Empowering People With Disabilities Through Nature

Having shut down our in person outdoor programing this summer, due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, we were excited to initiate a mitigated reopening. We decided to start with a « soft opening » of just a few programs. Strict protocols were put in place for the safety of all. Groups were limited to 10 participants, masks were required and social distancing a must. Transportation was provided by their organizations or the participants families. Following the outdoor nature walk, we hosted a bring your own lunch social distance picnic.

Needless to say, the organizations we partner with, were excited to rejoin our outdoor experience. Some, were not yet meeting though. One had to cancel due to a positive Covid case. And, one had to cancel due to lack of response. So, it was challenging to say the least.

We were happy to host two wonderful outdoor nature programs for SPARC of White Plains and Community Based Services of North Salem, both in Westchester County, New York. The SPARC program enjoyed a beautiful fall day at Rockerfeller Park and the CBS group was at Mt. lakes Camp, with professional naturalistis. Both groups of autistic and mentally challenged adults had a great time gaining the benefits that Nature affords.

As always, our emphasis remains with the value and benefits of nature. And, we continue to encourage our participants to avail themselves of these benefits on a regular basis.

This winter we will focus on creating a workshop to teach other outdoor organizations how to organize Access Nature programs in their communities. We look forward to a more robust opening of programing in Spring of 2021.