Allina Health Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute hosts one-of-a-kind adaptive sports expo

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (Apr. 09, 2024) — Allina Health Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute (CKRI) is hosting a free, one-of-a-kind event showcasing a wide range of adaptive sports and recreational programs across the region. The Discover Abilities Expo, presented by Coloplast will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 20 at the University of Minnesota Recreation and Wellness Center in Minneapolis. People interested in attending can register here.

This hands-on event is designed for people of all ages and abilities, giving attendees a chance to try some of the adaptive sports - including rock climbing, wheelchair basketball and more - as they learn about all the opportunities available across the state of Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin. Over 60 organizations will be represented at the Discover Abilities Expo.

“Being active benefits the mind, body and soul. The Discover Abilities Expo is the perfect event to come and learn what activities are available locally. With 60 plus organizations attending, there is something for everyone,” said Megan Welty, senior program specialist with Allina Health CKRI. “We are so lucky to live in an area that offers a variety of options, including adaptive skiing, water skiing, soccer, tennis, golf and so much more. This event gives you a chance to check out numerous activities and organizations in one place.”

Building upon the legacies of Sister Kenny and Courage Center, CKRI and its Adaptive Sports and Recreation program have been championing inclusivity when it comes to sports for many years. CKRI Adaptive Sports and Recreation has become a Paralympic hub, with several current Paralympians beginning their athletic careers at CKRI.

“I can say with confidence that I wouldn't be where I am today without the doors that Courage Kenny opened for me,” said Josie Aslakson, Team USA Wheelchair Basketball athlete and Paralympian. “Playing wheelchair basketball at Courage Kenny also provided a source of community I desperately needed as a kid with a disability growing up in rural Minnesota.

"For community members, families and clinicians, the Discover Abilities Expo provides a comprehensive look at the variety of adaptive sports and recreational activities available for people looking to have fun, be competitive or rehab an injury. The event will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of Minnesota Recreation and Wellness Center.

Allina Health is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of illness and enhancing the greater health of individuals, families and communities throughout Minnesota and western Wisconsin. A nonprofit health care system, Allina Health cares for patients from beginning to end-of-life through its 90+ clinics, 12 hospital campuses, 14 retail pharmacies, and many specialty care centers and specialty medical services, home care, and emergency medical transportation services. Learn more at allinahealth.org and join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.