Biography

Kuenzi Dearth-Horwich is the Inclusion Supervisor and Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) for the Rockford (IL) Park district where she oversees inclusion services for people with disabilities in all types of programs from summer camp and swim lessons to teen outings. She works with staff to develop inclusive programs and implement individualized supports to ensure all participants enjoy and benefit from recreation programs. She also works with staff on disability and accommodation policies to guide the district’s ADA compliance program. Kuenzi provides staff training seasonally to create greater awareness of disability accommodations. Her community engagement activities include the development of marketing materials to guide parents of children with disabilities through the inclusion process. Kuenzi’s first experience with the Rockford Park District dates back to her appointment as an intern in 2010. Kuenzi, a Wisconsin native, felt so passionate about RPD’s culture, programs, and inclusion that she became a flat lander resident to continue her career with them. Kuenzi holds a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.