Zip it up
Event raises funds for local nonprofit dedicated to inclusive fitness
9:32 a.m., Nov. 20, 2014--Last spring, more than 300 University of Delaware students took advantage of the opportunity to try out the first-ever zip line on campus.
But they were doing more than just getting a treetop thrill — they were raising money for Yes U Can USA, a Delaware-based nonprofit dedicated to helping people with disabilities and limited mobility stay active through adapted sports, fitness and recreation programs.
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The zip line fundraiser was organized by UD’s Yes U Can Extension, a registered student organization launched as a platform for students to work with the parent organization through a broad range of activities including individualized exercise programs, healthy eating workshops, and specialized adapted equipment.
On Nov. 14, Alison Berglund and Emily Passera, president and vice president of the student organization, presented Yes U Can CEO and co-founder Vickie George with a check for $3,000.
“We originally intended to raise money to buy exercise equipment,” Passera said. “But then the organization received an equipment donation, so the money will be used to support community-based programs instead.”
Funds came from individual donors using the zip line as well as a competition among student organizations and Greek Life to see who could raise the most money.
“The relationship between the student extension and the parent organization is awesome for everyone,” says Berglund. “It’s very rewarding for us to help people with disabilities and limited mobility to stay active for their overall health — psychological as well as physical. Our goal is to make exercise fun.”
Steve Goodwin, associate professor of behavioral health and nutrition, is a member of Yes U Can’s board of directors, and UD has become one of the organization’s key partners. George delivers guest lectures in Goodwin’s classes, and the two co-teach a one-credit seminar on inclusive fitness training, along with Chris Knight, associate professor of kinesiology and applied physiology.
“I continue to be amazed at how supportive the University is of all of our activities,” George says. “Our collaborations are expanding all the time, and this latest gift of funds that we can use wherever they’re most needed is most appreciated.”
The Yes U Can Extension currently has about 50 active members, many of whom plan careers in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physical education and other related fields.
About Yes U can
Yes U Can Corp. was founded to increase inclusion, awareness, and access to health, recreation, and physical fitness opportunities for people with limited mobility and disabilities by developing assisted activity programs, forming strategic partnerships, and providing valuable resources to the community.
For more information about Yes U Can, contact Vickie George at 302-286-1399 or via email at info@yesyoucanusa.com, or visit the website.
Article by Diane Kukich
Photo by Kathy F. Atkinson