Meeting the needs of special populations and their families.

What is Therapeutic Recreation?

Therapeutic Recreation (TR) is the use of recreational services to improve or maintain physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning and to promote healthy, independent leisure lifestyles.

The Plano Parks and Recreation Department provides year-round therapeutic programming for individuals with special needs and disabilities but is open to everyone. Although these programs are considered recreational, there are many benefits that are inherent within each of the programs. The programs stress choice, involvement, and self-direction while offering recreation experiences, new challenges and socialization in a safe environment. Volunteers are on hand at many programs to assist and encourage the participants as needed.