Spaulding’s center improves access to recreational activities for people with disabilities
The new McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports will hold a grand opening on Saturday, June 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Nickerson State Park in Brewster. The event gives persons with physical and cognitive challenges and their families the opportunity to learn about, and try out, equipment that makes the park’s recreational resources accessible. Adaptive cycling, kayaking, hiking and camping are among the featured activities.
The McGraw Center is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between Spaulding Rehabilitation Network’s Adaptive Sports Centers and the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) in Massachusetts. The Center was made possible by a generous donation from Melissa and David McGraw, the Donald C. McGraw Foundation.
The event includes a barbeque lunch, brief program at noon, park tours, and demonstrations of adaptive sports equipment. Attendees can try cycling on the Cape Cod Rail Trail and kayaking on Cliff Pond under the guidance of Spaulding therapists and adaptive sports professionals.
To preregister or for additional information, go to www.spauldingrehab.org/mcgraw or call 617-823-8448. Handicap accessible parking is available at the Nickerson State Park main gate on Rte. 6A. Shuttle busses will transport guests from additional parking at the end of Crosby Lane and at the Bayberry Square Shopping Center
About Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC)
Spaulding Rehabilitation Network opened its first adaptive sports programs in Boston and on Cape Cod in 2001 and expanded to the North Shore in 2009. Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers are open to all individuals in the community who are living with disabilities. Staff members help each participant find the most appropriate activities for his or her interests, capabilities and needs. SASC became a Paralympic Sport Club in 2013. Today centers are located at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Boston, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cape Cod, and Spaulding Outpatient Center Salem. http://spauldingrehab.org/conditions-and-treatments/adaptive-sports
