• Attitude and activity--both strongly affect a person's mental and physical health and well-being. One of the best ways to adjust to lifestyle changes caused by a disability is to participate in meaningful recreation activities. In fact, research within the field of Therapeutic Recreation shows that positive recreation time improves functional outcomes during rehabilitation and reduces the risk of later medical complications, such as cardiovascular and respiratory problems, pain, and skin breakdown.

  Aside from the health benefits, getting involved in recreational activities can improve self confidence, development of skills and competence, social interaction and overall quality of life. It also gives individuals with disabilities an opportunity to participate in activities that challenge expectations and stereotypes.

  At Shepherd Center, therapeutic recreation is integral to our mission of returning individuals to the highest level of independence and activity possible.

  Our program offers:
  • A team of therapeutic recreation specialists and programs specialists with expertise in aquatics, art, horticulture, music, outdoors, and sports
  • A fully accessible fitness center with heated pool, indoor track, full-court gymnasium, and arts & crafts room
  • A program that combines education classes with leisure outings and skill instruction
  • A competition and developmental sports team program
  • Special events in all program areas

  Located at Shepherd Center, the ProMotion Fitness Center is a community-wellness center for people of all abilities. We have a well-trained, knowledgeable staff to assist individuals in meeting their exercise goals. A modern, fully accessible weight room with circuit equipment, free weights, treadmills, stair climbers and other equipment An indoor, heated, 25-yard, accessible swimming pool with two lifts A 1/19-mile indoor track A full-court gymnasium equipped with adjustable basketball backboards, volleyball system, scoreboards, roll-out bleachers and PA system (basketballs and other gym equipment are provided) Classes in aquatics, land exercise and swim lessons Personal training Fully accessible showers and locker rooms.

Since 1975, Shepherd Center has been a place of energy and hope--a place of new beginnings. Patients work harder than they ever thought possible, sometime over goals that are hard to measure--a flick of a thumb, an isolated triceps movement, finding a lost word. Rehabilitation at Shepherd is about pushing the limits, creating new ways of achieving, seeing life a whole new way. It is about taking someone from the depths of tragedy and propelling them back into a productive fulfilling life.