About the Challenge

The "Challenge" is a fun event for Meridian employees and Members to challenge one another to be more active this August. And it's about helping people with physical disabilities in your community do the same by raising funds for the adaptive sports equipment they need to do just that.

About ParaSport® Ontario

ParaSport® Ontario believes there is a sport for everyBODY! We help Ontarians with physical disabilities find the adapted sport of their choice
in their community. We connect participants and athletes with coaches and clubs, ambassadors and adaptive equipment. you name it, whatever they need to get, or be, more active.

Meridian Play to Podium Fund

ParaSport® Ontario helps Ontario's disability community by raising funds for the adaptive sports equipment individuals need to "get in the game." We do it through our Meridian Play to Podium Fund. The "Challenge" is a great way or your branch and your Members to contribute. Money raised in your community stays in your community!

Who are You Helping?

People in your community like past Play to Podium Fund recipients Molly, and Yaw and Sooni, Wilson and Paige, and Chase!

Molly

Molly joined her skating mates for lessons in her small town's learn-to-skate program. "Seeing the joy on Molly's face is what it is all about," said Pina Gilmour, Skate Canada coach. "It is letting kids like Molly know that, yes, they are equal. Other kids on the ice look up to Molly and are inspired by her. Friendships are being built around the importance of inclusion. We are a rural club and proof that anything is possible."

Chase

"We skied as a family today and it was amazing," Chase's mom Susie wrote to tell us after receiving an alpine bi-ski for her son. "Chase loved it. I can't believe this will actually be a regular family activity for us! Chase and his brother want to say a special thank you. Chase is so thrilled to be able to ski alongside his five-year-old brother! Chase has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This gift is going to be very well loved."

Yaw

Yaw used his African Cycling Championship winnings to open an orphanage in Ghana for physically challenged children. He then cycled 779 km across the country to raise awareness of the difficulties that people with physical disabilities face. Just before immigrating to Canada, his handcycle was damaged in a Para-cycling World Cup race. With a new one from ParaSport Ontario Yaw hopes to represent Canada at the Paralympics.

Sooni

Sooni started playing wheelchair basketball after a friend introduced him to the sport.
His mom Samia says, "I was looking to get Sooni involved in a sport to boost his confidence and for him to socialize. Little did I know it would turn into such an important part of his life!"

Wilson and Paige

The Brock Niagara Penguins had only one racing chair, making it difficult for members to compete or train together. With another one from ParaSport Ontario, two track athletes came out on top with two OFSAA gold medals. Together, Paige and Wilson are pushing toward their athletic dreams.

Who's Next?

There are thousands of disabled people in Ontario who just need a little help to participate. A sledge hockey setup is around $1000.00, a bowling ramp is a few hundred dollars. Your participation in the Meridian Million Minutes Activity Challenge will change this photo to another happy recipient.