RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

At Hillcrest students have access to a range of on and off-campus recreational activities based on age and populations served. Extensive use of facilities the campuses occur on a regular basis. Facilities that are routinely used include: the gymnasium, game room, outdoor athletic facilities, including ball fields, basketball court, NYPUM training and riding course, Certified Ropes Course and various hiking and biking trails that are easily accessible from the campus. Other recreational, historical, cultural and entertainment activities are readily accessible within the Berkshire County area providing a wide range of options for varied student interests and abilities.

NYPUM is a youth development program sponsored by the Honda Corporation, which provides minibikes to Hillcrest and other agencies across the country. Students at participating Hillcrest campuses must meet stringent academic and behavioral criteria related to self control, and must demonstrate respect for safety conditions in order to enter and remain in the program. NYPUM students are carefully taught the rudiments of motorcycle maintenance and operation, and gradually engage in more challenging group riding and skill building activities. NYPUM students also have the opportunity to participate in the NYPUM Rodeo where they can demonstrate their skills and share experiences with students from other NYPUM programs.

Activity Therapies
All Activities are Hillcrest Educational Centers are based on being therapeutic with the ultimate goal of developing skills to include emotional management, empathy, teamwork and good sportsmanship. The development of healthy skills is included in every student’s Comprehensive Treatment Plan