SPORTS: Golf Classic Benefits Nassau BOCES CCA

The Long Island District of the New York Physical Therapy Association (NYPTA) decided that one of the goals of its first Charity Golf Classic would be raising some funds for the after-school activities program that provides recreation for students at the Nassau BOCES Center for Community Adjustment (CCA) program. This fund-raising effort added a new dimension to the after-school program which is a community effort sponsored by the CCA PTA and run by the Nassau County Police Activity League (PAL).

Recently a symbolic check was presented to representatives of the BOCES CCA PTA and PAL. Michael J. Suydam of Long Beach Physical Therapy P.C. and John Douglas of Metro PT, who were among the principal organizers of the golf classic, presented the $9,000 check. "We were delighted to have the opportunity to help this program," said Suydam.

The students in the CCA program who will benefit from the donation are 15 to 21 years old and come from communities throughout Nassau County. They attend this BOCES program because they have serious emotional or developmental disabilities. CCA offers students a comprehensive and innovative high school and young adult program. The after-school program gives CCA students an opportunity to enjoy athletic and recreational activities that would not otherwise be available for them.

This is the second year that the PAL has provided staff from its Special Needs Unit for this program. Both the CCA PTA and the Nassau County PAL were delighted that the Long Island District of NYPTA's Charity Golf Classic held at Bethpage State Park in June could assist the after-school program. "This is an idea that is catching on," said Carol Mueller. "Other school districts in Nassau County are considering developing the same type of after-school program for their students with disabilities."

The funds were given to CCA PTA which turned them over to PAL primarily to assist in paying staff for the after-school program so that regular activities and special events such as trips to play other PAL teams could continue this year. PAL also provides program T-shirts for the students and equipment for the activities. A new Friday night program of special activities is being planned for this school year.

The Long Island District of NYPTA is a group of physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who are committed to providing quality healthcare services to the Long Island community. They developed an impressive group of sponsors and participants for their first golf outing. The group is looking forward to another great Charity Golf Classic this year.