Therapeutic Recreation

The Therapeutic Recreation Program is committed to providing innovative, inclusive, accessible and affordable recreation programs which enhance the health, well-being and quality of life for individuals with all abilities.
Page updated on April 5, 2022 at 11:56 AM

The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities is committed to providing innovative, inclusive, accessible, and affordable programs which enhance the health, well-being, and quality of life for Alexandria residents with all abilities. 

Online registration is not available for Therapeutic Recreation programs. Please contact the Therapeutic Recreation office at 703.746.5535 for more information and to determine whether the Therapeutic Recreation programs are right for you or a family member. School-aged youth and teens are required to have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. All programs require an initial assessment and eligibility approval by Therapeutic Recreation staff prior to participation in programs. 

Youth and Teen Programs

  • TR Participant on a Water Slide

    TR Achieving Greatness 
    Ages 6-21. Are you looking for a program that will help your child develop important life skills, increase confidence, build social skills and lasting friendships? Participants engage in structured enrichment activities in a safe and welcoming environment.  Min 6/Max 12.
    M-F                   2:30–6 p.m.        NLRC

  • Kids Day Out
    Ages 5-12 for General Recreation and ages 6-21 for Therapeutic Recreation participants. Get out and have fun with your friends on days when ACPS schools are closed. Engage in recreational and leisure activities including games, sports, arts and crafts, field trips, and more.  Min 12/Max 45.

    Various Days      9 a.m.–6 p.m.     NLRC

  • FUNtastic Spring Break Camp

    Ages 5-12 for General Recreation and ages 6-21 for Therapeutic Recreation participants. Enjoy a variety of structured activities that include exploring nature, cooperative games, arts and crafts, inflatables, and much more! You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your child is enjoying enrichment activities, meeting new friends, and experiencing just the right mix of activities they are sure to enjoy! Participants are required to bring a bag lunch and drink. Online registration is not available for Therapeutic Recreation participants; please contact the TR office at 703.746.5535 for more information on how to register. Min 12/Max 45.
    M-F                  9 a.m.-6 p.m.      NLRC

Adult Programs

  • TR Participants Making Art

    Adult Social Club 
    Ages 18 & up. Develop leisure and recreational interests, awareness and life skills through activities, special events and outings in the Metropolitan area. All new participants are required to do an initial assessment prior to starting programs. Min 10/Max 20.  
    Sa                 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m.      NLRC 

  • Art Works 
    Ages 18 & up. Let your creative side shine through while using a variety of art mediums and learning new art skills. All new participants are required to do an initial assessment prior to starting programs. Min 5/Max 10.
    W                 6-7:30 p.m.           NLRC

Summer Camps

TR Participant on a Scooter
  • TR Camp Adventure

    Ages 6-21. Dive into summer and enjoy a variety of fun and exciting recreational activities, such as sports, group games, music and movement, arts and crafts, swimming, weekly field trips, and much more! Additional fees are required for all field trips. Online registration is not available; please contact the TR office at 703.746.5535 for more information on how to register. 
    M-F               9 a.m.–6 p.m.                 NLRC

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Instructor Program – VIP
Volunteers have an opportunity to work with younger children while under the supervision of a Therapeutic Recreation Leader while conducting programs. For more information, call 703.746.5535.

Services and Transportation

The Department has adopted the L.I.F.E., Leisure Is For Everyone, philosophy, and the Department complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ADA accommodations may include, but are not limited to, furnishing assistive listening devices, providing sign language interpreters and meeting with an instructor or staff prior to the start of an activity, class or event to discuss any concerns. To ensure the requested accommodation, please notify the specific facility where the program is provided at least four weeks in advance. DOT Para Transit Service and Metro Access provide specialized transportation services for area residents with disabilities. To request an ADA accommodation, contact Jackie Person, Therapeutic Recreation Program Manager, at 703.746.5423 (VA Relay 711) or jackie.person@alexandriava.gov.