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IAGZ 10, WHITBY FREE PRESS, WEDNESDAY, IAY 25, 1988 Brooklin Profile News? Call Veronica Colangelo. Phone 655-8945 Wind Reach offers disabled a nature experience By VERONICA COLANGELO "There is nothing else like it in Canada, Wind Reach Farm is unique," says Gail Reddick, project manager for the privately owned and funded farm, located in Ashburn, that allows those who are wheelchair-bound and frail health to enjoy an experience in nature and farming. The 105-acre property has been owned by Sandy Mitchell since the fal of 1984, and since that time, under Mitchell's direction and implementation by Reddick, the farm has been made accessible to the disabled. Mitchell suffers from cerebral palsy which has left him with a speech impediment 'and some spasticity. The experience of having to face the challenge of life with cerebral palsy and his early experiences working on a farm in Scotland and then in a village community for Down's syndrome adults, convinced Mitchell that one day he wanted to help the disabled lead a more productive life in tune with nature. Reddick was hired in the spring of 1986 to help establish, write and implement the master plan that would see Wind Reach become a farm where disabled adults could find an unhampered opportunity to commune with nature in their own way and at their own pace. Much of the research involved getting in touch with groups that were connected with the disabled, although she is quick to point out that the facility is "not just for those who are connected with institutions, everyone is welcome." Feedback from the - disabled themselves indicates that, "We're on the right track, people do want to enjoy a day in the çountry," says Reddick. She says that they "want to help the disabled learn about farm life or even just enjoy an experience out of doors in the country." In order to make the farm accessible for the disabled, a number of 'special situations' have been constructed. will be able to pick apples by the fall of 1989. Even specially built outdoor washroom facilities have been created for wheelchair visitors. Reddick says "we have the first ever accessible port-a-potty!" Reddick says a typical day would start with arrival at about 10 a.m. Visitors are offered guided nature walks, talks on pond or bird studies, farming, the history of agriculture, gardening for the disabled, or information on farm animals. If visitors prefer to pass on the guided tours and talks, 'that's okay too. Reddick says "the main thing is that they can do what, they want at their own pace." Participants bring their own picnic lunch and a large marquis tent has been set up for that purpose. The day usually ends at about 2:30 p.m. Plans for the future include construction of a building for a visitors' centre that is scheduled for completion in the spring of 1989, a viewing tower, planetarium and accessible pond for fishing. There is no cost to visit Wind Reach Farm. However, it is necessary to reserve first. For information or reservations contact Reddick at 655-4088. SANDY MITCHELL began Wind Reach Farm in 1984. A boardwalk has been built through a marshy pond area so that the heart of the pond is wheelchair accessible. Visitors can stop·and watch birds, observe pond life or just enjoy the scenery. Bird feeders and nesting boxes have been erected to encourage bird visitors, even though there is already a wealth of wildlife there. As well, salt licks have been set up to encourage deer. The natural state of the pond is been left untouched. Raised beds at wheelchair height have been constructed for growing herbs and vegetables, so that the disabled can easily view GAIL REDDICK shown with one of Wind Reaeh s friendly and tend the gardens. residents. An orchard of dwarf apple trees has been planted and Reddick hopes disabled visitors SPECIAL BEDS have been created at enjoy the herb and vegetable gardens wheelchair height so that wheelchair- planned for this year's gardeningseason. bound visitors to Wind Reach can easily El El E l D E Traditional French Country ~ Canadiana South Western ~ Contemporary ~ Art Deco Victorian ~ Country u So many styles to choose from! 4 Which one fits your family's life style? Your home should suit your personality. Country Charm Decor Don't make costly mistakes or purchases you may be unhappy with. Be pleased with your results. Call Cheryl - 655-3138 ' '.I, .I D lE= E ---