Easterseals innovation award funds enhanced accessibility programs

Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore has announced the Bill Adami Fund for Innovation award will support two staff-initiated projects designed to help program participants build and maintain essential life skills through the power of play.

“The Bill Adami Fund for Innovation was created to support innovation in our programs. Staff are invited to submit their most creative ideas to enhance the lives of the people we serve. This fund not only supports our participants, but it is also a tribute to the legacy of Bill Adami and his innovative way of thinking,” said Kenan Sklenar, Easterseals president and CEO. “This year, the award will fund two projects. The first is a Tovertafel table to help our adult day participants throughout the state remain engaged with their peers, and help maintain and improve motor skills. The second is an archery program at Camp Fairlee, adding another accessible option for our campers.”

The Tovertafel table allows care professionals to offer a challenging activity to adults living with intellectual disabilities and seniors with dementia. The Tovertafel has a positive effect on adults with intellectual disabilities by stimulating movement and social interaction while increasing players’ independence. Research has shown that the Tovertafel brings 93% improvement in social interactions, 81% increase in alertness and focus, 68% helping reduce challenging behaviors, and 60% improvement of self-confidence in participants.

“The Tovertafel will help create a fun, accessible and therapeutic experience that enhances motor skills, social interaction and cognitive development while promoting a sense of achievement and enjoyment for participants with diverse physical and intellectual challenges who participate in our adult day programs,” said Sydney Laumeister, Easterseals training and quality assurance manager.

The Camp Fairlee archery program adds another accessible activity for campers of all ages with disabilities who attend Easterseals residential year-round camp in Maryland. An archery stand assist, wheelchair assist, and left and right bows for youth and adults are included in this program to ensure any camper who wants to participate in this activity can do so with help from a trained staff member.

“Archery is an adaptive program that includes everyone, all ages and abilities. Athletes with physical or intellectual disabilities who may otherwise be dissuaded from participating in sports can participate in archery alongside their peers,” said Brandon Pledger, assistant camp director. “Through this opportunity, the boost of self-esteem and confidence can open the door for social skills as campers gain new friends while shooting and sharing their experience.”

“This is my first time doing archery at Camp Fairlee, and I absolutely loved it,” said camper Lincoln Busek of Salisbury, Md.

The Easterseals Bill Adami Fund for Innovation is established at the Delaware Community Foundation.