National Ability Center among Utah recipients of VA adaptive sports grants

PARK CITY, Utah — The National Ability Center is among three Utah organizations receiving federal funding to support adaptive sports programs for veterans and active-duty service members with disabilities.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced Wednesday that it awarded a combined $256,674 to three community-based organizations in Utah as part of $16 million in grants distributed to 91 organizations nationwide.

The VA did not specify how much each Utah organization received in its announcement.

Based in Park City, the National Ability Center provides adaptive recreation opportunities for people with disabilities, including skiing, cycling, climbing, equestrian activities, and water sports. Its programs are designed to make outdoor recreation and sports accessible to people with a range of abilities.

The VA’s Adaptive Sports Grant Program supports organizations that provide recreational and competitive activities to help veterans and service members with disabilities build independence, improve well-being, and maintain active lifestyles.

“Through these grants, we’re strengthening access to adaptive sports programs that make a meaningful difference in the lives of Veterans in the Intermountain West,” said Angela D. Williams, executive director of the VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, in the announcement. “This support expands opportunities for Veterans with disabilities to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others through recreation and competition.”