National Ability Center now accepting applications for 2023 girls rafting trip

Sign up to join the National Ability Center's girls rafting trip. Photo: Paddy Pohlod

PARK CITY, Utah – The National Ability Center (NAC) announced on Wednesday that it was the recipient of a generous $10,000 gift from the 4Girls Foundation, an organization that invests in initiatives that strengthen and elevate the voice of girls and women by providing a variety of enriching opportunities.

The donation will be used to fully fund the second annual rafting trip for women on the Green River located in Southern Utah. This year’s trip, called the Women’s Independence in the Backcountry River Trip, will be held from August 27-31, and is currently accepting 15 female participants.

 “We had an immensely successful trip last year, changing many women’s lives and creating lasting change for members of the community with different levels of abilities and backgrounds,” said Katie Cook, grants and development manager at the National Ability Center. “Labyrinth Canyon will provide a serene, peaceful experience for participants. This unique rafting experience, especially this particular portion of the Green River, is made possible due to the amount of snow the area received this past winter season. ”

One special aspect about this year’s trip is that Labyrinth Canyon has lowered the minimum age requirement to five years old. This new change will allow more mother-daughter duos, friends and families to participate on this trip, furthering the reach of inclusivity within the adaptive nation.

The National Ability Center is grateful for its partnership with 4Girls Foundation as it supports the NAC mission of empowering individuals of all abilities through increasing self-esteem, confidence and lifetime skills through sport, recreation and educational programs.

“The National Ability Center’s goal of providing adaptive recreation in a way that is accessible to all, aligns perfectly with our guiding values of equality, diversity, respect and community, so we are excited and honored to continue our support of this amazing organization,” said Sara Perkins, 4Girls Foundation board of directors. “When 4Girls learned about the Women’s Independence in the Backcountry River Trip, we immediately knew that it was something we would want to be a part of. The first trip in 2022 allowed women of all abilities to explore the outdoors and the backcountry in a way many people will never have the opportunity to experience. It is a perfect example of the benefits adaptive recreation has on physical health, mental health and general well-being. We are excited to support the Women’s Independence in the Backcountry River Trip for its second year and to partner with the NAC for years to come.”

If you are interested in applying for this year’s trip, please contact info@discovernac.org.