At the Greater Arvada Chamber, we know when we build bridges, businesses grow stronger, communities become more resilient, and the local economy works better for everyone. This month, the Inclusion & Belonging KAPS Council is proud to spotlight Julie Hines, Director of Recreation Services at Apex Park and Recreation District, whose leadership has helped expand access to recreation for residents of all ages and abilities for more than 25 years.
Apex Park and Recreation District’s mission is to enhance the health of the community socially, emotionally, and physically by serving as a gathering place and trusted resource for activities and programs that connect people and improve quality of life. That commitment comes to life through Julie’s work, especially through the district’s long-standing Therapeutic Recreation programming.
Building Recreation Opportunities for Everyone
Julie began her career in Recreation Management with a focus on Therapeutic Recreation and was hired to help start Apex’s Therapeutic Recreation (TR) program from the ground up. Today, that program continues to provide specialized and inclusive recreation opportunities designed to support individuals with physical, developmental, and emotional disabilities while building leisure, social, and life skills that enhance overall well-being.
Reflecting on her career, Julie shared that one of the most rewarding aspects has been watching participants grow, succeed, and have fun, especially during beloved community traditions like the TR Holiday Musical, which draws strong support from across the community each year.
For Julie, community is simple and powerful: making sure everyone is included and has a place to belong. That philosophy shows up across Apex programming. The district’s Therapeutic Recreation services include inclusive programming that allows people with and without disabilities to participate together, as well as specialized offerings such as adapted sports, aquatics, arts, outings, and social activities designed to meet unique needs.
These programs help participants build independence, strengthen physical and cognitive skills, and create meaningful opportunities for connection and creative expression, key ingredients of a thriving community.
Creating Access and Opportunity
When asked what building community looks like in her work, Julie pointed to one of her proudest accomplishments: helping launch the Therapeutic Recreation program more than two decades ago. She also highlighted the development of the all-inclusive playground at Secrest as another milestone that expands access for families across the district.
“Knowing at the end of the day that everyone has a place to belong—and that I’m helping with that—keeps me going,” she shared.
If she had a magic wand, Julie says she would expand transportation support for volunteers and participants to help more people access the programs Apex offers. Access remains one of the biggest barriers to participation in recreation and community-building opportunities. Expanding transportation solutions would open the door for even more residents to benefit from the inclusive spaces Apex works so intentionally to create.
Do you know a great Community Builder in the Arvada area?
Nominate a Community Builder for a spotlight using this form.
0 Comments