Donovan Gaston
Water Valley,MS
Summary
Recreational Therapist with expertise in delivering programs with diverse recreational activities aligned with the needs, capabilities, and interests of individuals. Goal-oriented in creating programming targeted to improve health and wellbeing of participants. Flexible in adapting program activities to abilities and desires of individuals to encourage participation, progress, and healing. Experience stepping into a role and making a positive impact.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Recreational Therapist
North Mississippi Regional Center
Oxford , MS
01.2023 - Current
- Maintained accurate records of patient progress during recreational therapy sessions.
- Organized group activities such as sports, games, music, art, drama, and dance for individuals or groups of people with disabilities.
- Collaborated with other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible care for patients.
- Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to discuss assessment findings, treatment goals, and progress updates.
- Developed, implemented, and evaluated individualized recreational therapy treatment plans.
- Planned trips and outings that promote socialization and personal growth opportunities for clients.
- Designed creative programs that are both fun and educational for clients of all ages.
- Supervise Aquatics Department.
- Scheduled regular water testing to ensure safe chemical levels are maintained.
- Helped recruit, hire, and train department employees.
- Conducted daily inspections of pools, decks, bathrooms, locker rooms. for cleanliness and safety hazards.
- Ordered necessary supplies for the operation of the pool area.
Manager/Key Holder
Rainbow Cleaners
Oxford, MS
10.2019 - 12.2022
- Determined complete order accuracy by examining merchandise to verify price and quantity.
- Participated in training sessions on topics such as customer service techniques and loss prevention strategies.
- Data entry.
- Assisted with bank related operations.
- Completed thorough opening, closing and shift change functions to maintain operational standards each day.
Personal Trainer Intern
Anytime Fitness
Oxford, MS
08.2021 - 12.2021
- Collaborated with other trainers to develop group classes that focus on specific areas such as weight loss, muscle building or core stability training.
- Built and established relationships with members and guests to help in pursuit of fitness goals.
- Observed client workouts to ensure safety and proper execution of exercises.
- Assisted in creating individualized fitness plans for clients based on their goals, abilities and limitations.
- Invited individuals of all ages and fitness levels to participate in classes.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Exercise Science
University of Mississippi
Oxford, MS05-2021
Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapy
Northwest Community College
Senatobia, MS05-2018
High School Diploma -
Water Valley High School
Water Valley, MS05-2016
Skills
- Program Coordination
- Activity Planning
- Documentation Skills
- Schedule Management
Certification
- CPR Certified (2023-Present)
- Lifeguarding (Including Deep Water) with CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid (2024-2026)
Timeline
Recreational Therapist
North Mississippi Regional Center
01.2023 - Current
Personal Trainer Intern
Anytime Fitness
08.2021 - 12.2021
Manager/Key Holder
Rainbow Cleaners
10.2019 - 12.2022
Bachelor of Science - Exercise Science
University of Mississippi
Associate of Applied Science - Physical Therapy
Northwest Community College
High School Diploma -
Water Valley High School
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