LIU Brooklyn Belize OT Service Trip

In a few months, the Long Island University Occupational Therapy program is sending 14 students for a service trip to Belize. Danielle Barry-Alicea, Brianne Garcia, Chloe Clemente, Francesca LoCascio, Gabriella Gavinelli, Merideth Butler, Tiffany DeNaro, Jen Laub, Olivia Cuniglio, Shakirah Windbish, Alyssa Varone, Mia Rienzo, Christine Power and Jason Darko will be volunteering to spend their spring break putting their skills into action in a place heavily in need of medical care. 

As the sixth annual LIU service trip, we will be partnering with the Belize Inspiration Center assisting children with disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Delay, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Traumatic Brain Injury, Hydrocephalus, Orthopedic problems, and other diagnoses. We will be performing evaluations, providing treatments, and making recommendations to families to help maximize their child’s participation in daily life. Due to the country’s growing concern of poverty, Belize has one physical therapist and no occupational therapists. For most children, this may be the only time they have the chance to see an occupational therapist. They travel from all over the country to get this opportunity for treatment. 

Occupational therapists use assessment and intervention to enable people to participate in activities of daily living that have personal meaning and value. We work to develop, improve, sustain, or restore functional independence to any person who has an injury, illness, disability, or psychological dysfunction. Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, injury rehabilitation, and providing supports for people experiencing physical and cognitive changes.

We are all honored to have been selected for such an incredible opportunity to give back to children in need. However, each student is responsible to individually cover the cost of this trip. With the assistance from your generous donations, we can travel to Belize and provide care to these children and families in need. Donations will help pay for air travel, bus transportation to the Inspiration Center, and hotel costs. Any amount is greatly appreciated! Thank you so much for your support!