Saturday afternoon marked the launch of "Everybody in Mt. Airy," a free hiking program for those with disabilities, that aims to help provide a safe and enjoyable experience on the trails for those who might not have had the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
According to the Cincinnati Parks Foundation, the organization has formed a new partnership with Luke5Adventures, Cincinnati Parks, and former park board commissioner and accessibility advocate, Kevin Flynn, to facilitate the program.
"'Everybody in Mt. Airy’ will be offered every month through the fall. Luke5 Adventures has been an amazing partner to collaborate with and we are extremely grateful to Kevin Flynn for his generous support of our very own 'Rosie Chair' for Cincinnati Parks," Executive Director of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Jennifer Hafner Spieser told the Enquirer on Saturday.
She added, "our goal is to expand this program throughout many other Cincinnati Parks, creating a memorable experience for everybody."
The new, free monthly program utilizes special all-terrain wheelchairs to get those with disabilities out on the trails in Mt. Airy Forest.
Using all-terrain wheelchairs, called “Rosies,” trained volunteers are able to move “hikers” of any ability over rough trails, down staircases, across creek beds, and much more.
For many participants, these chairs will make it possible to be immersed in nature, in ways that would be otherwise impossible, stated Spieser.
All hikes are roughly one hour long and depart from Everybody’s Treehouse in Mt. Airy Forest. Specially designed, this treehouse is universally accessible and allows everyone, regardless of ability, to experience the forest’s canopy.
The program times are 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and noon. Upcoming dates are June 5, July 17, August 14, September 11 and October 9.
Those interested in the program can learn more and sign up at https://cincinnatiparksfoundation.org/programs/ or by calling (513) 861-0023.
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