The Power of Adaptive Sports: National Ability Center - Park City, UT
The LeMay family and friends recently returned from a ski trip in Park City, Utah, where we learned about the National Ability Center. After hearing about their many adaptive sports and recreation programs, we immediately wanted to donate to their cause.
We are so fortunate to come across incredible organizations everywhere we go! Read on to learn more about the National Ability Center and how they help individuals of all abilities through various adaptive programs.
About the National Ability Center
While Park City is known for its two major ski resorts and attracts action sports athletes of all levels, it is also home to the National Ability Center (NAC). The 26-acre home base offers 26 acres of adaptive lodging and recreation, with additional basecamps in Salt Lake City and Moab.
The organization aims to “empower individuals of all abilities by building self-esteem, confidence, and lifetime skills through sport, recreation, and educational programs.”
Founded in 1985 by Meeche White and Vietnam veteran Pete Badewitz, also an athlete with a disability, the NAC began by offering ski lessons at Park City Mountain Resort to veterans. Both were previously adaptive ski instructors in Colorado. The nonprofit continues to support service members today by providing them with free access and scholarship opportunities for their families.
The NAC is open 365 days a year and welcomes people from across the country and around the world. Athletes of all abilities, skill levels, and their families and friends can participate. Most programs have been designed for those with varying abilities or disabilities, with inclusion as a top priority.
Their impressive inventory of adaptive sports equipment allows the NAC to serve various disabilities, including PTSD, cognitive disabilities, trauma, spinal cord injuries, and many others. The experienced team knows how to leverage this equipment and adapt their techniques and teaching methods to help every participant unlock their potential. Not to mention the 1,900+ volunteers who help make a difference!
The NAC invites friends and family to join the programming in their effort “to reinforce relationships and build support systems that extend beyond the initial program experience.”
National Ability Center Programs
Regardless of your interests and athletic ability, there is undoubtedly something for you and your family to enjoy. The NAC programs include sports, recreational activities, and community events and programs.
Adaptive Recreation & Outdoor Sports
Adults and children, novice and aspiring athletes alike are welcome to face new challenges and enhance their skills alongside family and friends. Adaptive recreation includes:
Cycling
Challenge Courses
Archery
Paddle Sports
Water Sports
Rafting
Aquatics
Indoor & Outdoor Rock Climbing
Nordic Skiing
Alpine Skiing & Snowboarding
Snowshoeing
Mountain Biking
Camping
Fat Tire Biking
Military
The NAC also invites active and retired members of the Armed Forces to participate in any of the organization’s programs. These include recreational, rehabilitative, and therapeutic experiences for service members and their families. Participants can choose from ongoing lessons, specialized camps, mobile programs, and adaptive wilderness expeditions.
Best of all, most service members receive scholarships (available by request), so they can access NAC programs at NO cost!
Camps
Additionally, the NAC offers a range of camps for youths and adults. These include day and overnight camps and feature a range of adaptive sports and recreational activities. From kids with physical disabilities to those with autism, young people of varying abilities can build friendships, learn new skills, and have a blast in the beautiful Utah outdoors!
Community
The NAC’s community programs help participants build life skills and friendships. These include:
COACH Internships: Structured continuum of growth and learning for young adults (ages 16-22) with disabilities
PC ALL: Weekly programming partnership between Park City Adult Lifelong Learning (PC ALL) and NAC focused on providing a social environment and recreational activities
Halloween Party: Annual Halloween festivities include trick-or-treating, activities, and photos
Spring Formal Dance: Annual formal dance for participants 16 and older and their dates
Equestrian
Participants can choose from four equestrian-assisted activities: adaptive horseback riding, Equine Assisted Learning (EAL), therapy, and trail riding. Attendees are paired with a horse, instructor, and volunteers to support and help them succeed. The NAC is a PATH International Premiere Accredited Center, meaning they commit to high-quality programming and meeting industry standards.
International
The NAC collaborates with Clemson University, San Diego Diplomacy Council, and Kids Play International to promote social change for underserved youth, primarily those with disabilities. Their project is called Adaptive Sports for Social Change (ASSC) and has brought adaptive recreation to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Korea, Myanmar, and Thailand. Learn more about the ASSC’s impact.
How to Support the National Ability Center
By supporting the NAC, you help them on their mission to empower individuals of all abilities through adaptive sports and recreation! Check out their:
Ways to Give: Make an easy online donation, join one of their fundraisers, or take advantage of sponsorship opportunities, just to name a few.
Volunteer Opportunities: If you live in the Park City area or will be spending time there, give hands-on help through one of their many volunteer positions.
Internships: The NAC welcomes current students, recent grads, or experienced professionals seeking exposure to a new career or field. They also offer COACH Internships for those with disabilities.
Follow the NAC on Instagram @nationalabilitycenter or Facebook to keep up with their latest events and opportunities for involvement. And if you or someone you know could benefit from these wonderful programs, please pass along the information!