Your Free Resource for Activities in Non-Recreation Center Settings

Welcome to Beyond the Gym! Here, recreation professionals will find real-world activities for several types of settings besides traditional recreation centers, which generally have a standard template of recreation programs. This website is especially geared toward helping new recreation professionals, students, and those transferring settings.

You can browse and learn about activities for the following settings:

  • Community centers

  • Mental health organizations

  • Resorts

  • Senior communities

  • Youth centers

You will also have access to blog articles with ideas and implementation strategies to help improve your alternative recreation programs.

This free nonprofit website has been curated by Dan Meyerson, a recreation professional with a Master of Science Degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies from the University of North Texas, who has had work or volunteer experience in all of these areas, and wishes to give back to other people in the field.

Excerpts From Letters of Recommendation

“A dedicated Program Director. He has built a real trust and confidence factor with the residents. He has developed an extensive calendar of events that targets all the population of the community . . . teen discussion group, exercise classes for seniors, financial literacy for adults, landscape and art classes, social activities, family night for all residents, and many more classes.” - Nonprofit Community Center

“Responsible for a high level of customer service. He helped in overseeing and running the operations of our pool area, kids camp, family activities, the beach shuttle, and beach stand.” - Resort Recreation Department

“He possesses a genuine interest in serving the needs of others especially related to recreation. He made a difference in the lives of our program participants.” - Nonprofit Youth Leadership Program

“Responsibility was organizing, planning, and implementing programs and activities for youth. He was responsible for all core programs and special events.” - Youth Recreation Center‍

Appreciation and Acknowlegements

Sources of Activity Ideas

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

Forest Heights Neighborhood Community Center

Nellis Air Force Base Youth Center

Vitality Living at Preston Hollow

JFS PLAN at Katz Corner