2025 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions
October 18–20, 2025 | San Antonio, TX
The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2025 ATRA Annual Conference in San Antonio, TX. All sessions, times, and presenter information have been confirmed, though final adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances onsite.
For a visual Calendar view, please visit: Schedule at a Glance
For information on our Bonus Day at Morgan's Sports on Friday October 17th, please visit: ATRA San Antonio Bonus Day: Morgan's Sports
Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC has approved all sessions for CEUs.
For questions related to specialty certification areas, please refer to the PDF version of the program for designation icons and CEU-eligible sessions.
Code of Conduct:
All attendees, speakers, exhibitors, and guests are expected to uphold the ATRA Conference Code of Conduct.
To review the Code, view it here.
Note on Non-ATRA Activities:
Please note that any events or activities not listed in the official ATRA San Antonio program are independently organized and not affiliated or sponsored by ATRA. ATRA is not responsible for independently coordinated events, meetups or activities not articulated in this program. Individuals interested in non-ATRA sponsored activities should contact their respective organizations directly for details.
Bridging Possibility: Adaptive Equipment, Experiential Learning, and Strategic Partnerships in Uncertain Times (0.1 CEUs)
Session Description
In a world where adaptive recreation programs face increasing financial constraints and organizational instability, the power of partnerships and experiential learning has never been more critical. This session explores the innovative use of adaptive outdoor equipment—such as handcycles, off-road wheelchairs, and adaptive kayaks—as tools to foster learning, independence, and inclusion in recreational therapy.
Through a blend of discussion, case studies, and hands-on demonstration, attendees will gain insight into how equipment can serve as a catalyst for community engagement and skill-building while addressing how to develop and sustain partnerships during times of budget uncertainty. Participants will gain hands on experience and learn about different equipment and modifications for individuals with disabilities.
Note for Attendees:
This session will be presented twice, attendees will receive CEU credit only once. After your first session, you will switch to the other Morgan's Sports session with a brief transition. Please be prepared to be outdoors and wear comfortable clothes for participating in the adaptive sports experiential learning demonstration
Learning Outcomes
Describe the role of adaptive outdoor equipment in enhancing outcomes for individuals with disabilities through recreational therapy.
Identify at least three practical strategies to initiate and sustain partnerships that support adaptive programming.
Analyze how to advocate for and justify adaptive equipment integration.
Apply equipment modifications for outdoor equipment for individuals with disabilities.
Identify safety procedures and best practices for outdoor and adaptive equipment.
Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply
Behavioral Health
Child and Adolescent
Community
Higher Education
Military/Veterans
Older Adults
Target Audience
New Graduates/New Professionals
Educators/Researchers
Mid-Career Professionals
Seasoned Professionals
Primary Presenter
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8f7dfd45d0ee89d771520c780102d680.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Brayson Pope, Adaptive Adventures")
Brayson Pope, Adaptive Adventures
Biographical Information
CTRS for nearly 10 years of experience. I am passionate about providing quality and meaningful recreation opportunities to individuals of all ways of life. I look forward to bringing some fun energy to this presentation and sharing with you all what we are doing at Adaptive Adventures and how we are designing and maintaining programs across the country!
Co-Presenter/panelists
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/bef8258a233552788e36a18177eb4056.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Gilbert Vasquez, Adaptive Adventures")
Gilbert Vasquez, Adaptive Adventures
Biographical Information
Gilbert is passionate about recreation and specifically adaptive sports because of the impact it has on people and the community they live in. He believes that each person has the ability to enjoy the outdoors and deserve an opportunity to explore a variety of sports. He loves to help people achieve their goals and continues to advocate the importance of recreation in the outdoors. He believes that recreation has therapeutic benefits.