Adaptive Ice Skating at Riverbank State Park
People served by S:US with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and staff gathered at the Riverbank State Park. Click here to view more photos and videos.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we celebrate and feature stories from the people we support. We believe that with the right set of supports, people with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) can live in, work in, contribute to, and participate in the community.
A few weeks ago, people served by S:US with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and staff gathered at the Riverbank State Park for an unforgettable experience. Day Habilitation program participants tested new adaptive equipment that transforms wheelchairs into skates, allowing wheelchair users to glide across the ice. While ice sleds have traditionally been the go-to adaptive solution, they don’t work for everyone. For people with balance issues or limited upper body strength, skating has remained out of reach for many without adaptive equipment.
Marques, a person served by S:US, ice skating using adaptive equipment for his wheelchair with Faith Xikis.
Marques, a person served who attends our 149th Street Day Habilitation program, expressed how much he missed the activities he used to enjoy before his mobility changed. He shared, “I know I can’t go ice skating with the rest of them, but it must be so cool to feel like you’re flying on the ice.” That dream became a reality. As he glided across the rink, the joy on his face was indescribable.
This moment would not have been possible without the passion and dedication of our Developmental Disabilities Services teams. A big shoutout to Jajaida Gonzalez, Freddie Bratcher, Stephanie Wimbush, Faith Xikis, Feliks Louis Nunez, and Clarrissa Joseph who played key roles in making the day a success, ensuring every detail was in place and every participant felt supported.
This event exemplifies the importance of inclusion, community, and possibility. S:US will continue breaking barriers advocating for accessibility and opportunity for all.