Outdoor hospitality giant Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) has recently announced a significant partnership with GRIT Freedom Chair to enhance accessibility in outdoor adventures by introducing GRIT’s all-terrain wheelchairs at selected KOA locations, including their headquarters in Billings, Montana.
This initiative is a response to the findings of KOA’s Outdoor Accessibility Report, which highlighted that 38% of campers today have a physical disability, underscoring the urgent need for improved accessibility in outdoor settings.
The GRIT Freedom Chair, a product designed by engineers from MIT, will bridge the gap between a traditional wheelchair and a mountain bike. This design enables users to traverse unpaved paths, including trails, boardwalks, and sandy beaches, thus opening up new avenues for outdoor exploration for individuals with mobility challenges.
“The GRIT Freedom Chair surpassed my expectations in durability and versatility. I was able to effortlessly navigate terrains that often challenge conventional, light-duty motorized wheelchairs,” Randy Howell, KOA’s assistant vice president of Risk Management, said, as quoted in a press release. Howell personally experienced the chair’s capabilities by using the Freedom Chair on paved, gravel, and dirt trails.
The partnership between KOA and GRIT last summer was a mutual recognition of the outdoors as a space for everyone. The Freedom Chair was tested at the Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine.
“The chair enhanced my outdoor experience while allowing me to maintain an active lifestyle despite my mobility challenges,” Howell added.
For the 2024 season, KOA plans to conduct a beta test of the Freedom Chair at the Terramor property. The chair will be included in the resort’s complimentary gear lending program.
“Our partnership with GRIT Freedom Chair is a crucial step forward in our mission to ensure the outdoors is accessible to all,” Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA said.
Imagine the KOA and GRIT Freedom Chair partnership shattering barriers to outdoor exploration for all. It’s a transformative game-changer!
That partnership truly breaks down barriers and opens up outdoor fun for everyone! I heard from a friend how the GRIT Freedom Chair is a game-changer. It’s fantastic to see more accessibility options for exploring the outdoors. Keep on breaking those barriers!
Isn’t it cool that the GRIT Freedom Chair is not only enhancing outdoor accessibility but also designed to be easily transportable for users to enjoy various outdoor trips? The partnership between KOA and GRIT reflects a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. It’s fantastic to see plans to expand the availability of the Freedom Chair to more locations in the future, making outdoor experiences more enjoyable for everyone!
Thrilling news for outdoor enthusiasts with mobility challenges – KOA and GRIT Freedom Chair are teaming up to enhance accessibility and empower individuals to explore the great outdoors.
This collaboration opens up captivating opportunities for outdoor adventures. Ready to hit the trails?
It’s remarkable to see KOA’s partnership with GRIT Freedom Chair to enhance outdoor accessibility. The plan to provide training and support for staff, along with gathering feedback from outdoor accessibility advocates, shows a commitment to continuously improve accessibility. It’s reassuring to know that KOA is working to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience for campers using all-terrain wheelchairs. This initiative will undoubtedly make outdoor adventures more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Such an inspiring collaboration! KOA and GRIT Freedom Chair are transforming outdoor accessibility, opening up new adventures for everyone.
How awesome is this? KOA’s partnership with GRIT Freedom Chair isn’t just about accessibility. It shows a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring everyone can enjoy the outdoors. Their beta test in 2024 sets a splendid example for the industry.
Completely excited about KOA’s partnership with GRIT Freedom Chair! It’s a significant step toward inclusive outdoor experiences.