BOSTON – The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Acting Commissioner Daniel Sieger has announced that DCR’s Universal Access Program will offer accessible skating programs at state owned rinks for individuals with disabilities, their families, and friends throughout the winter months. Adaptive equipment, teamwork, and staff instruction will be provided to help people of all abilities with access to skating.
“It is important that the state’s parks, beaches, forests, and facilities remain accessible to people of all abilities,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “Remaining active, particularly in the challenging winter months, is important for the wellbeing and development for everybody, and the adaptive skating program offered by DCR will provide a fun, unique experience for all.”
“DCR’s Universal Access Program works tirelessly to ensure that visitors of all abilities can enjoy and take part in activities in state parks and forests throughout the Commonwealth,” said DCR Acting Commissioner Daniel Sieger. “The Department is excited to continue its partnerships with community leaders to offer new and exciting universally accessible opportunities across the state this winter.”
DCR’s Universal Access Program works cooperatively with partners such as Holyoke Rows, All Out Adventures, Waypoint Adventure, and Stavros Outdoor Access, to expand accessible outdoor recreational opportunities for all.
DCR’s Universal Access Program provides accessible kayaking, sailing, rowing, canoeing, cycling, hiking and horseback riding programs in Massachusetts state parks throughout summer and fall as well as accessible cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, kicksledding, snowmobiling and ice skating in winter. UAP strives to increase participation amongst persons with disabilities in outdoor recreational activities in integrated settings.
The free adaptive skating program in Holyoke will be held Dec. 13, Jan. 17, Feb. 14, and March 20 at Fitzpatrick Skating Rink from 1-2:50 p.m. Pre-registration is required.
Call 413-545-5758 or email [email protected] to sign up.
To learn more about DCR’s Universal Access Program, please visit the program’s webpage or call (413) 545-5353.
