public health continued from page 35 in the summer. The program enables soldiers to reach a " new normal " by diminishing boredom and high-risk behavior through outdoor recreation and Leader Led After Action Debriefing (L-LAAD). L-LAAD is a leader-led Commander's tool which reconstructs events in a way similar to a traditional after-action review with additional emphasis on teamwork, unit cohesion and restoring or enhancing readiness. Soldiers are able to draw similarities between the adventure activity and their warrior experiences. Programs like these that are offered as part of a comprehensive strategy allowing soldiers the opportunity to open up about their experiences and slowly acclimate to a more normal environment. In addition to high-intensity activities, U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza Community Recreation also offers a therapeutic arts and crafts program, Resiliency Through Art with the Warrior Transition Unit (WTU). This is an opportunity for members to explore the endless possibilities in the field of art. Art is used as another form of expression and all mediums are explored. The weekly, two-hour program is facilitated by Arts Specialist Michelle Sterkowicz who is currently enrolled to become a certified art therapist. The intent of the program is to help soldiers returning from combat by giving them a 36 Parks & Recreation M A R C H 2 0 1 2 w w w . N R P A . O R G more passive activity in which they can express themselves. One soldier said that the program " lets me re-open the creative side of my mind. " These are just a few examples of how local park and recreation agencies are providing recreational opportunities for veterans with disabilities and how important these programs are for veterans returning to a more normal life. When thinking about creating or improving programs for veterans with disabilities, it is important to establish a relationship with your local Veterans Affairs office which may be able to assist you with your programs or refer patients to your programs (www.va.gov). Additionally, community-based organizations serving veterans with disabilities for other organizations will partner with agencies to provide these opportunities. For more information on the benefits of physical activity for persons with disabilities, see this Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Quick Fact Sheet: http:// www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/sgr/disab.htm. NRPA is also offering a webinar on inclusion on March 15. For more information and to register visit: http://www.nrpa.org/ webinars/. Kellie May is an NRPA Program Manager.