9th Annual Adaptive Sports Bowl-A-Thon Raises $30,000 for Disability Programs

The 9th Annual Memorial Rehab Adaptive Sports & Recreation Bowl-A-Thon attracted nearly 400 bowlers and community partners to Sparez Bowling Lanes, generating more than $30,000 to support children and adults with physical disabilities. The event, co-sponsored by Memorial Foundation and Memorial Rehabilitation Institute, represents a significant community effort to expand year-round adaptive sports, fitness, and recreation programs that empower individuals with disabilities to live active, engaged, and independent lives.

Funds raised from the Bowl-A-Thon directly support the Memorial Rehab Adaptive Sports & Recreation Program, which provides adaptive water sports, fitness classes, community events, and support groups. The financial support helps cover essential costs including specialized equipment, transportation, and entry fees, effectively eliminating financial barriers that might otherwise prevent adaptive athletes of all ages from full participation. This comprehensive approach addresses both physical and emotional recovery needs while promoting community reintegration.

Kelley Morris, president of the Memorial and Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital Foundations, emphasized the transformative impact of community support, stating that every dollar raised creates opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities to thrive. The program serves individuals living with physical disabilities resulting from various conditions including stroke, spinal cord or brain injury, and amputation. Activities encompass a wide range of adaptive sports such as wheelchair tennis, adaptive bowling, cycling, rowing, mountain biking, and fishing, supporting participants in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

The event's success was bolstered by numerous community sponsors including Memorial Hospital Pembroke Medical Staff, Strive Recreational Therapy, OPC Prosthetic Centers, and Hanger Clinic. Additional support came from Greenpoint Building, Memorial Hospital Miramar Medical Staff, Genset Fire and Security, Price Family Foundation, and several other local businesses and organizations. The Memorial Foundation, which played a leading role in organizing the event, focuses on raising philanthropic funds to assist patients and families while underwriting programs, facilities, and equipment throughout the Memorial Healthcare System. More information about the foundation's work can be found at https://mhs.net/give-back/memorial-foundation.

For those interested in participating in future events or learning more about the annual Bowl-A-Thon, additional details are available at https://memorialrehabbowlathon.org. The continued growth of adaptive sports programming demonstrates the community's commitment to inclusion and accessibility, providing vital opportunities for physical activity, social connection, and personal achievement among individuals with disabilities. This ongoing support system helps participants build confidence, develop new skills, and maintain active lifestyles despite physical challenges.