PossAbility Unlimited, formerly Camp PossAbility(www.possabilityunlimited.org) provides Community, Adaptation, Respite and Education (CARE) for individuals with spinal cord injuries through retreats and an educational video platform called Paralysis Support (www.paralysis-support.org).
The nonprofit is based in Fort Wayne.
PossAbility provides the only spinal cord specific retreat in the Midwest. During each retreat, PossAbility provides an immersive experience for up to 10 individuals with spinal cord injuries plus caregivers for those who need them and a team of volunteers, according to a provided news release. Activities at the retreats include outdoor adventures (e.g. adapted climbing, zipline or boating), personal growth opportunities (e.g. resume building, mock interviews) and medical support classes. In the last year, PossAbility has hosted 14 individuals with spinal cord injuries, four caregivers and 16 volunteers from 10 states, representing a diverse population of Black, Hispanic and Caucasian participants.
Laura, a C4/5 quadriplegic who attends the retreats, said, "There are barriers and challenges that a person without a disability would never understand. This is why it is so important to have a community of people who do understand what you experience in your daily life. Finding that community of people is not easy which is why I feel fortunate to have found PossAbility Unlimited. The opportunity to network with others with disability, engage with a nurse who provides specific health information for someone like me, and to participate in activities with our limitations in mind is rare, needed, and a treat."
Despite its impact, PossAbility, like many other nonprofits, took a financial hit after the pandemic followed by changes in the economy and is now working hard to recover. It is going to require the support of the community to keep the nonprofit running and thriving.
That is where Alchemy comes in. Liz Reed, owner and head chef at Alchemy, is the caterer for the PossAbility retreats. She is hosting a special three course brunch at her new restaurant to help provide funds for PossAbility's next retreat in April. Alchemy provides a "luxe dining experience in the context of wanderlust.” Tickets and business sponsorships are still available. They are currently filling the noon brunch and will then fill the 10 a.m. when noon is full, the release states.
Purchase tickets at https://shorturl.at/MCY9d
Can't attend the fundraiser but still want to help? Donate at https://gofund.me/c6b4bdbd or https://possabilityunlimited.org/donate/ or purchase supplies at https://www.amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/NUUGPASFDH62