Spotlight: Common Ground Outdoor Adventure
by KATIE BROOKS
Utah boasts some of the world’s most breathtaking vistas and landscapes. But, for people with disabilities and their families, enjoying nature like other adventurers can feel impossible.
Common Ground Outdoor Adventure is on a mission to fix that. The purpose of Common Ground is to provide life-enhancing outdoor recreational opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities.
Founded in 1993, and incorporated as a private nonprofit in 1997, Common Ground has grown to serve over 2,400 people with disabilities each year. The organization provides adaptive equipment and support, which enables people with disabilities to participate in outdoor recreation alongside their peers. These experiences reduce stereotypes, raise awareness, and empower people to realize their full potential. Trips sponsored by Common Ground are accessible, both physically and financially. Participants in Common Ground enjoy a wide variety of activities that fit their abilities and needs. These activities include hiking, snowshoeing, canoeing, river rafting trips, art projects, and service projects. Disabled youth and adults can even cycle with one of Common Ground’s specialty bikes, ski with mono-skis, or go fishing using a license paid for by Common Ground. The possibilities are greater than many families of disabled youth or adults have ever considered.
Another way in which Common Ground benefits individuals and the community is through their Youth Adventure Leadership Program (YALP). This program is designed to introduce the educational and vocational opportunities of the outdoors to young adults with disabilities by combining the fun of outdoor adventures and nature-based learning. The goals of YALP include helping youth grow as people and leaders, providing them the tools necessary to gain the independence of adulthood, and engaging with local outdoor agencies and employers. The hope is that these organizations will reach out to those with disabilities in their marketing, employment, and educational efforts. YALP participants can even earn certifications that prepare them for potential employment in the outdoor field and graduates earn potential internship placements.
Common Ground is funded primarily by private foundations, corporate donations, individuals, and special events. One of these events involves a local artist, Jerry Fuhriman, who is nationally known for his beautiful Cache Valley watercolors. Each year, Common Ground prints a new set of his paintings on greeting cards. All proceeds of these cards benefit Common Ground. Those interested in adding to the Common Ground cause can watch for the Holiday Cards with a Cause event or donate directly at the Common Ground website.
Want to join one of Common Ground’s activities? Have questions? Email info.cgadventures@gmail.com or call 435-713-0288.