12/30/2013
Hello everyone,
I founded Wilderness Matters, Inc. with the belief that that nature is an essential part of human existence. This is especially true for people with disabilities where recreation and active leisure pursuits are vital for rehabilitation from illness or injury, prevention of disease, longevity and improved quality of life. By applying principles of universal design and fiercely adhering to values of inclusion and respect for independence Wilderness Matters, Inc. strives to transform lives by helping people with disabilities, of all ages, access and fully engage outdoor recreation experiences.
I NEED YOUR HELP
I’m writing to request your help. Help for us to receive a federal Recreation Trails Program grant, which, in turn, helps us, build an accessible nature experience that creates a model of success. If you support our project I need you to write a letter of support.
What can you say? In order to be selected to receive the Recreational Trails Program Grant we must demonstrate the following:
• That a need for accessible trails, coupled with access to outdoor activities and experiences exist;
• That Wilderness Matters, Inc. has recruited input from a variety of people and perspectives (in fact we have conducted specific trail research from The National Parks Service, The US Forest Service and four specific “model” municipal trail systems and have consulted with a variety of people with mobility, sensory and cognitive disabilities); and
• That you support this project.
Your letter should be sent to me.
[email protected]
Or
Jack McMahan
1713 Huntington Ave
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73116
It can be a hard copy paper document or a digital attachment to an email to me provided that the digital letter is signed.
The letter should be addressed to:
The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department
Division of State Parks – Federal Grants Section
120 North Robinson Avenue, Suite 600
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73102
Questions or comments? Please send them along.
Thanks for your help.
Jack
PS.
For those of you who may not recall the details of our plan, here is a very brief summary of what we plan to accomplish at Martin Park Nature Center this fall:
Phase 1 of the Martin Nature Park project includes 3 key elements
➢ Approximately .65 miles of sustainable trail improvements. We will carefully widen, resurface (using organic materials) and where the opportunity exists, add new trail features including rock retaining walls, shaded rest areas, red cedar boardwalks, viewing stations and natural seating areas that will significantly enhance the trail experience for everyone while simultaneously simplifying safe trail use and park access for people with sensory, physical and cognitive disabilities.
➢ Design, construct and strategically position a tactile map and approximately 8 interpretive exhibits that are exacting, colorful, elements of this park’s unique flora and fauna. These exhibits are meant to be hands-on and informative (including the use of braille), facilitating learning and exploration for everyone, especially people with no or limited vision.
➢ Develop and host a new communication and navigation smartphone/tablet application that will facilitate independent navigation and, with the release of GPS triggered information, enhance robust, self-paced learning and exploration for everyone. As an option, for visitors who may not have a smartphone, or choose not to use it, we will provide loaned iPods. Our rich application is provided free of charge and belongs to the visitor who may take it home to share with family and friends or into the classroom where it may serve as a unique learning tool.
