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Message from our Execut ive Director There’s no denying that the COVID pandemic has been a major challenge for the ASF and its activities. After a long forced break, we resumed our activities last June while respecting public health measures. The speed at which things opened back up surprised us a little, but I’m happy to say that our summer program was a resounding success – much to everyone’s delight. Participants were eager to end their isolation and socialize again in person. Rest assured that the ASF will continue to actively collaborate with its partners to offer people living with a physical disability more opportunities to push themselves and regain their self-confidence. I want to thank all the volunteers who adapted to the many health rules with a smile and their contagious enthusiasm. We hope that this issue of the newsletter will mean as much to you as it does to us. None of this would be possible without the financial support of our donors. Thank you for making a difference and for inspiring hundreds of participants each year.
ASF | 2021 Fall Newsletter
Fall 2021
Adapt ing to a pandemic This summer we had to follow much stricter than usual guidelines – which seemed to change daily. It took a lot of quick-thinking adaptation, but in the end we managed. During activities, our volunteers safely assisted participants by wearing masks and keeping the recommended distance. With COVID being a constant concern, we were only able to accept participants who could move from their chairs to the equipment on their own. For this year’s ski season, we must require ASF volunteers to have their vaccination passports, just like the hills do. At the time of writing this, it’s difficult to say how many volunteers will be able to join us this winter.
Offer instant happiness! Your donations help us spread instant happiness. ASF volunteers are regularly described as “merchants of happiness” and rightly so. We give participants an opportunity to enjoy themselves through a variety of sports delivered in a fun and safe setting. When participants succeed in pushing their limits through sports, the feeling of happiness is immense and palpable.
Volunteers with a big heart Year after year, we are extremely fortunate to be able to count on the involvement of numerous volunteers. Prior to the pandemic, more than 225 volunteers generously offered their time. This summer – despite the ongoing pandemic – 148 people joined us to offer a host of activities. The ASF model is based on volunteer involvement and without them, nothing we do would be possible. Thanks to our volunteers, we continue to encourage people with reduced mobility to get active and have a chance to break out of one’s isolation, socialize with others, regain self-confidence and reach their full potential. A HUGE thank you!
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