Saturday event: Day at the range near Bois D'Arc for people with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Southwest Center for Independent Living (SCIL) invites people with disabilities of all ages and their family and friends to the 9th annual “Day at the Range and Outdoor Adventure Fair,” Saturday, June 16, 2012 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Andy Dalton Shooting Range and Outdoor Education Center in Bois D’Arc, Missouri.

“SCIL proudly co-hosts the annual Day at the Range and Outdoor Adventure Fair event to provide recreational opportunities to persons with disabilities that they would not typically have,” says Gary Maddox, SCIL Executive Director.

This annual June event is free of charge to all participants, family members, guests, and volunteers.  Attendees will be provided lunch and drinks.  Pre-registration is required and can be accessed by calling 417-886-1188 or by visiting www.southwestmissouridayattherange.com. In 2011, 320 disabled participants, 449 family members, guests and volunteers attended.

The event is co-hosted by the Missouri Department of Conservation, Southwest Center for Independent Living, Sho-Me Chapter of the National Wildlife Turkey Federation and the Wheelin’ Sportsmen, National Wild Turkey Federation. Our mission is to introduce people with disabilities to the many outdoor activities through education, hands-on opportunities, and assistive technology so that they may choose to participate at their own ability level. Opening the doors for people with disabilities would lead to fulfilling dreams and moving beyond boundaries placed on them. It is our hope that many will know that their dreams can come true - if they will dream and then act upon that dream.

The activities planned are fishing, target shooting with air pellet guns, shotguns, cross and compound bow, wildlife education classes, crafts, and demonstrations from other people with disabilities on possible outdoor activities.  All equipment is provided such as fishing poles, guns and ammunition, bows and arrows, adaptive fishing belts, strong arms, gun rests for wheelchairs, interpreters for the deaf, and aides for those who need one-on-one attention.