Each of Sacred Heart University's Graduate Occupational Therapy Program students design community programs in small groups.  In order to create the programs, they first conduct a thorough needs assessment with the program's population, service providers, and important stakeholders.  Students then collaborate with all important stakeholders to review the findings of the needs assessment, establish goals and objectives to address needs and design a wellness or prevention program to address un-met needs.  Students then implement the programs and conduct program evauations on program outcomes. 

 

From a prior student

"While obtaining my master's degree in Occupational Therapy I was required to develop a program to meet a need in the community.  Along with my group, I developed a specialized gymnastics program for children with Autism.  The combination of my studies in occupational therapy and my love for gymnastics allowed me to give back to the community.  Incorporating a passion of mine, the sport of gymnastics, into the lives of children in need and seeing the positive effects it has had on each of them has been gratifying.  I have been involved in gymnastics for over 18 years and have competed both at the elite and college level. Although I no longer compete, I have remained involved through coaching.  Now, I have incorporated my expertise of being a gymnast and coaching young children, with my knowledge of occupational therapy, to develop a program that is not only satisfying and rewarding for myself, but for those children with Autism as well." - M.M. 2006