Participant cooking with staff.

Therapeutic and Inclusive Recreation Services

Therapeutic and Inclusive Recreation Services staff provide Therapeutic Recreation programs for youth, teens and adults with disabilities, and inclusive programs and services for participants of all abilities. Our staff also promote safe and successful recreation participation in all Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation programs through education, advocacy and program support.

Annual assessments are required for participation in Therapeutic Recreation programs. You may contact a Therapeutic Recreation staff member through our TR Info Line at at 980-314-1192 or email: [email protected] for program information or to set up an assessment appointment.

Summer Camp registration will open in early Spring 2024. 

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Internship Information

The recreational therapy/therapeutic recreation internship program is a hands on, in person internship experience that meets NCTRC Internship Requirements for certification as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS). The National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC) outlines specific requirements for internships:

  1. Duration: The internship experience must be a minimum of 560 hours and span 14 consecutive weeks.
  2. Focus: The internship should involve therapeutic recreation (TR) services and utilize the TR process as defined by the current NCTRC Job Analysis.
  3. Supervision: Interns are supervised by both academic and agency supervisors who are certified by NCTRC.

Upcoming internship opportunities for 2024 and application periods are listed below: 

  • Internship beginning in January (Spring Semester 2024): August 1, 2023 - September 30, 2023
  • Internship beginning in August (Fall Semester 2024): March 1, 2024 - April 30, 2024

Internship Application Documents

Students interested in applying are asked to electronically submit the following documents to [email protected].

  • Temporary non-lifeguard application packet and the intern application supplemental questionnaire

  • Resume, cover letter and 2-3 letters of reference (one academic, 1-2 professional)

  • And any required application agreement paperwork from your college/university with your application

ADA and Inclusion Statements

ADA Statement

The Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department will comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. Mecklenburg County will make reasonable modifications in all programs to enable participation by an individual with a disability who meets essential eligibility requirements. Mecklenburg County programs will be available in the most integrated setting for each individual. If any modifications are necessary for participation in any program or service, participants are encouraged to notify staff at the time of registration or at least 48 hours prior to program commencement. Upon request, this information is available in an alternative format for persons with disabilities.

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation welcomes people of all abilities to our programs.

Inclusion Statement

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Department believes in the value of inclusive leisure and recreation experiences for all members of the community regardless of their level of ability. The Department makes every effort to ensure inclusive opportunities in all Programs, Services and activities including but not limited to parks, greenways, natural areas and preserves, facilities, programs, classes and special events.

Contact Us

If you have questions or would like to request a modification based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), please reach out.