Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Bertha Henry
Department: County Administration Division: Parks & Recreation
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO APPROVE Agreement between Broward County and Florida International University Board of Trustees to develop a cooperative education and research program (“Program”) that will enhance the education and training of Florida International University Recreational Therapy students through internships at Broward County Parks and Recreation, commencing upon full execution of the Agreement for a term of five years; authorize the Mayor and Clerk to execute same; and authorize the County Administrator to take all necessary administrative actions to implement the Agreement.
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Why Action is Necessary
Agreements with external agencies require approval by the Board of County Commissioners.
What Action Accomplishes
Provides for implementation of an internship program with Florida International University within the Parks and Recreation Division.
Is this Action Goal Related
Yes
Previous Action Taken
None.
Summary Explanation/Background
THE PARKS AND RECREATION DIVISION RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF THE ABOVE ACTION.
This action supports the Commission Value: "Cultivating community culture, arts, recreation, and life-long learning," and the related Goal: "In coordination with our community partners, market and deliver world-class recreational opportunities." The development of a cooperative program for university students of recreational therapy to obtain clinical experience in park settings will enhance recreational opportunities for Broward County residents with disabilities.
The purpose of the Florida International University (“FIU”) Recreational Therapy Program (“Program”) is to provide graduate and undergraduate level students with opportunities for active observation and practical experience in the organization and administration of recreational, leisure, and healthcare services in a variety of different settings that serve individuals with disabilities. This Program will help to prepare students to competently provide therapeutic activity-based services that improve and maintain physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning in individuals, as well as help to prevent secondary health conditions, increase independent living skills, and enhance the overall quality of life in individuals with various disabilities. The internship Program also helps students to grow personally and professionally in their journey toward becoming a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, a requirement of the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification.
This Agreement establishes a mutually beneficial relationship between the County, through the Parks and Recreation Division, and FIU’s Recreational Therapy students. The Program participants will gain the knowledge needed to be able to provide therapeutic services for individuals - youths through older adults - in Broward County, including but not limited to those with physical, visual, or developmental disabilities and mental health issues.
The Program will enhance service capacity and programming of the Parks and Recreation Special Populations Section, helping to increase the number of patrons served and expand the diversity of programs offered. In return, the interns receive both supervised and self-directed learning opportunities during their participation.
The Agreement has been reviewed for legal sufficiency by the Office of the County Attorney.
Source of Additional Information
Dan West, Director, Parks and Recreation Division, 954-357-8106
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
There is no fiscal impact to the County as students will participate solely on a volunteer basis for educational benefits, without compensation.