the swimming experience to accommodate the needs and abilities of each individual and will guide the parents and/or volunteers to work with the participants at their own pace. The ability to move easily and freely in the water is liberating and exciting for the children and with the assistance of the facilitator and volunteers, each child can experience the joys of being in the water, while having fun with their peers. The Little Nemos & Finding Dory programs show children of all skill and ability levels that living a healthy, active lifestyle is possible, regardless of certain limitations. Registration is required.

For program registration, please visit www.cpalberta.com / or contact Christy Bangen, Social Inclusion Coordinator, Phone: 403.543.1164 Cell: 587.585.6673 Email: [email protected] Social Circuit The CPAA computability program offers persons with disabilities the opportunity to access a computer with the required adaptive equipment, as well as learn new computer skills including: Computer basics and terminology, E-mail, Internet and internet safety and Social media.

Friday Fun Seekers Young adults are invited to a fun afternoon of dancing, funky music, games, activities and hanging out with new friends. This program provides and fun filled afternoon of activities in a social environment. Registration is required.

Massage Therapy Mount Royal University second year practicum students will be providing Massage Therapy to Clients and Caregivers/Parents. Through the consultation the Massage Therapist student will be able to assess any needs the participant has, to increase their mental, emotional, and physical well-being of all participants. Fridays 8:30 am & 10:00 am from January to May 2018. Space is Limited. Please contact Christy Bangen to book your appointment. 403.543.1164

For program registration, please visit www.cpalberta.com / or contact Christy Bangen, Social Inclusion Coordinator, Phone: 403.543.1164 Cell: 587.585.6673 Email: [email protected]