Audubon Society of Rhode Island Receives $10,000 Quality of Life Grant From the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation for Automatic Doors at the Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol, RI
SMITHFIELD, RI (March 4, 2024) – Audubon Society of Rhode Island is proud to announce that it has been awarded $10,000 as part of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) 2023 1st Cycle Direct Effect Quality of Life grants. Fifty grants totaling $1,017,772 were awarded.
The Quality of Life Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower individuals living with paralysis. Since the Quality of Life Grants Program’s inception, more than 3,770 grants totaling $43 million have been awarded. Funding for this program was made possible through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living (ACL grant #90PRRC0006-02-00).
The grant has been used fornew automatic doors at the public entrance to the Audubon Society of Rhode Island Nature Center and Aquarium in Bristol, RI. “We would like to thank the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Quality of Life Grants Program for this generous grant that provides access to nature and greater independence to individuals living with paralysis and mobility issues in our community,” said Jeff Hall, Audubon Executive Director. “Automatic doors allow people to access the Nature Center without needing to physically open traditional doors and are designed with a larger width to accommodate wheelchairs. Accessibility and inclusivity are priorities for Audubon, as we believe that all people deserve to experience the benefits found in nature.”
The grant program also provided funding for a trailside bench and two accessible picnic tables that will be located on the beautiful grounds at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium. Visitors may relax with family and friends at the accessible tables and bench, observe birds and wildlife, and enjoy time outdoors surrounded by nature.
The Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center has several grants under the Quality of Life program awarding grants in different category areas, varying in different amounts. The Direct Effect Quality of Life grants program funds organizations up to $25,000 to support a wide range of projects and activities that will impact individuals living with paralysis and their families.