As you would be aware, sadly, we were unsuccessful in securing AHPA membership at this time. For those who may have missed the earlier communication, the full response is included in this newsletter.
While this outcome is disappointing, one of the key takeaways is clear: ARTA will not waver in its commitment to advocating for recognition of recreational therapy as an allied health profession. However, I want to put forward to you, our members, that achieving this goal will require more than persistence. It will require increasing our visibility across the broader health community. Now, more than ever, we need to champion our profession, highlight our impact, and ensure that recreational therapy has a strong, unmistakable presence in the allied health landscape.
There are many ways we can work together to build this visibility. I encourage all members to get involved — whether that’s through contributing to research, publishing articles or case studies, presenting at conferences, joining one of our community of practices, or engaging actively on social media to share the amazing work recreational therapists do every day.
If you know a recreational therapist who isn’t yet a member of ARTA, now is the time to reach out and invite them to join. The stronger and more united our voice, the greater our impact will be.
Every story told, every piece of evidence shared, and every new member welcomed strengthens our collective efforts. Together, we can keep pushing forward towards the recognition our profession deserves.
Thank you for your ongoing passion and commitment – your voice matters. Your work matters. Let’s stand tall, speak loudly, and show the world the true value of recreational therapy.
Change takes time, but with each step we take together, we are building a stronger future for recreational therapy.
Warm regards,
Renée Smith
ARTA President