“Anyone who does anything to help a child in their life is a hero to me. ” - Fred Rogers.
SurfSUP Adventures has been working with Envision Blind Sports for a little over 3-years now, but this year marks a milestone of accomplishment. Thanks mostly to executive director, Wendy Fagan, and the incredible volunteer network from Slippery Rock University’s, Adaptive Sports program, Envision has become the largest blind sports camp in the country. In total, 70 visually impaired youth ages 6 to 18 participated in 20 sports over the course of the week-long program in June of 2018.
While SurfSUP’s involvement is just a small piece of this historic event, we are grateful for the opportunity to share our passion for paddling and to introduce the kids to the feeling of gliding across the water on a board. “It’s like you’re on ice and just gliding,” explained one participant. “It’s really fun to feel the wind and the waves going with your board,” another described. As the day came to a close, all 70 – kids had stood up on a board and had the chance to explore the waters of Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park.
The notable children's TV show host, Fred Rogers, once said, “Anyone who does anything to help a child in their life is a hero to me.” Wendy Fagan shatters this humble notion by empowering and bringing true joy to countless children through her programs. Wendy is an architect of logistical impossibility, a cultivator of improbable joy, and the harbinger of irrepressible smiles and laughter. It is an honor to be part of your program, Wendy.
