The 4th annual Inclusion on Ice free public skating event will take place from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 9, at Wheeling Park Ice Rink and White Palace.
Augusta Levy Learning Center, Easterseals Rehabilitation Center and the Wheeling Nailers hockey team host the event sponsored by Oglebay Foundation, RED Partnership and the J.B. Chambers Memorial Foundation, among others.
It is an opportunity for people of all ages with and without disabilities to enjoy the ice together.
"The Nailers players and staff are looking forward to another fantastic year of skating and fun at Inclusion on Ice. This is an event that our organization takes a lot of pride in, and the players especially enjoy getting the chance to meet and interact with those who are new to being on the ice," Nailers community relations director D.J. Abisalih said.
Volunteers from the Nailers, Wheeling Lightningbirds and Ohio Valley Roller Derby, among others, will be on hand to assist people on the ice. Wheelchairs are welcome; adaptive equipment including walkers and hockey sleds will be available.
Additional activities inside the White Palace will include a community resource fair, a sensory room provided by Augusta Levy, a photo booth and face painting. Inflatables will be sponsored by Tripp's Fun Zone.
Everyone is welcome, and all activities are free. It's our way of celebrating inclusivity in our community and giving everyone an opportunity to experience the joy of skating,” Betsy Bethel-McFarland, Easterseals marketing director, said.
"Augusta Levy Learning Center is honored to be a part of this event each year. This is another wonderful opportunity to work toward our mission by bringing more inclusive events to our community and families," ALLC development and marketing specialist Taylor Rys said.
Local autism advocate and hockey fan David George conceived the idea several years ago. Augusta Levy, Easterseals, the Nailers and Wheeling Park — along with community sponsors — joined with him to make it a reality. About 150 people attended the first event in 2022, and attendance has grown every year.
As someone who lives with a disability, George's goal is to promote inclusion and awareness because everyone needs “to feel individually known, understood, appreciated and loved,” he said.
"Come join us for a day where anyone and everyone with and without disabilities can join together for a fun-fulfilled day where everyone feels included! Togetherness is wonderful after all!" George said.
For more information, see the Inclusion on Ice event page on Facebook or call Easterseals, 304-242-1390, or Augusta Levy Learning Center, 304-242-6722.
