Thanks to the generosity of donors to Skaggs Foundation, patients at Cox Medical Center Branson are experiencing new opportunities for healing in a new creative way.
If you’ve ever wondered how your support makes a difference, this is one of those moments. Gifts to Skaggs Foundation help fund recreational therapy supplies and programs that are changing lives both inside the hospital and throughout our community.
Through Recreational Therapy, patients receiving behavioral health care are rediscovering confidence, building coping skills, and reconnecting with others in meaningful ways. Led by Recreational Therapist Angie Yates, the program offers structured group activities such as art, music, and games that provide a positive and productive outlet during a patient’s stay.
“Recreational Therapy helps our patients have productive group options during their hospital stay,” Yates explains.
These activities do far more than fill time—they create a safe, supportive space where patients can practice communication, reduce anxiety, and strengthen emotional regulation. Patients also learn valuable life skills like time management and relapse prevention while gaining a renewed sense of self-worth.
The program is strengthened through collaboration with Cox team members and community partners, including Pet Therapy of the Ozarks and Alcoholics Anonymous. These partnerships enhance patient care by integrating supportive services from outside the hospital. Additionally, patient education sessions focused on nutrition and mental health equip individuals with practical resources and tools to support their well-being beyond the hospital setting.
One of the most meaningful outcomes is seeing patients reconnect with themselves and others.
“It’s not uncommon to see someone start to smile after creating something or begin to open up during a group activity,” Yates shares.
She recalls one patient who initially struggled with severe depression and kept to himself. Over time, he began attending music groups, then engaging in games and painting sessions. By the time he was discharged, he was smiling, interacting with others, and showing a renewed sense of confidence.
Stories like his highlight the impact of recreational therapy and the resources that make it possible.
These outcomes extend beyond the hospital stay, helping patients return to the community with stronger skills, greater confidence, and improved overall well-being.
“When we see people play, we get to see who they are,” Yates says. “Being part of a team that helps people reconnect with themselves gives me a strong sense of purpose.”
Support from Skaggs Foundation donors make programs like this possible. Make a gift to Skaggs Foundation today and help continue this important work.
