Welcome to Desert Ability Center
Our efforts to develop programs and services for those living with physical disabilities is entering its 11th year. We couldn’t be more proud of the changes that have taken place as a result of our historical efforts.
Desert Ability Center is a continuation of efforts launched in 2010 to create greater opportunities that maximizes the quality of life for people with disabilities by providing greater access to resources within the community that increase independence, promote mobility and improved health and support human rights through adaptive sports and recreational rehabilitation.
IT’S NOT ABOUT CYCLING
As a 34-year veteran of serving people with disabilities and opening doors of opportunity for transitional aged youth in the areas of education and employment, I can honestly say that I have never witnessed the immediate change in behavior, attitudes and outlook that adaptive sports induces.
One can surmise this happens because sports and recreation are fun – and indeed they are without a doubt. But it’s not about the cycling or tennis or the basketball. For people with disabilities it is about regaining mobility they thought they had lost. It is about gaining a sense of freedom and connecting to their community and reducing their isolation. And it is about encouraging their belief in their abilities – not just on the court but also in their lives.
DAC programming has been as diverse as it has been innovative to create greater awareness of the need to serve an underserved population.
We have witnessed the growth of adaptive riders in an annual community cycle ride grow from 4 to over 400. We have made it possible for children, adults and veterans to have access to adaptive equipment that meets their unique needs and allows them to play alongside their friends, family and peers. And, we have seen the development of adaptive programming in organizations that had not previously offered such opportunities.
Engaging our children, youth and adults in adaptive sports and recreation is not the challenge. Taking the “dis” out of disability and reducing the stigma with which people with disabilities live all their lives is the hard part. But persistence and advocacy is opening doors, creating opportunity and leveling the playing field.
As we move forward into 2021 we have our eye on creating a center that is 100% accessible and addresses the ongoing recovery of those living with physical disabilities. Join us on our journey.
To contact Judy May, click here.