Empowering Lives. Advancing Research. Enhancing Mobility.
Housed within the Waters College of Health Professions, the Center for Rehabilitation and Independent Living (CRIL) is dedicated to improving health, mobility and independence in the Coastal region through cutting-edge research, community outreach and interdisciplinary collaboration. By combining expertise in human movement sciences and clinical rehabilitation, we create solutions that enhance the quality of life for individuals across all stages of life.
At CRIL, we bridge research and real-world impact, focusing on:
- Community-Based Rehabilitation & Outreach – Helping individuals with disabilities and chronic conditions lead healthier, more independent lives.
- Interdisciplinary Research – Bringing together experts in human movement, performance and allied health across all three Georgia Southern campuses.
- Educational Opportunities – Expanding hands-on learning for undergraduate and graduate students in rehabilitation sciences, kinesiology and health professions.
Programs & Events
Super Eagles: Inclusive Fitness Training
Super Eagles is a hands-on training program where future fitness professionals learn to design adaptive fitness programs. Young individuals with disabilities (ages 5-21) are paired with Georgia Southern students for personalized training, fostering an inclusive and accessible fitness community.
Tai Chi for Fall Prevention
This low-impact program is designed to improve balance, reduce fall risk and enhance overall well-being. Based on the simplified 24-style Tai Chi, it is accessible for all ages and fitness levels. It is especially beneficial for older adults or individuals with limited exercise options.
Supervised Exercise for Adults
The Kinesiology Research Labs at Georgia Southern University are seeking individuals 50+ years old who need supervised exercise support due to pre-existing conditions, mobility concerns or stroke history. Sessions are available 1-2 times per week by appointment.
Camp RAD
Camp RAD is a transformative 4-week summer camp for youth with disabilities (ages 10-22). Designed to help campers transition into adulthood, the program builds life skills, independence and confidence through engaging activities focused on fitness, recreation and personal growth.
Learn More About Camp RAD
Research Focus Areas
CRIL is at the forefront of rehabilitation and human performance research, addressing:
- Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Assessment – Understanding the impact of concussions on daily function.
- Gait & Movement Analysis – Studying walking patterns to enhance mobility in clinical and athletic settings.
- Adapted Physical Activity & Disability Sport – Creating inclusive exercise programs for individuals with disabilities.
- Therapeutic Interventions for Aging & Movement Disorders – Improving mobility and independence in aging populations.
- Human Performance Assessment – Evaluating daily living, occupational, exercise and sports activities.
There are many ways for students, researchers and community members to get involved.
Volunteer Hours
Volunteering is great for anyone majoring in human development & family science, recreation therapy, exercise science, special education and public health, but volunteering is not limited to these majors! We welcome people of all backgrounds to join us.
Internships
We offer internships for those with backgrounds in public health, exercise science, psychology, human development & family science, nutrition, dietetics and more!
Course Credit
Georgia Southern University offers elective classes during the spring and summer (A-term) semesters. These courses are beneficial to students in the human development & family science, recreation therapy and exercise science program majors.
Courses
- KINS 3531: Adapted Physical Activity (Super Eagles, 6 Credit Hours)
- This course involves planning and leading adaptive exercise programs for individuals with disabilities through the Super Eagles afterschool program. It also prepares students for the ACSM Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer (CIFT) examby providing hands-on experience in inclusive fitness training.
- KINS 4533: Health and PA for Exceptional Youth (Camp RAD, 3 Credit Hours)
- This course includes working to plan and implement activities at Camp RAD, a local camp for youth with disabilities. This course counts toward shadowing hours for occupational therapy.
*Talk with your advisor about course credit and internship opportunities to ensure that these options fit your degree plan.
Student Staff
We have positions available to work with both Super Eagles and Camp RAD. For information on opportunities, contact cril@georgiasouthern.edu.
Super Eagles
- This position is for students interested in training participants in our Super Eagles program and assisting with program development.
Camp RAD
- This position is for those who have volunteered with Camp RAD in the past. Responsibilities include planning and leading activities, daily camp preparation and more!
Shadowing Hours
- Occupational therapy shadowing hours may be available to those interested.
Make an Impact Today
Your generosity directly supports adaptive fitness programs, rehabilitation research and community outreach. Every donation helps provide resources, equipment and opportunities for those in need.
Locations:
- Statesboro Campus: 1332 Southern Drive, Statesboro, GA 30458
- Armstrong Campus: 11935 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31419
- Liberty Campus: 175 West Memorial Drive, Hinesville, GA 31313
Contact Us
We’d love to hear from you! Please call. email or complete the contact form below.
Phone: 912-478-0558
Email: cril@georgiasouthern.edu
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