How Trudeau’s Adult Day Program Creates Enriching Summer Experiences: Spotlight on Trudeau Tigers
Summer at Trudeau Center brings a special kind of energy to our Adult Day Program. As temperatures rise, so does the excitement among participants who eagerly anticipate the season’s unique opportunities for growth, connection, and achievement. Among these summer highlights, the Trudeau Tigers stand out as a beacon of inspiration, embodying the spirit of inclusion and empowerment that defines our organization.
A Season of Possibility
For adults with differing abilities, meaningful summer activities are vital for continued development and well-being. Trudeau’s Adult Day Program transforms summer from a potential time of isolation into a period of enrichment through thoughtfully designed experiences that combine recreation, skill-building, and community engagement.
“Summer presents unique opportunities for our participants to step outside their comfort zones and experience new activities that simply aren’t possible during other seasons,” says Charlotte Higham, Vice President of Adult Services.
From adaptive swimming sessions at local pools to outdoor barbecues and community garden projects, summer days are filled with activities that stimulate both body and mind. What makes these experiences special isn’t just the activities themselves, but how they’re structured to promote independence, social skills, and genuine joy.
The Trudeau Tigers: Athletics with Heart
At the heart of our summer program is the Trudeau Tigers, our Special Olympics team that exemplifies the transformative power of inclusive athletics. The team provides participants with opportunities to discover their athletic potential while developing confidence that extends far beyond sports.
Rachael G., a longtime Trudeau Tiger athlete, shares her perspective: “I like being involved with Special Olympics because it’s fun. It’s a good way to get exercise and let off steam and to meet people, make new friends. I’m proud. No matter what I get, whether it’s gold, silver, bronze or ribbon, it doesn’t matter. As long as we played our best and we have fun and just getting to go to the tournament is reward enough for me because it’s fun. And it’s something I look forward to every year, and I’m a little sad when it ends.”
Under the guidance of dedicated coaches, athletes work on improving techniques and building stamina in sports ranging from track and field to volleyball, swimming and bowling.
Jessica Keenan, Program Coordinator of Adult Services and Head Coach of the Trudeau Tigers, observes the remarkable transformation that occurs through participation: “What makes the Trudeau Tigers program so special is watching our athletes discover capabilities they never knew they had. The summer season gives us extended daylight and better weather to really develop those skills. By the time our athletes compete, they’ve not only improved physically but have developed problem-solving abilities, emotional regulation, and social connections that benefit every aspect of their lives.”
Building Community Through Shared Experience
The beauty of the Trudeau Tigers extends beyond individual achievement to the sense of belonging it fosters. Jonathan B., another Trudeau athlete, emphasizes this aspect: “We love being involved because we get to see people. We get to make new friends and see what they do for their Olympic sport. And the teamwork and sportsmanship, they’re one of the biggest factors in any sport, especially in Trudeau Tigers. We’re always encouraging one another, high-fiving each other, telling each other good job. We just have a lot of fun.”
This community spirit isn’t limited to team members. Summer competitions become gathering points for families, staff, and community supporters, creating a ripple effect of inclusion that extends throughout our local area. These events showcase abilities rather than disabilities, changing perceptions and building bridges of understanding.
A Foundation for Year-Round Growth
While summer provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities and competitions, the skills developed during this season create a foundation for year-round growth. Confidence gained on the playing field translates to greater independence in daily living. Social connections formed during summer events blossom into lasting friendships that provide support throughout the year.
At Trudeau Center, we recognize that meaningful engagement doesn’t take vacations. Through our Adult Day Program and the Trudeau Tigers, we’re committed to creating summer experiences that enrich lives, build skills, and foster the sense of belonging that everyone deserves—regardless of ability.
