Project Independence Clients Paddle An Outrigger For Independence

Nonprofit Project Independence’s Access to Adventure (A2A) program for its clients with developmental disabilities has returned with outdoor adventures and activities.

Recently, a group from the Costa Mesa-based organization gathered at Newport Aquatic Center to paddle an outrigger with the MAKAPO Aquatics Project, as the Polynesian sport of outrigger paddling can be enjoyed with no special adaptations needed to the equipment. The Project was founded in 2007 to meet the recreational needs of the blind community in Orange County and beyond.

“We are happy to provide this recreational outlet for our clients who have been isolating at home through the pandemic and can now challenge themselves and have fun outdoors,” said Project Independence CEO and President Debra Marsteller.

Also on the A2A calendar are a beach day BBQ, a trip to Catalina, and monthly Duffy boat cruises through the harbor. A highlight will be Project Independence’s 12th Annual Walk for Independence that kicks off National Disability Employment Awareness Month. The Walk is set for Saturday, October 2, 2021 in Costa Mesa’s Twinkle Park.

Project Independence’s Access 2 Adventure Program is made possible in part through a generous gift from the Louis & Gladyce Foster Family Foundation. Project Independence has more than four decades of service and stability in Orange County as a lifeline to adults with developmental disabilities. Eighty-seven cents of every dollar raised by Project Independence goes directly to support vital programs for people with developmental disabilities.

To become a 2021 walk sponsor, please contact Director of Development Todd Eckert at Todd@Proindependence.org or 714-549-3464.