Weyerhaeuser grant supports DREAM watersports program

DREAM Adaptive Recreation has been awarded a $7,500 grant from The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund to support the nonprofit’s Summer Water Sports Program. The grant will be used to help defray the costs of the program, which aims to empower individuals with disabilities through a variety of water sports.

“Weyerhaeuser is such an important part of our success each year,” shared DREAM Executive Director, Julie Tickle. “Their annual support allows us to provide inclusive lake activities for those living in the Flathead Valley. This past year truly highlighted the importance of outdoor recreation for our physical and mental health. However, individuals with disabilities often face many barriers when it comes to accessing outdoor spaces. DREAM aims to break down barriers and help people with disabilities fully participate and be represented in our outdoor-minded community. We are honored to receive this generous grant and are thrilled that Weyerhaeuser continues to believe in our mission to ensure all community members have access to the many benefits of outdoor recreation.”

The DREAM Water Sports Program will take place July 20-23 at the Thompson Family’s private residence on Echo Lake in Bigfork. July 20-22 is open to individuals ages 5 to adults and their families, including those with physical, cognitive, intellectual and sensory impairments. July 23 is reserved for Military Veterans with disabilities and their family members. Activities will include standard and adaptive water skiing, wake boarding, knee boarding, tubing, paddleboarding, kayaking, boating and swimming. No previous experience is required as staff and volunteers will be on hand to provide support and instruction.

“The mission of the Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund is to improve the quality of life in communities where Weyerhaeuser has a presence,” Weyerhaeuser MDF Plant Manager and Giving Fund committee member Jason Simpson. “We made our first charitable donation in 1903 and have provided more than $243 million in grants through our formal giving program, established in 1948. In both rural and urban settings, we support hundreds of important organizations and programs in the communities where we operate with money, time, skills and resources.”

Weyerhaeuser currently operates three mills in Montana: a lumber mill in Kalispell, a plywood mill in Kalispell and a medium-density fiberboard mill in Columbia Falls.

To learn more about the DREAM Adaptive Recreation and ways to become involved, call (406) 862-1817 or visit www.dreamadaptive.org.