Family and Friends Resource Hub

Importance of Recreation & Role of Supporters

Support starts with understanding. This hub equips friends and family with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to show up, provide care, and be part of a strong support system that empowers independence and connection.

Adaptive Checklists

Safety Considerations

There is inherent risk in all sports and outdoor recreation. With all recreation, the goal is to promote safety and minimize risk when possible. However, we are not able to mitigate all risk without modifying the experience. When recreating with individuals with spinal cord injuries, it is important to be aware of the secondary health conditions and additional safety concerns to maximize both experience and safety.

Autonomic Dysreflexia

Orthostatic Hypotension

Body Temperature

Bowel Management

Bladder Management

Skin Protection & Management

Nutrition

Hydration

Lived Experiences

Explore what recreation means, who they enjoy recreating with, and how you can engage and support their recreational goals in the interviews below.

Athlete Interviews

7 Videos

Self Directed Courses for Everyday Mobility

These self-directed online courses are designed to complement the existing resources of the Wheelchair Skills Program (WSP) by providing structured tutorials to help manual wheelchair users develop practical skills for everyday life. They may also be helpful for care partners, family members, friends, and rehabilitation professionals as a supplemental training resource.

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) 101

Downloadable Resource Guides

Reference Guide

Intended as a starting place for those supporting individuals with spinal cord injuries

Mini Resource Guide

Condensed resource guide for quick and easy perusing

Get Involved

Reach Out

Explore the interactive map to find sports and recreation in your area. You can be the first connection with a team or organization for your loved one. 

Participate in Adaptive Sports Programming & Lessons

Most adaptive sports programs allow friends and family to participate even if they don’t broadcast it on their website (so be sure to ask!). Take advantage of these opportunities to learn more about how to assist in transfers, the different equipment and some tips and tricks of the sport. 

Ask Questions 

Ask adaptive sport professionals, ask other athletes or ask the Active Project Community. Explore the sport specific forums to see what others are working on or engage with others to find a solution to your questions.

Additional Resources and References

Table of Contents

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