New funding expands parasport opportunities in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – The Region of Durham, in partnership with Durham Community Foundation, is pleased to announce the 2025 recipients of the Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Opportunities Fund. This year’s grants will support the continued growth of para sport opportunities and participation across the region.

 The five recipients of funds are:

• Abilities Centre: Support the Abilities Centre Eagles wheelchair basketball program with latex‑free basketballs and hosting a youth wheelchair basketball tournament.
• Golf Canada: Equipment purchases and coach training to expand inclusiveness of their First Tee program, which uses golf to teach life skills.
• ParaSport Ontario: Partnership with Pickleplex Pickering to launch a pilot para pickleball program with paddles and sport wheelchairs available for use.
• Precious Minds Support Services: Introduction of the Fitness Zone Gym Program, an accessible workout initiative for youth and adults with developmental disabilities, in partnership with Curves, Uxbridge.
• WindReach Farm: Expansion of para sport activities including cycling, archery, bocce, and yoga, helping participants build new skills and social connections.

The Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Opportunities Fund was launched in September 2024 alongside the Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Legacy Fund as a legacy of the Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games. Details on both funds and the application process are available at DurhamCommunityFoundation.ca/Parasport.

Quotes

“Empowering individuals of all abilities through sport and recreation was a key goal of the 2023 Ontario Parasport Games. These grant recipients honour that legacy. Thank you to these organizations for helping grow para sport opportunities and participation in Durham Region.”

– John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, The Regional Municipality of Durham

“We are honoured to steward the Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Opportunities Fund enabling people with disabilities to get active, have fun, and challenge themselves through the power of sport.”

– Vivian Curl, Executive Director, Durham Community Foundation

  “We’re proud there are more than a dozen new grassroots para sport opportunities in Durham Region as a result of the ripple effect of hosting the 2023 Ontario Parasport Games and our funding support. We’re also proud there are now Durham Region para athletes representing Canada at international competitions.”

– Lori Talling, Co-Chair, Donor Committee, Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Funds

“The success of our fund and the growth of para sport in Durham Region reflect a tremendous outpouring of community support and a strong community commitment to inclusion and accessibility.”

– Don Terry, Co-Chair, Donor Committee, Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Funds

Quick Facts

• The Region of Durham partnered with Durham Community Foundation (DCF) to launch two funds as a legacy of the Durham Region 2023 Ontario Parasport Games.
• The Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Opportunities Fund made an immediate impact, offering $25,000 in grants until the funds are fully allocated.
• Close to $23,000 has been granted from the Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Opportunities Fund.
• The Durham Region Para Sport and Recreation Legacy Fund is a permanent endowment that began with an $85,500 contribution invested by DCF with interest earned to be granted in perpetuity.
• Eligible applicants include charitable organizations building new programs, enhancing existing programs, hosting events, or acquiring equipment and infrastructure for para sport and recreation opportunities benefiting Durham Region residents. Non-profit sport and recreation organizations are encouraged to partner with local charitable organizations on grant applications.

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 For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca