HOWARD, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Groups of people with intellectual disabilities got a chance to try out skiing on Wednesday.
Bode Bootcamp and Bay Nordic Ski Club partnered to bring cross-country skiing to the gyms’ GRIT 920 program.
GRIT 920 is a non-profit that works with schools in Howard-Suamico and Pulaski. It was created to help children and adults with intellectual disabilities stay active while having fun.
Sarah Morgan, an intellectual disability and autism teacher at Pulaski Community Middle School, is thankful for Bay Nordics’ contribution.
“They do hold different clinics, but [they] were fantastic and brought the clinic to us this time, which was great.”
Wednesday’s ski experience allowed participants to get exposed to winter.
“Enjoying winter as opposed to dreading winter,” said Mark Ernst, a volunteer from Bay Nordic.
Skiing helps with stability and getting excess energy out.
“Getting people involved. Getting them outside. Getting them away from phones,” added Ernst.
Giving them different exciting experiences.
Bryanna Spreng, a member of Bridge the Gap commented, “It was pretty fun — I — it’s my first time skiing, so I actually liked it!”
The idea started seven years ago and has now expanded to the full GRIT 920 program, which also includes running, boxing and jumping.
“I like to be out and about because it’s more energetic, and it gets me out of the house,” added Spreng.
Body and Nordic Ski weren’t able to hold this event until now because of the lack of snow, but now there’s plenty.
“It’s just cool to get our kids out there in the community and get them to experience things that they may not be able to do on a normal day,” said Kaitlyn Vetsch, an intellectual disability teacher at Pulaski Community Middle School.
Vetsch says the kids love going to Bode.
“Some of these kids are pretty red-faced,” said Ernst. “One kid came up to me and said, ‘I’m sweaty!’ And I’m like, ‘Awesome!’ That’s what we want.”
Vetsch believes it’s important for schools to offer different adaptive things for students.
“It just gets them excited about different opportunities within their life,” added Vetsch.
Organizers say once they have more time, space and money, they plan to create a stand-alone adaptable fitness location.
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