Tell us about your organization.
Walk with Austin was formed in 2018 as a family’s response to realizing how few opportunities there are for special needs kids to have fun and feel included. Playgrounds, in particular, are very triggering for parents of differently abled kids because they are a universal example of a place for kids to play and have fun. But when playgrounds aren’t accessible to kids with physical disabilities or inclusive to kids with developmental delays, then they become a place of heartache and not fun. That’s where Walk with Austin’s big goal of helping fund an ALL-ABILITIES playground in EDH came into view.
Since forming in 2018, WWA has gifted a $17k LiteGait treadmill to the California Children’s Services physical therapy clinic at Rolling Hills Middle School, gifted 4 adaptive trykes to kids in El Dorado County ($1500 each) and raised $80k of our $250k goal for the playground. Lots of successes and lots of room to grow!
What is the reason(s) for partnering with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference?
Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference is established in our community and has great experience with fundraising and community partnerships. Walk with Austin is newer and will benefit greatly from the mentorship and volunteer capacity of Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference. We feel very fortunate to have this opportunity.
What has your experience been like working with Hands4Hope youth?
The students we’re working with at Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference have been an incredible example of service minded youth who are engaged, professional and enthusiastic about the betterment of our community.
What are the typical tasks/responsibilities our youth perform when working with Walk with Austin?
Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference volunteers will help with a couple of big Walk with Austin events in 2022, helping from the beginning with setting program goals all the way through the implementation and success of the actual event. Everything from marketing, event logistics, being buddies to our athletes to swag sales - we will rely on Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference youth throughout the Spring Walk & Roll and the
Fall Kids TRY-athlon.
Has your experience working with Hands4Hope - Youth Making A Difference differed from your experience working with youth other service organizations? If so, how?
We haven’t worked with other youth organizations, we’re excited to have your creativity and enthusiasm on our team this year.