Clifton Springs, NY – The American Occupational Therapy Association (originally named the National Society for the Promotion of Occupational Therapy) was formed, incorporated and chartered in 1917 in Clifton Springs, NY.  A June 3, 2017 celebration will take place to honor the 100th Anniversary since its founding in this charming village of the Finger Lakes region.

Pioneers in the occupational therapy profession founded the organization at George Barton’s home.  Known as Consolation House, Mr. Barton’s residence was also a school, workshop, and vocational bureau for convalescents.  George Barton is credited with having coined the term occupational therapy.  He ardently used the practice to improve his own health and life.

The American Occupational Therapy Association, long based in Bethesda, MD has a membership of approximately 60,000.  It represents the interests and concerns of over 200,000 practitioners and students throughout the United States.

The Clifton Springs 100th Anniversary Celebration is schedule for June 3, 2017 to coincide with the village’s annual Sulphur Springs Festival.  A committee of representatives from Keuka College, Nazareth College and Bryant & Stratton College, plus a former Association board member, joined stakeholders in Clifton Springs to plan and participate in the centennial commemoration.  

The public is invited to attend a presentation on the history of occupational therapy and view tools of the trade.  A new plaque commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Association’s founding in Clifton Springs will be dedicated.  A refurbished 50th Anniversary plaque affixed to the Former Consolation House for 5 decades will also be acknowledged.  A “VIP Reception” will be held the afternoon of June 3, 2017 featuring live entertainment, wine, and light refreshments.  Association leaders will be Grand Marshalls of the Sulphur Springs Festival’s giant parade, which is also expected to feature an occupational therapy themed float.  The day and a half long festival is a delightful annual family event.

Downtown Clifton Springs is comprised of beautifully restored and preserved buildings from the Victorian era.  The quaint village is located 30 miles southeast of Rochester, in the Finger Lakes region of New York, known for its scenic beauty, over 100 wineries and vineyards, history, art, and food.

Please contact the Clifton Springs Chamber of Commerce regarding visiting the picturesque village and attending its 100th Anniversary Celebration of the American Occupational Therapy Association (315.462.8200).  Please contact the Finger Lakes Visitors Connection regarding visiting Clifton Springs, Canandaigua Lake, and Seneca Lake (VisitFingerLakes.com ∙ 877.386.4669).