HISTORY OF RAP
The Resident Activity Personnel in Ohio organization was established in 1975 in response to a request for such an organization by activity workers throughout the state. With the guidance of the Ohio Department of Health, the Ohio Health Care Association, and the Association of the Ohio Philanthropic Homes for the Aging, an organizational meeting was called in the spring of 1975. It was agreed in the initial meeting of some 225 activities workers in activities in long-term care facilities. It was felt that the association, while maintaining relationships with other state health and recreation-related organizations, would not directly be tied, legally, financially or structurally to any “parent” organization.
It was difficult to select a name for the organization which would probably convey the unique collection of long-term care employees who were concerned with the recreational, social and psychological aspects of aging residents. The original “Resident Activity People” gave way to the present “Resident Activity Personnel in Ohio” in August, 1976.
By-laws were formally adopted to guide the functioning of the association and in 1977 RAP was incorporated. The purpose of the organization is as follows:
PURPOSE OF RAP
- To foster the exchange of ideas and resources among Activity Professionals
- Â Promote professional growth
- Provide education and address up to date issues in the Activity field
ORGANIZATION
RAP is organized as a non-profit corporation in the state of Ohio. Members of the Board are selected from Activity Professionals in the state of Ohio. They are selected by the current Board members.
Education
RAP provides an excellent selection of education days yearly for activity professionals that serve primarily the aging population.
