The Make a Move with Jagger Foundation is doing a wheelchair access project fundraiser in order to help increase accessibility to Sylvan and Gull Lake.
The 50/50 fundraiser which will go until July 6 has 100 tickets printed and available to purchase for $10 a ticket.
“Our goal is to raise $10,000 with the 50/50 fundraiser. $5000 will go towards the winner and the other $5000 will go towards the wheelchair access project,” said foundation founder Sharlee Anderson.
For the project, the foundation is providing Sylvan and Gull Lake with wheelchair matting and a water wheelchair for Gull Lake. The town of Sylvan Lake will also be providing two different wheelchairs as part of the project, Anderson said.
“This matting will go across the sand and into the water. Allowing people in wheelchairs or walkers to be able to access the lakes.”
The wheelchair access project is a big step for inclusivity, Anderson said.
“As our world becomes more inclusive it’s imperative that people with disabilities are able to participate in everything.
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Community member Tanner Whidden has spoken previously about increased accessibility. He presented to council in October about his own experiences.
“Last summer I was at the lake with some friends and they were able to get out of the water but I literally had to crawl out of the water by my hands,” he said.
“I’m paralyzed from the chest down and having to drag myself across the beach towards my wheelchair was humiliating, dehumanizing and embarrassing.”
Whidden referenced a famous quote from Field of Dreams “If you build it they will come.” in his speech to council.
“I asked for beach wheelchairs because the lake is something everybody should have access to and being able to get into the water is very therapeutic for everybody,” Whidden added.
People who want to purchase tickets can contact the foundation through the Make a Move with Jagger Foundation Facebook page or by emailing makeamovewithjagger@hotmail.com.
The last date to purchase tickets and draw date is July 6.
What the Make a Move with Jagger Foundation is doing is amazing, Whidden said.
“I think we are going to see a big difference and a lot of big smiles. Now families can have the opportunity to come to Sylvan Lake as a beach destination and don’t have to leave anybody behind. With this people with disabilities can truly enjoy the lake the same way that an able bodied person can.”
@sarahbaker
sarah.baker@blackpress.ca
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