By Sucheta Singh, Marketing and Communications
Photo by David Denofreo

Play is important, not just for fun, but as a vital activity for the development of children’s physical, mental and social skills. Matt Berezan hopes it can also help improve the health and well-being of people with disabilities.

Matt is an Ultimate Frisbee player and lives an active lifestyle. He’s turning his passion for play into a career through the Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation program at Douglas College.

“Douglas has one of the most respected and unique therapeutic recreation programs in the world. I’m lucky to be a part of it,” Matt says.

Once he graduates, Matt wants to work with young people with disabilities as a recreation therapist, helping them grow and push past their limits through outdoor activities and sport.

Through the program, students learn how to work with individuals and groups to assess their needs and interests in order to facilitate positive changes in clients. These changes come from meaningful recreation and leisure experiences.

Students in the Therapeutic Recreation diploma and bachelor programs also get a chance to apply the theories taught in class through hands-on work. Whether it’s community projects, practicums or internship placements, students are able to apply their skills to help promote health, increase self-esteem, increase enjoyment and life satisfaction and develop personal independence.

“I want to take my passion for sports and physical activity and use it  to create positive change in the lives of others.”