|
People with disabilities are leaving limitations at the dock. Newport’s Shake-A-Leg, the first to offer adaptive sailing, has a program that doesn’t require experience or gear – just a desire to sail. Few things in life compare with sailing for its therapeutic benefit of uplifting and rejuvenating the spirit. In 1986 Shake-A-Leg pioneered the Adaptive Sailing Program to bring the benefits of sailing to people with physical and developmental disabilities. The concept has since gained widespread popularity and today Shake-A-Leg is world renown and a recognized leader in the field. The Shake-A-Leg model is used throughout the United States, Canada and Europe for providing competitive, instructional and recreational sailing for people with multi-disabilities. Operating from its fully accessible facility in Fort Adams State Park, the program is open to all ages and disabilities and offers lessons and recreational sailing, as well as competitive sailing opportunities. All docks and facilities are 100% accessible, and include Hoyer and Spectrum lifts for sailors transferring from wheelchairs. Instructors are US Sailing certified and experienced in teaching and coaching sailors with disabilities. The Shake-A-Leg fleet includes five custom-designed Freedom 20s, built so that the most severely disabled can safely sail the boat. A 23-foot Sonar (Paralympics Team Keelboat) and 16-foot Martin offer intermediate-to-expert sailing. Sailors are fortunate to have Paul Callahan, Paralympian sailor and Shake-A-Leg CEO, directing the program.
|
In addition to sailing, Shake-A-Leg offers therapy
programs throughout the summer at Salve Regina University for people
with disabilities from spinal cord injury or neurological impairment. Shake-A-Leg is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to assist participants to become all they can be in education, workplace and quality-of-life pursuits. In its 25-year history, Shake-A-Leg has become a
leader in therapeutic programs that go beyond the basics. A unique
mix of conventional and complementary programs allow children, adolescents
and adults of varying abilities dramatically improve their life and
health with confidence. In response to increased need, Shake-A-Leg expanded its programs
in 2007 to devote attention specifically to teens and young adults. The Adaptive Sailing program operates daily June 16-August 2, by
appointment. © 2008 Newport Harbor Guide. All rights reserved. return to Newport Harbor Guide Articles |
| Newport Harbor Guide: home harbor watch directory map articles media kit contact | |