New therapeutic recreation hire and sensory programming expand accessibility

Megan Eaton, recreation coordinator, and Neli Kiros Perez, the city’s newly hired certified therapeutic recreation specialist, introduced Roseville’s adaptive programming team and described current and planned sensory-friendly offerings at the March 3 commission meeting.

Staff said adaptive programming is designed to accommodate people with varying cognitive, intellectual and physical abilities and that the city held a community focus group and hired a consultant in 2023 to shape programming. Neli described her academic and professional credentials, including a master’s degree in recreation administration, completion of required therapeutic-recreation coursework, 1,500 hours of supervised professional experience and certification by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (completed in October).

Planned and ongoing offerings include sensory-friendly events (Bunnies and Baskets sensory Easter event and a returning sensory Santa), Play & Connect (a parent-support group with sensory activities for children), an adaptive version of ‘‘My First Camp’’ with smaller class sizes and pre-registration questionnaires to tailor supports, and pilot fall offerings such as cooking classes and sensory-friendly social events. Staff said sensory kits (containing fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones and tactile items) are available to borrow at the Mighty Community Center, Mahaney Fitness Center and Mike Shellito Indoor Pool and can be requested in advance or on site; libraries also maintain related kits.

Commissioners discussed funding and volunteer support; speakers suggested leveraging Sacramento State students for volunteer/intern support. Neli said recruiting trained volunteers is part of the team’s plan. Staff said they will continue to integrate adaptive elements into existing events where feasible. The presentation was informational; no action was requested.