Erika Panitz

I am pursuing a career shift towards occupational therapy, driven by a commitment to supporting the everyday needs of people with disabilities. My passion for adaptive design and assistive technology, combined with extensive volunteering and shadowing experiences, fuels my goal of making spaces more inclusive and educating society about the disabled community. With a creative background in fashion design, I strive to merge design principles with functional solutions, developing innovative and inclusive fashion that advances adaptive design, empowers individuals, and fosters a more informed and inclusive society.

iHope Games

• Volunteered at The International Academy of Hope (iHOPE), a specialized school for students ages 5-21 with traumatic brain injuries and multiple disabilities, during their Olympic-themed games.
• Collaborated with occupational and physical therapists to assist with scorekeeping, timekeeping, and actively engaging with students, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment.

Runway of Dreams

• Volunteered at the Runway of Dreams Fashion Show, featuring over 70 models with various disabilities, showcasing adaptive clothing from leading fashion brands.
• Assisted models backstage with preparation and entertainment, and ensured smooth guest experiences by greeting and seating attendees, contributing to the success of this high-profile event.

Friendship Circle

• Served as president of the Friendship Circle of Suffern, a non-profit organization focused on fostering social integration between disabled and non-disabled children and teens.
• Led and organized social events that promoted community awareness of disability issues, driving the organization’s mission to create inclusive spaces and build understanding.

• Aquatic Therapy Certified
• CPR Certified