Gilbert Vasquez
Program Director, CTRS
Gilbert received a BS in Kinesiology from the University of Texas at El Paso and then attained a MS in Therapeutic Recreation from Texas State University. While living in Central Texas, he was introduced to wheelchair basketball which sparked his interest in adaptive sports and volunteering with adaptive programs. Throughout graduate school, he worked for the City of Austin in community and recreation programs that specialized working with people with disabilities. He volunteered as a Special Olympics Coach which allowed him to interact, develop and engage with wonderful athletes.
In August of 2019, Gilbert moved to Colorado to complete an internship with Adaptive Adventures under the supervision of Gwen Burkett (CTRS Intern Supervisor) and Christopher Wiegand (Cycling Manager). Following his internship, Gilbert obtained his Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist credential and moved back to Denver in early 2020.
Gilbert values continuing education and has completed various certifications and virtual trainings to continue expanding his knowledge in adaptive sports. Some of his certifications include Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer (CIFT), Certified Adaptive Recreation & Sports Specialist (CARSS), Wilderness First Responder, Adaptive Trainer Course, Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), and many others.
Gilbert is passionate about recreation and specifically adaptive sports because of the impact it has on people and the community they live in. He believes that each person has the ability to enjoy the outdoors and deserve an opportunity to explore a variety of sports. He loves to help people achieve their goals and continues to advocate the importance of recreation in the outdoors. He believes that recreation has therapeutic benefits.
Gilbert is a member of the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA), American College of Sport Medicine (ACSM), Blaze Sports and Move United.
Gilbert was born in Southern California and he spent his childhood there. During his adolescent years, he moved to El Paso, Texas and moved after he finished his undergrad to Austin. He has a big family which includes: four brothers, one sister, dad, mom and one dog. In his spare time, Gilbert loves to explore the outdoors and activities that will challenge him physically and mentally. He enjoys a day on the paddleboard at the local lake, hiking a trail, mountain biking and weightlifting. He loves to socialize, explore new areas and can’t say no to a bad idea.
If you would like to contact Gilbert Vasquez please email him at gilbert.vasquez@adaptiveadventures.org or call (720) 593-6414.
