Frequently Asked Questions
What types of disabilities do you serve?
We work with children and young adults with physical and developmental disabilities including but not limited to: ADD, autism spectrum disorder, bi-polar disorder, behavioral disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, and visual impairment.
Our mission is to serve as many children and young adults as we can regardless of disability. Please contact us with any questions or concerns.
How much does it cost to participate?
The majority of our programs are offered free of charge. Our goal is to provide fun, high-quality programs without creating addition financial burdens for the family.
What sports do you offer?
We currently offer Basketball, Downhill Skiing, Soccer, Swimming, and Tennis. Please contact us if you have a suggestion for a new program.
Where do you offer programs?
The majority of our programs are available in Central New York. We offer basketball, soccer, swimming and tennis clinics in Oneonta, NY and support several skiing programs at Windham Mountain in the Catskill Mountains. We also offer a soccer clinic in Allentown, PA and are working to expand our program offerings in Pennsylvania.
What should I expect the day of the program?
Expect to have fun! Our clinics are designed to give all participants a chance to play regardless of their ability. We will work closely with participants to teach them basic skills and encourage them to keep practicing.
Each clinic is unique but most follow the same model: the session begins with warm-ups and skill drills; participants are divided into small groups for relays, games and more skill-building; then we finish with a scrimmage match. Afterwards, the participants and volunteers enjoy a pizza party and awards ceremony where we recognize each participant for their accomplishments during the clinic.
You do not need to bring any special equipment. Dress in comfortable, loose clothing appropriate for the season and wear sneakers. You may want to bring sunscreen, bug spray or a sweatshirt depending on the weather. We will contact you the day of the clinic in case of inclement weather.
Who are the volunteers who assist with the programs?
We work with Hartwick College and Muhlenberg College athletic teams to recruit volunteers for our clinics. The college athletes work one-on-one to share their skills with the program participants. They are enthusiastic coaches and cheerleaders, giving plenty of encouragement to the participants as they learn a new sport or improve their skills.
A program is not offered in my area.
Please contact us if you are interested in helping the EDD Memorial Fund to start up an adaptive sports program in your area. All you need is access to a group of willing volunteers and participants. We currently work with college athletic teams to coordinate our adapted sports clinics. You can read more about volunteer opportunities on the Volunteer page.
Are your programs insured?
Yes.
How can I help EDD Memorial Fund sports programs reach more young people with disabilities?
There are lots of ways you can help including making a donation, telling your friends about our organization or volunteering to help at a clinic or special event. Click here for more information about how you can help.
If you have additional questions please contact us.