Hi friends -
The past four years I have fundraised and run the Vermont 50 with the goal of raising money for Vermont Adaptive in memory of Marina Kelley. Last year I tackled the 100 mile distance this year as I was accepted onto the Vermont 100 Run 2 Empower Team! The experience was gratifying in many ways including the opportunity to run with adaptive athletes on group runs, see Vermont Adaptive in action, and challenge myself with the support of beloved friends and family. I'm hoping you will consider helping me fundraise to support Vermont Adaptive, an organization that empowers people of all abilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. My friends who know me well (or even just a little!) know that inclusivity and recognizing the value every person brings to the arts is a huge part of my practice as a dance educator, teaching artist, and choreographer.
Running has been a gift I've given myself during these past few years of uncertainty and the opportunity to support Vermont Adaptive, an organization dedicated to making movement outdoors more accessible to everyone, is an honor. In addition to sports, year-round programming options through Vermont Adaptive integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional disabilities. I do this work in my professional practice with Inclusive Arts Vermont, where I have taught dance classes for adults with disabilities as well as taught art at a school for students with autism.
I am running in memory of Marina Dorothy Kelley again this year. Marina's family has been very involved with Vermont Adaptive and also in being a beacon of positive inclusivity. I run with a heart with her initials on it given to me by her parents and am so grateful for the work both Frank and Julie continue to do to help others access movement and time outside. You can read more about Marina's life and impact here - https://www.chestertelegraph.org/2020/03/16/obituary-marina-dorothy-kelley-19-of-chester/
I'm reaching out to you because I am grateful for your support in many ways in my life. Please only donate if you are able and would like to and know that I am mostly just grateful for YOU!
Thank you.
Ashley
MORE INFO:
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that empowers people of all disabilities through inclusive sports and recreational programming regardless of ability to pay. In addition to sports, year round programming options integrate environmental, holistic wellness, and competitive training philosophies for people of all ages with cognitive, developmental, physical and emotional/behavioral disabilities. The organization believes sports and recreation provide a physical, mental and social experience that is immeasurable in promoting self-confidence and independence in an individual.
With nearly 400 active volunteer instructors, plus generous partners and sponsors, and an amazing base of clients and friends, Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports has been at the forefront of sports and recreation for those with disabilities in New England for over 30 years. Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports is committed to empowering individuals with disabilities. We promote independence and further equality through access and instruction to sports and recreational activities.
The VT 100 is one of Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports biggest fund raisers every year. For more information about Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports: www.vermontadaptive.org.