At the heart of our Recreation Program is a simple goal: creating meaningful experiences that bring joy, foster connections, and help the people we serve explore new interests and abilities. This week, two special activities reminded us just how powerful those experiences can be.
Watching Growth Take Flight
For the past several weeks, participants in our Recreation Program have been caring for caterpillars and watching them transform into butterflies. The butterfly project gave everyone the opportunity to observe nature up close, learn about the life cycle of butterflies, and eagerly anticipate the day of their release.
Individuals from our Brendon Pond house were especially excited throughout the entire process. From watching the caterpillars grow to seeing them emerge as butterflies, they followed every stage with enthusiasm.
To celebrate the release, participants enjoyed butterfly-themed crafts and games, including painting butterflies and playing “Pin the Antenna on the Butterfly.” The highlight of the evening came during the butterfly release itself when not one, but two butterflies landed on Dylan. It was a magical moment that brought smiles to everyone present and perfectly captured the excitement and wonder of the experience.
Activities like this provide more than just fun, they create opportunities for learning, engagement, and shared memories that participants will carry with them long after the event ends.
Building Confidence Through Adaptive Technology
Earlier this month, participants from Cottage 2 gathered for their final computer lab session before taking a break for the Discover summer program. What started as a regular session quickly turned into an exciting bowling tournament.
Our adaptive computer lab is designed to ensure everyone can participate, regardless of mobility challenges. Using large adaptive buttons, participants can independently interact with games and technology in ways that meet their individual needs and abilities.
This week’s bowling game was an overwhelming favorite. Betsy and Brad enjoyed spending time together bowling and coloring, while Brad and Justin focused on perfecting their bowling skills. The excitement was contagious, especially for Justin, whose smile lights up the room every time he hears that computer lab bowling is on the schedule.
Our Recreation Program
MORA’s Recreation Program stands out because we combine flexibility, community connection, and pure fun to create experiences that matter.