For Immediate Release:
Webster Water Ski Collective Receives MOOR Grant to Enhance Inclusive and Accessible Water Recreation

November 15, 2024 – Webster, MA — The Webster Water Ski Collective is proud to announce that it has been awarded a grant from the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR) to support its mission of providing inclusive and accessible water skiing opportunities for individuals of all abilities.

The MOOR grant program aims to promote Massachusetts as a premier destination for outdoor recreation by fostering inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility in recreational activities. This funding will enable the Webster Water Ski Collective to expand its adaptive water skiing programs, ensuring that more community members can experience the joy and benefits of water sports.

“We are thrilled to receive this support from MOOR,” said Ryan DesRoches, Director of Adaptive Skiing at the Webster Water Ski Collective. “This grant will allow us to enhance our adaptive equipment, train additional instructors, and host events that welcome participants of all backgrounds and abilities to enjoy water skiing on Webster Lake.”

Instructor Shelby with an Adaptive Water Ski Participant

Instructor Shelby with an Adaptive Water Ski Participant

The Webster Water Ski Collective has been dedicated to making water skiing accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities, veterans, and underserved populations. With the assistance of the MOOR grant, the organization plans to:

  • Upgrade Adaptive Equipment: Invest in state-of-the-art adaptive water skiing gear to accommodate a wider range of physical needs.
  • Instructor Training: Provide specialized training for instructors to ensure safe and supportive experiences for all participants.
  • Community Outreach: Organize inclusive events and workshops to engage diverse groups and promote water safety and recreation.

    The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation is committed to making the state’s outdoor spaces welcoming and accessible to all residents and visitors. By supporting organizations like the Webster Water Ski Collective, MOOR aims to break down barriers to outdoor recreation and encourage healthy, active lifestyles.

“There is incredible work being done by our partners across the state, and we’re proud to elevate and amplify their efforts of making the outdoors more inclusive,” said  MOOR Director Paul Jahnige. “Outdoor recreation is not just about having fun (although it is) — it also plays a vital role in fostering a healthy, vibrant, and welcoming Massachusetts.”

For more information about the Webster Water Ski Collective and upcoming programs, please visit https://newenglandaterski.org or contact adaptive@newenglandaterski.org.

To read the official press release from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs & The Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation please visit – https://www.mass.gov/news/healey-driscoll-administration-awards-165000-in-grants-to-support-inclusive-and-accessible-outdoor-recreation

About the Webster Water Ski Collective

The Webster Water Ski Collective is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the sport of water skiing and making it accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities. Through community events, instructional programs, and partnerships, the Collective fosters a love for water sports and encourages active participation in outdoor recreation.

About the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation (MOOR)

Established in December 2022, MOOR collaborates with agencies and private partners to promote outdoor activities across the state, including hunting, fishing, horseback riding, paddling, swimming, and more. Outdoor recreation is vital to Massachusetts, contributing $11 billion to the economy, creating over 102,000 jobs, and boosting tourism.  
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/the-massachusetts-office-of-outdoor-recreation

Media Contact

Ryan DesRoches
Director of Adaptive Skiing
Webster Water Ski Collective
adaptive@newenglandaterski.org
774-495-0165