VENTURA, CALIF. – JUNE, 2009 – To help children and adults with special needs, Easter Seals Tri-Counties offers swimming and exercise classes, and physical therapy in its Aquatic Center, which features the region’s premier heated therapy pool. The indoor pool, which remains at a consistent 94 degrees, is the warmest pool in the county and approved by the Arthritis Foundation for physical therapy. Aquatic Center staff includes certified fitness instructors, onsite physical therapists and Red Cross certified lifeguards to ensure the safety and well-being of participants.
Featuring a hydraulic lift and wheelchair ramp, the Aquatic Center is the only facility of its kind in the Tri-Counties area. Adult classes include low impact aerobics, “Healthy Back” which focuses on the lower back, stretch arthritis, high intensity aerobics and stroke recovery.
“Our program is perfect for those who have suffered from strokes and heart attacks or are recuperating from surgery and require strength and flexibility exercises,” said Mary London, CEO of Easter Seals Tri-Counties. “The combination of water and warm temperatures ease the joints, while also strengthening muscles and incorporating cardio exercises in a low-impact environment.”
Swim classes and pediatric physical therapy are also offered for children at the Aquatic Center. Partnerships with the Autism Society of America and local children’s hospitals allow Easter Seals Tri-Counties to accept referrals for children who would benefit from the aquatic programs. Because of the organization’s successful program, families travel from as far as Los Angeles’ South Bay to participate.
“Everyday, we receive compliments from parents whose children are in our program,” said Cecilio Murillo, director of aquatic services at Easter Seals Tri-Counties. “Many of them notice a big improvement in their child’s behavior, speech and muscle tone, and attribute that change to the calming effect of our therapy pools.”
All classes are open to the general public. Limited scholarships are available and awarded based on need. For more information about the Aquatic Center, interested parties can call (805) 647-1141 x31.
In April, Vons/Pavilions stores throughout Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties participated in an annual fundraiser for Easter Seals Tri-Counties. Over $8.8 million was raised for Easter Seals nationally during this fundraiser. Individuals and corporations who would like to make a donation to Easter Seals Tri-Counties can visit ca-tr.easterseals.com
Easter Seals is the leading non-profit provider of services for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, physical and mental disabilities, and other special needs. For nearly 90 years, we have been offering help and hope to children and adults living with disabilities, and to the families who love them. Through therapy, training, education and support services, Easter Seals creates life-changing solutions so that people with disabilities can live, learn, work and play in their communities. Support children and adults with disabilities at www.ca-tr.easterseals.com.
