As a resident of this community you probably know that Richmond is considered one of the most physically fit communities in the entire country. From running events to extreme sports to dodgeball, Richmond offers something for everyone. And EVERYONE means athletes with physical disabilities and visual impairments and that is where Sportable comes in!
Sportable is a sports organization that is committed to creating opportunities and transforming the lives of people with physical disabilities and visual impairments through sport. Sportable provides opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities from ages 5 through adult in Greater Richmond, by developing a safe environment where they can participate and excel in sporting activities. Sportable was created in 2005 because there were no specific programs that created sporting opportunities for people with physical disabilities in the Richmond area.
Is there a need for services Sportable provides? You better believe it! People of all ages with physical disabilities are less likely to exercise than are their able-bodied peers. Wheelchair users are 2.5 times more likely to be obese, which leads to greater incidences of diabetes, heart disease, and depression. Perhaps the most compelling statistic is that 31% of children, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, report being depressed and that their depression prevents them from being physically active. The cycle of depression leading to inactivity and creating deeper depression, ironically, is broken once physical activity is introduced – and this is what Sportable works for prevent!
Sportable connects the Richmond area’s youth athletes with physical disabilities to 12 different adaptive sports programs year round including tennis, cycling, basketball, track club, and paratriathlon. Additionally, youth athletes and their families can benefit from a Greater Richmond YMCA family membership, as part of our partnership launched in 20014, Sportable at the YMCA: Supporting Athletes of All Abilities. We also provide athletes with the necessary specialized equipment that may be cost prohibitive otherwise.
Sportable has an opportunity for YOUR CHILD to start 2015 right by particiatping in one of the many sports programs offered throughout RVA. On January 16th & 17th Sportable will be hosting a Registration Expo that will provide the opportunity to sign your child up to participate in a sports program in 2015 and to get you started with the YMCA right away. Learn more at http://sportable.org/upcoming-events/registration-expo-5/.
Do you have a question about whether Sportable would be a good fit for your child? Please visit our website to learn more (www.Sportable.org) or reach out directly at [email protected] or by calling 804.340.2991.
Happy New Year!