The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

Oregon Adaptive Sports (OAS) has been providing life-changing outdoor recreation experiences for individuals with all types of disabilities since 1996. The OAS staff, trained instructors and volunteers are certified to work with many disciplines of adaptive sports year-round.

The OAS team builds self-esteem and helps participants gain - or regain - their confidence, whether it's physical or cognitive disabilities, folks in a wheelchair or ambulatory, and those who were outdoor enthusiasts in the past but have grown a bit older and no longer have the confidence to once again tackle those athletic adventures. All of us strive for independence and quality of life - some just need a little helping hand.

Oregon Adaptive Sports is sponsoring a Meet-n-Greet event Thursday, January 3, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sisters Library Community Room. It's an opportunity to learn about this supportive organization, gather information about their options, and meet their volunteers and trained instructors.

If you're looking for an opportunity to ski this year as a participant or as an OAS volunteer, plan to attend this event. The presentation includes a brief video highlighting OAS participants, and there will be examples of OAS' state-of-the-art equipment that accommodates a wide range of abilities. You'll also have an opportunity to see the techniques for adaptive and assisted skiing. OAS staff will explain about the lessons offered at Mount Bachelor and Hoodoo Ski Area and how to sign up for a half-day or full-day OAS ski lesson. Whether you're young or older, a seasoned athlete with a disability or need a ski buddy to help out, OAS is available to help you.

If you're interested in becoming a volunteer for Oregon Adaptive Sports, the Meet-n-Greet is an opportunity to learn about how you can contribute to your community and have fun, too. To learn more about OAS, visit oregonadaptivesports.org or call 541-306-4774.