ODU READY

Post-secondary Program for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities

ODU READY is a post-secondary program intended to provide individuals with intellectual disabilities the necessary tools and resources for successful transition into the community. ODU Ready is a two-year program that offers education and training in vocational, communication, independent living, and leisure skills. The program also seeks to provide practical work experience in integrated community settings, as well as promote inclusion within the community through campus related activities.

ODU READY not only serves as a training ground for individuals with disabilities, but also provides training and experience for Therapeutic Recreation (TR) Students by facilitating opportunities to interact and work with READY Students on a daily basis.  TR students apply Therapeutic Recreation theories, concepts, and principles from lectures directly to their interactions with READY Students. Such interactions offer them valuable experience in their pursuit to become a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS).

ODU READY is a part of the Darden College of Education and the Human Movement Sciences Department.

Vision

As an ODU READY Student you will:

               Realize your potential
               Empower yourself through self-advocacy
               Achieve your dreams and independence
               Decide for yourself how to live
Be ReadY

Philosophy

We at ODU READY believe that all individuals, regardless of intellectual ability, should have access to the necessary tools and resources for successful transition into the community as contributing members of society.  ODU READY's post-secondary program seeks to enable its participants to reach their full potential within the community in a nurturing environment that promotes growth and learning.

Mission

ODU READY provides skill and knowledge sets to students with intellectual disabilities through academic and practical experiences that aid transition into the community as thriving and contributing members of society.

Goals

• To offer career and technical education and training in communication skills, independent living skills, and leisure skills.
• To provide practical work experiences in integrated community settings.
• To promote inclusion within the community through campus related activities.