FTA Staff and Volunteers recently participated in a training on how to use the Joëlette, an all-terrain wheelchair with a single wheel, which allows any person with a disability to go hiking with the help of at least two guides (sherpas).
We partnered with Luke5Adventures, an Ohio-based organization who have been utilizing “Rosie” the Joëlette for many years. They are experts in taking hikers of all abilities in terrain all over the world. They shared their knowledge and expertise with us, and we're inspired to start offering hikes for individuals with disabilities in the near future. The FTAccess program is still a seedling, but we're excited to see it grow!
FTAccess will rely heavily on volunteers to make the program a success, and we are looking to build a network of enthusiastic, dedicated, community-minded individuals and groups looking to make a big impact in the lives of others. Together, we can make the Florida Trail accessible to a large part of our community. To do so, we need volunteers with a wide variety of skills, especially those with medical backgrounds, physical and occupational therapists, and anyone with experience working with people with disabilities. There are many other ways to work with FTAccess so, if this is something you are interested in, please reach out to our team at
[email protected]
Once we have a solidly trained cohort of volunteers and staff, the Joëlette will be traveling around the state offering hikes during work parties, regularly scheduled hikes and special events. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities in 2024!
