Posts tagged EXPAND
Boulder: Blind Judo, wheelchair racing, table tennis are coming to CU Sat.
Feb 8th
Posted by Channel 1 Networks in City News
The Parks and Recreation Department’s EXPAND Paralympic Sport Club will host the 2012 Boulder Paralympic Experience in conjunction with U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 11, at the University of Colorado Student Recreation Center (Lot 380), UCB 355. Participation is free and open to the public.
The Paralympic Experience introduces people with physical disabilities of all ages to Paralympic sports. In addition to hands-on participation in wheelchair racing, table tennis and judo, the participants will interact with Paralympic athletes and coaches. There will also be educational sessions on Paralympic sports for parents, teachers, coaches, program leaders and rehabilitation specialists.
“EXPAND is excited to host this hands-on event to increase awareness about Paralympic sports,” said Jennifer Heilveil, EXPAND program coordinator. “Participants can meet Paralympic athletes, such as Scott Moore, a three-time U.S. Paralympic medalist in blind judo, and Christina (Ripp) Schwab, a two-time U.S. Paralympic gold medalist in wheelchair basketball, and hear about how sports have improved their overall quality of life. It’s a fun way for kids, potential athletes and people with all abilities to learn more about Paralympic sports.”
“The Paralympic Experience program encourages physical fitness and overall well-being in children with physical disabilities, and we are thrilled to be working with the EXPAND Paralympic Sport Club on this initiative,” said Charlie Huebner, USOC Chief of Paralympics. “Research shows that youth with physical disabilities who participate in physical activity are healthier, more successful in school and have an enhanced quality of life.”
Paralympic Experience events are being held in communities throughout the country. For registration information on the Boulder event, v
EXPAND Paralympic Sport Club wheelchair athletes to compete in Bolder Boulder
May 27th
Posted by Channel 1 Networks in Running
The wheelchair athletes competing in the Bolder Boulder include injured veterans and Paralympic gold medalists. The group practices from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the CU Potts Field.
About EXPAND
The EXciting Programs Adventures and New Dimensions (EXPAND) program is part of the city’s Park and Recreation Department. The program is dedicated to helping people living with disabilities improve and gain new recreation and leisure skills that enhance participants’ overall well being and quality of life. The EXPAND Duck Race, held at 4 p.m. on Memorial Day at the Boulder Creek Festival, is a fundraiser for these programs.
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Boulder Youth Services Initiative award recipient
Apr 28th
Posted by Channel 1 Networks in News
Youth Services Initiative announces award recipient and prepares for art show with Journeys through EXPAND
Angel “Nacho” Ramirez, a Youth Services Initiative (YSI) participant, has received the 2011 Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award from the City of Boulder’s Youth Opportunities Program. Ramirez was nominated for his volunteer service, which includes helping organize and assemble race materials for Ironman Boulder and Boulder Running Company fundraising events, mulching for Boulder Housing Partners and Growing Gardens, and helping chaperone YSI overnight trips for the City of Boulder’s Parks and Recreation Department.
“Nacho is an outstanding volunteer because he is selfless in his attitude and behavior. He is motivated to help without seeking recognition or rewards,” said Alex Zinga, YSI program coordinator, who nominated Ramirez for the award. “It doesn’t matter what the task is, getting dirty shoveling mulch or pulling weeds, I can always count on Nacho to step up. He is always very dependable and diligent, often inspiring other participants to emulate his work ethic,” added Zinga.
Ramirez was presented with the award at a Youth Opportunities Advisory Board (YOAB) banquet on Thursday, April 14.
In other YSI news, the organization will co-host an art show with Journeys through EXPAND (EXciting Programs Adventures and New Dimensions) on Thursday, May 5. The event will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at the North Boulder Recreation Center (NBRC), 3170 Broadway. Refreshments will be available.
The YSI and Journeys through EXPAND art exhibit will be on display throughout the month of May at the NBRC. All artwork was done by participants in these programs. YSI worked with local artist, Paula Kehoe, on their art pieces.
YSI
The mission of Youth Services Initiative (YSI) is to provide youth from low-income housing the opportunities and resources necessary to make positive recreational, educational and lifestyle choices.
Journeys through EXPAND
The Journeys through EXPAND (EXciting Programs Adventures and New Dimensions) Program provides affordable fitness, adventure and leisure opportunities for adults living with a Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI) and/or other similar neurological conditions. These services promote personal challenge, increase self-esteem and growth in a supportive and safe environment.
Contact:
Shelly Ruspakka, Parks and Recreation, 303-413-7214
Sarah Huntley, Media Relations, 303-441-3155