Berkeley’s BORP promotes inclusivity through cycling

October 29, 2020

Article by Gina Gotsill, Bay City News Foundation

BORP’s Director of Development, Elaine Beale was interviewed for this article which highlights how BORP pivoted to virtual programming and a virtual fundraiser – Revolution 2020 – due to the pandemic.

Article is featured on Local News Matters – Bay Area

Throughout the pandemic, the BORP Youth Wheelchair Basketball Team has continued to stay connected through weekly Zoom meetings. Led by coach Trooper Johnson, the content of the meetings has expanded beyond basketball, and the youth have been able to get to know each other even more.

Participants also discovered that their talents extend far beyond basketball. In fact, the team is full of musicians, actors, and activists. Many of the meetings have opened with mini concerts, allowing each of the interested athletes an opportunity to share their passions off the court, and to develop a new and deeper appreciation for each other. 

2020 has, of course, been an eventful year. And while the youth are not able to play sports in the gym, they’ve had lively discussions about many of the critical topics that have come up during the pandemic. Conversations have covered issues like racial justice, inclusion, and the importance of voting. Four of our recently graduating athletes registered and voted for the first time this year, something we are all proud of!

Trooper continues to follow up with the youth and offers academic support when needed. BORP has also issued equipment to some of the youth.

Naturally, everyone is looking forward to getting back to the gym as soon as possible. But in the meantime, the BORP youth report that the program has been critical in keeping them active and connected during this really challenging time.

BORP is thrilled to announce that, with a grant from the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation, we are launching a new program designed to increase opportunities for fitness and recreation for those in the spinal cord injury community (though activities will be available to all).

Offerings will include virtual classes, kayaking, adaptive cycling, interpretive hikes, sports clinics, mentoring, and an Adaptive Sports & Recreation Festival.

Says Cynthia Noonan, the BORP SCI Program Manager, “Living with a spinal cord injury myself, I know from firsthand experience how getting involved in the BORP community can be life changing. We are really excited to launch this initiative and would love to get input from the SCI community so we can best serve their needs and interests.” Feel free to send your thoughts and suggestions to Cynthia at cynthia@borp.org.