Members Area

ATRA Awards

Recognizing Contributions to the field of Therapeutic Recreation

1. Download the nomination form ( PDF, 44KB).

2. Mail, Fax or Email all required documentation to:
   ATRA, 8038 Fairmount Drive SE, Calgary, AB, T2H 0Y1
   Fax to: (403) 255-2234
   Email to: atra@alberta-tr.org

2008 Award Categories

Distinguished Service Award
The Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association recognizes that as the field develops, there are individuals who have, through the length of time of their involvement, advanced the practice of Therapeutic Recreation. This award has been developed to recognize such individuals. This award may be made annually to not more than one member of ATRA.

Qualifications:

1. Current professional member of ATRA;
2. Significant contribution to the field of Therapeutic Recreation, as determined by the Awards Committee and the ATRA Board of Directors.

Professional of the Year Award
The Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association recognizes members that have rendered outstanding service to the Association and the field of endeavors it represents. This award may be made annually to not more than one member of ATRA.

Qualifications:

1. Current professional membership in ATRA; and
2. Significant contribution to the field of Therapeutic Recreation, ie: service on committees and boards which reflect advancement in our field, outstanding patient care, advocacy work in the field of therapeutic recreation,
3. Development of workshops / presentations promoting therapeutic recreation; and
4. Commitment to ongoing involvement in upgrading personal and professional knowledge related to Therapeutic Recreation; and one of either #4, 5 or 6 below:
5. Elected Board Member or Committee Member of the Board of Directors, or
6. Elected officer or committee member of an ATRA region or chapter; or
7. Served as liaison between ATRA and other professional agencies related to the field of Therapeutic Recreation.

Broadening Horizons Award
The Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association recognizes and supports innovation in the field of Therapeutic Recreation. This award may be presented annually to not more than one member of ATRA who has broadened our field of practice.

Qualifications:

1. Current Professional Membership in the Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association; and
2. Exceptional contribution to the profession which has affected philosophy or practice, and
3. Appearances to groups in person, over the radio or television pertaining to the broad field of Therapeutic Recreation; or
4. Articles in newspapers or magazines on topics pertaining to Therapeutic Recreation; or
5. Research which has helped advance the profession; or
6. Author/co-author of any book on Therapeutic Recreation or related fields; or
7. Has expanded the field of Therapeutic Recreation into a new setting (i.e. Home Care, Schools, Seniors Housing, etc.); or
8. Has taken a lead role in innovative approaches to Therapeutic Recreation (i.e., programming, treatment, leisure education, community enhancement, etc.)

Student Award
The Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association recognizes students who have demonstrated academic ability, promise of a contribution to the field of Therapeutic Recreation, and have worked in the Therapeutic Recreation field. This award may be made annually to not more than two students.

Qualifications:

1. Declared major in Recreation/Therapeutic Recreation or graduate studies related to Therapeutic Recreation; and
2. Current enrollment in university or college, third year standing or above if enrolled in a four-year program, second year standing if enrolled in a two year program; and
3. 7.5 overall GPA minimum or equivalent; and
4. Volunteer/work experience in Therapeutic Recreation; and
5. Student or professional member of ATRA.
6. Two letters of reference (preferably one from an educator, and one from a practitioner) addressing the nominee’s potential contributions to TR.

Agency / Individual Citation
The Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association recognizes agencies and/or individuals (non-members) that have done something extraordinary to create opportunities for the field of Therapeutic Recreation. This award may be made annually to either an individual or an agency.

Qualifications:

1. Any institution/organization or individual whose efforts have promoted Therapeutic Recreation. Examples of promotion of Therapeutic Recreation could include the following:
2. Promotion of Therapeutic Recreation on any level.
3. Serving as a volunteer in Therapeutic Recreation.
4. Contribution of an unusual nature to the field of Therapeutic Recreation; research, author/co-author of a book or textbook, appearances to groups, etc. which helps to advance the field of therapeutic recreation.
5. Active involvement with university/college studies through practicum, work experience opportunities, presentations, etc.
6. Therapeutic Recreation programs which are recognized as exemplary by clients, Board of Directors and/ or other disciplines.