Make Me A Thriver

Helping Others Thrive Makes Tia Dupont a Thriver Herself

By LISA COWNIE

“I have always wanted to work in a profession where I was able to help others,” says Tia Dupont, a recreation specialist for Mankato Area Public Schools Community Education. “Going through my undergraduate and graduate programs, I was not aware that this job was something I could do with my education. I am so grateful that I have this opportunity to work and serve this community in this way.”

One way Tia helps others thrive is through the Mankato Area Adaptive Ski Program, a program designed to help individuals with disabilities experience the sport.

“I coordinate the Mankato Area Adaptive Ski program in partnership with Mount Kato and a staff of amazing community volunteers,” says Tia. “Without the dedication of these volunteers, the program would not be where it is today. This program serves individuals with physical and/ or cognitive disabilities. With a combination of our volunteers’ knowledge and various pieces of adaptive equipment, this program is able to empower participants to learn and excel at downhill skiing. We have specifically designed downhill skiing equipment for those with limited or no use of their legs, as well as equipment to assist those who are blind or have limited vision. Our ski volunteers are exceptional, most of which have been with our program since the beginning. They even support lessons for area school children from surrounding communities that have disabilities and are attending a ski field trip with their school.”

Tia competes in weightlifting as a way to Thrive.

That is just one program that Tia and her colleagues at Community Ed implement to make sure all community members have access to activities.

“As a recreation specialist, I am part of a team of full and part-time staff that facilitate leisure and enrichment activities for all ages and abilities on a year-round basis. Our youth & adult leisure and enrichment programs include but are not limited to: Aquatics, learn to skate, youth sports, adult fitness classes, archery, adult volleyball leagues, golf, and other programs for adults with disabilities. Everyone at Community Ed takes pride in meeting people where they are and helping them to live active and safe lives. I believe the programs that MAPS Community Education provides add a fulfilling piece to community members’ lives. MAPS Community Education provides opportunities to learn a new skill, find a new community of people, and continue to do the activities someone already enjoys.”

All smiles at the bottom of the hill for participants in the Mankato Area Adaptive Ski Program.

Coming to the community in 2015, Tia has found her work, along with her involvement in recreational activities, help her thrive here.

“Throughout the year I participate in a variety of recreational activities including volleyball and softball and compete in different functional fitness competitions with other members of my Fitness Untamed gym community. Currently, my main form of physical activity is weightlifting to help improve my overall functional fitness,” says Tia. “I gain a lot of fulfillment from being active. It is a great way for me to challenge myself physically and mentally. I have also gained numerous friends through my gym and recreational activity communities. I want to live a long and fulfilling life and being physically active is a key aspect of achieving this.” ■

To see what MAPS Community Education has to offer, visit mankatocer.com