WHEEL WORLD NEWS
January 2018
15
Her focus has always been to identify ways to assist the client in becoming as independent as possible. While working she would introduce clients to the possibility of returning to work and community activities through therapeutic community reintegration outings as well as providing community resources, including information on adapted driving.
Jill served on the board of the Arizona State Therapeutic Recreation Association (ASTRA) for several years and was President from 2000-2001. Along with a fellow co-worker she started the first Animal Assisted Therapy Program in Arizona, in 2002. She achieved recognition as a Spinal Cord Injury specialist from Banner Good Samaritan Rehabilitation Institute in 2006. Was the guest speaker at the 2009 student graduation at Carrington College for new graduates in the health care field. She has also presented at various conferences throughout the years on topics such as Aquatic Therapy, Recreation Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy and Sexuality following a Disability. Jill was awarded the “Outstanding Professional” award in 2009 by the Arizona State Therapeutic Recreation Association. Jill also started the Women’s with Spinal Cord Injury support group in 2007 and lead the group until 2014.
Jill joined Driving To Independence in May 2010 focusing on independent and safe driving for individuals with spinal cord and brain injury, visual deficits as well as senior evaluations. Driving assessments and training to become independent in the community augments Jill’s passion for her clients and maximizing their potential. The energy Jill brings to her job, her willingness to learn new skills and her work as a team with her clients makes Jill an invaluable driving evaluator for Arizona.
Jill successfully completed the testing requirement to become a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS) in August 2011.
Jill volunteers at Day on the Lake, Driving to Excel and various "We’re Moving Forward" events every year.
Jill lives in Mesa with her family, she enjoys swimming, photography, reading, boating, fishing and time with her family and friends.
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