Emergency Shelter > Recreation Program There is a wide variety of recreational activities available at the UMHC Emergency Shelter. Activities are used to enhance each resident's social skills and help them feel like part of a family. Non-competitive games, cultural activities and events, hiking, and other activities are used to enhance the residents' well being, self-esteem, and the positive use of free time. The staff members at the UMHC Emergency Shelter plan a variety of special activities for the residents in addition to traditional recreational activities such as basketball, football, and volleyball. These activities range from bowling to roller skating to going to the movies. During the summer months, day trips are planned for most weekdays and the majority of these trips include picnics. In conjunction with the UMHC Residential Care program, the shelter now offers an Equestrian Therapy Program. Shelter residents receive valuable therapy while participating in this carefully developed equestrian program. As the children learn to groom, walk, and ride the horses, powerful learning experiences regarding self-confidence, boundaries, limits, and peer relationships take place. In addition to the recreational activities, several volunteers coordinate special programs for the residents. One volunteer conducts a weekly Spiritual Issues class for the residents. Although the residents are not required to attend this activity, most of the children participate. Another volunteer teaches Arts and Crafts to the residents. This class is very popular with our residents. The children look forward to the craft projects and talking to the volunteer. Each week, a group of students from Hershey Medical Center discuss health and safety issues with the residents. Residents are relaxed during this informal education session and valuable information is imparted to the children at this time. Several other community groups donate their time and talents to arrange special parties, activities, and programs for the shelter residents throughout the year.  Emergency Shelter Information Links:  Introduction  The Program  Education  Recreation (You Are Here)  Life Skills  Referral Information