An Oregon State University College of Public Health and Human Sciences’ program aimed at improving fitness and health for children with disabilities is in the international spotlight after a video highlighting its work earned a prestigious award.
The Council for Advancement and Support of Education has recognized the video, titled “Physical activity program IMPACTs the lives of children with special needs,” as a bronze award winner of its 2014 Circle of Excellence awards program.
Providing an overview of the IMPACT (Individualized Movement and Physical Activity for Children Today) program, the video highlights the uniqueness and effectiveness of the program for all those involved – participants, Oregon State undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, staff, and families of those with special needs.
The goal of the video is to engage and inform viewers, create interest and financial support, and recruit potential participants and student volunteers to improve the lifelong health and fitness of children with special needs.
A panel of experts selected the college’s entry, produced by Multimedia Communications Specialist Ms. Heather Turner, from among 34 entries in the “General Information Videos – Long Videos” category.
[Photo: Ms. Heather Turner]
“The best part about winning this award is that it puts this amazing and unique program in the eyes of an international audience,” Ms. Turner says. “I had such a great time filming this story – just seeing the smiles on the children and volunteers’ faces as they interacted with each other was so rewarding. IMPACT is truly an inspiring program that really makes a positive difference in the community. I hope this video will attract attention to the outstanding work our college is doing – and hopefully other universities will be motivated to follow in our footsteps.”