Community integration activities emphasize peer engagement and foster social connections for people who have experienced a traumatic brain injury. These opportunities play an important part in supporting long-term recovery and improving quality of life. Examples include group programs, social gatherings, volunteer work, recreational classes, adaptive sports, wellness groups, art and music sessions and supported employment and education opportunities. These activities may take place in-person and are designed to help individuals reconnect with their communities, improve life skills, and build social relationships outside of medical settings.
Current Community Integration Activities
DSHS/TBI Council sponsors some community integration activities, while others are offered by community organizations. Activities listed below that are not sponsored by DSHS/TBI Council have no affiliation and are not endorsed by DSHS/TBI Council. Access at own discretion.
| Counties | Description | Schedule of Activities |
|---|---|---|
|
King, Pierce, Whatcom |
Accessible and adaptive events, outdoor recreation resources, and support groups |
Sunday 3/29 Seattle Arboretum Walk and Picnic, Seattle Arboretum, Seattle
|
| Saturday 4/25 Bicycle Day, Lake Sammamish, Issaquah | ||
| Saturday 5/16 1 PM - 4 PM Adaptive Bicycle Day with HeadStrong & Outdoors for All in Tacoma Tickets | ||
| Saturday 5/16 Bicycle Day, Wapato Park, Tacoma | ||
| Saturday 5/23 10 AM - 12 PM Discover the Healing Power of Music Therapy Tickets | ||
| Saturday 6/6 • 10 AM - 12 PM Light & Easy: Summer Kitchen Cooking Class Tickets | ||
| Sunday, 6/28 • 1 PM - 4 PM Adaptive Kayak Day with HeadStrong & Outdoors for All Tickets | ||
| Sunday 7/26 Bicycle Day, Location TBD, Bellingham | ||
| Sunday 8/30 Bicycle Day, Seattle Arboretum, Seattle | ||
| Sunday 9/27 Bicycle Day, Location TBD, Bellingham | ||
| King |
Seattle - Imaginal Network Contact: Janet at janet@imaginal.network or (206) 547-2526 |
|
| Creative Expressions: Art Therapy for Brain Injury | ||
| Imaginal Coffee Social for Caregivers |
If you would like your community-sponsored activity added to this list, please contact TBICouncil@dshs.wa.gov
Benefits of Community Integration Activities after TBI
Community integration activities promote independence, empowerment and inclusion. Through regular participation in community events, you can:
- Build social connections and reduce isolation
- Improve emotional well-being and confidence
- Learn new skills for daily living and self-management
- Foster a sense of purpose and belonging
- Enhance your overall quality of life
Successful community integration support well-being and mental health, higher life satisfaction, and broader participation in home, work and social environments. It bridges the gap between clinical rehabilitation and meaningful everyday life.
Additional TBI Resources
- TBI Support Group Guide (PDF) - Step-by-step guide to start or join a TBI Support Group. This guide walks you through the process of creating a support group, choosing the best facilitator, managing support group sessions, and connecting with available resources to best educate and build a support group.
- TBI Learning and Support Resources Flyer (PDF) - Training and development resources for individuals and providers.
- Washington Community Living Connections - Access home and community-based supports for people of all ages and abilities.
- GetSetUP Washington - Free interactive online classes to stay engaged, active and connected.
Stay Connected and Informed
Subscribe to Heading Forward, the TBI Council e-newsletter, to receive ongoing information about TBI support groups and events. Once you enter your email and click submit, scroll down until you see News and Resources and select Traumatic Brain Injury Council.