Seacoast Science Center Expands Outdoor Access with New Adaptive All-Terrain Wheelchair

RYE – Seacoast Science Center is enhancing accessibility for individuals of all abilities by introducing a new adaptive all-terrain wheelchair, allowing them to explore the trails, shoreline, and natural landscapes of Odiorne Point State Park. This wheelchair is available free of charge to visitors and members, thanks to a generous grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.

The adaptive all-terrain wheelchair, crafted by Extreme Motus, is engineered for outdoor exploration, allowing users to traverse a variety of terrains including trails, grass, and beach environments. This initiative aims to remove barriers and encourage participation in our nature-based programs and experiences, ensuring  everyone has the opportunity to engage deeply with our coastal environment.

"This new addition reaffirms our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility," said Roberta Reilly, registrar and naturalist at Seacoast Science Center, who worked to secure the grant funding. "We believe that everyone should have the chance to experience the beauty and educational opportunities we provide in the park, and are excited for this offering and what it will enable."

“At Seacoast Science Center, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to form meaningful connections with nature,” said Executive Director Kate Leavitt. “This adaptive, all-terrain wheelchair
helps remove barriers to exploration, allowing more visitors to experience our coastal trails, engage in educational programs, and create lasting connections with the natural world. We are extremely grateful to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation for helping make this possible.”

The success of securing this grant was also made possible by the invaluable assistance of our partners at
Northeast Passage, who provided expert guidance throughout the grant process. Their support was instrumental in helping us achieve this milestone in enhancing park accessibility.

Visitors can learn more about the wheelchair and check availability by emailing registrar@sscnh.org. Advance reservations are recommended. If the wheelchair has not been reserved, same-day use is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The wheelchair is available beginning at 10  a.m. and must be returned by 2 p.m. A signed waiver is required for use.

For more information about Seacoast Science Center, its accessibility offerings, exhibits, programs and events, and Odiorne Point State Park, please visit our website at www.seacoastsciencecenter.org.

About the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation is dedicated to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving the quality of life for individuals and families impacted by paralysis. Additionally,
through a cooperative agreement with the Administration for Community Living, the Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) promotes the health, well-being, and independence of people living with paralysis, providing comprehensive information, resources, and referral services.