When Springbrook’s Go Zone program in partnership with SUNY Oneonta first launched in October 2025, it was designed to create something different: a Day Hab Without Walls (DHWOW) experience that connected participants to the broader community and immersed them into campus life through movement, exploration, volunteering, and meaningful relationships.
For senior Exercise Science major and student-athlete, Tara Nicholson initially was not sure she could fit the opportunity into her already packed schedule of classes and soccer commitments. After hearing about the mentor position through one of her professors, she hesitated before applying. But the flexibility of the program, combined with her previous experience working with people with disabilities at a summer camp, ultimately convinced her to give it a chance.
Almost a year later, Tara has become much more than a mentor. She is now recognized as the first intern in the Go Zone program, helping pave the way for what will become a permanent internship placement opportunity for future Exercise Science students and potentially students in other academic majors at SUNY Oneonta.
For Tara, the experience quickly became more than fulfilling internship requirements or logging hours.
“It’s a valuable experience to work with a diverse group of people who are eager to have fun,” she shared. “It’s an opportunity to see the SUNY Oneonta campus through someone else’s eyes. It adds perspective and value.”
That perspective transformed both her educational journey and the Go Zone experience itself.
The Go Zone program empowers participants to help shape their daily experiences, encouraging independence, creativity, and community involvement. Tara embraced that philosophy wholeheartedly. As both a mentor and intern, she helped expand opportunities focused on movement and wellness, a personal goal she set when she first joined the program.
Go Zone participants celebrate a victorious basketball game
From yoga instruction and walking at the campus track to basketball, dance, and kickball activities, Tara brought energy and adaptability into every experience. In collaboration with SUNY Oneonta faculty and mentors from varying majors, she helped create inclusive activities that encouraged participation at every level.
One of the most impactful lessons came through learning how to adapt exercises for participants with varying accessibility needs.
“The exercise activities provided me experience with modifying exercises,” Tara explained. “For example, Brandy, one of the participants, uses a mobile chair for accessibility, and learning how to best accommodate her needs so she could participate in all activities was incredibly important.”
Those moments helped reinforce a perspective that continues to shape Tara’s future goals.
“If given the opportunity and choice, people can show you how capable they are,” she said. “Witnessing the growth in everyone enhances everyone’s experience, especially the mentors.”
During her internship, Tara helped strengthen connections across the SUNY Oneonta campus, opening doors to new experiences for participants. Go Zone participants volunteered at campus blood drives, thrift stores, athletic events, and food drives while also participating in activities like scavenger hunts at the library, downtown Oneonta exploration, arts and crafts, and even math classes led by visiting professors.
According to Go Zone Program Coordinator Bridgette Colburn, Tara’s leadership played a major role in building those opportunities.
“Tara contributed to a lot of connections made across the SUNY Oneonta campus which helped build experiences and activities available to participants,” Bridgette shared. “She also took the lead to get public transportation on the bus established and even trained mentors to navigate with participants. Tara was always willing to help with anything.”
The impact of Tara’s work at the Go Zone is reflected in the memories and appreciation shared by the program participants. Tyler and Jeff both expressed how much they enjoyed having Tara at the program, while Donald described her as a “cool person.” Simon reflected on one of his favorite memories with Tara, sharing, “My favorite memory was going to the Wellness Expo with Tara. She will be missed forever!” Emily also recalled enjoying activities with Tara, especially playing basketball together. Through the relationships she built and the experiences she shared, Tara’s internship left a lasting impression on participants across the program.
For Tara, one memory stands out above the rest. Returning from winter break, she walked back into the Go Zone space to find participants and mentors laughing, talking, and reconnecting. The room was buzzing with excitement.
“It was such a memorable moment knowing the impact of this program for both mentors and participants,” she shared.
Now, as Tara prepares for graduation and the next chapter of her career, her influence on the program remains deeply rooted. She leaves behind not only expanded opportunities and stronger campus connections, but also a lasting example for future student mentors and interns to follow.
Sherry Waffle, Director of Day Services, shared, “Tara was a leading example and mentor not only to the Go Zone participants, but also to her fellow students. She quickly became our go-to person because of her enthusiasm, positive attitude, and willingness to step in wherever needed to help improve the quality of our services.”
As the Go Zone program continues to grow, Tara hopes it continues creating even more opportunities for volunteering, community engagement, and new experiences for both mentors and participants alike.
With the growth of the Go Zone, the program continues to create meaningful opportunities that empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build connections, explore their community, and embrace their interests while inspiring the next generation of compassionate professionals.