The Ability Center recently hosted a three-day wheelchair sport program, called the Adaptive Scholastic Athletic Program (ASAP), at Dixon Elementary School, bringing an engaging and inclusive experience to students in grades 1-5, with kindergarten students participating in a modified half-hour session.

Called “ASAP PE Takeover,” the initiative introduces students to adaptive athletics and encourages participation in sports using wheelchairs. Each class received hands-on instruction, giving students the opportunity to experience wheelchair-based activities while building awareness, empathy and teamwork.

“Our goal is to help students see that sports are for everyone,” said Douglas Johnson, physical education teacher at Dixon. “Programs like ‘PE Takeover’ are incredibly important because they provide authentic inclusive education. When students step into a wheelchair and try these activities themselves, it builds understanding and respect for the diverse abilities of others.”

Students have enthusiastically embraced the program, competing with and cheering one another on while discovering the variety of sports that can be played in wheelchairs.

The Ability Center was founded by East High School graduate and cancer survivor Damian Buchman. Through initiatives like “PE Takeover,” the organization continues its mission of expanding access to inclusive recreation opportunities and reinforcing the message that everyBODY deserves a chance to play TOGETHER!