Fitness Friends

In line with the overall mission of KACL to ensure that all people with special needs have the opportunity to live a meaningful and satisfying lifestyle and interact as an equal in their community. KACL constantly attempts to engage in new and invigorating exercises. One of the latest is that of Fitness Friends. The goal of this volunteer program is to provide individuals with a developmental disability in Kenora, the opportunity through physical fitness, recreation and leisure, to become participants in the activities that they choose while developing relationships within the community.

Assistant Director Sue McCallum indicated, "In our initiative we wanted to focus on opportunities to be inclusive to all citizens by building on the efforts of the Recreation Center’s physical accessibility and addressing the social barriers individuals with a developmental disability may face when accessing the community. In order for the participants involved in this initiative to feel confident in the supports they received, KACL recognized the importance of knowledgeable and trained staff and volunteers who will deliver high quality support in a safe environment."

The key position in this plan is the fitness coordinator, held by Nadine McBride, hired by KACL. Ms. McBride is responsible for recruiting volunteers and linking people together through their common interests and goals.

The Fitness friend program is going strong with 12 KACL consumers partnered up or in the process of being matched with a partner. Volunteers are involved in participating with their workout partner in various activities at the recreation centre.