St. Johns County parks program won $55,000 federal startup grant to fund adaptive recreation for disabled veterans

On County Conversations, Ryan Kaine, director of parks and recreation for St. Johns County, described a county initiative to expand adaptive recreation for disabled military veterans and said the program received a $55,000 federal startup grant to buy adaptive equipment.

"They received a grant for $55,000 in federal funding for startup for adaptive programming to be able to buy the equipment," Kaine said, describing adaptive kayaks, pedal-capable craft and other gear that allow people with different disabilities to participate in kayaking, paddleboarding, archery and fishing programs. He said adaptive archery, art programs, pickleball lessons and fishing events are among offerings tailored for veterans.

Kaine credited the county's outdoor recreation team and a staff member he named as "Kelly" for driving the effort and finding individualized solutions: "If you let her know what your disability is, she's going to find a way to get you involved in the recreation program." He said the programs were pursued "with the Board of County Commissioners' direction" and that the equipment helped the department reach veterans who otherwise might not participate.

Kaine characterized the effort as an opportunity to connect with veterans and acknowledge their service through accessible recreation. He said more information about adaptive offerings is available through the parks department.