FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Slippery Rock University Wins 2011 Tommy Wilson Grant

RESTON, VA, March 31, 2011 - Slippery Rock University has been named a winner of the 2011 Tommy Wilson Grant. The award, given by the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (AAPAR), honors Tommy Wilson, who was born with cerebral palsy and passed away in 1974 at the age of 16. It was set up by Dr. George T. Wilson and his wife, Irene, in memory of their son. 

"We're so pleased to be making this contribution to Slippery Rock University's adapted programs" says Mariah Burton Nelson, the AAPAR executive director. "AAPAR is committed to promoting recreational opportunities for people with disabilities, in keeping with the wishes of Tommy Wilson's family." 

Slippery Rock University (in Slippery Rock, PA) has been coordinating Adapted Physical Activity programs for individuals with disabilities for over 20 years. The Kids in Action afterschool program was created five years ago for children with autism, related disorders, and their siblings. Kids in Action promotes physical activity, mentoring, socialization with peers, and encourages healthy eating. The program takes place in the gymnasium, natatorium, the sensory lab, and at The Storm Harbor Equestrian Center. 

The grant money of about $500 will go toward the purchase of new specialized adapted equipment for the natatorium and gymnasium.

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Contact:
Mariah Burton Nelson
mnelson@aahperd.org
703-476-3430

AAPAR, one of 5 national associations that make up the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), serves more than 8,600 professors, teachers, trainers, and community leaders who promote meaningful physical activity and recreation across the lifespan. AAPAR advocates fitness and fun for every body, with a focus on inclusive community based programs.

AAHPERD, an alliance of five national associations, six district associations, and a Research Consortium, provides its members with a comprehensive and coordinated array of resources, support, and programs to help practitioners improve their skills to further the health and well-being of the American public. It is the largest organization of professionals involved in physical education, recreation, fitness, dance, health promotion and all specialties related to achieving an active, healthy lifestyle. AAHPERD serves 20,000 members and has its headquarters in Reston, Virginia, 25 miles west of Washington DC. To learn more, visit www.aahperd.org.