At the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF), we believe in the importance of recognizing and celebrating occupational therapists' incredible contributions. As we approach World Occupational Therapy Day on October 27th, we are excited to share two special initiatives designed to honor and support the OT community.

40-Days Open Access OTJR Articles

In celebration of this year’s World OT Day theme, "Occupational Therapy for All," we’re excited to share open access to a selection of insightful OTJR: Occupational Therapy Journal of Research articles curated by our editorial team. These articles are an excellent resource for staying informed and inspired by the ongoing developments in our profession.

Free Banners for World OT Day

To help raise awareness and celebrate this particular day, we offer a set of designed banners for free download. These banners, inspired by the designs shared by the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, are perfect for sharing on your social media platforms. By using these banners, you can join us in spreading the word about the vital work of occupational therapists.

📥 Download your free banners here: Facebook, LinkedIn

Join Us in Celebrating World OT Day

We invite you to join us in celebrating and supporting the vital work of occupational therapists worldwide. By downloading and sharing our banners and by reading and sharing the OTJR articles, you can help us raise awareness and appreciation for the OT community.

Let’s come together to recognize the incredible contributions of occupational therapists and celebrate World OT Day with pride and enthusiasm!

AOTF’s Scientific Advisory Council is seeking volunteers to share their insights about the research gaps, needs, and opportunities within the profession.

Eligibility:
Occupational therapy practitioners (including clinicians, educators, and researchers) with at least 1 year experience are invited participate in this study.

Participation in this study includes: 

• A brief demographic survey
• A 1-hour focus group (in-person or online)

If you are interested in contributing to this research:

Downloadable PDF

QUESTIONS? Contact Susan Magasi, AOTF Scientific Advisory Council Chair, at smagas1@uic.edu
A research team led by Dr. Susan Magasi, Department of Occupational Therapy at the University of Illinois Chicago and AOTF Scientific Advisory Council Chair, is conducting this study. UIC Study ID: STUDY2024-0300

The American Occupational Therapy Foundation proudly announces the 2024-2025  STRIDE Mentored Research Scholarship (SMRS) recipients.

This scholarship, offered by the Research Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (STRIDE) committee, provides research funds to occupational therapy (OT) graduates and clinicians from under-represented backgrounds, with disabilities, and/or from under-resourced backgrounds.

The goal is to broaden their representation in OT research by supporting their participation in a mentored research experience at an institution other than their own.

During this time, a mentor will guide each recipient through a comprehensive research experience. Before the research begins, the mentor will collaborate with the recipient to create an individualized development plan, ensuring a tailored and impactful learning journey.

Meet the recipients of the STRIDE scholarship for the 2024-2025 period, a group of occupational therapy (OT) graduates and clinicians, and their mentors, who play a crucial role in guiding them through this transformative journey.

Congratulations to these outstanding individuals whose diverse perspectives and innovative research promise to significantly contribute to the OT community and beyond.

Are you a full-time student enrolled in an accredited occupational therapy (OT) program? Are you looking for financial support to fuel your academic journey? Look no further—the AOTF Scholarship Program is your opportunity to advance your education and career. With over 50 scholarships available this year, ranging from $150 to $5,000, the American Occupational Therapy Foundation (AOTF) is dedicated to helping students like you succeed.

Why Apply? 
The impact of AOTF scholarships speaks for itself. In just the past few years, over 700 students have received financial awards, easing their path toward becoming future leaders in occupational therapy. These scholarships are available in collaboration with partners NBCOT, OT.com, and over 25 state OT associations, making this a national effort to support our profession's growth. Whether pursuing a degree as an occupational therapist or occupational therapy assistant, this program is for you. 

• Eligibility: Full-time students enrolled in accredited or developing OT programs.

• Awards range from $150 to $5,000.

• Submit one application for all eligible scholarships you qualify for.

• Even if you’re starting your OT journey as a first-year student; you can apply!

Applications are now open, so act quickly!
Applying is simple—with just one application, you’ll automatically be considered for all eligible scholarships. Submit your applications with references by Monday, September 30, 2024. 

"Thank you so much for selecting me as a recipient of the Ohio OT Association Endowed Scholarship. It is an absolute honor, and I am beyond blessed to have the committee’s support in my journey to becoming an OT. With this scholarship, I will continue seeking out opportunities for personal & professional growth to ensure I can positively impact my clients and the field of occupational therapy." — Sydney F., 2023/2024 Recipient

What’s New? For the 2024-2025 academic year, AOTF aims to give away every scholarship dollar. That means more chances for you to secure funding for your education. With over 50 available scholarships managed, we want to ensure no eligible student is left behind. Remember, the deadline is approaching fast—don’t wait! Apply now.

For questions or support, contact us at scholarships@aotf.org or call 240-292-1077.