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Last month we had the pleasure of bringing in the BC Wheelchair Sports Association. Part of their program is educating youth who may not have disabilities, through fun learn-by-doing activities. This lines up with how we present our program in Scouts Canada and is important for the youth to see that there are other options should they ever find themselves no longer able-bodied. Plus, it exposes the youth to a different kind of sport where the focus is more so on coordination and not being fast or strong.

Check out this short video of the fun the Cubs at Elsie Roy had.

http:/http://youtu.be/Kg9JVq9gMBs

Added bonus: 75% of the pack have requested to do wheelchair basketball again.

Badges earned: Disability Awareness. See the bold text for topics covered for this program night. It’s important to note that while yes we met the badge requirements one night, we’ve actually done all but requirement six for this badge. This enables more youth to achieve the badge while diversifying program.

Scouts Canada Wiki: Disability Awareness Badge Requirements

Do any four (4) of the following:

Recognize the International Symbol of Accessibility and point out places where this sign is found. Discuss with your leader how building entrances, water fountains, elevators, public telephones and washrooms, and sidewalk corner curbs can be made more accessible to persons in wheelchairs. Visit your library and find out how books are made available for visually impaired people. Meet with a social worker, agency representative or knowledgeable adult as to what services are available in your community to people with various disabilities. Talk to your gym teacher, Parks and Recreation department or leader about how disabled persons participate and compete in various sports. Talk to a representative from the phone company; TV station or other knowledgeable adult about what services are available for the hearing impaired. Find out what American Sign Language (ASL) is. Learn some sign language and how to sign your name. Where possible, meet with a disabled person and talk about that person’s personal interests and activities.