.png "ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description"){kind=logo}
ATRA SoCal : 2026 Session Description
October 17–19, 2026
The Embassy Suites, Brea, California
2026 ATRA Annual Conference – Session Descriptions
October 17–19, 2026 | Brea, CA
The following is the Session Descriptions for the 2026 ATRA Annual Conference in Brea, CA. 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 On Demand Conference offerings, please visit: ATRA SoCal On Demand
Continuing Education (CEUs):
NCTRC pre-approval is pending fr all sessions for CEUs.
Once the program is pre-approved; 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 SoCal 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.
Outdoors For All: Creating and Launching Adaptive Adventure Sports Programs in a Community Recreation Organization
Session Description
Join M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks’ Adaptive Sports Specialist for a session on building adaptive adventure sports programs in a community recreation setting. Drawing from experience developing Adaptive Mountain Biking and Adaptive Kayaking programs from the ground up, this session will highlight lessons learned, key challenges, and strategies for growth. This session will explore how the APIE process can be applied within community-based adaptive sports programs. Participants will discuss the essential elements of high-quality adaptive sport programs, the value of strong partnerships, and practical approaches to scaling and sustaining programs over time. The session will also explore how to design participant-centered experiences that support independence, physical fitness, and social connections. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas and tools to strengthen their own adaptive adventure programming, whether they are just getting started or looking to expand existing offerings.
Learning Outcomes
Identify and describe at least three key components of successful adaptive recreation programs, including participant engagement, equipment considerations, staffing models, and program logistics. Analyze at least two types of partnerships (e.g., internal teams, community organizations, or volunteers) and explain how they contribute to improving accessibility, program quality, and participant outcomes aligned with therapeutic recreation goals. Develop one practical strategy or action plan to create, sustain, or expand an adaptive recreation program by leveraging partnerships, managing resources, and integrating adaptive offerings into broader recreation initiatives.
Practice Area: Select ALL that Apply
Community
Target Audience
Mid-Career Professionals
Primary Presenter
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/4b1b24efd7401a49c2c9dceec63b86ae.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Jennene Blakely, CTRS, CPRP, M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks")
Jennene Blakely, CTRS, CPRP, M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks
Biographical Information
Jennene Blakely Bio Jennene Blakely is the Program Access Manager for Montgomery Parks, where she works to make outdoor recreation welcoming and accessible for people of all abilities. Since joining the department in 2018, she’s focused on expanding opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including adaptive paddling and adaptive mountain biking programs. Jennene enjoys building partnerships and finding creative ways to bring more inclusive programs, special events, and therapeutic recreation opportunities to Montgomery County. She also oversees programs for adults 55+ and works closely with teams across Parks to make sure everyone can enjoy the outdoors. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management with a minor in Psychology, and a Master’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation with a concentration in Inclusive Recreation. Jennene is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).
Co-Presenter/Panelists
![[photo]](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/da088596709d3e35b32bf338c42ffd46.png?d=https://proposalspace.com/images/no_photo.png&r=PG&s=50 "Amanda Espinoza, M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks")
Amanda Espinoza, M-NCPPC Montgomery Parks
Credentials
N/A
Biographical Information
Amanda Espinoza is a passionate advocate for inclusion and outdoor access, with over a decade of experience in therapeutic recreation, inclusive programming, and community engagement. As the Inclusion and Adaptive Sports Specialist at Montgomery Parks, she works to expand access and create meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities to fully participate in Montgomery Parks’ programs and community events. Her work focuses on increasing access through individualized supports such as trained support staff, ASL interpreters, and adaptive equipment while also advancing inclusive practices across the park system. Amanda has played a key role in developing and growing adaptive recreation programs, including adaptive mountain biking and kayaking, creating pathways for participants to build skills, improve physical fitness, connect with others, and experience the outdoors in new ways. She is deeply committed to ensuring these opportunities not only exist but are impactful, supporting participants in reaching personal goals, gaining confidence and independence, and feeling a sense of belonging within their community.