Let’s celebrate another great project for the Emerald Coast!
Lord and Son is proud to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Arc of the Emerald Coast Aquatic Center that will be held this Thursday, April 21 at 8:30 a.m. in Fort Walton Beach Everyone is invited to attend!
In 2014, The Arc of the Emerald Coast was awarded a $125,000 IMPACT Northwest Florida grant to build a swimming pool for the physically and developmentally disabled.
WANT TO GO?
The Arc of Emerald Coast Aquatic Center Groundbreaking Ceremony
343 Holmes Boulevard, Fort Walton Beach Florida
The Aquatic Center will be a unique facility in the Panhandle and will include a 1,400 square foot saltwater pool with walk in/wheelchair capability, and a lift. The pool will be heated with an environmentally sensitive aqua dome for the winter months. A 600 square foot dressing/showering facility will be constructed to accommodate both same-sex and opposite-sex caregivers. The Impact 100 Aquatic Center will help us with our mission to create a path from disability to capability by providing exceptional services so people of all ages can work, learn, achieve personal goals and live meaningful lives.
An aquatic center will not only serve recreational needs but also provide the added preventative and rehabilitative health benefits that improve lives. Life for people with disabilities is difficult. Opportunities for social interaction are limited for people who are dependent on others for some of the most basic functions in life, and this facility will provide an exciting and fun forum in which to make new friends. Lack of exercise leads to depression, isolation, obesity, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and increased pain, resulting in a loss of independence. Because the water provides a place where physical inequities are minimized, the odds of engagement and continued participation are greater than in other recreational activities. Studies have shown that aquatic activities improve flexibility, strength, balance, and create muscle tone. Once physical inequities are mitigated, the sense of freedom and belonging contribute to the overall well being and quality of life for those people with disabilities. Our goal is to make this center available for all area residents and visitors with disabilities by reaching out through our visitors centers (similar to the ways we advertise pet-friendly hotels or smoke-free facilities).