A tradition of community engagement in the Hampton Roads region is part of what makes Park, Recreation and Tourism Studies at Old Dominion University so unique. Experiential learning opportunities facilitated through the PRTS Lab allow students to apply theories, principles, methodologies and content presented in undergraduate and graduate classes in community and industry settings with actual clients and stakeholders. Using the lab, students train, prepare and deliver evidenced-based programming, facilitate therapeutic interventions and assist with the execution and evaluation of events with and for local and regional partners. Faculty also engage with community members and groups to share knowledge, build capacity to create sustainable change and increase opportunities for healthy recreation participation.
Community Engagement Opportunities
Examples of community engagement opportunities currently or previously facilitated through the PRTS Lab include, but are not limited to:
Beth Sholom Village
- Senior Wellness Program
Blocker YMCA
- After-school Program
Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters (CHKD)
- Family Diabetes Camp
- Teen Diabetes Program
- Candy exchange
City of Norfolk
- Keep Norfolk Beautiful Adopt a Spot Program
Lions Club 24D
- Family Diabetes Camp
Mighty Monarchs
Nansemond Indian Tribe
- Tourism Planning for Mattanock Town
Norfolk Botanical Gardens
Norfolk Parks, Recreation and Open Space
- Therapeutic Recreation Center Special Events
- Norfolk Society for the Conservation of Cemeteries
Norfolk Public Schools (Larchmont Elementary School)
- Field Day
- 5k and 1-mile RAT Race
- After-school Program
ODU Recreation and Wellness Department
- ODU Triathlon
Saint Patrick Catholic School
- Preschool Field Day
- Leadership University (Summer Day Camp)
Special Olympics Virginia
- ODU Little Feet Meet
- Polar Plunge
Virginia Arts Festival
- International Tattoo
Virginia Zoo
