Letter to Families

Dear Families,

We want to share an exciting upcoming event called Ability Olympics - where EVERYONE can be an Athlete! The event is for individuals with any disabilities ages 8-22. The mission is to empower individuals by giving them the chance to compete and learn in a challenging and successful athletic environment. During this event, participants will have opportunities to sign up/compete in three different activity sessions showcasing a variety of activities. Participants get an opportunity to experience life of an athlete. In addition, participants will get an opportunity to try sports/activities that peak their interest, but possibly have never tried. Each participant will be assigned a one on one mentor who will support him or her and their family throughout the day (i.e. during each event) and become his or her biggest fan! Sibling events and kids zone for young children also available.

The event is April 25-26th and kicks off Friday night with a social dance/meet and greet event. Families, participants, JMU students, and other volunteers will interact/get to know one another. Disability organizations will be present to share information, products, and resources.

Saturday’s all day event highlights sport opportunities for all different levels and abilities. Conducting sessions by classification or individual heats accommodates a wide range of involvement and ability. The list below provides examples of the activities that will be offered.

●Aquatics and Track/Field Events (competing by classification: Orthopedic; Autism/Intellectual; and Learning/Hearing/Emotional Disabilities)

●Basketball (Wheelchair basketball and 2 v 2)

● Baseball/Softball (Beep Baseball, Traditional, and Modified)

●Archery, Golf, Bocce, Tennis, Goal Ball, Judo

●Numerous exhibitions (self defense, yoga/pilates, canoeing/kayaking, hand cycles, etc.)

The event is FREE OF CHARGE. Donations accepted to JMU Foundation - Empowerment3 to support additional outreach events and future Ability Olympics

If you are interested in registering/attending or learning more the event, contact Katie Chapman at . We are also asking for your help in sharing this event with others across state or mid-Atlantic region as we hope to EMPOWER many individuals with disabilities through this event and let them know that ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE! Please RSVP by Monday, April 21st.

THANK YOU AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AT JMU!

Josh Pate & Tom Moran, Co-Directors of Ability Olympics Event

Katie Chapman, Director of Outreach

Richelle Villa, Empowerment3 Project Assistant

Sarah Miller,KristenBernaducci & Scott Jackman, Partnership Coordinators for Ability Olympics