Washington, DC - Congressman John D. Dingell (D-MI15) announced today that the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living will receive a Recreational Program Grant from the U.S. Department of Education worth $140,000.  This grant is intended to promote recreational activities for people with disabilities as an aid in their employment, independence, and community integration.  The program is intended to run for three years.  The grant will be for the first year of the program.

 “The Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living deserves this federal investment for the important work that they do," Congressman Dingell said.  "I have long believed that those with disabilities should have equal opportunities to live and work in their communities and this program helps accomplish that goal.  By funding sports, recreation and leisure activities, people with disabilities will have new opportunities to gain confidence in their abilities, while building the skills necessary to become further integrated into the community.  As we continue to work on the CLASS Act, we must also continue to support and further other programs that improve and create independence for the disable.  I applaud the U.S. Department of Education for selecting the Ann Arbor Center for Independent Living, this grant will do much for the community and for the Center and I commend them for their good work.”

Glen Ashlock, Project Coordinator of the Center said: “This grant will help us expand our recreation programs to include people who currently have few opportunities.  It provides us the chance to work with other recreation providers to help them redesign their programs to be more inclusive.  Improving access for people with disabilities to participate in their community will help them create social connections that will benefit them and the community.”

 The program is slated to begin on October 1, 2009 and is expected to reach more than 500 people with disabilities in the Ann Arbor community.

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