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Advocacy
ATRA advocates for you.
representing your interests
Moving the Profession Forward
ATRA is the only national organization representing the specific needs and interests of all Recreational Therapists. ATRA envisions a world where all people have access to Recreational Therapy. To make that vision a reality, it is essential for Recreational Therapists to be recognized and valued in federal, state, and local governments. ATRA is devoted to promoting and supporting the recreational therapy profession through our strategic advocacy efforts, which ensure that lawmakers and other influential organizations are aware of recreational therapy’s vital services.
MARCH 11, 2025 @ 7:30 ET ON ZOOM
ATRA Town Hall
Standing Together: ATRA and the VA
Join us for a critical conversation on the recent changes affecting recreational therapy within the VA. Recording available on Facebook.
MARCH 5, 2025
Veteran Affairs
Call to Action
We are asking for all Recreational and Creative Arts Therapists to contact their federal legislators through email and phone calls to express concerns about the termination of recreational and creative arts therapists within the VA. Please use the sample letters, emails, and talking points for phone calls provided below.
March 4, 2025
Veteran Affairs Survey
If you have been affected by government efficiency measures and worked for Veteran Affairs, we want to hear from you. Please complete this short survey as we gather data to support our advocacy efforts.
february 28, 2025
We Hear You
Every day, we hear of new challenges threatening the profession we love. ATRA hears you. We're fighting for you. Please read the accompanying letter from ATRA's Executive Director to learn how ATRA is advocating for you and what you can do to help protect the profession.
february 17, 2025
Rapid Change and Uncertainty for RT
A timely message from ATRA's Executive Director. Please read, share, and take action.
february 14, 2025
Advocacy Alert
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is the focus of a significant and high profile lawsuit. Seventeen states are suing the U.S. government saying that May 2024 revisions to Section 504 of the Rehab Act are unconstitutional. As of this date, the lawsuit is currently stayed (on hold) while the Trump administration reviews the law.
BE PROACTIVE. BE INFORMED.
Essential Advocacy Links
Meet your Advocate!
Dr. Dawn DeVries, DHA, CTRS, DFRT
Director of Advocacy and Legislative Affairs
Dr. DeVries is a nationally recognized expert in federal public policy and has dedicated over a decade to tracking legislation and aiding ATRA’s public policy efforts. Her extensive research, publications, and presentations on public policy have positioned her as a leader in this space, and we are grateful for her expertise in this role.
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ATRA membership is a powerful act of advocacy.
Member support allows ATRA to have a presence at the federal and state levels, advocating for the inclusion and recognition of recreational therapy to the policymakers who can influence the acceptance and recognition of our services.
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Get In Touch
American Therapeutic Recreation Association
4315 50th Street NW
Suite 100 # 7369