"opportunity, accessibility, independence"
Welcome to DSA Alberta!
People with disabilities are extremely limited in the range of sports and recreational activities available to them.
For many, their participation in outdoor activities is limited to being a spectator, a passive onlooker. Sailing,
long regarded as a symbol of freedom and independence, has been only a symbol for people with disabilities - until now.
In August of 1994, twelve new sailors formed the Disabled Sailing Association of Alberta
(DSA Alberta) with the goal of establishing permanent sailing programs for children and
adults with disabilities in Alberta. Now, after many seasons of successful operation,
thousands of Albertans can say they've "Gone Sailing!" through DSA Alberta
programs.
DSA Alberta's largely volunteer organization has grown into a recognized community service,
partnering with more than 35 local agencies providing recreational opportunities for disabled
children and adults in Calgary, and recently in Red Deer and Edmonton.
Our wide range of programs develop skills and independence and
facilitate integration of our sailors, volunteers, and supporters into mainstream sailing
events and activities.
The success of sailing as a recreational and rehabilitation program is evident in both the
growing numbers of people that participate in these programs and the enthusiastic support
that DSA Alberta has received from the disabled communities, community organizations and
funding agencies. The lakes and oceans of Canada serve as a great healer and equalizer,
where our sailors leave their wheelchairs (and their disabilities) behind, and enjoy the
independence and freedom that everyone enjoys when wind, sun and spray join forces to make
a perfect sailing day.
So, get on board!
