Our son, Adam, has been involved in the Wheelchair Soccer Program through HOPE, Inc., and he absolutely loves it! This is the first time he has been involved in a "team" sport with other kids and has not sat on the sidelines while watching his big brother play his sports. This is something just for Adam and is such a wonderful opportunity that our family is very grateful for. Bill and Adair have done a WONDERFUL job and make it such a fun event for our entire family to go and participate in. Thank you so much for making our son feel like a team player and being such an important part of his team.
~Mendi, mother of Adam, wheelchair sports & recreation program participant
I was so excited when I first heard about being able to play soccer with HOPE, Inc. For me, being a part of this awesome activity has become a part of the week that I really look forward to. A great thing about the program that EVERYONE is invited to play. It demonstrates the importance of inclusion of all people, and the basic skills we learn not only helps us play well, but hopefully give us as “youth with disabilities” the courage to become involved in other things as well.
~Jessy Breidenbach, wheelchair sports participant
The HOPE, Inc. mobility clinic and equipment lending center have proven to be very useful resources for myself as a school physical therapist and for the children I work with.
~Mary Lee Leikas, Physical Therapist
I have witnessed first hand the tremendous impact that the wheelchair sports program is making on the lives of physically-challenged children. The kids learn about sportsmanship, team building and perseverance. Friendships are formed, communication skills are developed and health is improved.
~Judy Siegle, two-time Paralympian
Ethan has enjoyed participating in the wheelchair sports program. He like that the other kids (and adults) are in wheelchairs—because for that hour, he isn’t the only one. Wheelchair sports have given Ethan the chance to learn about playing on a team, like any other kid, with an added bonus, no one is staring at him because he blends in. EVERYONE’S got wheels!
~Sara, mom of Ethan
The HOPE, Inc. mobility clinics have been an invaluable resource for my daughter. She has Cerebral Palsy and is unable to walk independently. Through HOPE, Inc.’s programming, we have been able to trial a variety of mobility devices at both the clinic and through the equipment lending center. Because of these programs, we have successfully found mobility equipment that works for her! She has now developed Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome--a very severe seizure disorder. Because of her seizures, she is not allowed to attend other camps for kids with special needs. However, she is still allowed to attend the HOPE, Inc. clinic/camp!
~Abigail