Addressing rural community needs while preparing occupational therapy students for fieldwork

Community-based outreach programs provide valuable opportunities to increase participation and inclusion for children and families while creating meaningful experiential learning opportunities for occupational therapy students. In many rural communities, families have limited access to recreational programs that accommodate varying sensory preferences, developmental abilities, and participation needs. Occupational therapy practitioners are well positioned to support the development of inclusive environments that promote engagement, belonging, and participation in community settings.