The Sconi

The Upper Valley Aquatic Center has been awarded a grant of $24,999 by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. The funding comes from the foundation's National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) 2024 Direct Effect 2nd Cycle Quality of Life grants. It is part of a broader initiative, where fifty-three grants totaling $1,056,391 were handed out to various projects globally. Since the inception of the Quality of Life Grants Program, over $46 million has been allocated through more than 3,990 grants, supported by a partnership with the Administration for Community Living.

The Reeve Foundation's Quality of Life program includes various grants aimed at empowering individuals living with paralysis. The Priority Impact grants program funds organizations that focus on improving the lives of those affected by paralysis and their families.

With this grant, the Upper Valley Aquatic Center plans to modify its current door systems with automatic controls to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive environment for the community.

Expressing their gratitude, the Upper Valley Aquatic Center commented on the significant impact this grant will have in making their facility accessible to all community members. They acknowledged the Reeve Foundation's role in facilitating this important project.

Dan McNeal, Director of the Quality of Life Grants Program at the Reeve Foundation, stated, “These awards are about restoring independence to our constituents. Our work and number one goal are to enhance the quality of life of people living with paralysis. It is our honor to continue to collaborate with so many dedicated organizations, which have selflessly given their time and efforts to ensure that accessibility and inclusivity remain embedded in the fabric of their programs."

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is committed to advancing spinal cord injury research and improving quality of life for individuals affected by paralysis. The foundation operates the National Paralysis Resource Center under an agreement with the Administration for Community Living. The center provides health and support resources for more than 100,000 people and families since its inception in 2002. The foundation is recognized for its adherence to charity standards by the Better Business Bureau.

The Upper Valley Aquatic Center offers a wide array of programs promoting fitness, wellness, aquatic competition, and education, striving for an inclusive and safe environment for all its visitors.

For further information, visit the Reeve Foundation at www.ChristopherReeve.org or the Upper Valley Aquatic Center at www.uvacswim.org.