On August 8 we were able to host an event that brought much attention to accessible outdoor recreation. With the help of the John Dillon Park staff and the accessibility advisory committee as well as members of the DEC, there was definitely a rise in awareness of what Accessibility looks like, and what is available for accessible recreation throughout the state. Activities and exhibits included; Adaptive fishing clinic, accessible camping and campfire cooking demonstration, interpretive walk with nature guide,  information about accessible facilities on state lands in the Adirondacks.

Representatives from organizations such as the Inclusive Recreation Resource Center , TRAID (adaptive equipment loan program), and information about camping with children with special needs.

Over 60 people were in attendance representing a broad array of community organizations such as  the Messina/Malone independent living center, Southern Adirondack Independent Living center, the New York State independent council, North County Community College and SUNY Cortland. As well as 30 people with disabilities from all over New York and some from as far as the Bronx.

The goal was to introduce people to John Dillon Park and what level of accessibility is possible and to increase awareness of the needs and opportunities for accessible outdoor recreation in New York State and facilitate dialogue on how to make NYS natural areas more inclusive and accessible to those with limited access to the outdoors.