Article
Why inclusive outdoor recreation is possible and necessary
We need more inclusive outdoor recreation spaces but many don't think it's possible. Perkins in Asia works with parents to show others how.
Imagine this. You’re in the beautiful rainforest mountains of the Philippines. You’re one day into the hike and you begin to feel the sun warm your neck when the guide says, “We’re almost there!”. Your heart is pumping as excitement builds.
In May 2024, a PAVIC team of six young adults with blindness and low vision and their parents hiked the highest peak in Luzon at 2926 meters, or 9600 feet. For many in the group, this was the first time they managed to climb this level of altitude.
“When I reached the summit, [I] realized that I can accomplish things I thought I would never be able to achieve.”
Ysabelle Sotto, a 17-year-old participant in the Mt. Pulag group hike
For many people who are blind — or have other disabilities — it’s challenging to access outdoor recreational activities like hiking because they aren’t accessible. What is needed to make sports and outdoor recreational activities inclusive for the whole community?
Climbing mountains and jumping over obstacles
Across Asia, a vast network of local partners work with Perkins to facilitate sports and inclusive outdoor recreational activities. From schools, orphanages, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to health services, universities, governments, and families, Perkins creates lasting change in communities through partnership.
In the Philippines, we support parent groups, who strongly advocate for inclusion and the rights of their children. Together, Parent Advocates of Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC) and Perkins have organized inclusive family camps, obstacle course race training, and major hiking trips.
For Angelica Torres, a longtime participant, her passion for climbing began after receiving her diagnosis. Her parents, Roden and Mary Grace, sought after resources and came across Perkins and PAVIC. Since joining the group, they have noticed a positive difference in Angelica.
“We have access to a supportive community of families facing similar challenges, as well as resources and strategies to help my child.”
Mary Grace Torres
In addition to hiking trips, Perkins and PAVIC promote obstacle course races like the Spartan Race in the Philippines. Angelica said she enjoyed the Spartan Race the most because of its challenging nature. She even suffered an injury early on in the race. Despite the pain, she persevered with support from her coaches. Angelica finds the thrill in overcoming each obstacle and pushing herself to reach new heights.
Since age 13, Angelica has conquered 21 summits in the Philippines and is proud of her accomplishments: “[I’m the] first female blind individual to reach the summit of Mt. Apo and the first blind person to navigate the circumferential route of Mt. Apo, the highest mountain in the Philippines.” Angelica is now 21 and in her 4th year of college majoring in Special Education.
Advocating for more inclusive spaces
It’s no secret that physical activity is healthy for human development and mental well-being. When kids with disabilities unlock these opportunities, they build confidence, strength, and a love for sports and the outdoors.
Parents play a crucial role in creating inclusive outdoor recreation spaces and educational opportunities. Perkins harnesses the power of families to encourage legislators at every level to pay attention to the needs of people with disabilities, and it’s been working.
- We’ve met with the Department of Education in Manila to explore strategies to make learning accessible for every child with disabilities in the Philippines.
- By 2025, the City of San Fernando is committed to pave the way for a more inclusive community.
- We’ve also solidified partnerships with the City of San Fernando Mayor’s office, Lorma Colleges, University of Santo Tomas, and parent groups.
The work doesn’t stop here. We’re committed to helping children with disabilities find their place in the world. Children like Ysabelle and Angelica can’t wait and we wouldn’t want them to. Join our community today and help empower tomorrow’s change.
Help children with disabilities find their place in the world.
Through inclusive outdoor recreation and accessible sports, we’re helping children with disabilities across Asia build strength and confidence. Your support helps us continue this critical work.
