“It's kind of amazing to think that almost any challenge that you have, there's some brilliant, intelligent person out there doing the research to come up with a solution to it.”

Our host, Marci Mowery, sits down with Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation Membership Coordinator Pam Metzger. When Pam’s husband Bill was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, staying active became his lifeline. After cycling thousands of miles on traditional bikes, he transitioned to a three-wheel hand cycle.

That adaptive equipment opened new possibilities but also revealed gaps in accessibility.

The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation is working to close those gaps through innovations like accessible kayak launches, colorblind-correcting viewers, and more.

Beyond mere accommodations, they're examples of universal design that benefit everyone, from parents pushing strollers to hikers using trekking poles for knee support.

Pam recalls the moment Bill used an accessible kayak launch at Laurel Hill State Park. Just like that, he’d rediscovered an activity he thought was lost forever! "He still talks about it," she shares, describing how the launch works seamlessly for wheelchair users and non-wheelchair-using visitors alike.

True inclusion requires partnerships. The Foundation collaborates with AARP, friends groups, occupational therapists, and local organizations to identify needs and test solutions. Their latest initiative equips libraries across Pennsylvania with borrowable recreation equipment. Effectively, they’re removing financial barriers alongside physical ones!

Key Topics:

1. Bill's Adaptive Recreation Journey (02:12)
2. Accessible Kayak Launch Experience (06:45)
3. Colorblind Viewers Bring Colors to Life (09:57)
4. Library Equipment Lending Program (11:14)
5. Universal Design Benefits Everyone (18:07)

Resources:

1. PPFF Outdoors for Everyone
2. Friends of Laurel Hill State Park
3. Friends of Nockamixon State Park

🎧 Listen to the Think Outside Podcast on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite app while on the go! New episodes drop bi-weekly on Mondays, and you may occasionally find a bonus episode, as well!

The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation inspires stewardship of YOUR state parks and forests through volunteerism, education, recreation, and philanthropy.

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🎶 Podcast music provided by Evan Mongeau

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