PHILADELPHIA, PA–(Marketwire – November 22, 2010) – Variety – The Children’s Charity of Greater Philadelphia has been providing programs and services for children with disabilities in the region since 1935. Variety’s goal is to empower its children to reach beyond their disabilities and live life with choice. 

One way they make this possible is through their partnership with the Blue Cross River Rink, which provides private skating sessions for children with disabilities. Children with physical disabilities are given the opportunity to skate using modified sleds. 

Developed in Scandinavia, skaters with lower limb disabilities sit on a specially designed sled equipped with regulation skate blades. Sled skaters use two “grip sticks” with metal-spiked tips to propel themselves along the ice, or skaters can be assisted by someone who pushes the skater on the ice with the aid of a handlebar attached to the back of the sled. They control the sled skate by propelling themselves along the ice.

Children with developmental disabilities are given a private session where the ice is open only to them. This allows them to skate in private sessions with parents and/or instructors. These children can enjoy skating without distractions or crowds in a safe environment.

WHO?
Variety – The Children’s Charity, the children they serve, and the Blue Cross RiverRink

WHAT?
Offering public skating sessions for children with physical and developmental disabilities

WHERE?
Blue Cross RiverRink at Penn’s Landing (Columbus Boulevard at Market Street).

WHEN?
Sled Skating Kickoff Party — Saturday, January 8, 2011, from 10 a.m. – Noon
Lessons available on designated Sunday Mornings (9:30-10:30 a.m.) by reservation

WHY?
To provide a fun and safe recreational activity to children with disabilities. The Blue Cross RiverRink is one of the few facilities in this area that provides this unique opportunity to the community. For more information, please call 215.925.RINK or email [email protected]

*Variety – The Children’s Charity recently changed its name from Variety Club.