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Activites
Disadvantaged, Youth, HandicapWho We Are|
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| Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center |
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| The World is Our Classroom It is a generally accepted idea that children who live in at-risk or poverty stricken situations are often ill-afforded any opportunity to take part in outdoor activities that introduce them to lessons to be learned in nature, and expose them to a variety of caring individuals, the lack of which can bear serious detrimental setbacks to their futures as responsible adults. Whether the reasons for this lack of outdoor experience be geographic separationAA, social ineptness, or as is most often the case, financial inability, disadvantaged children are often left by the wayside when it comes to learning some of nature's most valuable lessons. Many people view Mother Nature as one of the original educators of those lessons concerning respect for others, respect for life and “things” not yours, as well as personal responsibility for one's actions. Clinch Mountain understands that nature's precedents can prove invaluable to the life of a child living in socio-economically compromised situation - hence their programs can prove to be priceless to those who participate. We are a not-for-profit organization that provides exceptional learning adventures to all age groups. We believe learning is a lifelong pursuit that opens minds and enriches lives. We believe sharing new ideas, challenges, and experiences is rewarding in every season of life. Our participants come from every walk of life to learn together, to exchange ideas, and to explore the world. Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center offers unique educational experiences infused with the spirit of camaraderie and adventure that enrich, and enhance, the lives of its participants. Our expert instructors share stimulating information through in-depth lectures, field trips, and cultural excursions. Lively discussions with faculty and fellow participants illuminate issues and broaden horizons. Local Senior Adults At-Risk Most people recognize the fact that the bond between a parent and child is a very strong and unique thing. A child may spend upwards of 20 years in the same household as his/her parents, learning important lessons from parents who try to set strong examples on a daily basis, in order to assure that their children will grow up to be well-educated, well-rounded individuals - able to play a positive role in society. The lessons that parents teach can be best described as a “labor of love”, although it may be sometimes difficult, frustrating, and tiring for them at times; no matter how hard they might try to deny it, setting an example for children is one of the most important and meaningful acts of love that a parent can offer, in any capacity. Eventually, these bright-eyed children become adults, and the time will come for them to find their own way in the world. Local Physically-Challenged At-Risk This is the premier site for information on equine-assisted activities. promotes the benefit of the horse for individuals with physical, emotional and learning disabilities. For individuals with disabilities, equine-assisted activities have been shown to improve muscle tone, balance, posture, coordination, motor development as well as emotional well-being. And it's fun! Another segment of the population who seldom have the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors are those who are physically handicapped. It is often hard for parents and guardians of those who are physically challenged to find summer and seasonal outdoor opportunities that are not only comprehensive, but provide programs and facilities that are geared towards the comfort and safety of physically-challenged individuals. Clinch Mountain recognizes that people with disabilities of any type would often rather take part in such programs that are designed to integrate them into situations involving all types of people, rather than only being involved in what some would call “segregated” recreational activities - those that are “specifically” designed for only the disabled person. Integrated programs can help prepare physically challenged individuals for the vast opportunities that are slowly but surely becoming available to them throughout the United States, through programs that attempt to integrate the physically- and learning-challenged society seamlessly into both education and employment venues. Those who qualify between the ages of 5 to 18 years will be served. Leisure Education Activities and Ideas "Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreational Center Leisure Education and Therapeutic Recreation are assistive tools to enable the individual to gain a broader understanding of where, why, how, and with whom he/she can pursue their interests and experiences and unlearn non-adaptive and learn more functional responses, i.e. to develop different modes of leisure behavior which will enable the individual to adapt to the environment to meet his/her free time needs." Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center offers programs for disadvantaged youth, handicapped and eldery to participate and enjoy activities like camping, boating, fishing, mentoring, life and social skills. Handicapped activities Cabins with handicapped facilites; Pontoon boat excursions; Fishing form the safety of a pontoon; Group activities; Counselor to help with activities agenda. Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center Preferred Riders is a therapeutic horseback riding program. We provide riding opportunities for people with physical disabilities as a form of therapy to improve physical, cognitive and communication skills. Classes are conducted by trained instructors, a physical therapist and volunteers. Nominal Fees are charged for classes. Scholarships are available upon request to qualified families. Preferred Riders is a nonprofit program with all proceeds going directly to the cost of operation or sponsorship of a rider. The continuation of the program relies on the support from the community and volunteers. Criteria For Riders: Any person with a physical disability. Parental or guardian permission. Doctors permission and medical report. Benefits: Preferred Riders provides a unique and motivation experience to contribute positively to the physical, social and communication skills of people with physical disabilities. Physical: The gentle movement of the horse, which simulates human walking, serves to strengthen spine and pelvic muscles, improve posture and coordination, and increase overall balance and joint mobility. Social: As the rider learns to control the horse there is a feeling of true accomplishment. This personal achievement translates into improved self-confidence and self-esteem. A trusting and affectionate relationship often develops between the horse and rider which can carry over with the person's ability to relate better with other people. Communication: The riding experience stimulates language and learning. The rider develops the ability to listen to instructions and communicate directions to the horse. Concentration and memory are improved as the person learns to attend to a full session and carry over techniques form week to week. Donate a Horse Donate A Horse/ a Saddle/ a helping hand... Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center consider our horses as valued partners in a relationship. In order to participate and work with individuals that often have profound disabilities, CMLDRC centers are highly selective when accepting horses into a program. Many horses are donated, volunteered or leased by horse owners in the community. When selecting a horse to participate in a program, we look for a horse, pony, donkey or mule that is ideal and suitable for Equine Assisted Activities and Therapy Important Note! While Minor Health Issues in an Equine May Be Acceptable, Please note That Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center horses Must Be Sound Enough to Work Regularly In order to protect our distingished riders we: Evaluate a prospective horse's conformation Evaluate health Consider age Examine gaits and manners of going Observe attitude, reliability and adaptability The breed of a horse is not a critical consideration. Different breeds offer different builds needed for a wide range of activities, including riding, driving, vaulting, interaction on the ground and others. From Miniature Horse to Shire (and in some programs donkeys), there may be a spot for your equine at a Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center. By donating a horse you will not only assist individuals with disabilities, but you may also be eligible for a tax deduction. To explore opportunities on how your horse can make a difference, contact Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation. Volunteer opportunities and application Volunteers are the backbone of any strong community action program... our program is no exception. Volunteer Opportunities:Some experience working with horses or people with special needs is helpful but not necessary. Volunteer positions available include the following: horse Leader Student Aid Clerical Back rider Side walker Public Relations Fund Raising Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center Volunteer Application Form First Name: ________________________Last Name: ____________ Address: ________________________________________________________________________________ Postal Code: ___________________ Date of Birth: __________________ Circle) Male/Female Home Phone #: (___)___________Work # ( )___________Fax #_______ Email__________________________________________________________ Occupation/Student:_________________________________________________ Employer /School: ___________________________________________________________ Valid Drivers License (circle) Yes/No Class: _______________________ Please help us to match your skills with an appropriate volunteer opportunity. You can respond to the following questions on this application and/or provide a resume. How did you hear about Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center? ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What attracts or interests you about volunteering with Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What experience and skills do you have which can contribute to our program and the experience of our participants? _____________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What do you hope to gain from volunteering with Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What are your hobbies and interests? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What education or special training do you have? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ What kinds of volunteer/service work have you been/are involved in? ________________________________________________________ Volunteer Interests 0 Wilderness Trips 0 Fundraising/Special Events 0 Environmental Education 0 Office Assistance 0 Summer Programs/Camps 0 Youth Leadership 0 Youth Action Teams 0 Marketing 0 Equipment Care/Repair 0 Mentoring 0 Technological Assistance/website 0 Other Specify:_________________________________________________________________ Days/Time Available: __________________________________________________________________ Flexible? (circle) Yes/No Release of Liability: I understand that parts of the Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center program may be physically or emotionally challenging. I recognize that even though safety will be considered of utmost importance, that outdoor recreation activities by their very nature, involve elements of risk. I understand that each participant and/or volunteer must assume the risk of injury that could result from any of these activities. I release HeartWood, and its staff members, and Board of Directors from all liability for any injury to me or my charges from participating in Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center activities. SIGNED: ___________________________________DATE:_______________ (By parent of guardian if under 19 years of age) Child Safety Policy: As part of its philosophy on youth development, Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center is committed to the safety and well being of all participants in its programs. At the same time, we recognize that children and youth are vulnerable to the possibility of abuse (physical, sexual, and emotional) that can be perpetrated upon them by adults and older youth. To ensure the maximum safety of all concerned (children, youth, volunteers, mentors, staff members, and Directors of the Board) and to prevent the possibility of abuse from occurring, Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center has created various policies, procedures, and safeguards. Volunteers and staff can expect to undergo a thorough assessment and screening process before they come into contact with children in Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center's programs (see attached description of our assessment/selection process). As well, they can also anticipate receiving ongoing support and guidance in carrying out their role in the form of orientation and training; being linked with experienced staff and/or volunteers; and regular supervision, evaluation, and feedback processes. These measures will create a safe, productive, and healthy environment for children and adults to learn, grow, and enjoy the Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center experience. Statement of Consent: I understand that as part of the application and selection process to become a volunteer with Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center, I must participate in and abide by its policies and procedures regarding child safety. Specifically, I agree to provide references upon request, participate in an interview to assess my interests and skills for volunteering, undergo a screening process with the Child Abuse Registry (Province of Nova Scotia), and to request a Police Records Check and provide the results of which to Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center. If accepted as a volunteer, I further agree to participate in orientation and training sessions that will enhance my knowledge and skills as a volunteer and to accept regular supervision, evaluation, and feedback from designated Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center staff and/or volunteers. SIGNED: ___________________________________DATE:____________________ (By parent of guardian if under 19 years of age) A description of Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center volunteer assessment and selection process: 1. The volunteer candidate fills out Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center's application form, which includes his/her agreement to participate in a screening process (references, Child Abuse Registry, and Police Records checks, etc.). 2. Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center reviews the candidate's application to determine his/her general suitability as a volunteer and to identify possible volunteer roles in which he/she might have an interest. 3. The candidate is invited to an interview with two representatives of Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center. The interview is an opportunity to assess the applicant's skills, resources, and interest in volunteering, to explore possible volunteer roles that would be a good match for his/her skills and interests, and to identify any information about the applicant that may pose a risk to children and youth. The candidate is asked to provide two references. 4. With assistance from Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center, the applicant makes a request for screening to the Child Abuse Registry. The Registry keeps a record of individuals who have abused children. As well, the applicant makes a similar request for a Police Records Check, which reveals any past criminal convictions that may exclude the individual from certain volunteer roles. (Note: not all volunteer positions involve contact with children and may not, therefore, require full screening) 5. Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center contacts the applicant's references. After explaining the specific duties and responsibilities of the role for which the candidate is applying, the referee is asked to share his/her knowledge of the individual's qualifications, character, and suitability for work with children. 6. Results of the Child Abuse Registry are sent directly to Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center, whereas the Police Records Check is sent to the applicant who then provides the results to Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center. 7. The applicant is assigned a specific volunteer role with Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center for a probationary period. During this time, the applicant is linked to a staff member or an experienced volunteer who provides the newcomer with support and guidance. As well, the new volunteer participates in an orientation workshop. The purpose of the workshop is to familiarize new volunteers with their roles and with Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center's policies and procedures regarding child safety. 8. During their time as a volunteer, the individual is invited to participate in ongoing training and professional development sessions for Clinch Mountain Life Development and Recreation Center staff and volunteers. Every volunteer is continuously supervised to ensure that they are comfortable and competent in their roles. As well, they are regularly evaluated and given feedback on their performance. |
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