University of Redlands 2022
California meets Cambridge in our PowerHouseGames
Professor James Spee of Redlands University, California, contacted Power2Inspire wanting his students to see how a small social enterprise operates in practice. So, on Wednesday 5th May, we were delighted to welcome staff and students all the way from the University of Redlands in California, to Cambridge University Sports Club for a talk and an introduction to our PowerHouseGames.
PowerHouseGames are fun and friendly events that use adapted sports games that are designed to be accessible and exciting for everyone, regardless of age, disability and sporting ability.
Courtesy of Cambridge University Sports Centre, who made their wonderful Studio 1 available, we were able to demonstrate four of our inclusive sports by doing. James was joined by 10 students who enthusiastically threw themselves into playing new age kurling, goalball, boccia and sitting netball. A fantastic afternoon was had by everyone involved.
There was laughter, questions, interaction and engagement, a great afternoon of fun and helping relations with our friends from across the big pond. There was even talk they might look at persuading their colleagues back home to have a go with some of the games.
James Spee, Professor, at University of Redlands, said:
“We had the pleasure of meeting Power2Inspire founder John Willis, volunteer Dan Blackburn, and board member Catherine Hall. After learning about Mr. Willis and how he came to found Power2Inspire, the group enjoyed playing the adapted games. They had great fun and at the same time gained appreciation for how the games would work with people of varying abilities. The two hour session flew by. Inspired by the program, one student chose to write her term paper on the potential for implementing Power2Inspire back in California.”
John Willis, Founder and Chief Ambassador, Power2Inspire, said:
“Our PowerHouseGames give University students the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone, to grow leadership and teamwork skills, and to learn about the benefits of inclusivity. It was an honour to be able to host our PowerHouseGames with such passionate students all the way from California.”
“We’re delighted that one of the students has chosen to write about Power2Inspire, it is great to hear the impact the games have had.”
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
Would your university sports team, or school love to be involved in a PowerHouseGames? Could your company support our mission by volunteering? If so, then we would love to hear from you. We are also always looking out for people willing to be involved through their own inspiring means.
Click the button here to find out more.
SuperSensory 1K 2022
Our annual Super Sensory 1k was fun for all the family on Bank Holiday Monday. Over 100 people attended our inclusive event at Histon and Impington Recreation Ground in support of Power2Inspire.
Bringing together people of all ages and abilities, the intergenerational community event involved five sensory stations – with taste taking the crown as a firm family favourite.
John Willis, our founder, said:
“It’s great to see the Super Sensory 1k back with a bang! Covid-19 meant that in the last couple of years this exciting community event had been cancelled or seen a substantial drop in numbers – but this year we’ve been overwhelmed by the support.
The wonderful Bank Holiday weather brought everyone together and – as inclusive sport is at the heart of what we do – the route was wheelchair friendly and there was lots of things to do for all ages, abilities and fitness levels. It was fantastic to see care homes bringing their residents and families with little ones of all ages – it was a lovely opportunity to bring the community together again.
The addition of the Super Sensory 1k to the Histon and Impington Running Festival ensures the event is truly inclusive and gives everyone the opportunity to take part.”
The sensory stations included:
- Smell: Mint, bath bombs, candles and oils
- Sight: Bubbles, magic mirrors and visual riddles
- Touch: Wool, bubble wrap, shells and sandpaper
- Hearing: Instruments and music
- Taste: Strawberries, cheese, olives and other tasty treats
As attendees crossed the finish line, they were greeted by a group of our wonderful volunteers presenting medals and certificates.
Jeremy Macklin, our Chair, said:
“Our volunteers play a vital part in any event and we thoroughly appreciate everyone coming along to help host our Super Sensory 1k. We would also like to thank the Friends of Histon Rec for including the Super Sensory 1k as part of the Histon and Impington Running Festival. It ensures their event is truly inclusive and allows everyone the opportunity to be involved.”
Histon Scouts Group and Friends of Histon and Impington Recreation Ground hosted a BBQ for everyone taking part in the Super Sensory 1k and those completing the Histon and Impington Running Festival’s 1k, 5k and 10k route.
We’ll be announcing the date for next year’s event soon.
Inspired? Then Get Involved!
If you would like to support us in our mission to “embed inclusive sport in the sporting, education and community landscapes” then we would love to hear from you. We are always looking out for people willing to fundraise for Power2Inspire through their own inspiring means. Or, you could volunteer at one of our events, or you could give to the ongoing work of Power2Inspire. Click the button here to find out more.
With special thanks to Tony Barr at Alban Images for his incredible photography on the day. All photos used with permission