David Y Awarded Grant From Christopher Reeve Foundation

Dana Reeve Foundation's Quality of Life Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower individuals living with paralysis. Through this program, the Reeve Foundation has awarded over $44 million to more than 3,800 projects across the country since 1999.

Charity Stewart, Director of Personal Training at the Paul and Carol David YMCA commented "I'm excited to be able to bring an accessible and welcoming space to those in our community living with disabilities, who have not been able to find a space that meets their needs. Between this space and our trainers, we hope to create an environment of inclusivity and empowerment to every person who comes through our doors."

Joel White, Personal Trainer at the Paul & Carol David YMCA remarked "…Unfortunately, not many fitness environments are equipped for individuals with physical limitations. With much appreciation for receiving this grant, we will have an opportunity to include more people in our community with a healthy and active lifestyle they deserve and will now have the resources to live a life they would not have otherwise seen as possible…We are thankful to provide a more inclusive environment for our community to achieve goals of staying active and healthy."
The Y will be purchasing adaptive accessories at the Paul & Carol David branch to make some current equipment more accessible to people living with paralysis and disability. The Y’s goal is to remove the barriers that prevent people living with disabilities from participating in more inclusive fitness opportunities. Certified training staff will be trained to properly use the equipment.

The Y extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation for enabling the creation of a space that welcomes individuals of all abilities.