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Danvers commission introduces new therapeutic recreation specialist, outlines inclusive programs and event plans
Summary
The commission welcomed Julia Ryan, the Town’s new Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, discussed inclusive programs such as the Kids Test Kitchen, addressed Film Festival scholarship compliance, sketched a Human Library pilot in October 2026, confirmed Walk Massachusetts participation, and agreed to keep hybrid meetings.
At its Feb. 26 meeting the Town of Danvers Accessibility Commission introduced Julia Ryan, the town’s newly hired Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, and discussed several upcoming inclusive‑program and event plans.
Julia Ryan described her role in expanding inclusive and adaptive recreation opportunities in Danvers, including current initiatives such as the inclusive Kids Test Kitchen program, collaboration with local schools, and developing adaptive programming. She said accommodations will be handled through a formal request process on a case‑by‑case basis.
Commission members also discussed logistics and compliance around student entries in the Fight for 504 Film Festival scheduled for March 26 at Danvers High School. The Town declined to process funds described as a “prize,” noting municipal funds must be structured as a scholastic award or scholarship; the commission will pursue clarification and steps to ensure compliance with municipal finance rules.
Preliminary planning for a Human Library event in October 2026 was presented, with a pilot of three to five books proposed at the Senior Center, an estimated registration fee of $250, and anticipated funding support from the Friends of Diversity grant. The commission will continue outreach and refine the pilot plan.
The Town Manager’s Office confirmed participation in a Walk Massachusetts walk‑audit initiative and identified the Accessibility Commission as a community partner; audits will begin once weather permits. The commission also discussed inviting guest speakers Tim Hudon and Aaron Henry to future meetings and agreed to continue hybrid meeting formats to support accessibility and attendance flexibility. The Amplifying Voices Film Festival was announced for March 12–13; the event is free but requires RSVP.
No formal votes were recorded on these program and event items during the meeting; the session focused on introductions, planning, compliance clarification, and next steps.
